Weekly Economic Update | Week Ending August 26, 2023

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Economic news this week focused around the Fed’s annual international symposium. Central banks from around the world as well as U.S. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell reiterated their intent to do whatever it takes to bring inflation down to their 1% target. Powell pretty much stated that further increases would be necessary, as growth has exceeded expectations. He spoke about the tight labor market being a major cause of inflation. He said that we won’t reach the target at the current unemployment level, and the need to get the unemployment rate higher. It is currently at the lowest level in over 50 years. That appears to be a target that the Fed will be focusing on when they set monetary policy. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 34,346.90 down 0.5% from34,500.66 last week. It is up 3.6% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,405.71, up 0.8% from 4,369.71 last week. It is up 14.7% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 13,590.65, up 2.3% from 13,290.78 last week. It is up 29.8% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.25% almost unchanged from 4.26% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.30%, down slightly from 4.38% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage ratesThe Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of August 24, 2023, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 7.24%, up from 7.09% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.55% up from 6.46% last week.

U.S. existing-home sales – The National Association of Realtors reported that existing-home sales totaled 4.07 million units on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate in July, down 16.6% from an annualized rate of 4.88 million in July 2022. The median price for a home in the U.S. in July was $406,700, up 1.9 from $413,800 one year ago. There was a 3.3-month supply of homes for sale in July, up from a 3.2-month supply last July. First-time buyers accounted for 30%of all sales. Investors and second-home purchases accounted for 16% of all sales. All-cash purchases accounted for 26% of all sales. Foreclosures and short sales accounted for 1% of all sales.

From Updates on Youtube to Threads on the Web and More! | Tech News

Connect with top headlines happening across the web in the world of tech! From Updates on YouTube to Threads on the Web and more, we have you covered. Read on for our weekly round-up of major changes and leading stories in technology and media.

 

Google, Amazon, Nvidia, and Additional Companies Invest $235 Million in Hugging Face

Hugging Face, an AI-focused platform raised $235 million in Series D funding. Its valuation now stands at $4.5 billion. Major investors include Google, Amazon, and Nvidia. CEO Clement Delangue stresses the significance of open-source AI. The company collaborates with Amazon’s AWS and hosts renowned AI models. The platform is often compared to GitHub, serving as a repository for machine learning. With its new funding, Hugging Face aims to further expand its offerings and solidify its position in the open-source AI community.

 

A New Hum-to-Search may soon be underway on Youtube

Google is trialing a new feature on YouTube. The feature allows users to hum or record short song snippets for identification, similar to Apple’s Shazam. During the test phase, only a select group watching YouTube on Android will have access. This hum-to-search capability was previously introduced in the Google app and Google Assistant in 2020. However, TechCrunch reports that YouTube’s version is faster. Additionally, Google is experimenting with a “channel shelf” feature on YouTube, bundling multiple uploads from a single creator, aiming to enhance user experience and lessen upload pressures on creators.

 

Audeze Acquired by Sony’s PlayStation division

Sony Interactive Entertainment is acquiring Audeze, a premium headphones manufacturer. This move is intended to bolster the audio experience of PlayStation games. While Audeze will remain autonomous and produce for various platforms, they’ll benefit from integration into the PlayStation ecosystem. Audeze headphones utilize unique planar magnetic drivers for enhanced sound, a feature Sony recently touted for its new PlayStation audio products. These products also leverage a novel technology, PlayStation Link, offering seamless audio for the PS5 and the new PlayStation Portal streaming device.

 

Threads on the Web

Meta has rolled out an enhanced web app for Threads. The web version enables users to post, interact with content, and view their feeds. Previously, Threads’ web version had limited functionality, essentially just viewing profiles without interactive features. Although the updated web interface resembles the mobile app, it lacks certain mobile capabilities like editing profiles or sending posts to Instagram DMs. Notably, there are discrepancies like the absence of a notification dot and quote post feature. Despite these gaps, which Threads’ team acknowledges and promises to address, many users, who prefer desktop browsing, appreciate even this basic level of functionality for convenience.

 

Podcasters Now Able to Customize Show Page on Spotify

Spotify is rolling out new features for podcast creators, allowing them to customize their show pages, highlight episodes, and access in-depth analytics. This revamp, focused on enhancing the creator experience, coincides with Apple Podcasts updating its subscription services for creators. With these changes, both companies emphasize the growing importance of podcasting as a significant business avenue. Previously, podcasters on Spotify had limited promotional options, but now they can link to social media, emphasize introductory episodes, and feature other Spotify content, enhancing their visibility and listener engagement.

