In the news

Mortgage Rates Hover at 7.4%, Highest Since 2023

The average 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage has steadily risen in recent weeks, compounding affordability challenges for many Americans.

California’s Proposition 45 Brings the Sprawl Debate Back

Among the measures up for a vote in November is one that would amend the state’s landmark environmental law and make it easier to build large housing developments outside cities.

Homeownership Drifts Further Out of Reach as Mortgage Rates Rise

Mortgage rates have pushed above 7 percent and home prices remain elevated, hurting the prospects of would-be buyers.

Democrats Blame Trump After CPI Report Shows Energy Prices Drove Up Inflation

Inflation and economic frustrations have expanded the map of competitive midterm election districts deep into Republican territory.

Here’s the latest.

Surging Inflation Complicates Trump’s Final Push to Sell Voters on Strong Economy

The final inflation report before the 2026 election — showing price increases and stagnant wages — spelled bad political news for the White House.

Rising Costs Push Necessities Out of Reach for Nearly Half of Americans

Inflation has made basic goods hard to afford and attitudes toward inequality have changed, studies from the Pew Research Center showed.

Gas Prices Are Up 34% From a Year Ago, Adding to Inflation Pressures

Energy prices have surged since the start of war with Iran, lifting inflation in the United States.

Higher Energy Prices Pushed U.S. Inflation Up to 3.7% Ahead of Midterm Elections

September’s Consumer Price Index report will keep pressure on President Trump and the Federal Reserve to tame intensifying price pressures.

I.M.F. Warns Mideast War Will Widen Gap Between Rich and Poor Countries

Persistent conflicts, high energy costs and technological upheavals will slow global growth and raise prices, the organization forecast.

America’s Favorite Fruit Is Being Bruised by the Iran War

The journey of one banana from farm to store shows how the war’s economic effects have cascaded into some surprising industries.

Highest Mortgage Rates in 3 Years Chills the Housing Market

The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose to 7.4 percent, putting more pressure on Americans struggling to afford to buy a home.