The University of Michigan Index of Consumer Sentiment increased 13.1% month-over-month to a reading of 78.8 in January, up from 69.7 in December.
Wood Markets News
Canadian Unemployment Up Month-Over-Month and Year-Over-Year in November
There were 460,000 Canadians receiving regular Employment Insurance benefits in November. That is 1.7%, or 7,900 persons, higher than in October.
US Housing Starts Fall in December, While Permits and Completions Climb
Privately‐owned housing starts in December were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1,460,000, down 4.3% from November but 7.6% above December 2022.
Canadian Investment in Building Construction Increases in November
Canadian investment in building construction increased 1.7% in November to $19.8 billion (CAD). Investment in residential building construction rose 2.2% to $13.7 billion.
Canadian Wood Pellet Production and Exports Fall in 2023
Canadian wood pellet production was down 6% in 2023 and exports down were 14%, according to a Biomass Magazine review of USDA data.
US Remodeler Sentiment Inches Higher in 2023Q4
The National Association of Builders (NAHB)/Westlake Royal Remodeling Market Index (RMI) increased 2 points to a reading of 65 in 2023Q4, up from 63 in 2023Q3.
Fixed-Rate Mortgages Move Lower in the Week Ending January 18th
The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.60%, down from last week when it averaged 6.66%, Freddie Mac reported.
Mortgage Applications for New-Home Purchases Down Month-Over-Month but Up Year-Over-Year in December
Mortgage applications for new home purchases decreased 4.0% month-over-month but were up 22.2% year-over-year, MBA reported.
US Weekly Jobless Claims Decline in the Week Ending January 13th
The advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial unemployment claims was 187,000 during the week ending January 13th, a decrease of 16,000 from the previous week.
Canada to Challenge US Decision to Maintain Duties on Exports of Canadian Softwood Lumber
Canada’s Trade Minster Mary Ng said Canada is challenging the US decision made late last year to maintain duties on exports of Canadian softwood lumber, Reuters reported.