Economic Update | Week Ending April 25, 2026

This week, markets continued their upward momentum, driven largely by strong corporate earnings, particularly from major tech companies, which helped push the S&P 500 and Nasdaq closer to recent highs. Positive earnings surprises reinforced confidence that corporate America remains resilient despite elevated interest rates. Economic data was mixed but generally supportive, with ongoing signs of steady consumer activity and a still-solid labor market. Treasury yields remained somewhat volatile but have stabilized off recent peaks, helping support equities. Ongoing geopolitical tensions remain a factor to watch, particularly for their potential impact on energy prices and inflation, but so far markets have largely absorbed the news without significant disruption. Overall, the tone of the market remains constructive, though investors continue to watch inflation trends and the Federal Reserve’s next moves closely as we head further into earnings season.

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of April 23, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.23%, down from 6.3% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.58%, down from 5.65% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 49,223.80, down 0.5% from 49,447.43 last week. It is up 2.4% year-to-date from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 7,164.83, up 0.5% from 7,126.06 last week. The S&P is up 4.7% year-to-date from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 24,833.05, up 1.5% from 24,468.48 last week. It is up 6.8% year-to-date from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2025.

U.S. Treasury Bonds – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.31%, up from 4.26% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.91%, up from 4.88% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Home sales are released on the third week of the month by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. Below is a summary of their reports.

U.S. existing-home sales – March 2026 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.98 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in March, down 3.6% from the number of homes sold in February. Year-over-year home sales were down 1% from the number of homes sold last March. The median price paid for a home in the U.S. in March was $408,800, up 1.4% year-over-year from $403,100 last March.

California existing-home sales – The median price soared 7.1% in March as inventory tightened – The California Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 265,320 on an adjusted annualized basis in March, down 3.5% from 274,820 annualized sales in February and down 2.5% from 272,020 last March. The statewide median price paid for a home was $889,190 in March, up 7.1% from $830,370 in February. Year-over-year March’s median price was up 0.4% from $885,900 one year ago. There were fewer listings in February. Housing inventory declined 17.5% month-over-month in March. The unsold inventory index dropped to a 3.3-month supply of homes for sale in March, down from 4-month in February.

Have a Great Weekend!

April 23, 2026April 23, 2026

Mortgage Rate Update | April 23, 2026

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of April 23, 2026, were as follows:

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.23%, down from 6.3% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.58%, down from 5.65% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

April 23, 2026April 23, 2026

From Apple’s New CEO John Ternus to NASA Upgrades and More! | Tech News

Wind the week down with the latest major shifts in the world of tech and media. From Apple’s incoming new CEO, John Ternus, to upgrades at NASA and more, we have you covered. Check out the biggest news in the world of tech!

Dreame Tries to Become More Than a Vacuum Brand

Dreame is making a very American-style push for attention, using a pricey Super Bowl ad and a splashy San Francisco launch on April 27 to introduce itself as something much bigger than a robot vacuum maker. The company’s stated ambition is to build a “people-home-car” ecosystem, with a roadmap that stretches from cleaning gadgets and appliances to cars, chips, and even satellites. That kind of leap is either visionary or wildly chaotic, which is honestly part of the intrigue. For North American consumers, the bigger story is that a relatively unknown smart home brand wants to compete across multiple product categories at once, all under one AI-heavy app and ecosystem. It is a reminder that the smart home race is no longer just about thermostats and speakers. It is becoming a battle over who gets to own the entire connected lifestyle.

Apple’s Coming Leadership Shift Signals a New Chapter Under John Ternus

Apple is heading into a major transition, with The Verge reporting that Tim Cook will step down in September and current hardware chief John Ternus will take over as CEO. The article frames the moment as more than a leadership handoff between Cook and Ternus. This transition moves Apple further away from the era when its executive bench was closely shaped by Steve Jobs himself. That makes this less about one executive leaving and more about Apple entering a genuinely new phase of identity. For the broader tech industry, it raises familiar questions about what the next decade under Ternus, at Apple, will bring. Will the Ternus era be defined by operational steadiness, bold hardware bets, or a deeper push into AI and services? Even for a company built on polish and control, this is the kind of transition that can subtly change everything. Silicon Valley loves to call every shift “historic,” but the approaching Ternus era actually feels like it might earn the word.

