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.
Mortgage rates worsen.
Increase in the PPI tend to lead other measures of inflation. Mortgage rates worsen. High retail sales are an indication of economic growth and an expanding economy. Mortgage rates worsen. If unemployment figures are up, it indicates a lack of expansion within the economy and is, therefore, good for the bond market.