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| In last month's meeting minutes, the Fed said a strengthening economy and higher inflation could lead to earlier and faster policy rate increases. | |
| A record 4.5 million workers quit their jobs in November as workers looked for better jobs and wages. Job openings declined to 10.6 million. | |
| Private job growth totaled 807K in December according to ADP, surpassing the Dow Jones estimate of 375K and November's 505K gain. | |
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| Mortgage rates crept up this week, hitting a 9-month high. However, rates are still very low when compared historically. | |
| Total mortgage applications fell by 2.7% on a seasonally adjusted basis during the holiday week. Purchase apps were down 4%, while refi apps dropped 2%. | |
| The FHFA announced upfront fee increases for second-home and high-balance loans beginning on April 1. | |
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"To the person who does not know where he wants to go there is no favorable wind." |