The inflation rate ticked down in March to its lowest reading since September: While drops in inflation triggered big reactions in financial markets in the past, investors and analysts have other things on their minds, and many, if not most, expect inflation to increase with tariffs, depending how those play out - which is anyone's guess right now.
This analysis and data were compiled by our friend Patrick Carlisle at Compass.
Stock market indices have been moving frantically up and down, with dramatic changes occurring very quickly: Investors feel they're standing on quicksand.
The latest VIX volatility index reading, also changing almost by the minute: Highest volatility readings since the pandemic hit.
Interest rates: The new weekly average published today by Freddie Mac saw a small decline, and, ignoring the stupendous volatility in financial markets, Freddie Mac posted this statement: "The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage continues to trend down, remaining under 7% for the twelfth consecutive week. As purchase applications continue to climb, the spring homebuying season is shaping up to look more favorable than last year." May their optimism prove warranted.
