Will the Fed's rate cut bring down mortgage rates?

While the federal funds rate is not what consumers pay directly, it affects borrowing costs for home equity lines of credit, auto loans and credit cards. Mortgage rates are linked to moves in the 10-year Treasury yield.

Dow hits 40,000 for first time

The Dow Jones Industrial Average crossed 40,000 for the first time ever Thursday as investors celebrated solid earnings and a slight easing of consumer inflation last month.