Core Insights - Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) and home equity loans (HEL) currently have interest rates ranging from the low 7% range to near 9%, with national averages around 7.5% or lower, making them affordable borrowing options [1][11] - The average monthly HELOC rate has decreased to 7.25%, while the national average for home equity loans stands at 7.56%, based on applicants with a minimum credit score of 780 and a combined loan-to-value ratio of less than 70% [2] - Homeowners have approximately $36 trillion of equity available, which can be accessed through second mortgages like HELOCs and HELs, providing a means to utilize this accumulated value [3] Interest Rate Dynamics - Second mortgage rates are influenced by an index rate plus a margin, with the current prime rate at 6.75%, leading to potential HELOC rates starting at 7.50% if a margin of 0.75% is applied [5] - Lenders have flexibility in pricing second mortgage products, and rates can vary significantly based on credit score, debt levels, and the amount drawn compared to home value [6] - Home equity loans typically do not feature introductory rates, unlike HELOCs, which may offer below-market rates for a limited time before adjusting to a higher variable rate [7] Lender Considerations - The best HELOC lenders provide low fees, fixed-rate options, and generous credit lines, allowing homeowners to draw from their equity as needed [8] - When selecting a lender, it is important to consider both the introductory rates and the minimum draw amounts required for HELOCs [9] - Home equity loan lenders may be easier to find due to the fixed rate structure, which simplifies the borrowing process [10] Current Market Conditions - The national average rates for HELOCs and HELs are currently 7.25% and 7.56% respectively, with rates varying widely based on individual creditworthiness [11] - For homeowners with low primary mortgage rates and significant equity, obtaining a HELOC or HEL is advisable, as it allows access to cash without sacrificing favorable mortgage terms [12] - A $50,000 HELOC at a 7.50% interest rate would result in a monthly payment of approximately $313 during the draw period, but payments may increase during the repayment phase due to variable rates [13]

Core Viewpoint - The Trump administration's threat of criminal charges against Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell raises concerns about the central bank's independence and potential economic implications, particularly regarding mortgage interest rates and the value of U.S. financial assets [1][3][5]. Market Reaction - Market watchers indicate that a potential indictment of Powell could lead to a loss of confidence in the Fed's monetary policy, resulting in increased mortgage interest rates and devaluation of U.S. financial assets [10][11]. - The 10-year Treasury note, which influences mortgage rates, could worsen if the perception of Fed independence declines, leading to reduced demand for U.S. bonds [12][13]. Political Implications - The situation complicates the confirmation process for the next Federal Reserve Governor, who is expected to be aligned with the Trump administration, potentially undermining the Fed's autonomy [2][19]. - Lawmakers from both parties express concern over the administration's actions, with some refusing to confirm any new nominees until the legal matters are resolved [14][15][16]. Expert Opinions - Experts warn that the ongoing inquiry into Powell could mirror situations in emerging markets where political pressures undermine central bank independence, leading to negative economic consequences [11][18]. - The inquiry is viewed as an unprecedented attempt to exert control over the Fed, with significant figures in economics and former Fed chairs expressing alarm over the implications for monetary policy [18][21]. Future Considerations - The Supreme Court is set to hear arguments regarding Fed Governor Lisa Cook's position, which may influence the broader context of Fed independence amid the ongoing investigation into Powell [19][21]. - The perception of the next Fed nominee's independence is likely to be questioned, regardless of their actual stance, due to the political climate surrounding the Fed [22].

President Donald Trump's search to replace Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell has taken a major turn in the new year.On Sunday, Powell confirmed an explosive report that he is facing a criminal investigation related to his prior testimony to Congress about the $2.5 billion renovation to the Fed's headquarters. In a video statement, Powell said that the probe was in retaliation for his decision to ignore Trump's wishes on rate cuts."The threat of criminal charges is a consequence of the Federal Reserve s ...

