The Italian Banking Association (ABI) reported that home mortgage rates continued their decline in March, with the overall amount of loans to businesses and households growing by 2.4% year-on-year.
Mortgage rates have fallen for the second consecutive week, reaching a four-week low, which is expected to reinvigorate the spring home-buying season after inflation concerns related to the Iran war caused rates to climb last month.
The U.S. spring housing market has reportedly stalled, with potential buyers remaining on the sidelines due to ongoing geopolitical conflicts and persistently high mortgage rates. These factors are contributing to a slowdown in real estate activity across the country.
Following a month of market turmoil, several UK lenders, including Santander, TSB, and Coventry, have started to cut the costs of their fixed-rate mortgage deals.
Mortgage rates in the US have dropped to their lowest point in a month, leading to an increase in refinance activity, despite continued weak demand from homebuyers.
A significant portion of the British population, almost a third, is reportedly reducing spending on food and heating due to increasing prices and financial pressures. This trend is exacerbated by the Middle East conflict driving up prices and rising mortgage rates.
This article provides advice and strategies for consumers looking to obtain the most favorable mortgage rates available. It covers various tips and considerations for navigating the mortgage market.
UK house prices have fallen as rising mortgage rates and uncertainty surrounding the Iran war dampen demand, with hundreds of the cheapest mortgage deals disappearing over the last month.
UK house prices have fallen as uncertainty surrounding the Iran war dampens demand, compounded by rising mortgage rates and the disappearance of many cheap deals.
The CEO of RH has issued a stark warning about the current housing market, describing it as 'most dire' as mortgage applications decline due to increasing interest rates.
Developments in the Middle East have created economic uncertainty, affecting the Greek stock market, though the upcoming Easter holiday period is hoped to provide some relief.
Homebuyers in the Netherlands are showing hesitation as mortgage interest rates climb, an observation made by De Hypotheker, with the increase linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Austria has reiterated its policy of neutrality by declining multiple US requests to use its airspace for military flights related to Middle East operations, citing its obligation to reject overflights by parties in a conflict, with the latest rejection concerning operations against Iran.
Anthony Scaramucci has warned that the American Dream is "impaired" as mortgage rates in the U.S. have reached a six-month high. This development highlights growing concerns about housing affordability and economic stability.
Sweden's Left Party is pressuring Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson to intervene on rising mortgage rates, which Svantesson herself has described as “unrealistic” from banks.
Several major banks in Sweden have increased their mortgage rates, a move made without a corresponding rate hike from the Riksbank (Sweden's central bank).
The Australian government is responding to an ongoing fuel crisis, with a proposed fuel excise cut under consideration, though economists warn it could boost inflation and lead to higher mortgage rates for households.
The average US long-term mortgage rate has surged to a six-month high, with 15-year loans now approaching 6% as of March 27, 2026, potentially offering a window for buyers despite falling home prices.
US President Donald Trump has extended a deadline and promoted progress in talks with Iran, stating he is suspending attacks on Iranian energy plants. These diplomatic developments continue as military strikes persist, causing market volatility and stock drops.
U.S. long-term mortgage rates have climbed for the fourth consecutive week, reaching 6.38%—the highest level in over six months—further dampening prospects for the spring home-buying season.
An analysis of Norway's best mortgage rates suggests that while choosing incorrectly can be costly, the overall market sentiment is not one of 'doom and gloom.' Consumers are advised to make informed choices to save thousands monthly.
US mortgage rates have climbed for a third straight week, reaching a five-month high of 6.43% and pushing home-financing costs to their highest since October, which has led to a continued drop in mortgage demand for both purchasing and refinancing activity.
Homebuilder Bellway's shares were negatively impacted after the company issued a disappointing full-year earnings outlook, with its CEO warning of a softer market and cautioning about risks from the Middle East conflict and rising mortgage rates.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is exerting upward pressure on mortgage rates, particularly affecting the New Zealand market for the foreseeable future.
