News & Media
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 May 7, 2026, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.37%, up from 6.3% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.72%, up from 5.64% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Stay connected in the world of tech. From The DualShot Recorder to Roomba’s New Robot and more, we have you covered on the top stories. Read this week’s tech news wrap-up to be in the know about what’s happening across the web.
Search is getting a little more conversational as Google updates its AI Search features to include perspectives from firsthand sources like Reddit, social media, and web forums. The update is designed to surface more human-centered feedback within AI Mode and AI Overviews, helping users find the type of real-world advice they often search for manually. Google will also add more context around these sources, including community names, creator names, or handles, so users can better understand where information is coming from. The move reflects a broader shift in search, where people increasingly want direct answers paired with lived experience and community insight.
Remarkable is returning to its minimalist roots with the new Remarkable Paper Pure, an E Ink digital notepad that skips the color screen in favor of a refined black-and-white writing experience. The tablet replaces the Remarkable 2 and features an upgraded display, improved speed, and the same $399 price point. According to the company, Paper Pure is twice as fast as its predecessor when navigating, zooming, and turning pages. For users who want a distraction-free writing tool instead of another glowing screen demanding their attention like a tiny rectangle-shaped manager, this update keeps the focus on simplicity.
Apple may be preparing to give users more control over which AI model powers Apple Intelligence. According to reporting cited by The Verge, Apple is planning third-party chatbot “Extensions” that could let compatible AI models run system-wide features in iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27. These integrations could support tools like Siri, Writing Tools, and Image Playground, rather than limiting users to Apple’s own AI or ChatGPT. The update would mark a major shift toward a more flexible AI ecosystem, where users can choose the model that best fits their needs.
Meta is expanding Threads messaging by testing direct messages on the web. Nearly a year after DMs became available on mobile, the browser version will allow users to access their inbox and message requests from desktop. The update also includes familiar privacy controls, letting users decide whether anyone can message them or only people they follow. Meta says group chats on the web are also being tested, which could make Threads more useful for creators, social teams, and anyone who prefers managing conversations from an actual keyboard.
OpenAI’s first major hardware product may be a phone, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The rumored device is reportedly being fast-tracked for mass production in early 2027 and may use a customized version of MediaTek’s upcoming Dimensity 9600 chip. The phone could include enhanced visual sensing capabilities, advanced memory and storage, and a dual-NPU architecture designed to handle different AI tasks at the same time. While still unconfirmed, the report hints at a future where AI is not just an app on a device, but the organizing logic behind the device itself.
Robotics pioneer Colin Angle, best known for creating the Roomba, is back with a very different kind of home robot. His new company, Familiar Machines & Magic, has introduced a dog-sized robotic companion called a Familiar, designed for emotional connection rather than chores. The robot uses on-device generative AI and nonverbal communication, including expressive movement, sounds, and body language, to interact with people in the home. While the concept is ambitious, it points to a growing interest in robots that are less about vacuuming the crumbs of our lives and more about companionship, wellness, and long-term engagement.
DualShot Recorder has become an unexpected App Store success after launching. The iPhone camera app was created by viral wildlife creator Derrick Downey Jr. The DualShot app was designed to help creators capture vertical and horizontal footage at the same time. Likewise, this solves a common content production headache for those posting across multiple platforms. Downey built a devoted following through videos of the squirrels that visit his Los Angeles patio. Originally, Downey wanted a better way to film for both short-form and YouTube content without relying on extra rigs or heavy editing. The app’s success shows how creator-led problem-solving can turn a niche workflow issue into a widely useful product.
The month of May is breezing by, and with it comes Mother’s Day weekend and a whole bevy of fun things to do. From tea parties to celebrate mom to Netflix is a Joke and more, we have you covered on local happenings. Check out the fun in your neighborhood with our weekend events round-up for May 8 through May 10.
When: Until May 10
Where: Various Locations
What: Netflix’s massive comedy takeover returns to Los Angeles May 4–10 with the second annual Netflix Is a Joke Fest, and this year’s lineup is even bigger. More than 350 shows will take over venues across the city, featuring comedy heavyweights like Ali Wong, Jerry Seinfeld, John Mulaney, Taylor Tomlinson, and a highly anticipated reunion from Flight of the Conchords. The festival also expands beyond stand-up this year with live podcast tapings and surprise music performances from artists like Jelly Roll and Lizzo. It’s essentially a citywide comedy marathon with a little chaos, culture, and celebrity energy mixed in.