Core Viewpoint - President Trump is seeking to align with progressives to address affordability issues and position Republicans favorably for the midterm elections, despite his previous economic policies that have been criticized by the left [1][8]. Economic Policies - Trump has renewed his campaign promise to cap credit card interest rates at 10%, a proposal that has been stagnant in Congress since its introduction [2][14]. - He aims to ban large investors from purchasing single-family homes, a move intended to make housing more affordable for first-time buyers, echoing progressive initiatives [13]. - Trump has directed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to invest $200 billion in mortgage bonds to lower mortgage rates and monthly payments, although analysts predict minimal impact on the housing market [2][15]. Political Dynamics - Trump's economic agenda has raised concerns among traditional conservatives, as it deviates from limited-government, free-market principles [5][6]. - The shift towards cost-control policies is seen as a response to recent electoral successes for Democrats, indicating a strategic move to regain voter support [8][10]. - There is skepticism from progressive leaders like Sen. Bernie Sanders regarding Trump's commitment to these policies, given his past actions that favored deregulation [7][20]. Bipartisan Support and Opposition - Some of Trump's initiatives may garner bipartisan support, but significant opposition is expected from business-friendly Republicans and Democrats [10][21]. - The political landscape is complicated, as Trump's policies may force Republicans to support ideas they traditionally oppose, while some Democrats may struggle to vote against him [21][23]. Public Perception and Polling - Recent polling indicates that only 31% of voters approve of Trump's handling of the economy, a decline from 40% shortly after he returned to office [17]. - The gap between Trump's economic perspective and voter sentiment has prompted him to campaign in key states to promote his economic agenda [18][19].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles indicates that U.S. consumer prices are expected to accelerate in December due to the reversal of factors that had previously suppressed inflation during the government shutdown in November [1] - The December Consumer Price Index (CPI) is projected to rise by 0.3%, driven by increases in food and energy prices, particularly electricity costs related to data centers [1] - The core CPI, excluding volatile food and energy prices, is anticipated to increase by 0.3% in December, with a year-over-year growth of 2.7%, slightly up from 2.6% in November [1] Group 2 - The government shutdown, lasting 43 days, disrupted the collection of price data for October, leading to the use of estimation methods for the November CPI report, particularly affecting rental data [2] - Despite the successful collection of price data in November, the data was skewed due to holiday discount promotions, which may have distorted the rental and goods price indicators [2] - Economists expect that the impact of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration is gradually being reflected in inflation, with consumer prices expected to rise significantly in the coming months [3] Group 3 - The current high inflation rate is predicted to weaken political support for President Trump, potentially becoming a significant political issue by 2026 as he and his party strive to maintain control of Congress [4] - Various goods prices, including new cars, furniture, and clothing, are expected to see accelerated increases, while the rental market may continue to show weakness [4] - The relationship between Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell and President Trump has become strained, leading economists to believe that interest rates will not be lowered before Powell's term ends in May [4][5]

Group 1: Market Performance - Walmart shares increased by 3%, contributing to gains in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq, where it recently moved its stock listing from the NYSE [1] - Consumer staples rose by 1.4%, leading sector gainers, while the technology sector also saw an increase [1] - The S&P 500 and Dow reached record closing highs, driven by gains in technology companies and Walmart [9] Group 2: Walmart's Index Inclusion - Walmart is set to join the Nasdaq-100 index on January 20, which could attract billions of dollars from passive index funds [1] - The shift to the Nasdaq is expected to enhance Walmart's visibility and investment appeal [1] Group 3: Financial Sector Performance - Financial stocks declined by 0.8%, leading sector decliners in the S&P 500, with Citigroup down 3% and American Express down 4.3% [10] - Trump proposed a one-year cap on credit card interest rates at 10%, impacting lender and credit card firm shares [10] Group 4: Earnings Outlook - Analysts anticipate a 26.5% year-over-year earnings growth for the technology sector in the upcoming fourth-quarter earnings season [10] - Overall S&P 500 companies' earnings are expected to rise by 8.8% compared to the previous year [10] Group 5: Market Activity - U.S. exchange volume reached 17.29 billion shares, above the 20-day average of 16.40 billion [8] - Advancing issues outnumbered decliners by a ratio of 1.68-to-1 on the NYSE, with 725 new highs and 48 new lows [8]

