Mortgage rates are dictated by bonds and bonds had a volatile day. During overnight trading hours, bonds suggested we should brace for the impact of even higher rates. Things changed just after 7am ET following headlines that suggested progress on the Iran war. Although volatility continued in the ensuing hours, bonds ultimately settled in stronger territory (which is good for rates). After ending last week above 6.5% for the first time since early September, the average top-tier 30yr fixed rate fell back to 6.49% today. While it's a step in the right direction, it would take a much bigger improvement sustained over the course of several days (or even weeks) to mark a bigger picture turning point.
Bonds Drift Weaker Despite Lower Oil Prices
Bonds Drift Weaker Despite Lower Oil Prices
Although they still technically made positive progress versus the end of last week, bonds ended the day moderately weaker. Lower oil prices offered no support, but th…