The biggest economic news of the past several weeks stems from the impact of the spreading coronavirus. Stock markets have tumbled, and investors remain uncertain. Despite this, reports from manufacturing, retail, and housing indicate growth in each respective industry.

When buying a home, title insurance serves as a safeguard against ownership disputes caused by title defects. While most financial lenders require buyers to purchase title insurance, you might wonder if it’s necessary when buying with cash.

January threw a variety of obstacles at investors around the world. Tensions seemed to flare between the United States and Iran, negotiations on trade continued between the U.S. and China, the coronavirus spread to several countries, and impeachment proceedings continued in the Senate. Despite all of this, the stock market entered February at an all-time high while several other signs of growth persist.

The home-buying process should be exciting and joyful, but concerns about the legal status of your property’s title can quickly dampen the experience. Ensuring you have a clean and undisputed claim to your property is essential—and that’s where Illinois title agents come in.

Despite stock markets finishing near all-time highs at the end of 2019, the beginning of the new year is already presenting new challenges for investors. While the housing industry remains optimistic, manufacturing continues to suffer. Several political issues will continue to affect the markets as we begin the new year.