When: May 9
Where: Chinatown
What: The skies above Los Angeles State Historic Park transform into a colorful open-air art installation during this family-friendly kite festival from Clockshop. Celebrating the diverse communities surrounding the park, the free annual event features kite-flying demonstrations, hands-on art workshops, live music, dance lessons, and a giant inflatable art sculpture. Guests can also compete in a contest for the best handmade kite while soaking in a joyful afternoon of creativity and culture.
When: May 7 – May 31
Where: Pomona
What: A Southern California tradition since 1921, the Los Angeles County Fair continues to blend old-school charm with modern festival fun. Alongside classic agricultural attractions like livestock competitions and local produce showcases, guests can enjoy wine tastings, art installations, carnival rides, concerts, and even a roller-skating rink. This year’s “Play Your Way” theme transforms the fairgrounds into a giant celebration of creativity, recreation, and pure carefree energy. The entertainment lineup includes performances from War, Brad Paisley, Ramón Ayala, and a comedy set from Jeff Dunham.
When: May 8 – May 17
Where: Venice
What: The Venice Art Walk returns for its 47th year, once again blending art and community in support of the Venice Family Clinic. From May 8 to 17, visitors can explore a curated showcase at 910 Abbot Kinney featuring works from major names like Ed Ruscha, Helen Pashgian, Kenny Scharf, Ed Templeton, and signature artist Alison Saar. Guests can browse the exhibition for free or place bids on standout pieces, offering a unique glimpse into Venice and L.A.’s vibrant art scene while supporting an important local cause.
When: Until June 27
Where: Pacific Palisades
What: Dinner and a movie get a major glow-up with Street Food Cinema, the beloved seasonal event that pairs outdoor movie screenings with gourmet food trucks and live music from local bands. Held at rotating venues across Los Angeles through October, each gathering feels part picnic, part concert, and part community hangout under the stars. The lineup changes weekly, so there’s always a new film and setting to discover. Even better, select locations are dog-friendly, making it easy to bring along your favorite four-legged movie date.
When: Until May 9
Where: Santa Monica
What: The city of Santa Monica transforms into a jazz-filled playground during this inaugural music festival inspired by Stanley Clarke’s vision for a world-class L.A. jazz celebration. Honoring the centennials of Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Route 66, the weeklong event features performances from both legendary and rising artists across venues throughout the city. Highlights include a Coltrane tribute at BroadStage led by Isaiah Collier, and a grand finale at Tongva Park with an afternoon of live music capped off by Kamasi Washington. It’s a soulful, citywide celebration of jazz past, present, and future.
When: Multiple Dates
Where: Castle & Crown | 2012 West Burbank Boulevard, Burbank
What: Step into a whimsical Wonderland-inspired tea party at Castle & Crown as families celebrate moms with an afternoon of story time, games, tea party treats, and keepsake crafts. Inspired by the magic of Alice in Wonderland, the event blends playful charm with cozy family fun. Adults can enjoy a coffee cart while kids immerse themselves in the themed activities and festivities.
When: Multiple Dates
Where: LA Kings Valley Ice Center | 8750 Van Nuys Boulevard
What: Ever wanted to try curling after watching it during the Olympics? This beginner-friendly session offers the perfect chance to step onto the ice and learn the basics of the sport—no experience required. Participants will get hands-on instruction in delivering stones, sweeping, and understanding the game’s unique terminology and strategy, from hog lines to houses. It’s a fun, family-friendly experience that just might turn your curiosity about the “roaring game” into a new hobby.
When: Until 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.
When: May 8
Where: 2525 N Moorpark Rd, Thousand Oaks
What: CRPD announces that Movies at the Park is back with a fun-filled evening featuring a free showing of The Bad Guys 2 on Friday, May 8, at Thousand Oaks Community Park. Family-friendly activities will begin one hour before the movie, which starts at sundown. Bring your blankets, chairs, and favorite snacks, and enjoy a night of laughs, adventure, and entertainment under the stars at 2525 N. Moorpark Rd. in Thousand Oaks.
When: May 9
Where: Rancho Simi Community Park | 1765 Royal Avenue
What: Young anglers can cast a line at the Annual Huck Finn Fishing Derby on May 9, 2026, at Rancho Simi Community Park. Open to kids ages 15 and under, this longtime community favorite features a stocked lake with more than 1,500 pounds of fish, plus breakfast served from 7 to 8 a.m. Families are encouraged to arrive early for the best fishing spots and enjoy a fun-filled morning by the water, rain or shine.
