08/28/2026
Mixed signals all week, but rates didn't get any relief. Here's the breakdown.
Monday opened quietly, with markets still digesting the prior week's debt ceiling news and treasury buyback chatter. Tuesday brought a drop in new home sales β down sharply from June β with builders leaning on rate buydowns and price cuts to keep buyers at the table.
Wednesday's PCE reading was the week's main event. Inflation came in slightly above forecast, which kept pressure on yields. GDP for Q2 held near expectations, so the economy isn't falling apart β it's just not cooling fast enough to give the Fed cover to move.
Thursday's jobless claims were actually a bright spot. Claims came in below forecast and continuing claims dropped, pointing to a labor market that keeps holding up despite everything.
Friday wrapped the week with consumer confidence sliding to its lowest reading of the year, driven by Iran tensions, persistent inflation, and uncertainty about where things go from here.
The week ended essentially where it started β rates flat to slightly worse, no clear catalyst for relief on the horizon.
If you've been waiting for the market to hand you a perfect moment, this week was a reminder it probably won't. What you can control is your preparation. DM me and let's run your numbers. π