Title Searches Rise

The AFS Title Search Index rose 1.2% to 208.9 for the week ended Aug. 28 from 206.1 the previous week, according to Bridge/Telerate Advance Factor Service.The index averaged 208.9 over the previous four weeks, down 0.2 points from the prior week's four-week moving average. A year ago, the index stood at 150.4, 72.1% of the current level. "The riot to buy U.S. Treasuries continued last week, with commitment rates finally edging lower into new territory by week's end," said AFS manager Paul Descloux. "As mortgage rates move lower, the AFSTSX will begin to move higher if indeed refinancings are stimulated above the current levels." A continuation of the market panic "should get rates closer to that trip wire," he said. Mr. Descloux's e-mail address is paul.descloux@cor.dowjones.com.