Govee Gives Outdoor Lighting a Solar-Powered Twist

Govee has introduced its first solar-powered outdoor string lights, bringing a small but smart upgrade to the backyard tech category. The lights use a 6W solar panel with an integrated 4,800mAh battery, and the company says a single full day of sunlight can recharge them. There is also a USB-C fallback for gloomier weather, which is a nice acknowledgment that the sun does, in fact, ghost people. The product is available now for $99.99 and includes eight color-changing bulbs stretched across a 34-foot cable. On paper, it is a modest product launch, but it fits a larger trend of everyday home tech getting more self-sufficient and energy-conscious. Not every innovation has to roar; sometimes it just glows on the patio.

Microsoft Pushes Copilot Deeper Into Office Workflows

Microsoft is rolling out Copilot Agent Mode inside Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, making it the default experience for Microsoft 365 Copilot and Premium subscribers. The company had previously described this style of interaction as “vibe working,” but the practical point is that Copilot is becoming more active inside documents instead of simply hovering nearby as a suggestion box. Microsoft says the upgraded system is better at following instructions and handling multi-step edits without losing the user’s intent. A sidebar will show each action in real time, while Excel can add formulas and tables directly, and PowerPoint can update existing decks while preserving company templates. That is a meaningful shift from AI as assistant to AI as operator. Office work may still be office work, but Microsoft is clearly trying to make it feel less like drudgery and more like delegation.

Threads Wants Live Conversation, Not Just Live Posting

Meta is launching Live Chats on Threads as a way to let users join public group conversations. The new feature will let users stay connected during major cultural moments in real time. The feature is beginning in the NBAThreads Community during the Playoffs and Finals. Likewise, creators, media personalities, and league voices are helping drive the discussion. Meta says Live Chats will include profile rings to show when a conversation is live, along with real-time polls, countdowns, typing indicators, and live scores to keep chats synced with the action. More communities are expected to get the feature over the coming months, and Meta has already teased additions like co-hosting, play-by-play updates, lock screen widgets, and the ability to share chat messages to the main feed. The bigger idea here is obvious: social platforms are still chasing the electricity of live events. Threads wants to be where people watch the moment unfold and talk over it at the same time.

NASA Is Upgrading the ISS With More Powerful Laptops

Astronauts aboard the International Space Station are getting new HP ZBook Fury G9 mobile workstations. The rades are part of a broader hardware refresh. NASA said the crew would first replace network servers and then activate the upgraded laptops. HP says the custom ISS configuration includes updated features like an Intel Core Ultra 9 vPro HX processor and among other additions. The machines also needed a NASA-specific power solution. The ISS primarily runs on DC power rather than the AC setup used in homes and offices on Earth. The station is now moving on from older HP ZBook Fury G2 systems. There is a little poetry in the fact that even space needs an IT refresh. With the ISS slated for de-orbit in 2030, these may be some of the station’s last major laptop upgrades.

April 23, 2026April 23, 2026

Weekend Events | April 24 – April 26

As April continues to spring forward, the weekend arrives with a new slate of local fun. From Pizza City Fest to Universal Fan Fest Nights, and more, there is something for everyone. Check out the fun in your neighborhood with our weekend events round-up for April 24 through April 26.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | April 24 – April 26

Pizza City Fest

When: April 25 – April 26

Where: L.A. Live | DTLA

What: Carb lovers, this one’s for you: the two-day pizza festival returns to L.A. Live for its fourth year, serving up all-you-can-eat slices from 40 top-tier vendors. Between bites, catch live dough demos and hear from pizza pros like Nancy Silverton of Pizzeria Mozza and Aaron Lindell of Quarter Sheets. Expect standout pies from favorites like Pizzana, Triple Beam Pizza, Prince Street Pizza, Apollonia’s Pizzeria, and Joe’s Pizza. It’s a delicious deep dive into the city’s pizza scene, so come hungry.

Climate Dance Party at La Brea Tar Pits

When: April 25

Where: La Brea Tar Pits | Miracle Mile

What: Make the most of the La Brea Tar Pits before the Page Museum’s temporary closure with this special after-hours event. The evening celebrates the paperback release of Ayana Elizabeth Johnson’s bestselling book What If We Get It Right?, featuring a conversation and signing with the author. From there, the night turns festive with live DJ sets, hands-on workshops, and food trucks. Expect a lively, slightly surreal finale—a prehistoric-themed dance party under the stars.

