We Were Economic First Responders: The Podcast

The PNC Christmas Price Index, which tracks the cost of a full set of gifts from "The Twelve Days of Christmas," rose 5.4% to $49,263.47 in 2024, compared to a 2.7% rise in 2023.

The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index increased 3.1% in December compared to the month prior, landing at 74, according to final results for the month. The December figure was up 6.2% from a year ago.

Personal income increased 0.3%, or $71.1 billion, in November, the Commerce Department said. The personal savings rate — a percentage of disposable personal income — was 4.4%.

In challenging times, sharing information about support programs resonates with vulnerable consumers, according to a survey of bank customers.

The rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was 6.72% this week. The rate for a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage was 5.92%.

Existing home sales increased 4.8% in November to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.15 million, the National Association of Realtors reported. Sales rose 6.1% from a year ago.