It measures the market value of all newly produced goods and services in the United States. When GNP is down, it shows a slowing down in the economy. To counteract this, the Federal Reserve may loosen money by lowering interest rates. Mortgage rates get better. When industrial production is down, it indicates a slowing of economic growth and, therefore, the Federal Reserve is inclined to allow interest rates to drop to stimulate the economy.
Mortgage rates get better.
Released monthly, this figure measures the difference between imports and exports. When exports are higher than imports, there is a surplus in the balance of trade. When imports are higher than exports, there is a deficit. The import-export differential is referred to as the trade gap. When the money supply figure is up, it is an inflationary factor and, therefore, generates concern that the Federal Reserve will tighten money growth by allowing short-term interest rates to rise.