Swiss Find Goldilocks Formula in House Market Case Study

When it comes to the housing market, the Swiss might be achieving what Goldilocks wanted in a porridge: getting it just right. Unable to raise interest rates for fear of pushing up the franc, authorities tackled a residential property boom with regulatory measures aimed at reining in exuberance.

Home Prices Inch Upward, but Consumer Confidence Weakens

WASHINGTON — Home prices rose in December at a faster pace than the previous month, probably because of a much smaller number of homes for sale.

Property asking prices fall as keen sellers seek winter buyers

Homeowners keen to attract buyers in the quieter winter months are asking less for the properties than those that came onto the market in October, as high prices and new mortgage lending rules have put a temporary brake on the “mini-boom” in the housing market, Rightmove said on Monday.

Fed insists economy can withstand stimulus cut despite rising prices

The Federal Reserve insisted that the US economy is strong enough to withstand a cut to its stimulus program, despite being forced once again to cut its growth forecasts.

Interest rate rise with no wage increase 'will push heavily-indebted to edge'

Heavily indebted homeowners will be hit hard if interest rates start to rise before wages have picked up, according to research by the Bank of England that underlines the dilemma facing policymakers as the economy recovers.

U.S. pending home sales hit 10-month low in October

(Reuters) - Contracts to buy previously owned U.S. homes fell for a fifth straight month in October, hitting a 10-month low and adding to signs of cooling in the housing market.

UK public finances improve in October as economy grows

The UK's public finances improved in October, as a recovering economy and housing market boosted tax revenues.

Bank of England warns borrowers and lenders not to overstretch themselves

The Bank of England has warned it is keeping a close eye on developments in the housing market and said borrowers and lenders should be careful not to overstretch themselves.

No end in sight for Fed stimulus as inflation sags

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Federal Reserve's debate over monetary policy could begin to shift away from the prospect of reducing stimulus toward a discussion about doing more, given the signs of economic weakness and slowing inflation.

Funds Cite CMBS Top Bet After Subprime Gains: Mortgages

Hedge funds seeking the hottest trade of 2013 are turning to skyscrapers, shopping malls and hotels after last year’s rebound in residential real-estate drove the industry’s best gains.

8.6% unemployment rate won't help Obama (much)

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- The November jobs report contains some undeniably good news for President Obama, but the White House should keep the champagne on ice for now.