Lifestyle and Budget

A glance at US mortgage rates

Long-term U.S. mortgage rates increased slightly this week, generally staying slightly below their levels from a year ago, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac.

Consumer watchdog agency and its leadership under scrutiny

The government's consumer watchdog agency came under new scrutiny from the House Financial Services Committee, now controlled by Democrats who say the appointees chosen by President Donald Trump to lead the organization have undermined its mission to protect Americans.

Target hits on all cylinders in the fourth quarter

Strong online sales, traffic growth in newly remodeled stores and expanded delivery options pushed target beyond most expectations in the crucial fourth quarter, when retailers ring up holiday sales.

Michigan governor defends proposal for steep fuel tax rise

Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer called Tuesday for nearly tripling Michigan's per-gallon gas tax — and making the state home to the country's highest fuel taxes — in order to improve aging roads that she warned would only get worse without a major influx of new spending.

Stockpiling spreads in UK economy ahead of Brexit

A series of surveys indicate that the British economy held up in February in the face of Brexit uncertainties but that much of the growth was due to firms and consumers stockpiling in case the country crashes out of the European Union with no deal.