When: May 9
Where: High Street, Moorpark
What: Celebrate spring at the 3rd Annual Moorpark Apricot Festival and Art Fair on May 9, 2026, along Moorpark’s Historic High Street. This lively street fair features local art and craft vendors, food trucks, and apricot-inspired treats. In addition, there will be live music, dance performances, and plenty of family-friendly activities throughout the day. Likewise, the Moorpark Apricot Festival is a sweet and easygoing way to spend a Saturday outdoors.
Mother’s Day in Los Angeles is more than just a brunch reservation. It’s an opportunity to slow down, celebrate, and spend quality time together over a beautiful meal. This year, restaurants across the city are pulling out all the stops with lavish buffets, rooftop dining, elegant afternoon teas, and family-style feasts designed to make Mom feel special.
Whether she loves ocean views, Champagne brunches, or a cozy garden patio, these standout destinations are some of the best places for Mother’s Day brunch in Los Angeles this year.
Location: 11647 San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Baltaire transforms its already-popular Sunday brunch into an extravagant Mother’s Day affair. Guests can explore everything from chilled seafood towers to carving stations loaded with filet mignon, roasted salmon, and honey-baked ham. Classic brunch favorites like French toast and chilaquiles round out the spread, while Champagne carts and gelato stations add a celebratory touch.
Location: 300 S Doheny Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90048
Culina leans into abundance with a sprawling brunch menu that spans global flavors and luxurious presentation. The experience includes everything from oysters and sushi to handmade tacos, dim sum, waffles, and prime rib. With elegant surroundings and endless options, it’s the kind of brunch designed for lingering all afternoon.
Location: 1850 Industrial St, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Camélia offers a more refined and intimate celebration with its French-Japanese tea service. The ticketed experience includes delicate savory bites like tuna Niçoise and cucumber sandos alongside sweets such as yuzu cream puffs and lychee panna cotta. Thoughtfully curated teas complete the elegant afternoon.
Location: Proper Hotel (Rooftop, 700 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Perched atop the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, Calabra combines rooftop views with a coastal Mediterranean-inspired brunch menu. Dishes like lemon ricotta pancakes and Turkish eggs pair perfectly with seasonal cocktails and ocean breezes. For a quieter experience, guests can also enjoy afternoon tea downstairs at Palma.
Location: 2724 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Just steps from the beach, Crudo e Nudo keeps things relaxed with a four-course Mother’s Day menu focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The meal moves from crudo and farmers’ market mezze to roasted prawns, gnocchi, and dessert. It’s an ideal choice for families looking for something low-key but still thoughtfully elevated.
Location: 468 N Bedford Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Crustacean stretches the celebration across the entire weekend with a special brunch and dinner menu. Chef Helene An’s signature Vietnamese flavors shine through dishes like lobster and filet mignon, grilled calamari, and crab omelets with yuzu hollandaise. The festive atmosphere makes it perfect for a celebratory outing.
Location: 4222 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood,
At The Garland Hotel, The Front Yard offers a laid-back patio brunch with a family-friendly atmosphere. The three-course menu includes everything from shrimp ceviche and lobster ravioli to grilled skirt steak and roasted ham. Dessert selections like ricotta cheesecake and pastries help end the meal on a sweet note.
Location: 1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Oceanfront dining sets the tone at Hotel Casa del Mar, where the Mother’s Day brunch menu leans luxurious and seafood-forward. Expect oysters, caviar, bluefin crudo, truffled crab omelets, and decadent desserts from the chef’s pastry table. The sweeping Santa Monica views only add to the experience.
Location: 9882 S Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
For moms who love tradition and elegance, afternoon tea at The Peninsula Beverly Hills remains one of the city’s most beloved experiences. Guests can enjoy tea sandwiches, pastries, sweets, and flowing Champagne in the refined Living Room. The hotel’s Belvedere restaurant also offers a European-inspired brunch for those seeking a larger meal.
Location: 9001 Santa Monica Blvd, Ste 101, West Hollywood
Uchi offers a more curated take on Mother’s Day brunch in Los Angeles with a six-course spring tasting menu. The experience includes nigiri, sashimi, hand rolls, and seasonal specialties designed to showcase the restaurant’s precision and creativity. A fried milk dessert closes out the meal on an indulgent note.