 

Say Goodbye to Required Group Names on WhatsApp

WhatsApp is introducing a feature allowing users to create group chats without naming them, as revealed by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. These unnamed groups will automatically receive a name based on the participants, streamlining the process for short-term or event-based chats. However, these auto-named groups will have a cap of six participants, and the group name will vary depending on how individual contacts are saved in participants’ phones. The feature is set to roll out globally on various platforms and adds to a slew of recent WhatsApp updates aimed at enhancing user experience.

Weekend Events | August 25 – August 27

August is quickly coming to a close, but the fun is charging right along! From end-of-summer fun to Brew at the L.A. Zoo and more, we have you covered for weekend events. Read on for this weekend’s round-up of happenings taking place from August 25 through August 27.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | August 25 – August 27 

Brew at the L.A. Zoo

When: August 25 

Where: Griffith Park

What: Experience the L.A. Zoo like never before at their annual beer bash, offering over 40 craft brews, live music, DJ sets, and pub-style food amidst the calls of exotic animals from 7 to 11 p.m. Enjoy a complimentary five-ounce beer, sample more, savor a cinnamon-dusted churro, and dance through the exhibits at this exclusive 21-plus event.

Sunday Afternoon Concerts in the Dome

When: Until October 8

Where: Mount Wilson Observatory

What: Experience classical and jazz music in a dome situated over a mile above Los Angeles at this unique mountaintop concert series. This summer, the Mount Wilson Observatory is presenting monthly musical events within the dome of its famed 100-inch Hooker telescope — a marvel that stood as the world’s largest telescope for a significant portion of the 20th century.

BLACKPINK

When: August 26 

Where: Echo Park

What: How do you surpass a headline performance at Coachella? Announce a concert at Dodger Stadium. The K-pop girl group is set to dazzle L.A. with their “Born Pink” tour, making a grand stop at Chavez Ravine on August 26.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | August 25 – August 27 

Off the 405

When: Until August 26 

Where: Westside

What: Experience hilltop sunset views and emerging bands at the Getty tradition, a must-visit for all Angelenos. This year’s free Saturday night series concludes with Alabaster DePlume on August 26. Arrive post 3 p.m. for reduced parking fees, enjoy the exhibits open until 8 p.m., and dodge the dinner rush.

Dog Walking Hours at South Coast Botanic Garden

When: August 27 

Where: South Coast Botanical Gardens 

What: Bond with your four-legged companion at Palos Verdes’ South Coast Botanic Garden during their dog-friendly series every third Sunday. Roam the garden’s vast 87 acres together, but remember: while humans need a reservation, dogs must be leashed at all times, including in the parking area. 

Pageant of the Masters

When: Until September 1 

Where: Laguna Beach

What: At the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach, classic artworks are brought to life as individuals dress and pose to mimic iconic masterpieces, a technique pioneered by Lolita Perine in 1932. Accompanied by a professional orchestra, narration, intricate sets, and theatrical lighting, this year’s theme, “Art Colony: In the Company of Artists,” pays tribute to the area’s pioneering artists.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | August 25 – August 27 

NoHo Summer Nights

When: Until September 9 

Where: North Hollywood 

What: Enjoy complimentary movie screenings and concerts next to the Amelia Earhart Library at the intersection of Magnolia and Tujunga during North Hollywood’s summer series.

Grand Views: The Immersive World of Panoramas

When: Glendale

Where: Until September 10 

What: Experience the enchanting union of L.A.’s unique Velaslavasay Panorama and Glendale’s Forest Lawn Museum as they present an exhibition of striking large-scale paintings. This immersive display is categorized into three sections: the early history of panoramas, crucifixion panoramas, and panoramas representing Hollywood and Los Angeles.

