US Mortgage Rates Slide to 6.32%, Boosting Purchase Activity

In November, U.S. companies experienced a significant decline in payrolls, shedding 32,000 jobs according to ADP data, marking the largest drop since early 2023. This unexpected downturn contrasts sharply with economists' predictions of a 10,000 job increase, raising concerns about the labor market's stability.

US private payrolls experienced a decline in November, with small businesses shedding jobs, reflecting ongoing challenges in the labor market. This downturn follows a trend of decreasing payrolls, as reported by ADP Research, which indicated an average loss of 13,500 jobs per week in the four weeks leading to November 4.

Scott Bessent stated that China is on track to fulfill its commitments regarding US soybean purchases, indicating a positive momentum in agricultural trade relations between the two nations. This follows a series of significant transactions, including China's largest soybean buy from the US in two years, which has buoyed prices and encouraged sales from struggling farmers.

US services activity expanded at a faster pace in November, marking the most significant growth in nine months, while the measure of prices paid fell to a seven-month low, indicating a shift in economic dynamics.

Leveraged finance bankers have underwritten $65 billion in deals, signaling a strong belief in the resurgence of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in 2026. This optimism follows a prolonged period of uncertainty in the market, as bankers anticipate a shift towards more active deal-making next year.

A recent Swiss poll has revealed strong opposition among voters to a proposed trade deal with the United States, indicating significant public discontent regarding international trade agreements. This sentiment reflects broader concerns about the implications of such deals on local economies and industries.

US private payrolls unexpectedly declined by 32,000 jobs in November, following an upwardly revised increase of 47,000 jobs in October, according to the ADP employment report. This decline contrasts with economists' expectations of a 10,000 job increase for November, highlighting a potential slowdown in the job market.

US import prices remained unexpectedly flat in September, indicating a pause in inflationary pressures on imported goods. This stability comes amidst fluctuating market conditions and evolving economic indicators.