Global markets, including U.S. stocks, Treasurys, and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, have experienced a selloff following the Federal Reserve's hawkish stance on interest rates, raised inflation forecasts, and recent hot inflation data, dimming hopes for rate cuts.
Mortgage rates shot higher last week, as the war with Iran stoked fears over inflation. That caused a major drop in refinance demand, but buyer demand improved.
A second major bank in New Zealand has increased its mortgage rates, with the 5-year term experiencing the most significant jump, impacting homeowners and the housing market.
More homes went under contract last month, indicating some market activity, but concerns are rising that higher mortgage rates could reverse this positive trend.
Lenders have increased rates on new mortgage deals and withdrawn products, leading to an average annual increase of £788 in typical mortgage costs since the Iran war created market uncertainty. Mortgage and refinance rates have now climbed to 3-month highs as of March 17, 2026, reflecting ongoing market volatility.
Homeowners are grappling with the decision of whether to fix or float their mortgage rates, as market expectations point to an interest rate hike in 2026.
According to the monthly bulletin from the Italian Banking Association (Abi), mortgage rates for home purchases decreased to 3.42% in February. The report also indicates an increase in banking deposits and an improvement in non-performing loans.
Interest rates for new housing loans in Cyprus rose to a peak of 3.41 per cent in January, up from 3.25 per cent during the previous month, though borrowing costs on the island remain lower than the eurozone average. At the same time, the lowest interest rate for household housing loans stood at 2.50 per […]
US mortgage rates have experienced their largest jump in 11 months, driven by inflation risks stemming from the ongoing conflict in Iran, impacting the housing market.
G7 leaders have announced the record release of 400 million barrels of oil in response to the war in the Middle East. This represents about twenty days worth of usual oil traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, currently through dangerous to go through due to the threat of Iranian strikes. This initiative aims 'to calm markets down', as FRANCE 24's Philip Turle explains.
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group (PNP -HPG) ordered its patrol officers to save on fuel amid looming price hikes triggered by escalating tensions in the…
The article explores the strategic benefits for retirees considering refinancing their mortgages when interest rates decline, offering a potential way to manage finances in retirement.
New documents obtained by SvD reveal that despite being highly qualified economists, the governors of the Swedish Riksbank have vastly different approaches to managing their home mortgages.
An article discusses the best fixed, mixed, and variable mortgage rates available in Spain for March 2026, emphasizing the principle of not over-indebting oneself.
The Bank of Portugal is reportedly questioning banks about the low interest rates being practiced on housing loans, raising concerns about the sustainability of current mortgage values.
Homeowners in the UK are facing warnings as lenders increase mortgage rates, with concerns that UK interest rates may further rise due to fears over energy prices.
Weekly mortgage demand saw an 11% increase last week, driven by lower mortgage rates that spurred refinancing and renewed interest from homebuyers, though rates have since risen.
US mortgage rates have fallen below 6%, a positive development for homebuyers, though limited housing supply continues to be a significant factor in the market.
Despite mortgage rates stubbornly hovering near the 6% mark, homebuyers are reportedly refusing to back down, indicating continued demand in the housing market.
Mortgage rates have dropped sharply from a year ago.
Sha Hanting/China News Service/VCG/Getty Images
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate fell to 5.99%, tying the lowest level since 2022.
A stock sell-off
2025 New Home Sales Highest Since 2021
US New Home Sales dipped 1.7% MoM in December (after a 15.5% MoM surge in November)...
...but ended the year at 745k - the highest SAAR since 2021...
"New" home sales have notably decoupled from "used" home sales in the last few years as homebuilders incentivize buyers (reducing margins) and lower prices (reducing revenues)...
Lower mortgage rates support modest further improvements in sales...
Will this be Trump's lead on housing affordability?
Tyler Durden
Fri, 02/20/2026 - 10:24
Several Fidelity ETF series, including Absolute IncomeFund, Tactical HighIncome Fund, All-in-One Fixed Income ETF, and Core U.S. Bond ETF, have declared dividends.
