U.S. Labor Market Still Going Strong

The national unemployment rate dropped for the second month in a row, dipping to 4.1% in September. In addition, more jobs were added than economists expected.

Florida Tax Revenue Tops Projection

The state’s general revenue collections in Aug. totaled $3.6 billion, 4.3% higher than expected, thanks to a boost from sales taxes and earnings on investments.

Helene’s Estimated Insured Losses Top $835M

Fla. Office of Insurance Regulation: With 84,400 claims filed, the state’s estimated insured losses from Hurricane Helene totaled $835,853,221 on Oct. 3.

Mortgage Rates Rise, Still Well Below Last Year

The average 30-year mortgage rate rose to 6.12% from 6.08% last week. Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages rose to 5.25% from 5.16%.