CRESTICO - Quick Market Insights - 03-21-2025
In this brief market update, the presenter outlines several recent U.S. economic indicators. The Federal Reserve left its policy rate unchanged in March and projects two rate cuts in 2025. Retail sales for February grew modestly, falling short of expectations, while January recorded its steepest decline since July 2021. Initial jobless claims ticked upward, and the duration of unemployment has lengthened compared with the previous year. Existing home sales increased in February as inventory rose and mortgage rates fell. Housing starts exceeded forecasts, yet the sector continues to face labor and lot shortages. Finally, builder confidence dropped to a seven‑month low in March, driven by economic uncertainty, tariff worries, and elevated construction costs.