Mortgage rates are showing signs of falling, reversing a recent peak that was attributed to concerns surrounding the Iran war. This decline offers potential relief for borrowers.
Mortgage rates have fallen to a four-week low, offering relief to potential homebuyers and those looking to refinance. This decline is partly attributed to a decrease in global war-related anxieties.
The spring homebuying season has arrived, but high property prices and elevated mortgage rates continue to deter many potential buyers, despite more homes entering the market.
Barratt Redrow, the UK's largest housebuilder, plans to significantly cut back on new land acquisitions, citing the effects of the Middle East conflict on mortgage rates and costs. This move is seen as a blow to Labour's housing targets.
An update on April 14, 2026, details current interest rates for mortgages, refinancing, and Certificates of Deposit. The report indicates a sideways trend for mortgage rates while highlighting competitive CD rates.
In the coming days, France and the United Kingdom will organise a conference with countries wishing to participate in a peaceful multinational mission to restore freedom of navigation in the…
Kryeministri Edi Rama, i pyetur për turizmin këtë vit dhe pasojat e luftës në Lindjen e Mesme, u shpreh nga Durrësi ku zhvilloi takim me strukturat e PS në këtë qark se, vendet që po e pësojnë nga…
Average mortgage rates in the Czech Republic significantly increased in April, reaching their highest level since December 2024, attributed to the impact of the Middle East conflict.
Mortgage rates are on an upward trend, leading to waning affordability for prospective homebuyers as the spring homebuying season approaches, prompting concerns about the housing market.
The US bond market is showing nervousness over rising inflation and ballooning debt, leading to expectations of rate hikes and a jump in mortgage rates. These inflation fears, coupled with higher oil prices, are also weighing heavily on US homebuyers.
The U.S. housing market is seeing a shift where buyers are gaining leverage despite rising mortgage rates and home prices. This comes as financial experts like Peter Schiff debate whether renting is a more viable option than homeownership for many Americans.
This article provides an update on the current rates for Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC) and home equity loans as of April 3, 2026, describing them as "drama-free second mortgage rates."
Long-term mortgage rates have climbed to their highest point in approximately seven months, presenting significant affordability challenges for the upcoming spring home buying season and impacting the broader housing market.
Mortgage demand from both homeowners and potential home buyers is experiencing a significant and continuous fall, with weekly refinance demand down over 40% in the past month, driven by rising interest rates and concerns over the war with Iran.
Two more major banks in Sweden have increased their variable mortgage rates, prompting the Deputy Governor of the Riksbank, Per Jansson, to offer two concrete pieces of advice to Swedish mortgage customers.
Donald Trump has extended a deadline for a strike threat by 10 days and paused attacks on Iran’s energy sector, giving Iranians ten more days to open the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a fall in oil prices. Meanwhile, Israel reportedly assassinated Iranian regime leaders involved in the Strait of Hormuz blockade.
The Middle East conflict continues to impact the global economy, leading to potential stagflation, rising mortgage rates in the US, and lower Wall Street trading. South Korea has implemented a 12-step plan to reduce energy consumption due to surging oil prices, while Europe faces a potential gas price explosion if LNG imports from Qatar remain halted, and global fuel prices are causing concern in places like Manila.
Tehran has rejected reports of direct talks with the US, instead laying out its own terms to end the conflict, while the White House acknowledges 'elements of truth' to Washington offering a peace plan, further complicating ongoing back-channel diplomacy. Gold prices have held gains following reports of US negotiations aimed at ending the Iran War.
US mortgage rates have reached their highest level since October, with the MBA attributing the rise to ongoing war concerns keeping bond yields elevated.
Highly indebted Swedish households with variable mortgage rates are threatened by a significant interest rate hike, with the Riksbank's policy rate expected to increase three times before year-end, possibly starting in May or June.
Markets are predicting that UK mortgage interest rates will increase four times this year, reaching 4.75%, as investors anticipate action from the Bank of England due to sustained inflation stemming from the Iran war.