Angel City’s Last Call

When: April 26

Where: Angel City Brewery | Arts District

What: One of the Arts District’s most beloved watering holes is saying goodbye and going out with a bang. Stop by Angel City Brewery this Sunday for a final toast to 13 unforgettable years, as the team pours its last beers and celebrates with the community. Expect live music, DJ sets, and plenty of swag as the brewery turns up the energy for one last hurrah. It’s equal parts farewell and full-on celebration. Don’t miss your chance to raise a glass.

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | April 24 – April 26

CicLAvia—West L.A.

When: Until April 26

Where: West L.A.

What: Inspired by the Spanish term for “bike way,” CicLAvia has become L.A.’s go-to celebration of car-free streets. For a few hours, major routes transform into a festival-like playground open to bikes, skateboards, strollers—anything non-motorized—creating a vibrant, community-driven experience. This month’s West L.A. edition introduces a fresh three-mile stretch connecting Santa Monica and Westwood Boulevards, with local shops and restaurants along the route offering special deals. Plan to bike or hop on the Metro and enjoy the city at a slower, more joyful pace.

Skirball Puppet Festival

When: April 26

Where: Skirball Cultural Center

What: Celebrate the magic of storytelling at the Skirball Cultural Center’s annual puppetry festival, a whimsical day of art and imagination for all ages. The event features live music, hands-on puppet-making, and performances ranging from classic tales to original works using marionettes, shadow, and full-body puppets. Between shows, keep an eye out as performers roam the grounds, bringing characters to life in delightfully unexpected ways. It’s a playful, creative escape that feels equal parts nostalgic and new.

Street Food Cinema

When: April 25 – June 27

Where: Westwood

What: Dinner and a movie get an upgrade with Street Food Cinema, a seasonal favorite that turns evenings into open-air celebrations across L.A. Expect screenings of beloved films paired with gourmet food trucks and live music from local bands, creating a laid-back, picnic-style vibe. Events pop up at different venues through October, so each week brings a new setting and lineup. Bonus: select locations are dog-friendly, so your four-legged movie buddy can tag along.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | April 24 – April 26

Universal Fan Fest Nights

When: April 23 – May 16

Where: Universal City

What: Skip the scares and lean into the fandom at Universal Studios Hollywood’s returning after-hours event, running on select nights through May 16. This fan-focused experience brings beloved worlds to life, from Scooby-Doo and Harry Potter to Dungeons & Dragons, One Piece, Super Mario Bros., and Sailor Moon. Expect stunt-filled live shows, interactive walkthroughs, and themed bites like Scooby snacks, a hippogriff-inspired trifle, and a moon scepter churro. Costumes are encouraged (within park guidelines), making it a playful, immersive night designed for fans to fully step into their favorite universes.

Superman Experience at Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

When: Until May 3

Where: Warner Bros. Studios | Burbank

What: Up, up, and away—into a full-blown Superman celebration at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood. Marking the iconic hero’s debut in Action Comics #1, this year’s festivities introduce an immersive, walk-through experience inspired by the latest blockbuster from James Gunn. Guests can step into Superman’s world with interactive gameplay using 3D glasses and motion-capture tech before unwinding in the Fortress of Solitude, complete with mini-games, photo ops, and themed props. Wrap it all up with a visit to the Daily Planet-inspired shop, or bundle the experience with the full studio tour for an even deeper dive into movie magic.

SoCal Etsy Guild Market Burbank

When: Multiple Dates

Where: Burbank Town Center | 201 East Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank

What: Shop handmade and support local creators at the SoCal Etsy Guild Market, held the first weekend of every month at Burbank Town Center. This indoor three-day event features Southern California artisans, live art, DIY activities, giveaways, and a wide mix of art, vintage finds, original designs, and artisanal foods. With free parking and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a fun way to spend the weekend browsing unique goods and meeting local makers.

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | April 24 – April 26

SUPER-KidFEST

When: April 25

Where: Thousand Oaks

What: Bring the whole crew out for Conejo SUPER-KidFEST & Family Wellness Day on April 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Thousand Oaks. This free, RSVP-only event is packed with family-friendly fun, including craft stations, story time, lawn games, fitness demos, and themed appearances from superheroes and princesses. Kids can explore activity booths from local vendors while parents connect with trusted health and education resources in a relaxed, community-focused setting. Arrive early—the first 100 kids score free meal vouchers to Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill and Fresh Brothers Pizza.

