07/27/2026
REVIEW OF LAST WEEK
TECH SLIDES AGAIN...Stocks finished lower as rising oil prices and Treasury yields pressured valuations. Technology shares led the decline as investors questioned whether heavy AI spending will translate into sufficient revenue, margins and cash flow.
The 10-year Treasury yield climbed as higher oil prices renewed inflation concerns. The move increased expectations that the Federal Reserve may consider raising rates later this year if energy pressures persist.
The labor market remained firm, with initial jobless claims falling to their lowest level since 1969. New-home sales received support from builder incentives, while broader housing activity continued reflecting affordability constraints.
The week ended with the Dow down 0.4% to 51,947, the S&P 500 down 0.6% to 7,412, and the Nasdaq down 2.1% to 24,976.
Higher Treasury yields placed renewed pressure on mortgage rates. More inventory and builder incentives may help buyers, but financing costs remain a key obstacle heading into August.
DID YOU KNOW...Early-stage mortgage delinquencies continue to decline, with new FHA defaults posting their largest annual drop in more than four years.
THIS WEEK'S FORECAST
FED TAKES CENTERSTAGE...The Federal Reserve’s Wednesday rate decision will lead a busy week for markets. Investors will also watch earnings from several major technology companies for evidence that AI spending is producing stronger returns. Jobless claims and additional economic reports will help determine whether steady employment and rising energy costs are changing the outlook for interest rates.
Andy Rose