Economy

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell says crushing inflation is the most important thing the Fed can do to reduce costs in the housing market. Some economists and policy specialists say higher rates are not the only tool at its disposal.

Markets appeared to welcome signs of future rate relief, with the latest Freddie Mac average falling for the fifth time in six weeks.

The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage average dropped back below the 7% level as investors reacted positively to news the economy is slowing, Freddie Mac said.

Yields on the benchmark 10-year Treasury also rose in the past week as bond and note auctions got tepid responses from investors.

In a speech, the Federal Reserve governor said she would have liked to see the Federal Open Market Committee move more quickly to reduce its holdings. The central bank is poised to begin slowing the pace of balance sheet runoff this week.

Fannie Mae economists suggest home sales will remain resilient amid anticipated dips in both home loan volume and consumer spending.

A recommendation to give Ginnie Mae expanded authorities is drawing focus in the reactions to a Financial Stability Oversight Council report on nonbank risks.

Stakeholders are watching carefully as the 2023 crisis and a capital proposal increase banker wariness of mortgage assets, speakers at Invisso's MBS Forum said.

The new Financial Stability Oversight Council report also recommends an expanded Ginnie Mae PTAP facility and an industry-funded liquidity resource.

The 30-year fixed rate mortgage fell for the first time in six weeks as the Federal Open Market Committee meeting outcome is finally priced in.