Today we saw release of the anxiously awaited July employment report, which turned out to have a few surprises, and a general portrayal of an economy that is continuing to struggle, but at a slower pace than before. The number of jobs (net nonfarm payrolls) lost over the month eased to 247,000, as against June’s loss of 443,000. Obviously, this is an improvement, and it is generally being read as indicative of a gradually healing jobs market.
It is important to recall, though, that this recession has seen the loss of 6.7 million jobs—and “less-worse” won’t make that number decline. And while the unemployment rate fell to 9.4% from 9.5%, there is a lot of indication that a primary reason reason was that people took themselves out of the jobs market, as they stopped actively look for a job. This is no improvement, and the unemployment rate is still expected to break 10%. When we see a greater number of people entering and re-entering the jobs market, it will signal an improvement to confidence in people’s ability to find a job. Improvements in the jobs market tend to follow improvements in other areas of the economy. It will be some time before we can say we’re in a recovery, not just moving toward one.
So how did mortgage rates respond to this news? Not so good. If you are on the fence about refinancing, or waiting for a better deal, it might feel like somebody's got a grip on your necktie right now, no clear sign of them letting go at the moment...
...For approved audiences, this clip is "Rated R". The butt-kicking in the bond market today reminded me of this...
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About Me
- john
- As a Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist (CMPS) with extensive experience in the mortgage industry, I specialize in helping my clients find, structure and manage mortgage debt as one piece of a larger financial strategy. I provide my clients with detailed home loan and debt structuring guidance that compliments their long term financial objectives, including college savings, retirement planning and other investment goals. With an understanding of financial planning concepts that relate to taxation, investment strategy, and estate planning, I work to create a personal strategic mortgage solution for my clients’ diverse financial needs. I collaborate with advisors in other financial fields, and introduce other specialists for guidance as needed. The ability to assess and advise on all aspects of a client’s financial situation can minimize financing costs and tax exposure while building net worth – a benefit often missed when focusing on home loans exclusively.