Treasury yields, including the 10-year and 30-year, have spiked, pushing mortgage rates higher as the bond market shows anxiety over inflation and leveraged Treasury bets.
Prices for new single-family homes have continued to fall, while the inventory of completed new homes for sale has reached its highest level since 2009, as buyers await potentially lower mortgage rates.
Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news
UK mortgage rates have climbed again today, as lender pull their cheaper deals from the market.
Data provider Moneyfacts reports that the average 2-year fixed residential mortgage rate today is 5.30%, up from 5.28% on Tuesday.
Average 2-year fix has risen from 4.83% at the start of March to 5.30% today. It’s highest since February 2025.
Average 5-year fix has risen from 4.95% at the start of March to 5.35% today. It’s highest since Au...
Mortgage interest rates in the Netherlands have seen a slight increase, with 10-year fixed rates rising from 3.7% to 3.85% in the past two weeks, making borrowing for home purchases more expensive.
US pending home sales unexpectedly increased in February, bouncing off record lows, attributed to lower mortgage rates despite previous declines blamed on weather.
US Treasury yields, including the 10-year and 30-year, have jumped to 4.28% and 4.90% respectively, causing mortgage rates to spike to 6.41% due to fears of inflation and government deficits, following the sale of $651 billion in Treasury securities.
An economist warns that elevated oil prices are negatively affecting mortgage rates, advising homebuyers to understand their options before locking in rates for the spring home selling season.
Mortgage rates fell below the critical 6 percent threshold just a couple weeks ago. But they’re climbing again as new inflation concerns have roiled financial markets.
The current environment of sub-6% mortgage rates is prompting discussions and changes in financial planning regarding whether to carry a mortgage into retirement.
Home sales showed improvement in February, but the ongoing rise in mortgage rates poses a significant threat to this progress, potentially hindering future market growth.
Increased energy prices have led to a rise in Danish mortgage rates, making housing loans more expensive. A private economist notes that this translates to an additional 110 kroner per month for every million borrowed.
Beeline Holdings (NASDAQ: BLNE) is making progress in implementing blockchain technology for mortgage closings, coinciding with a dip in mortgage rates below 6%.
Hong Kong homebuyers are experiencing fewer discounts as the property market shows signs of stabilisation, despite high mortgage rates and market uncertainty.
This story reports on how major US stock indexes fared on a specific Thursday and the dip in average US long-term mortgage rates to their lowest level in over three years.
The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) has lowered its housing market forecast for 2026, citing an 'oil shock,' a jump in fixed mortgage rates, and weaker-than-expected sales in the first quarter.
Despite unchanged key interest rates, mortgage rates for three-year fixed-rate mortgages are increasing due to the Iran conflict. A prolonged war could also lead to a key interest rate hike by the National Bank.
Halifax reports a slowdown in the UK housing market, with house prices falling in March, as uncertainty over the Middle East war and rising mortgage rates weigh on demand.
Tensions in the Middle East, referred to as the 'Iran war,' are affecting the spring housing market in the US, with a CNBC survey indicating that homebuyers are more concerned about the economy and mortgage rates than home prices.
According to ECB data, fixed-rate mortgage interest rates in Greece for terms up to five years have fallen to their lowest level in nine years, positioning Greece among the Eurozone's most affordable countries for mortgages.
Current housing market trends are generally favorable for home shoppers, however, the ongoing conflict involving Iran is casting uncertainty over the future outlook for mortgage rates.
Many homeowners who secured low mortgage rates years ago are now finding it impossible to move to larger homes, even as their families grow, due to the inability to afford higher current rates. This creates a dilemma for families needing more living space.
A potential war involving Iran could lead to a significant increase in mortgage rates for 1.3 million homeowners in the UK, according to warnings from the Bank of England, due to higher energy prices impacting borrowing costs.
US home prices rose in January, with the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Home Price Index reporting a deceleration in growth, despite tumbling mortgage rates, while the Iran War subsequently pushed mortgage rates higher.