From rooftop cocktails to elegant tea services and seafood-filled buffets, Los Angeles offers no shortage of memorable ways to celebrate Mother’s Day. No matter your family’s style, these brunch destinations make it easy to turn the holiday into a full experience Mom won’t forget.
Mother’s Day in Los Angeles practically arrives wrapped in sunshine. Spring flowers are in bloom, patios are buzzing, and the city feels made for long brunches and leisurely afternoons. Whether you’re planning a full day of celebration or simply looking for a thoughtful outing, there are endless ways to make the occasion feel special.
From oceanfront dining to peaceful spa escapes, these Mother’s Day activities in Los Angeles offer the perfect blend of relaxation, beauty, and quality time.
No list of Mother’s Day activities in Los Angeles is complete without brunch. Fortunately, the city knows how to do it exceptionally well, especially along the coast.
Santa Monica, Malibu, and Manhattan Beach are filled with restaurants offering ocean views, sunny patios, and seasonal menus perfect for spring. Whether it’s a rooftop mimosa brunch overlooking the Pacific or a cozy garden café tucked away from the crowds, the experience feels effortlessly celebratory this time of year.
For an elevated outing, consider making reservations early at a destination restaurant in Malibu, where brunch can easily transition into a scenic drive along Pacific Coast Highway.
Sometimes the best gift is simply the chance to slow down. A spa day remains one of the most timeless Mother’s Day activities in Los Angeles, especially with so many luxury wellness destinations nearby.
Coastal spas in Rancho Palos Verdes and Santa Monica offer oceanfront massages and tranquil relaxation lounges, while desert retreats in Palm Springs or Desert Hot Springs create the feeling of a full escape without needing extensive travel plans.
Many spas also offer Mother’s Day packages during May, often including facials, aromatherapy treatments, and access to pools or wellness amenities that turn a simple appointment into an entire afternoon experience.
Spring flowers are at their peak in May, making flower markets one of the most charming Mother’s Day activities in Los Angeles. The Original Los Angeles Flower Market downtown remains a favorite for colorful blooms and fresh seasonal arrangements.
For something more leisurely, local farmers’ markets across Santa Monica, Studio City, and Brentwood often feature flower vendors overflowing with peonies, ranunculus, roses, and wildflower bouquets. It’s a beautiful way to spend the morning while supporting local growers and bringing home something thoughtful and seasonal.
For a peaceful and scenic outing, Los Angeles’ botanical gardens are especially stunning in spring. Descanso Gardens, The Huntington, and South Coast Botanic Garden all offer lush landscapes filled with blooming roses, shaded walking paths, and tranquil fountains.
These gardens provide some of the most relaxing Mother’s Day activities in Los Angeles, particularly for those looking to avoid crowded restaurants and instead spend time outdoors surrounded by nature.
Pack a light picnic, take your time strolling through the grounds, and enjoy one of the city’s quieter spring experiences.
Mother’s Day also makes the perfect excuse for a spontaneous getaway. Within a few hours of Los Angeles, destinations like Ojai, Santa Barbara, and Laguna Beach offer charming boutiques, wine tasting rooms, and scenic coastal views ideal for a spring afternoon.
These nearby escapes combine several of the best Mother’s Day activities in Los Angeles into one effortless itinerary: brunch, shopping, relaxation, and beautiful scenery all in a single day.
At its heart, Mother’s Day is about creating moments that feel meaningful and memorable. Whether that means a luxurious spa afternoon, a bouquet gathered at the farmers market, or simply watching the sunset after brunch by the ocean, the best Mother’s Day activities in Los Angeles remind us that sometimes the simplest experiences are the ones that stay with us longest.
May in Los Angeles feels like a soft launch into summer. The days stretch, the light lingers, and homes begin to shift into a more open, social rhythm. For luxury homeowners, this is the moment to prepare your property not just for warmer weather, but for the elevated lifestyle that comes with it.
These May home maintenance tips for luxury homes are designed to keep your estate operating seamlessly while preserving the refined details that define high-end living.
As temperatures begin to rise, your HVAC system becomes one of the most important components of your home. Scheduling a professional inspection in May ensures your system is ready to handle the demands of summer.
Replace air filters, check for airflow issues, and confirm that thermostats are functioning properly. Many Los Angeles luxury homes utilize zoned climate control or smart systems, making it especially important to verify that each area is calibrated correctly. Addressing small concerns now can prevent costly repairs later, when the system is working at full capacity.
