The Hits Keep Coming for Rates
Comments from Fed officials and stronger than expected economic data were negative for mortgage rates last week. On Wednesday, the Fed’s Kaplan expressed support for tighter monetary policy due to progress in meeting the Fed’s labor market and inflation goals. Of note for mortgage rates, he thinks that the Fed should soon begin to consider a reduction in the Fed’s large holdings of MBS and Treasuries. The prospect that this change may take place sooner than expected was negative for mortgage rates. Later that day, Fed Chair Yellen said that most Fed officials expect to raise the federal funds rate gradually until it reaches 3.00% by the end of 2019. This was a faster pace than many investors had expected, and Yellen’s comments also pushed mortgage rates higher.
Brexit is back in the news again and helped pour at least a little cold water on the interest rate fire sale. According to British Prime Minister Theresa May, the UK will not attempt to remain in the single market of the EU because it would require allowing the free movement of workers between the UK and the rest of the EU. Instead, the UK will negotiate trade agreements with the EU and other countries. It is difficult at this time to predict the effect Brexit will have on the economies in Europe. The uncertainty about the outlook for growth caused investors to shift to safer assets, including U.S. mortgage-backed securities. This added demand helped tap the brakes on rising bond/mortgage yields.
Week Ahead
Factors: Additional information about policy changes under the Trump administration could continue to affect mortgage rates. Existing Home Sales will be released on Tuesday and New Home Sales will come out on Thursday. The first reading for fourth quarter GDP, the broadest measure of economic growth, will be released on Friday. Durable Orders, another important indicator of economic activity, also will come out on Friday.
Volatility: Increasing
Trend: Higher
For specific rates, please contact a Tradition Mortgage loan officer.