Mini Golf Challenge Charity Event

When: April 25

Where: Downtown Ventura

What: Putt your way through downtown at the inaugural Downtown Ventura Mini Golf Challenge on April 25, where Main Street transforms into a five-block interactive course for a great cause. Hosted with support from the Downtown Ventura Organization, the event features 18 creatively designed mini golf holes built by local businesses, plus raffles, a golf simulator, and a chance to win $500 on a bonus hole. Check-in runs from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. outside Fluid State Beer Garden, with play continuing until 5 p.m., followed by a casual BBQ for participants. Proceeds benefit the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation, making this a fun, community-driven afternoon with real impact.

5th Annual Oxnard College Family Festival

When: April 26

Where: 4000 S Rose Ave, Oxnard

What: Celebrate a milestone at Oxnard College’s annual Family Festival on April 26 from 12:30 to 4 p.m., marking the campus’s 50th anniversary with a lively, all-ages celebration. This free event features a vibrant Kids Zone with face painting, carnival games, train rides, and a fire truck experience, alongside live music, dance performances, food trucks, and retail vendors. Guests can also explore the college’s award-winning programs and tour the Little Condors Preschool during a special open house. Held at the Performing Arts Plaza and surrounding lawns, it’s an easy, festive afternoon with free parking and something for everyone.

April 22, 2026April 23, 2026

Top Vegan Spots Around Town | LA Eats

Craving something plant-based with a little personality? You’re in the right place. This week’s roundup highlights some of the best vegan destinations across SoCal, where bold flavors and creative menus take center stage. From casual neighborhood gems to elevated dining spots, these restaurants prove that plant-based eating can be just as indulgent, satisfying, and exciting as anything else on the menu.

LOS ANGELES

Shojin

Location: 333 S Alameda St, Suite 310 | Los Angeles

Are you looking to discover a plant-based gourmet experience? Head over to Shojin in Little Tokyo for an unforgettable culinary journey! Make sure not to miss out on their “crab” hand roll, baked with vegan goodness – or the robust kabocha squash ramen. With these dishes, you’ll be bound for flavor paradise!

Crossroads Kitchen

Location: 8284 Melrose Ave | Los Angeles

If you’re looking for a vegan dining experience that eclipses all expectations, Crossroads Kitchen is the place to be! This award-winning restaurant has been serving delicious plant-based cuisine since 2013 – and their Artichoke Oysters as an appetizer are definitely something special. For your main course, the Spaghetti Carbonara might just become one of your favorite dishes…ever.

Honeybee Burger

Location: 1820 N Vermont Ave | Los Angeles

Have you ever wanted to experience all the flavor and sizzle of grilling a burger without consuming any meat? Now, at Honeybee Burger in Los Feliz, that dream is a reality! Try their tantalizingly delicious vegan burgers with an accompaniment of sweet potato fries – or treat yourself to one of their shakes for good measure. It’s lunchtime perfection down to every last bite.

WESTSIDE AND BEACH COMMUNITIES

Plant Power Fast Food

Location: 5095 Pacific Coast Hwy | Long Beach

Take a trip to Long Beach for an unforgettable meal at Plant Power Fast Food. Enjoy healthy and delicious breakfast and lunch options that are full of flavor – made with house-crafted burger patties, enjoy the convenience of their drive-through, or simply dine in. To top it off, don’t miss out on their famous horchata milkshake! With such amazing food choices, Plant Power is quickly becoming a favorite spot coastwide!

Planta Marina Del Rey

Location:4625 Admiralty Way, Suite 104, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292

Planta Cocina brings a vibrant, plant-based take on Latin-inspired cuisine to the Marina del Rey waterfront. Created by Chef David Lee, the menu reimagines familiar flavors through a fresh, innovative lens, all served in a bright, beautifully designed space. With its airy dining room, expansive lounge, and scenic outdoor patio, it’s an inviting destination for everything from casual meals to special occasions.

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY

O’cado Restaurant

Location: 14568 Ventura Blvd | Sherman Oaks
Enjoy a unique night out at O’cado, where you can experience the perfect harmony of traditional Latin and Mediterranean flavors with modern American inventions. Start off your evening by sipping on sustainable Wine, craft beer or craft cocktails -all designed to perfectly complement our culture-infused bites!

H.O.P.E.

Location: 11943 Ventura Blvd. | Studio City

Healthy Organix Positive Eating – or H.O.P.E – offers an eclectic and enchanting variety of vegan dishes, ranging from Asian specialties to Mexican favorites like burgers, wraps, and more; all served with love in a relaxed atmosphere that’s sure to please any palate!

