U.S. Housing Starts Increase Slightly in May as Permits Slip

The video discusses the current state of the housing market, highlighting weaker-than-expected housing starts and building permits, and the impact of commodity prices on import costs. It explores how elevated lumber prices might affect housing demand and inflation, noting that housing price increases have not yet influenced the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The video also examines the potential effects of recent Chinese decisions on the copper market and the role of oil prices in driving import costs.

What was the annual rate of building permits compared to the forecast?

• 1,681,000, which was lower than expected

• 1,681,000, which was higher than expected

• 1,572,000, which was lower than expected

• 1,572,000, which was higher than expected

How did housing starts perform compared to the forecast?

• They rose by 3.9%, exceeding the forecast

• They rose by 3.9%, meeting the forecast

• They fell by 3.6%, below the forecast

• They rose by 3.6%, below the forecast

What is the annual increase in import prices?

• 10.6%

• 11.3%

• 1.1%

• 3.6%

What is one reason for the potential slowdown in housing starts?

• Increased availability of building materials

• Elevated lumber prices

• Lower import prices

• Decreased demand for homes

What recent decision is affecting the copper market?

• A decision by OPEC

• A decision by China

• A decision by the United States

• A decision by the European Union