LatinX Skate Night

When: August 26 

Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale

What: Groove on skates to top LatinX artists! Join Moonlight Rollerway for All-Age Skate Night on Saturday night, 8 PM to 11 PM. Entry is ticket-only, with skate rentals available at the door for $7.00.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | August 25 – August 27 

Crave Night Market

When: August 25 

Where: 4550 Tierra Rejada Road

What: Don’t miss Crave Night Market in Moorpark on August 25th, 2023, for an evening of delectable street food, live music, and a rodeo-themed celebration. Immerse yourself in diverse culinary delights, vibrant market stalls, and entertainment for all ages. Mark the date and enjoy a memorable night of community, culture, and festivities!

End of Summer Carnival in Westlake Village

When: August 26

Where: Thousand Oaks

What: Celebrate with a FREE End of Summer Carnival featuring 12 games for kids, prizes, popcorn, cotton candy, and special giveaways. Enjoy treats from The Fix burger truck and Kona Ice snow cone truck available for purchase. 

Wild and Scenic Film Festival in Ventura

When: August 26

Where: Ventura 

What: Ventura Land Trust’s annual benefit, the Wild & Scenic Film Festival, returns on Saturday, August 26th to the expansive lawn of the Ventura County Credit Union headquarters. Now in its 14th year, the film festival features nearly two hours of environmental and activism films along with music, food trucks, and local beer, wine, and spirits.

Creating Your Luxury Home Theater Experience | Home Tips

For many luxury homeowners, a private cinema isn’t just a bonus—it’s a must. Offering a personal escape to the world of films, TV shows, and gaming, the home theater becomes the heart of entertainment. To ensure you get the truest and most luxurious cinematic experience at home, follow these steps to create your ultimate home theater.

1. The Perfect Space

Begin by selecting a room that can be dedicated to your home theater. Preferably, it should be away from the house’s main traffic areas, have limited natural light, and be spacious enough to accommodate seating, equipment, and potentially even a mini-bar or popcorn machine.

2. Soundproofing

Sound is as critical as the visuals. Use acoustic panels, soundproofing curtains, and carpeting to minimize sound leakage and optimize audio within the room.

3. The Right Screen

The heart of your theater is the screen. Depending on your preference, you can opt for a large OLED TV or a 4K UHD projector. Ensure the size is proportional to the room for the best viewing experience.

4. Superior Sound System

Invest in a high-quality sound system, like Dolby Atmos, which provides an immersive 3D sound experience. Consider a 7.1 or even 9.2 channel setup, ensuring speakers are strategically placed for optimal audio.

5. Comfortable Seating

Seating plays a pivotal role in the viewing experience. Invest in plush, reclining seats, preferably with built-in massage features and heated cushions. Remember, the aim is luxury and comfort.

6. Control Systems

Incorporate smart systems that allow you to control lighting, sound, and visuals via a remote or voice control. The best home theaters make adjustments effortlessly, from dimming lights to adjusting the volume.

7. Personalized Aesthetics

Your theater should reflect your style. Consider bespoke wall coverings, unique light fixtures, and even art. Think of elegant, cozy curtains and possibly a starlight ceiling for that magical touch.

8. Bar and Snacks

Consider adding a mini-bar stocked with your favorite beverages. For a classic cinema experience, a popcorn machine or even a candy counter can be a delightful addition.

9. Gaming Integration

For those who love gaming, integrate the latest gaming consoles. With the superior sound and visuals of your theater, gaming sessions will be an unparalleled experience.

10. Climate Control

Maintain the perfect ambiance with a good HVAC system or smart climate control. This ensures you remain cozy during those binge-watching sessions.

11. Regular Maintenance

Your luxury theater is an investment. Schedule regular maintenance checks for your equipment. This ensures longevity and the best performance each time you settle in for a movie.

12. Expand with Technology

Stay updated with the latest in audio-visual technology. With the rapid advancement in tech, there’s always something new that can enhance your viewing experience.

Setting up the ultimate luxury home theater is a journey of personalization, a blend of state-of-the-art technology and your personal touch. By paying attention to every detail and choosing the best equipment, you can transport yourself to magical worlds right from the comfort of your home. Lights, camera, action! Enjoy your luxury cinematic experience.

