rate for a 30-year fixed loan was 4.32% this week. that s the lowest, actually, since freddie mac began tracking rates in 1971. homebuyers, though, remain largely on the sidelines. the national association of realtors says the number of people who signed on to purchase homes increased in july, but remained well below last year s levels when they were giving incentives for people to buy. the federal reserve chair, there he is, ben bernanke with a tough statement today saying officials must be ready to shut down big bank physical they threaten the financial system. let s take a look at what the market is doing in response to all of this. not a lot of movement. the dow up just about 15 points and the s&p and nasdaq marginally up, as well. we ll continue to watch that. we re also keeping our eyes on the state department right nowaday two of middle east peace talks. the obama administration is getting all sides together for the first time in nearly two years. secretary of state hillary