Iranian nuclear facilities were attacked, with Israel claiming responsibility just hours after threatening to escalate military operations against Iran. Israeli forces confirmed bombing Iran's Arak heavy-water reactor, targeting key infrastructure for plutonium production, following earlier reports of US and Israeli strikes on facilities in Arak and Ardakan.
The ongoing Middle East conflict continues to escalate energy concerns, driving global economic shifts, market volatility, and impacting the travel and tourism sector with significant daily losses, including millions for Hapag-Lloyd due to blocked straits. Crude oil prices react to tensions, while Iran's strategic position in the Strait of Hormuz remains a key factor in the global crisis, also leading to airline ticket price increases due to kerosene shock.
Reports for March 26, 2026, indicate the best money market account rates up to 4.01% APY, high-yield savings rates up to 4% APY, CD rates up to 4.1% APY, and mortgage rates remaining near recent highs.
Five-year UK mortgage rates have dropped below two-year rates, leading lenders to withdraw over 1,500 products this month, potentially influenced by the ongoing Iran war.
The Iran war continues to impact major economies worldwide, leading to rising mortgage rates due to a 'war premium,' benefiting US gas exporters, causing gold prices to tumble, and allowing the illicit 'shadow fleet' oil trade to capitalize on the chaos.
First-time homebuyers in the UK are facing challenges as mortgage rates continue to climb, leading to over 200 deals being withdrawn from the market since early March with further upheaval anticipated.
Mortgage and refinance interest rates have climbed to their highest point in months, reaching a three-month high and the highest since September on March 22, 2026, as the Iran War rattles the spring housing market.
UK borrowing costs have reached their highest level since 2008, with interest rates on government debt climbing due to fears about inflation, interest rates, and public spending, leading to expectations of further rises in mortgage rates.
Average US long-term mortgage rates, including the 30-year fixed rate, have climbed to 6.22%, marking their highest level in over three months according to recent reports.
US New Home Sales Collapse By Most In 13 Years In January
Despite falling mortgage rates, analysts expected December's drop in new home sales to accelerate in January...
Sweden's state-owned mortgage bank SBAB maintains its forecast for largely stable interest rates this year, anticipating only a moderate increase in mortgage rates despite the global economic impact of the Iran conflict.
Much of the new home supply has been built away from cities. Add in higher gas prices due to the Middle East conflict and things look even more challenging.
The era of sub-4% mortgage rates appears to be ending as banks have withdrawn over 600 mortgage deals, signaling a shift in the housing finance market.
Millions of homeowners could save money by refinancing their mortgages due to lower rates, but experts advise acting quickly to take advantage of the current market conditions.
The war with Iran is causing extreme instability in global markets, which is why many are concerned about the impact of the military conflict on their finances.
What it means for...
Mortgage rates have seen a slight increase from the previous week, yet they remain close to a four-year low, indicating a relatively stable borrowing environment.
Frustrated sellers who pulled homes off the market last fall are now re-listing them at a quick pace, thanks to lower mortgage rates, but supply is still low.
A new report highlights the inaccessibility of housing in major Italian cities, with Milan's mortgage rates being unsustainable even for individuals earning 59,000 euros annually, as payments exceed 30% of net monthly income.
Long-term mortgage rates in the United States have fallen below 6%, marking the first time this has happened in almost four years, offering potential relief to homebuyers.
Danish financial giant Nykredit has announced a reduction in its mortgage contribution rates as part of a broader business update that also includes a mining project closure and a new CEO appointment.
Mortgage rates have fallen to their lowest level in nearly four years, but homebuyer demand has also dropped as affordability issues continue to keep potential buyers on the sidelines.
The author (second from right) moved with her family from Utah to Denver.
Courtesy of Katy Anderson
Our house was affordable in rural Utah, but we sold it anyway to pay more for a rental in Denver.
It was a financially risky move, but it's worked out great for us because we're closer to nature.
To help with the increase in housing, we're driving less and canceled subscriptions.