CONEJO VALLEY

Inn of the Seventh Ray

Location: Topanga Canyon

Escape to the charming Inn of the Seventh Ray in Topanga Canyon, a hidden haven boasting serene vibes and delicious vegan dishes. Enjoy lunch or brunch by day, followed by an evening meal with a side of refreshing kombucha–the perfect way to boost your mind, body, and soul! Experience one of Conejo Valley’s best eateries for yourself; you won’t be disappointed.

Ma-Kin Vegan Sushi

Location: 30313 Canwood St # 35, Agoura Hills

Ma-Kin Vegan Sushi offers a creative, fully plant-based take on traditional sushi in Agoura Hills. Since opening in 2021, the restaurant has gained a following for its inventive rolls and thoughtfully crafted dishes. In addition to vegan options, the restaurant also offers gluten-free options. With bold flavors and artistic presentation, Ma-Kin redefines what vegan sushi can be in a casual, welcoming setting.

April 21, 2026April 22, 2026

Your Golden Hour Guide | Out & About

There’s a certain kind of magic that only exists in that golden hour before sunset. The light softens, the sky turns painterly, and suddenly everything feels just a little more cinematic. In April, that glow hits differently across Southern California, where longer days and clearer skies make golden hour feel like an invitation rather than a fleeting moment.

If you’re looking to make the most of the season, these are the best sunset spots in Southern California to catch that perfect April light.

Griffith Observatory – Los Angeles

Few places capture the essence of Los Angeles quite like Griffith Observatory at sunset. As the sun dips behind the hills, the city begins to glow, creating a layered view of skyline, mountains, and sky.

Arrive early to claim a good vantage point, and stay a little longer as the city lights flicker on. It’s easily one of the best golden hour spots in Southern California for a classic, elevated view.

El Matador State Beach – Malibu

Tucked along the Malibu coastline, El Matador State Beach offers a more intimate and dramatic sunset experience. Sea caves, rugged cliffs, and crashing waves create a moody, romantic setting that feels straight out of a film.

April’s softer light enhances the textures of the rocks and water, making it one of the most visually striking golden spots in Southern California.

Manhattan Beach Pier – Manhattan Beach

For something a little more relaxed, Manhattan Beach Pier delivers a quintessential coastal sunset. The wide shoreline and iconic pier create a balanced composition, perfect for both photos and slow evening walks.

The energy here is effortless. Think barefoot strolls, ocean breezes, and skies that fade from gold to soft pink. It’s a timeless entry among the best golden spots in Southern California.

Inspiration Point – Corona del Mar

In Orange County, Inspiration Point lives up to its name. Perched above the coastline, this scenic overlook offers sweeping ocean views that feel expansive and calm all at once.

April sunsets here are especially clear, with soft gradients stretching across the horizon. Bring a blanket, settle in, and let the moment unfold.

Point Dume – Malibu

For a slightly more elevated coastal perspective, Point Dume offers panoramic views that stretch endlessly across the Pacific. The short hike to the top is well worth it, especially as the sky begins to shift into warmer tones.

With fewer crowds than other Malibu spots, it’s one of the more peaceful golden hour spots in Southern California to fully take in the moment.

Serra Cross Park – Ventura

Overlooking Ventura, Serra Cross Park offers a quiet, elevated setting for sunset watching. From this hilltop vantage point, you’ll see both the coastline and the town below, creating a layered and serene view.

It’s less crowded than many LA hotspots, making it a hidden gem among the best golden hour spots in Southern California.

Joshua Tree National Park – High Desert

For a completely different kind of golden hour, head out to Joshua Tree. The desert sky seems to stretch forever, allowing the sunset to unfold in slow, dramatic layers of color.

April is one of the best times to visit, with milder temperatures and clearer air. It’s easily one of the most unforgettable best golden hour spots in Southern California if you’re willing to make the drive.

In a place like Southern California, golden hour isn’t just a time of day. It’s a ritual. Whether you’re perched above the city, walking along the sand, or watching the sky fade over the desert, the best golden hour spots in Southern California remind you to pause, look up, and stay a little longer than you planned.

April 20, 2026April 21, 2026

Water-Conscious Landscaping | Home Tips

In Southern California, luxury and sustainability are no longer separate conversations. As water conservation becomes an essential part of homeownership, outdoor spaces are evolving to reflect both environmental awareness and elevated design. For homeowners across Los Angeles County, the challenge is clear: how do you create a landscape that is water-wise without sacrificing beauty?