Outdoor areas are central to Southern California living, and May is the ideal time to prepare them for regular use. Begin with a thorough cleaning of patios, decks, and pool areas to remove dust, debris, and any buildup from spring winds.
Inspect outdoor furniture for wear and consider updating cushions or fabrics in lighter, seasonal tones. Check umbrellas, pergolas, and shade structures to ensure they are in good condition. A well-maintained outdoor space not only enhances daily living but also sets the stage for effortless entertaining.
With the transition into warmer weather, your landscaping will require more consistent care. Review your irrigation system to ensure it is operating efficiently and delivering water where it is needed most.
Look for leaks, misaligned sprinkler heads, or areas of overwatering. Adjust watering schedules to align with rising temperatures while remaining mindful of water conservation. Luxury landscapes in Los Angeles often combine native plants with curated greenery, making proper irrigation essential to maintaining both beauty and sustainability.
The exterior of your home is constantly exposed to the sun, wind, and environmental elements. May is the perfect time to give it a refresh before summer arrives in full.
Wash windows to maximize natural light and clarity. Pressure clean driveways, walkways, and exterior walls where needed. For homes with stone, stucco, or wood finishes, consider professional cleaning services that protect delicate materials while restoring their appearance.
These updates not only improve curb appeal but also help extend the lifespan of your home’s exterior features.
Luxury living today is deeply connected to technology. Take time in May to ensure all smart home systems are functioning properly.
Test security cameras, alarm systems, and automated entry points. Update software for lighting, climate control, and home automation hubs. As your daily routines shift with the season, adjusting system settings can enhance both convenience and energy efficiency.
The beauty of owning a luxury home in Los Angeles lies in its ability to adapt seamlessly to each season. These May home maintenance tips for luxury homes help ensure your property remains both functional and beautiful as summer approaches.
By focusing on HVAC performance, outdoor spaces, landscaping, exterior care, and smart systems, you create a home that feels ready for anything—from quiet mornings to lively evenings under the California sky.
| It was another wild month on Wall Street! It started with a jobs report showing that 178,000 new jobs were added in March. That was triple the 60,000 that expert analysts had forecasted, and a turnaround from February, when there was a net job loss. This showed that the job market was not as dire as previously felt. Then a ceasefire was announced with Iran, which also brought about a rebound from March’s steep losses after the war began. Third-quarter corporate earnings generally beat expectations, and tech and AI profits were stronger than expected as well. Inflation reports were mixed. The CPI report showed that inflation had jumped, but Core CPI, which excludes food and energy, was still under control. Unfortunately, on April 30, the PCE Personal Consumption Expenditures report was released, which showed that inflation was increasing more rapidly due to surging energy costs, which were spilling over into other goods and services. By the month’s end, the Dow surged 7.3% for the month, and the S&P and Nasdaq jumped 10.4% and 15.3%, respectively. That made up all their steep losses when the war started in March and more.
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 March 26, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.3%, up from 6.23% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.64%, up from 5.58% last week. The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
U.S. Treasury Bonds – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.39%, up from 4.31% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.97%, up from 4.91% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields. Economic update for the month ending April 30, 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 March 26, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.30%, down slightly from 6.38% last month. The 15-year fixed was 5.64%, down from 5.75% last month. Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the month at 49,652.14, up 7.3% from 46,286.01 on March 31, 2026. The Dow is up 3.3% year-to-date from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 7,209.01, up 10.4% from 6,527.47 on March 31st. The S&P is up 5.3% year-to-date from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 24,892.31, up 15.3% from 21,592.47 at the end of March. The Nasdaq is up 7.1% year-to-date from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2025. U.S. Treasury Bond Yields — The 10-year U.S. treasury bond yield closed the month at 4.32%, up from 4.22% On January 31, 2026. The 30-year US treasury bond yield ended the month at 4.91%, up from 4.85% on January 31, 2026. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields. Home sales figures are released on the third week of the month for the previous month from the National Association of Realtors and the California Association of Realtors. Here is a summary of the March existing home sales 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 in was in $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. Below is the housing data for Southern California by County.
