Looking at the numbers in the US economy, we see some interesting trends. Initial jobless claims totaled 207,000, narrowly missing expectations for 210,000. This indicates a stable labor market, where demand for labor remains strong and headlines about mass layoffs have faded.
The US trade deficit narrowed to -58.3 billion, compared to an expected -62.3 billion. This is a level of deficit not seen in the past three years. The decline in imports was driven by lower purchases of semiconductors, mobile phones and other goods, while exports rose thanks to supplies of capital and consumer goods.
As for mortgage rates, they are currently rising for the fourth week in a row and have reached levels not seen since December 2000. The average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage reached 7.53%, the highest rate in 23 years. This could affect the mortgage market and the real estate sector. The economic situation remains dynamic, and its development should continue to be monitored.