Weekly Economic Update | Week Ending August 19, 2023

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Stock markets dropped again this week – Stock markets, after posting historic gains in the first seven months of the year, stalled in August. While some of the selling is simply investors that feel stocks have become overvalued and are taking profits, there may be other structural problems in the economy emerging. Bond yields and mortgage rates, which were dropping on positive inflation news, have risen since the U.S. credit rating was downgraded by Fitch three weeks ago. They cited the ballooning national debt, an unwillingness to cut spending, and political uncertainty. This led to less demand for U.S. treasury bonds. Bond yields hit a 16 -year high on Thursday. Mortgage rates have hit their highest rates since 2002 this week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 34,500.66, down 2.2% from 35,281.40 last week. It is up 4.1% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,369.71, down 2.1% from 4,464.05 last week.  It is up 13.8% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 13,290.78, down 2.6% from 13,644.85 last week. It is up 27% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.26%, up from 4.16% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.38%, up from 4.27% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of August 17, 2023, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 7.09%, up from 6.91% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.46%, up from 6.34% last week.

California existing-home sales – The California Association of Realtors reported that existinghome sales totaled 269,180 on a seasonally adjusted annualized basis in July. That marked the tenth straight month on sales dropping under 300,000 on an annualized basis. The number of sales is down approximately 40% from July 2021. Year-to-date the number of homes sold was down 30.3% from the first seven months of 2022. The statewide median price paid for a home in July was $832,390, up 0.2% from $830,870 last July. There was a 2.5-month supply of single-family homes for sale in July, down from a 3.1-month supply one year ago.

The graph below has sales data for Southern California by region. This was compiled by the California Association of Real Estate

 

From Netflix DVDs to the EV Lamborghini and More! | Tech News

Don’t miss out on all the major buzz happening in the world of tech! This week we’re covering major headlines from Netflix DVDs to the EV Lamborghini and more. Read on and stay connected with today’s top tech news nuggets to know.

Lamborghini Previews Its Debut All-Electric Supercar Before August 18th Unveiling

Lamborghini is set to unveil an electric supercar concept at Monterey Car Week on August 18th. The teaser image shared on social media suggests the vehicle maintains the iconic Lamborghini design. This unveiling comes two years after Lamborghini’s announcement of its two-phase electrification plans. By 2024, hybrid versions of the Aventador, Huracán, Urus, and the limited-production Sián roadsters are expected, with a completely new all-electric model to be launched by 2030. The 2024 Lamborghini Revuelto, a hybrid with an impressive 1,001hp, showcases the brand’s initial steps toward electrification, indicating a shift in the supercar industry.

 

Chrome to Soon Explain the Disappearance of Extensions

In an upcoming Chrome update, Google will introduce a feature alerting users when an extension isn’t available in the Chrome Web Store, ensuring users are informed about extensions removed due to policy violations or malware concerns. Within Chrome’s settings, users can access a “Safety Check” section to review such extensions and decide whether to retain or remove them. Furthermore, Google aims to enhance browser security by automatically converting all http:// URLs to the more secure https://, although it will revert to http:// if the upgrade fails. Another security enhancement slated for mid-September will warn users attempting to download high-risk files on insecure connections.

 

WhatsApp to Introduce ‘HD’ Photo Sharing Capability

WhatsApp is introducing an option for users to send “HD” images within the messaging app, as announced by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Rolling out globally in the coming weeks, this feature will allow users across Android, iOS, and web platforms to send enhanced-quality photos. When users access this feature, they’ll notice an “HD” gear icon; selecting it will provide two resolution choices, standard and HD. While the specifics of compression are yet to be detailed by Meta, these high-resolution photos will still be safeguarded by WhatsApp’s standard end-to-end encryption. Additionally, given connectivity or storage concerns, users can choose between standard and HD quality during transmission or reception.

 

GM Funds AI-Powered Battery Startup Aiming for Cost-Effective EVs

GM has spearheaded a $60 million investment in the California-based battery research firm, Mitra Chem. This startup harnesses AI to rapidly test various cathode designs. Likewise, this potentially speeds up the development process for battery cells, notably the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) ones. GM aims to enhance its Ultium battery with Mitra Chem’s ongoing lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) chemistry. Some carmakers, like Tesla and Ford, utilize LFP-based cells due to their reduced complexity and independence from the controversial cobalt. Likewise, these batteries are less energy dense compared to the nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) variants that GM uses.