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| 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 March 26, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.30%, down slightly from 6.38% last month. The 15-year fixed was 5.64%, down from 5.75% last month.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the month at 49,652.14, up 7.3% from 46,286.01 on March 31, 2026. The Dow is up 3.3% year-to-date from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 7,209.01, up 10.4% from 6,527.47 on March 31st. The S&P is up 5.3% year-to-date from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 24,892.31, up 15.3% from 21,592.47 at the end of March. The Nasdaq is up 7.1% year-to-date from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2025. U.S. Treasury Bond Yields – The 10-year U.S. Treasury bond yield closed the month at 4.32%, up from 4.22% On January 31, 2026. The 30-year US treasury bond yield ended the month at 4.91%, up from 4.85% on January 31, 2026. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates often follow treasury bond yields. Home sales figures are released on the third week of the month for the previous month by the National Association of Realtors and the California Association of Realtors. Here is a summary of the March existing home sales 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 months in February. Below is the housing data for Southern California by County.
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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 30, 2026, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.3%, up from 6.23% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.64%, up from 5.58% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
This week’s round-up of major headlines highlights a compelling mix of innovation, from Anthropic’s AI expanding into everyday environments to new gadgets like the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 redefining content creation. Whether it’s smarter assistants, evolving platforms, or ambitious biotech experiments, the industry shows no signs of slowing down. Check out the latest news in this week’s blog!
DJI’s latest release, the Osmo Pocket 4, refines the art of portable filmmaking. The new DJO Osmo Pocket 4 offers a sleek, handheld design that prioritizes ease and performance. Known for its built-in stabilization, the DJI device delivers smooth, cinematic footage without requiring bulky equipment. Enhanced low-light capabilities and improved image processing make the DJI more versatile for everyday use, appealing to both casual creators and experienced videographers. Rather than replacing professional cameras, it complements them by offering convenience and accessibility. As content creation continues to grow, tools like this highlight the increasing demand for high-quality results in compact form.
A newly discovered exploit has opened the door for users to install Linux on the PlayStation 5, giving enthusiasts access to the console’s powerful hardware beyond gaming. While not officially supported, the development has sparked interest within the modding community, where experimentation and customization are key. Running Linux on the PS5 could enable everything from software development to emulation projects. At the same time, it raises security concerns for Sony, which has historically worked to maintain tight control over its platform. This development underscores the ongoing tension between open experimentation and proprietary ecosystems.
AI continues to evolve beyond content generation, with Anthropic launching a codebase scanning tool designed to help businesses identify vulnerabilities. Unlike traditional methods, the tool uses AI to analyze context, making it more effective at detecting complex or subtle issues within large systems. This approach is particularly valuable for enterprise environments where codebases can be vast and difficult to manage. By automating parts of the security review process, companies can improve efficiency while reducing risk. The release reflects a growing trend of AI taking on oversight roles within the development lifecycle.
Google has broadened its “Preferred Sources” feature to support more languages, giving users greater control over the news content they see. This update allows individuals to prioritize trusted outlets, helping them tailor their information experience more effectively. As global audiences grow, expanding language support makes the feature more accessible across diverse regions. It also reflects increasing demand for transparency and personalization in how news is delivered online. While algorithms still play a role, user choice is becoming a more central part of the experience.
Google is bringing its Gemini AI assistant into vehicles, aiming to create a more conversational and intuitive driving experience. The upgraded system allows for natural dialogue, enabling drivers to manage navigation, messages, and other tasks more seamlessly. This shift moves away from rigid voice commands toward more fluid interaction. As cars become more connected, AI is positioned to act as a central interface for managing both information and entertainment. The development reflects a broader push to integrate AI into environments beyond phones and computers.
Spotify is introducing verified badges to help users identify official artist and creator profiles on its platform. The feature aims to build trust and reduce confusion in an increasingly crowded digital landscape. For creators, verification offers a clearer way to establish authenticity and stand out. For listeners, it provides reassurance that they are engaging with legitimate accounts. As platforms continue to expand, tools that reinforce credibility are becoming essential to the user experience.
Biotech research is making strides in de-extinction efforts, with scientists refining antelope reproduction techniques that could inform future projects. These advancements are part of a broader effort to understand how genetic science might one day revive extinct species. While still in early stages, the research highlights the intersection of conservation and cutting-edge biotechnology. It also raises important ethical and environmental questions about the role of humans in reshaping ecosystems. For now, the work represents a step forward in exploring what is scientifically possible.
Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 49,499.27, down 0.5% from 49,223.80 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 7,230.12, up 0.5% from 7,164.83 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 25,114.44, up 1.5% from 24,833.05 last week. It is up 6.8% year-to-date from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2025.