Weekly Update - 7/17/26

Hope you had a great week! Here's a quick look at what happened in the mortgage market over the past week, along with the latest economic news that could impact interest rates and home financing.

Mortgage rates ticked up slightly this week as markets reacted to two competing stories. Rising tensions in the Middle East pushed oil prices higher and raised inflation concerns, but new reports showed inflation continues to cool. Consumer and wholesale inflation both came in lower than expected, while retail spending slowed, suggesting the economy is still growing but at a more balanced pace. Investors will keep watching inflation and economic data for clues about what the Federal Reserve may do next and where mortgage rates could be headed.

Looking ahead, investors will be watching for updates on the Middle East and any progress toward easing tensions. They'll also keep an eye on comments from Fed officials for clues about future interest rates. It will be a light week for economic news, with the European Central Bank meeting on Thursday and New Home Sales data coming out on Friday.

Please feel free to contact me if I can provide guidance or assistance to you or someone you know!