Thursday, December 5, 2013

Economic Journal - Thursday, 12/5/2013

(as of 7:15 AM  PST)
 
Markets are recovering from opening losses.  Interestingly, most economic data has been positive.  Leading the way was a report that 3rd quarter GDP grew at 3.6%, a much greater rate than previously thought.  Concerns about the bond buying being tapered over the next year are the main culprit in the initial pullback.  A strengthening economy is bad for the economic stimulus programs that are fueling investor speculation.  Gold is also feeling the pinch, down almost 2%, giving back all of yesterday’s gains. Big news is that mortgage rates are on the rise.  30 year rates are near 4.5%, and likely to go higher if bond purchases are cut back.  Oil is up on supply concerns, with US inventories showing a sharp drop.  Investors appear to be looking for opportunities to take profits.  December could be a rocky month.

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