The Federal Reserve and Mortgage Rates

Mortgage Consultant

Charter Funding

Phone: 262-745-2272

Fax: 262-997-1152

pamela.franzen@charterfunding.com

Understanding What Causes Interest Rate Movement

The Federal Reserve constantly evaluates the US economy and, when

necessary, takes steps to address inflationary concerns and avoid economic

recession or depression. The mass media, in turn, reacts by providing a wide

range of opinions and interpretations of the Fed's monetary policy. This can

make it very difficult for consumers to decipher how such actions will influence

interest rates in general and mortgages in particular.

And although actions of the Federal Reserve can have a direct impact on the

Prime rate, mortgage interest rates are dictated by the trading of

mortgage-backed securities, which are similar to bonds and trade on a daily

basis. This means that the real dynamic at the heart of interest rate movement is

the competitive relationship between stocks and bonds.

Stocks, bonds, and mortgage-backed securities compete for the same investment dollars on a daily basis. There is

literally only so much money to be invested. When the Federal Reserve feels that interest rates need to be decreased in

an effort to stimulate the economy, this reduction in rates can often cause a stock market rally. When the market becomes

bullish, the money to invest in stocks comes from the selling off of other investments, including mortgage-backed

securities.

Unfortunately, when mortgage-backed securities are sold off to fuel stock market rallies, this causes interest rates to go

up, not down.

Historically, there have been many instances where the Federal Reserve has increased interest rates, arousing fears that

corporate profit margins would be affected. This resulted in stocks being sold off, leading money managers to search for a

place to invest their newly liquidated assets until the next market rally. One such safe haven has been mortgage-backed

securities, which cause mortgage rates to drop.

The daily ebb and flow of money is what matters most when it comes to the movement of mortgage interest rates. I make

it a point to continuously monitor interest rates for my clients and advise them of opportunities to manage their mortgage

debt at a better rate. This is the foundation of my business model as a trusted advisor.