 

Netflix Offers Up to 10 Additional Discs to DVD Subscribers for Its Final Farewell

Its the end of an era. Netflix will be concluding its 25-year-old DVD-by-mail rental service. As such, the company is offering subscribers up to 10 additional discs in their final shipment. This gesture, set for September 29th, is a thank-you to members who have remained loyal to this traditional service. Likewise, this is an even bigger feat, especially in the age of streaming. Subscribers can opt into this offer by clicking a link provided in a recent Netflix email by August 29th. The additional discs will be a surprise selection from users’ movie queues. Other DVDs are expected to be returned to Netflix by October 27th, 2023.

Weekend Events | August 18 – August 20

Summer is blazing by, and with it comes the second to last weekend in August. Gather your friends and family and hit the town for all the local fun from August 18 to August 20!

Los Angeles Weekend Events | August 18 – August 20 

Tchaikovsky Spectacular with Fireworks

When: August 18 – August 19

Where: The Hollywood Bowl

What: Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser leads the cherished yearly event, showcasing the renowned 1812 Overture performed by the LA Phil alongside the USC Trojan Marching Band and the Bowl’s celebrated fireworks show.

Sunday Afternoon Concerts in the Dome

When: Until October 8

Where: Mount Wilson Observatory

What: Experience classical and jazz music in a dome situated over a mile above Los Angeles at this unique mountaintop concert series. This summer, the Mount Wilson Observatory is presenting monthly musical events within the dome of its famed 100-inch Hooker telescope — a marvel that stood as the world’s largest telescope for a significant portion of the 20th century.

I Can See You (Taylor’s Version) at GRAMMY Museum

When: Until Sept 18

Where: The GRAMMY Museum

What: Capitalizing on the hype of the “Eras Tour”, the GRAMMY Museum is showcasing authentic Taylor Swift artifacts. Until September 18, visitors can view 11 outfits and two instruments from Swift’s “I Can See You (Taylor’s Version) (From the Vault)” video. The exhibit, including items from the Speak Now era sans the Joey King and Taylor Lautner heist, is housed in the fourth-floor theater gallery and is accessible with standard museum entry.

 

Westside and Beach Communities Weekend Events | August 18 – August 20 

Garden Concerts for Kids

When: Until August 20

Where: The Getty Center

What: Listen to kid-friendly performances during this summertime concert series in the Getty’s beautiful Central Garden. Picnic blankets are welcome, but note that lawn chairs are not.

The Actors’ Gang Free Shakespeare in the Park

When: Until August 27

Where: Palms

What: The Actors’ Gang in Culver City revitalizes Shakespeare each summer with a lively, family-friendly production, often integrating playful themes. This year, “Much Ado About Nothing” transforms into a 45-minute “Winnie the Pooh” influenced play called “Much Ado About Pooh”, featuring A.A. Milne’s beloved characters. Catch the performance every weekend in August at Culver City’s Media Park.

Blacklist: The Hollywood Red Scare

When: May 4 – September 3

Where: Skirball Cultural Center

What: Today’s claims of censorship may seem dramatic, but years ago, the government truly enforced blacklisting in the entertainment industry due to perceived beliefs. This Skirball exhibit examines the 1947 House Un-American Activities Committee hearings, Hollywood’s response, and the blacklist’s impact, particularly on Jewish creatives and executives

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | August 18 – August 20 

818 Day: A San Fernando Valley Celebration

When: August 18 – August 20 

Where: Westfield Topanga, Woodland Hills

What: Westfield Topanga is hosting an extended weekend event in honor of the San Fernando Valley, featuring vintage arcade games, DJs, caricature artists, and a beer garden showcasing local breweries. Visitors can enjoy a neon sign display by Valley Relics Museum, iconic cars from Ghostbusters and Back to the Future, and special $8.18 menu deals at Topanga Social.

Grand Views: The Immersive World of Panoramas

When: Glendale

Where: Until September 10 

What: Experience the enchanting union of L.A.’s unique Velaslavasay Panorama and Glendale’s Forest Lawn Museum as they present an exhibition of striking large-scale paintings. This immersive display is categorized into three sections: the early history of panoramas, crucifixion panoramas, and panoramas representing Hollywood and Los Angeles.

