U.S. financial markets experienced notable movements in late July and early August 2025, with the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) fluctuating between approximately 14.7 and 21.7. The 10-year Treasury yield saw a decline, dropping as low as 4.24% on August 1, reversing most of its losses from July. This decrease in yields contributed to a positive performance in the real estate sector, with the sector rising by 0.3% and builder ETFs such as XHB and ITB also gaining. Stocks like Sherwin-Williams (SHW) and Home Depot (HD) were among the top performers in the Dow Jones Industrial Average on August 1. The softer-than-expected jobs report raised concerns among investors but was viewed as a potential positive indicator for the housing market, as lower mortgage rates could stimulate new home sales. Market volatility remained elevated, with VIX futures staying active amid speculation about market reactions to political developments involving former President Donald Trump.