2019 and beyond: A look back
Opinion
Leaders of federal administrations always take credit for roaring economies, but the reality is more complex
by Lou Barnes Dec 27
The Fed signals that interest rates won't change through 2020. Really?
This December is packed with news, but markets remain unperturbed. That begs the question — what really matters?
by Lou Barnes Dec 13
Latest employment news is too good for a rate drop
The latest jobs report is good; most other factors are stable. The economic wild card is the uncertain prospects of the outcome of the trade talks with China.
by Lou Barnes Dec 6
Markets poised for lower rates
The greatest threat to the global economy is trade friction with China
by Lou Barnes Nov 22
Good news from bonds and mortgages? Read and smile
The economy keeps humming along
by Lou Barnes Nov 1
Up arrow buildings growth increase success
There might be some volatility ahead
by Lou Barnes Oct 25
Positive outlook clouded by the threat of impeachment
Opinion
The Brexit deal, the negotiations with China and a new president of the European Central Bank are all good news
by Lou Barnes Oct 18
Washington's political drama obscures potential new rate drops
The forecast for interest rates is still low, reinforced by new information from the Federal Reserve
by Lou Barnes Oct 11
Rates head toward all-time lows
The numbers don't reflect a looming recession, just a natural slowdown
by Lou Barnes Oct 7
Appraisal requirements axed on sales of $400K and under: Fed
Approved by the Federal Reserve on Friday, the adjustment, from $250K to $400K, marks the first time in 25 years such an appraisal threshold has changed
Housing is improving, and the economy is steady
The outlook: A mixed bag
by Lou Barnes Sep 27
Housing market too strong for more Fed cuts
Opinion
US economy and housing are resilient
by Lou Barnes Sep 20
Fed lowers interest rates again. Will mortgage rates follow?
Economists and agents offered different opinions on how the 2nd rate cut of the year will impact housing market
by Patrick Kearns Sep 18
Central banks scramble to ward off fears of a recession
Opinion
The European Central Bank's move to stimulate the European economy set President Trump into a tizzy. Here's why his tweets don't make any sense
by Lou Barnes Sep 13
How will a trade war impact the US?
Opinion
Trade creates specialization, efficiency, product improvement and low cost
by Lou Barnes Sep 3