Street Food Cinema

When: Until August 26 

Where: Glendale

What: Combine dinner and a movie into one delightful package by trailing the food trucks. In the spring, summer, and fall, Street Food Cinema organizes a sequence of alfresco events featuring screenings of popular movies, an array of gourmet food trucks, and live performances from local bands. Some of these outdoor locales are dog-friendly, making it possible for your furry film fan to join the fun.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | August 18 – August 20 

42nd Annual Wings Over Camarillo Airshow

When: August 19 

Where: Camarillo Airport, Camarillo

What: The Camarillo Wings Association, with volunteers from various aviation groups and presented by California Aeronautical University, is hosting the 2023 Wings Over Camarillo Air Show on August 19-20 at the Camarillo Airport. Gates are open from 9am to 8pm on Saturday and until 6pm on Sunday, with aerial displays from noon to 4pm. This year’s theme pays tribute to Korean War Veterans.

 

22nd Annual Thousand Oaks Rotary Wine & Beer Festival

When: August 19

Where: 880 S Westlake Blvd, Westlake Village

What: The Thousand Oaks Rotary Foundation is hosting its 22nd Annual Wine & Beer Festival on August 19, 2023, from 5-9 PM at the Hyatt Regency Westlake. This adults-only event, which has raised over $575,000 in the past for local causes, offers a chance to taste handcrafted wines, microbrews, and hors d’oeuvres while exploring auction items and meeting Special Olympics athletes.

 

Camarillo Old Town Friday Night Cruise Night

When: Until September 22

Where: Old Town Camarillo

What: The Camarillo Old Town Friday Night Cruise is back for 2023 on the 4th Friday of the month from April through September from 4-7 p.m. Drive down Ventura Boulevard with your classic car between 4 pm -7 pm. Try some local takeout by supporting the Camarillo Old Town eateries with their pre-order and/or take-out options. 

How to Ensure Your Luxury Property Remains Secure While You Travel

Traveling is a joy, but leaving behind your luxury property can be a source of anxiety. How can you ensure that your magnificent home stays just as you left it? Here are top-notch security measures and practices you should consider for keeping your home secure.

  1. Invest in a High-End Security System

Not all security systems are created equal. Look for systems that offer a mix of surveillance cameras, motion detectors, window and door sensors, and smart locks. Ensure that they come with a 24/7 monitoring service and can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app.

  1. Hire Security Personnel

For larger estates or properties in particularly secluded areas, consider hiring security personnel to stay secure. They can patrol your property, ensuring no unauthorized individuals gain access.

  1. Smart Lighting Systems

Burglars often target homes that appear empty. Install smart lighting systems that allow you to control your home’s lights remotely, creating the impression that someone’s home. Even better, some systems can be programmed to mimic natural lighting patterns.

  1. Mail and Deliveries

A build-up of mail or packages can be a clear sign that no one’s home. Either pause your mail service while you’re away or ask a trusted neighbor or friend to pick up your deliveries.

  1. Inform Your Neighbors

Let your neighbors know you’ll be away, especially if you’re in a tight-knit community. They can keep an eye on your property and report any suspicious activity.

  1. Lock Away Valuables

Even if someone does breach your home, you can minimize potential losses. Use a high-quality safe to secure valuable items, important documents, and jewelry.

  1. Check All Entry Points

Before you leave, do a walk-through of your home. While most will make sure to lock windows and doors, upper floors tend to be forgotten.

  1. Limit Social Media Announcements

While it’s tempting to share your travels in real-time on social media, it’s wise to wait until you’re back home. This way, potential burglars won’t be clued into your absence.

  1. Remote Monitoring

With the advancement of technology, you can keep an eye on your property from anywhere in the world. Invest in good-quality security cameras that offer clear images and live-streaming capabilities.

  1. Landscaping

Believe it or not, your landscaping can affect how secure your home is. Trim any overgrown trees or bushes that might provide cover for potential intruders.

  1. Backup Power

In case of a power outage, ensure your security system has a backup power source. In the case of a main power cut, your home remains protected.

  1. Regular Maintenance Checks

If you’re traveling for an extended period, hire a trusted professional or ask a friend to do regular checks on your property. This not only deters potential burglars but also ensures your home is maintained.

In Conclusion

Your luxury home is a sanctuary. Likewise, you should never compromise the safety and security of your home. By implementing these measures, you can jet-set around the world with peace of mind, knowing your property is well-protected and secure. Safe travels!

