THE news

WASHINGTON–The average rate on the 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage jumped to 3.77% in November from 3.47% in October (highest rate since January at 3.87%), according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). The average commitment rate for all of 2015 was 3.85%.

OGDEN, Utah—The merger of Goldenwest and Health Care Credit Union has been approved after a special meeting of HCCU members. The merger is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2017.

MEMPHIS, Tenn.—A robber wearing a Santa Claus mask held up a branch of Memphis City Employees Credit Union here.

ALEXANDRIA, Va.–The NCUA board today approved rules related real estate and occupancy, the Freedom of Information Act, and the Texas Member Business Lending rule.