Market Overview - US stocks initially opened lower due to concerns about Federal Reserve independence amid attacks from the Trump administration, but later recovered with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 reaching new highs [2][4] - The S&P 500 Index closed up +0.16%, the Dow Jones closed up +0.17%, and the Nasdaq 100 closed up +0.08% [5] - European stocks also rose, with the Euro Stoxx 50 reaching an all-time high, and China's Shanghai Composite climbing to a 10.5-year high [3][8] Sector Performance - Data storage and chip makers led the market rally, with Western Digital up more than +6% and Seagate Technology up more than +5% [13] - Mining stocks surged as gold and silver prices hit all-time highs, with Hecla Mining up more than +8% and Coeur Mining up more than +5% [14] - Credit card companies and bank stocks declined after President Trump announced a potential cap on interest rates, with Synchrony Financial down more than -8% [15] Economic Indicators - The market is focused on upcoming economic news, including CPI and PPI data, with December CPI expected to remain at +2.7% year-over-year [6] - Q4 earnings season is set to begin, with S&P earnings growth projected to increase by +8.4%, excluding major tech stocks which are expected to grow by +4.6% [7] Interest Rates - The 10-year T-note yield rose to a one-month high of 4.205% amid concerns about Fed independence and rising inflation expectations [9][10] - European government bond yields fell, with the 10-year German bund yield down to 2.841% [12]

Company News - BHP (ASX:BHP) is now within 8% of Commonwealth Bank's (ASX:CBA) lead on the S&P/ASX200 index, following a +30% rally over the last six months [4] - Resources Minister Madeleine King has expressed support for Rio Tinto's (ASX:RIO) mining mega-merger with Glencore, provided that Australia remains a focus [4] - Lunnon Metals (ASX:LM8) has reported finding "multiple significant, high-grade hits down plunge" at Lady Herial, attracting attention on HotCopper forums [5] - Miramar (ASX:M2R) has identified additional gold/copper targets at Lorraine [5] Market Overview - The Australian shares are projected to advance by +0.33% this Tuesday morning, influenced by global markets [1] - The S&P 500 reached another high, increasing by +0.2%, while the Dow Jones and Nasdaq composite rose by +0.4% [2] - European markets also saw gains, with London and the Stoxx both up by +0.2%, and Japan's market increased by +1.6% [2] Commodities - Iron Ore prices have held steady, rising by +0.5% to $109 per tonne in Singapore [6] - Brent Crude oil increased by +1% to $63.96 per barrel [6] - Gold is priced at $4,608 per ounce [6] - US natural gas futures rebounded by +6.8% to $3.38 per gigajoule [6]

Company Overview - Amer Sports, owner of Wilson (the maker of NFL footballs), is positioned for growth ahead of the Super Bowl 2026, having rebounded from a recent slump [3][6] - The stock has been recognized on Investor's Business Daily Leaderboard and the IPO Leaders list, indicating strong market interest [3] Financial Performance - Amer Sports is experiencing triple-digit earnings growth, which is a significant indicator of its financial health and potential for investment [6] Market Position - The company is currently in or near buy zones, alongside other financial giants like JPMorgan and Urban Outfitters, suggesting favorable market conditions for investment [6] - The broader market, including the Dow and S&P 500, is at record highs, which may positively influence Amer Sports' stock performance [6]

Key Points The Trump administration is investigating Fed Chair Jerome Powell. Powell released a video calling out the action. Markets have thus far shrugged off the news. 10 stocks we like better than S&P 500 Index › The battle between President Trump and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell took an odd turn over the weekend after the Department of Justice opened a criminal investigation into Powell. The investigation is purportedly focused on the Fed's $2.5 billion renovation of its headquarter ...