Weekly Economic Update | Week Ending August 12, 2023

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Stock markets – Stock markets ended the week with mixed results. The Nasdaq’s incredible 2023 rally may be stalling as it posted its second consecutive week of losses, up 30% for the year. The July Consumer Price Index (CPI), the broadest gauge of inflation, was released on Thursday. It showed that consumer prices rose 3.2% in July from one year ago. While higher than June’s 3%, it marketed the second lowest inflation level in two years. The monthly increase in the inflation level was attributed to rising housing costs. The CPI peaked at 9.1% in June of 2022. The Core CPI, which excludes food and energy was 4.7% in July, its lowest year-over-year inflation level since October 2021. On Friday the Producer Price Index, which tracks wholesale prices ticked up more than expected. We also saw bond and mortgage rates increase further this week. Mortgage rates follow U.S. Treasury yields which have spiked over the last two weeks following the downgrade of U.S. debt by rating company Fitch.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 35,281.40, up 6.4% from 35,065.62 last week. It is up 5.8% year-to-date. The S&P 500 closed the week at 4,464.05, down 0.3% from 4,478.03 last week.  It is up 16.3% year-to-date. The Nasdaq closed the week at 13,644.85, down 1.9% from 13,909.24 last week. It is up 30.4% year-to-date.

U.S. Treasury bond yields – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.16%, up from 4.05% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.27%, up from 4.21% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.

Mortgage rates – The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of August 10, 2023, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.96%, up from 6.90% last week. The 15-year fixed was 6.34%, up from 6.25% last week.

Real estate sales figures for July should be released at the end of next week by the California Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. You can get the July home sale data now at RodeoRE.com.

Championing Public Education: A Look at Top Public Schools in Southern California

best public schools in los angeles

In our previous post, we delved into the world of private schools in Los Angeles. We explored their unique offerings and educational philosophies. Now, we shift our focus to the vibrant landscape of public education in Southern California, particularly in Los Angeles. This region’s public schools are setting standards of excellence. They are providing opportunities for all students to thrive, from rigorous academic programs to innovative extracurricular activities.

Southern California’s Public Education Landscape

Southern California is known for its cultural diversity, technological advancements, and artistic creativity. Consequently, it’s home to some top public schools. These institutions are gateways to academic success. Moreover, they are nurturing grounds for community involvement, leadership development, and personal growth.

Benefits of Public Education in Los Angeles

    1. Accessibility and Diversity: Public schools in Los Angeles are open to all students. They foster a diverse and inclusive environment, reflecting the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
    2. Innovative Programs: Many schools offer specialized programs in areas like STEM, arts, and environmental studies. Thus, they provide unique learning opportunities.
    3. Community Engagement: These schools often work closely with local communities. They encourage parental involvement and create strong community bonds.
    4. Quality Education for All: With a commitment to excellence, public schools in Los Angeles strive to provide quality education to all. This is regardless of their socioeconomic background.

Top Public High Schools in Southern California

    • Palisades Charter High School, Pacific Palisades: Strong academics, arts, and community engagement.
    • Granada Hills Charter High School, Granada Hills: Known for academic decathlon fame and comprehensive learning.
    • El Camino Real Charter High School, Woodland Hills: Focuses on college preparation, diverse AP courses, and extracurriculars.
    • The Science Academy STEM Magnet Highly Gifted Highly Accelerated, North Hollywood: Offers an intensive STEM curriculum for highly gifted and accelerated students.

Top Public Middle Schools in Southern California

    • Walter Reed Middle School, North Hollywood: Emphasizes STEM, enrichment, and community focus.
    • Palms Middle School, Los Angeles: Features a gifted program, character development, and strong academics.
    • Louis Armstrong Middle School (formerly Millikan MS), Sherman Oaks: Focuses on arts and science, providing a nurturing environment.
    • Thomas Starr King Middle School, Los Angeles: Encourages creativity through Film and Environmental STEAM Magnets.

Conclusion

Public schools in Southern California, especially in Los Angeles, offer an enriching and diverse educational experience. They are committed to inclusivity, innovation, and community engagement. As a result, these schools provide valuable pathways for students to grow and succeed.

As a real estate brokerage with over 35 years of experience in the Southern California marketplace, we’ve guided thousands of families through school choices. Education is a cornerstone of community life, and we’re here to assist you.

Investing time in finding the right public school is an investment in your child’s future. Explore these schools and uncover the unique opportunities they present. Finally, remember that the journey to success begins with the right education. Southern California’s public schools are eager to welcome your child to a world of discovery.