The answer lies in thoughtful, intentional design. Water-conscious landscaping for luxury homes blends native plantings, sculptural materials, and modern layouts to create outdoor spaces that feel both refined and effortlessly in tune with their surroundings.

Embrace Native and Climate-Adapted Plants

At the heart of drought-conscious design is plant selection. Native and climate-adapted plants thrive in Southern California’s environment, requiring significantly less water while maintaining visual impact.

Consider incorporating species such as California lavender, sage, agave, and olive trees. These plants offer texture, movement, and seasonal interest without the need for constant irrigation. Layering greenery at different heights creates depth, while a curated mix of soft and structured forms keeps the landscape visually engaging.

For luxury homes, the goal is not abundance for the sake of it, but balance. A well-edited garden with intentional plant groupings often feels more sophisticated than one that is overly dense.

Elevate the Look with Gravel and Hardscape Design

Gravel is no longer just a practical solution. In high-end landscapes, it becomes a design element in its own right.

Decomposed granite, crushed stone, and fine gravel can be used to define pathways, frame planting beds, or replace traditional lawns. These materials add texture and contrast while reducing water consumption. When paired with large-format pavers or natural stone, gravel creates a layered, architectural look that feels both modern and timeless.

In Los Angeles luxury properties, hardscaping often plays a central role. Clean lines, geometric layouts, and thoughtful spacing elevate the entire outdoor experience while minimizing maintenance.

Create Zones for Living and Entertaining

A luxurious landscape is not just about what you see. It is about how the space functions.

Design distinct areas for lounging, dining, and relaxation using a combination of hardscape, greenery, and outdoor furnishings. A gravel-lined fire pit area, a shaded dining terrace, or a quiet garden nook can each serve a purpose while contributing to the overall flow of the property.

By reducing large expanses of water-intensive lawn and replacing them with usable, well-designed zones, homeowners create spaces that feel both intentional and indulgent.

Incorporate Water-Wise Elegance

Water-conscious design does not mean eliminating luxury details. Instead, it invites a more curated approach.

Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to plant roots, maximizing efficiency while maintaining lush plantings. Strategic lighting enhances the landscape at night, highlighting textures and architectural elements. Sculptural planters, natural wood accents, and stone features add warmth and sophistication without increasing water demand.

Even small touches, like a minimalist fountain with recirculating water, can introduce movement and serenity without excess usage.

Redefining Luxury in Southern California

Today’s water-conscious landscaping for luxury homes reflects a shift in how beauty is defined. It is no longer about excess, but about harmony between design, environment, and lifestyle.

For Los Angeles homeowners, this approach offers the best of both worlds. A landscape that is sustainable, low-maintenance, and deeply connected to its surroundings, yet still undeniably elegant.

Because true luxury, especially in Southern California, is not just about how a space looks. It is about how intelligently it lives.

April 17, 2026

Economic Update | Week Ending April 18, 2026

On Friday, a deal was announced to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which carries roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply. Combined with the ceasefire two weeks ago, markets have responded quickly, with stocks rising more than 10% over that period and returning to near all-time highs. Oil prices, which were around $60 per barrel before the conflict and spiked to nearly $120, have since dropped back to about $80 as of Friday.

Interest rates, however, have not fully followed that same trajectory. While they have come down from their recent highs, they remain elevated compared to pre-conflict levels. The 30-year fixed rate had dipped below 6% in February-its lowest point since 2022-but surged to approximately 6.75% after the conflict began and has now eased to around 6.3%. Unfortunately, rates tend to fall more slowly than they rise. With interest rates closely tied to inflation, the key question over the coming months will be how the recent spike in energy prices impacts inflation moving forward.

Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of April 16, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.3%, down from 6.37% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.65%, down from 5.74% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year

Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 49,447.43, up 3.2% from 47,915.57 last week. It is up 2.9% year-to-date from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 7,126.06, up 4.5% from 6,816.89 last week. The S&P is up 4.1% year-to-date from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 24,468.48, up 6.8% from 22,902.90 last week. It is up 5.3% year-to-date from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2025.

U.S. Treasury Bonds – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.26%, down from 4.31% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.88%, down slightly from 4.91% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Home sales are released about the third week of the month by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. This week, the National Association of Realtors released its March home sale report. The California Association of Realtors should release its report next week. You can get the March sales numbers for your city or zip code from our website, RodeoRe.com. We tabulate and release using the same data on the 8th of each month.

