The National Federation of Independent Business Optimism Index fell 8.1 points in March, to a reading of 96.4.
Wood Markets News
Are Millennials Putting Homeownership on Hold?
Current mortgage rates make buying a home, especially for a millennial (24 – 38-years old), a much more attractive option than continuing to pay the landlord. But then again, perhaps not.
Consumer Price Index Declines in April
The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers declined -0.8% in April, on a seasonally adjusted basis.
The National Association of Home Builders Asks Potential Home Buyers “What’s Holding You Back?”
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) ask potential homebuyers ‘What is holding them back?’
Consumer Debt Hits New Record High in 1st Qtr. of 2020
Household debt balances through the end of March totaled $14.3 trillion, an increase of 1.1% from the 4th Qtr., of 2019.
Canadian Housing Starts Increased 10.8% in April
Canadian housing starts, excluding the province of Quebec, rose 10.8% in April
Australia Timber Industry Rushes to Save 2020 Bushfire Damaged Logs
After one of the harshest fire seasons on record, the race is now on in Australia to harvest and store timber and forest products before they become unusable.
Total Consumer Credit Increases 1.8% in the First Quarter of 2020
According to the Federal Reserve’s latest G.19 Consumer Credit Report there are rising trends in consumer credit, excluding loans secured by real estate, through the first quarter of 2020.
Loan Officer Survey Shows Tightening of Standards for Construction Loans and Mortgages
The results of the latest Loan Officer Survey is consistent with other surveys and reports developed by other organizations in the banking and financial sector for the same time period.
Consumer Confidence in Home Purchasing Falls to 2011 Subprime Mortgage Levels
According to the latest Fannie Mae Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI) the steep decline in the March survey has been followed by an even deeper drop in April.