• Existing-home sales increased by 0.8% in November to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.82 million, finishing a five-month drop. Sales retreated 7.3% from one year ago.
• The median existing-home sales price rose 4.0% from November 2022 to $387,600 – the fifth consecutive month of year-over-year price increases.
• The inventory of unsold existing homes slid 1.7% from the previous month to 1.13 million at the end of November, or the equivalent of 3.5 months' supply at the current monthly sales pace.
• 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.95% as of December 14, falling below 7% for the first time since August 10. That's down from 7.03% the previous week but up from 6.31% one year ago.

Summary

• Deal Overview: Alaska Airlines is acquiring Hawaiian Airlines for $1.9 billion, intending to maintain both brands.
• Financial Aspects: The purchase price is $18 per share, with the deal including $900 million of Hawaiian’s debt.
• Strategic Fit: The merger combines two airlines with little route overlap, aiming to create a stronger presence against major U.S. airlines and in the Hawaiian market.
• Headquarters and Leadership: The merged entity will be based in Seattle, led by Alaska Airlines' CEO Ben Minicucci.
• Regulatory and Antitrust Issues: The deal requires approval from shareholders and U.S. regulators, amidst concerns about potential impacts on airfares and market competition.
• Cultural and Employee Considerations: Both airlines have employee-focused cultures, with commitments to preserve jobs, particularly union-represented positions in Hawaii.
• Expected Outcomes: The merger is anticipated to be profitable within two years after completion, with closing expected in 12 to 18 months.