U.S. existing-home sales – March 2026 – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 3.98 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in March, down 3.6% from the number of homes sold in February. Year-over-year home sales were down 1% from the number of homes sold last March. The median price paid for a home in the U.S. in March was $408,800, up 1.4% year-over-year from $403,100 last March.

Have a Great Weekend!

April 16, 2026

Mortgage Rate Update | April 16, 2026

The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.3%, down from 6.37% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.65%, down from 5.74% last week.

The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.

April 16, 2026April 15, 2026

From Meta AI Clones to Huawei Pura X Max and More! | Tech News

Take a dive into the biggest tech headlines from across the web. We’re covering what you may have missed this week in gadgets and upgrades. From Meta AI Clones to Huawei Pura X Max and more, read on to stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech.

Amazon Bets Big on Satellite Connectivity

The race to connect devices beyond cell towers just got more serious as Amazon deepens its involvement in satellite infrastructure. The company is reportedly working alongside Globalstar—the same network tied to Apple’s emergency SOS features—to expand satellite-based internet capabilities. This signals a future where connectivity isn’t dependent on traditional carriers, especially in remote or disaster-prone areas. While Apple already uses this tech in iPhones and Apple Watches for emergencies, broader integration could open the door to everyday satellite data usage. That would fundamentally shift how we think about coverage maps, turning “no service” into something closer to a relic. It’s early, but the groundwork suggests your devices may soon stay connected wherever you wander.

Google Gemini Lands on Mac

Desktop AI just got a glow-up as Google brings its Gemini assistant to macOS. The new app gives users a more native, integrated way to interact with AI instead of relying on browser tabs. It’s designed to feel like a true desktop companion. This means quick to access, visually streamlined, and capable of handling everyday tasks like writing, summarizing, and ideation. This move puts Gemini in more direct competition with system-level assistants and productivity tools. It also reflects a broader shift: AI is no longer a destination you visit, but something that quietly lives alongside your workflow. Expect more of AI becoming less of a tool and more of an ambient presence.

Spotify Expands Into Physical Book Sales

In a move that feels both unexpected and oddly fitting, Spotify is stepping into physical book sales. The platform is integrating with Bookshop.org, allowing users to purchase real, tangible books alongside audiobooks. It’s a subtle but meaningful pivot toward supporting independent bookstores while expanding Spotify’s cultural footprint beyond audio. The strategy leans into discovery, helping users find stories in multiple formats, then choose how they want to engage. It also suggests that even in a digital-first world, there’s still a strong appetite for physical media. Spotify isn’t just streaming your life anymore; it’s trying to help curate it.

Meta Explores AI “Clones” of Users

The line between user and avatar continues to blur as Meta explores AI-powered “clones” that can mimic individuals. Discussed by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, the concept revolves around digital personas that can communicate, respond, and potentially act on your behalf. Think less sci-fi villain, more hyper-personalized assistant trained on your voice, preferences, and patterns. While the idea raises obvious questions around identity and privacy, it also hints at a future where your digital presence can scale beyond your actual time and attention. It’s equal parts intriguing and slightly unnerving, like sending your personality to meetings you don’t want to attend. Either way, it’s a glimpse into how social platforms may evolve from networks into extensions of self.

Huawei Pushes the Limits of Foldable Design

Foldables are entering their experimental era, and Huawei is leaning all the way in. The new Huawei Pura X Max features an unusually wide design that challenges the typical tall, narrow smartphone format. This approach by Huawei prioritizes multitasking and media consumption. Likewise, the design offers a more tablet-like experience when unfolded. It’s a bold departure from the industry’s current foldable trends. The move by Huawei shows how much room there still is for innovation in hardware form factors. While availability may be limited geographically, the design itself could influence competitors globally. In the world of smartphones, the rectangle is no longer sacred.

Instagram Gives Users More Control Over Comments

Finally, a small but mighty update: Instagram now allows users to edit comments after posting. It’s one of those features that feels overdue in the age of typos, impulsive replies, and evolving thoughts. Users can tweak their comments within a limited window, adding a layer of flexibility without fully erasing accountability. While simple on the surface, it reflects a broader shift toward giving users more control over their digital voice. Social media is slowly acknowledging that conversations aren’t static—and neither are we. Sometimes growth looks like editing your comment instead of deleting it.