Sometimes, a decision doesn't make sense on paper, but it just feels right to your soul. That's what my family's big move was like.
Last year, our family of five sold our affordable home in rural southern Utah to move into a more expensive rental in a Denver suburb.
We had wanted a change for a long time, and the timing finally felt right. We could've stayed where we were "safe" financially, but all our family members were struggling in different ways.
I couldn't shake the feeling that nothing would really get better until we were brave enough to make a big change — so we did.
Moving from Utah to Denver was a difficult financial decision
One of the hardest parts to accept about moving was leaving our extended family and a house that we had lived in for 13 years.
Even more difficult was that our house in Utah was affordable. We were privileged to buy a house when prices were reasonable, and mortgage rates were low. We would have moved a long time ago, but we felt stuck in a home we had outgrown because it was cheap.
We knew that if we sold our house, we would be paying a lot more elsewhere. But the decision still felt right for our family.
We figured Denver was worth the price increase
We chose a Denver suburb because we love the outdoors and also miss the opportunities that a city provides. We have friends in the area, so we knew we would have a community once we arrived.
The author's kids enjoy Denver's nature.
Courtesy of Katy Anderson
We chose an area known for its "small town feel." As soon as we moved in, I immediately fell in love with the neighborhood. We are surrounded by an abundance of mature trees, and are within walking distance of wonderful trails for walking and biking.
I've been amazed at the wildlife around us, especially considering we live in a Metro area.
Just walking the trails in our neighborhood, we've seen rabbits, coyotes, elk, raccoons, turkeys, and many different species of birds. We feel closer to nature here than we did in rural Utah.
After living here for a few weeks, we decided to purchase e-bikes so we could ride much farther along the trails, including to coffee shops, restaurants, city gardens, and parks.
This area also provides us with access to shopping, museums, concerts, and sporting venues. After living in a secluded town for so many years, having these amenities feels like a luxury.
We're saving money in other ways
Our rent is high in Denver, and that has been the biggest adjustment.
Before we made the move, I was also worried about the cost of living, but I have been pleasantly surprised. Our kids even get free school lunch thanks to a statewide Healthy School Meals for All program. My kids have all commented that the food is of better quality. They actually want to eat the school lunches here.
We are paying much less for gas in Colorado, as we are driving substantially less. In Utah, we lived on the outskirts of town and had to drive 15 to 20 minutes to get to work or to the nearest grocery store.
When we moved to Colorado, we also immediately ended most of our subscriptions and streaming services. We've cut down on our discretionary spending and are eating more family meals at home.
We also chose jobs that would help us adjust to our new housing costs
We knew we would be paying more for housing no matter where we moved, so we chose a location with ample work opportunities. My husband is a psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I have picked up a part time job in addition to my freelance writing business.
We are all making more money in Colorado than we could in Utah, where the minimum wage is still $7.25 per hour. Two of my teenage sons were amazed when they realized how much more they could earn in their new city.
Right now, we are enjoying the freedom of renting. Buying a home in this economy feels daunting, and we want to take our time exploring Colorado to see where we may want to buy if it feels right.
For now, I am grateful that my kids have a chance to experience living in a bigger city with more diversity and opportunities. Overall, I feel like we fit in here in a way that we never did in our old town, and that is priceless.
Read the original article on Business Insider
US Pending Home Sales Hit Record Low Despite Falling Mortgage Rates
After plunging in December (biggest drop since COVID), US Pending Home Sales disappointed once again with a modest 0.8% MoM decline in January (+2.0% MoM exp). This left sales down 1.23% YoY...
Source: Bloomberg
This left the Pending Home Sales Index at a record low...
Source: Bloomberg
Mortgage rates continued to slide... so WTF is holding buyers back?
Source: Bloomberg
“Improving affordability conditions have yet to induce more buying activity,” NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said in a statement.
Yun cautioned that the mix of lower mortgage rates and a still-tight supply of houses could cause home prices to start rising quickly again, assuming the lower borrowing costs encourage more buyers.
“This will put increasing pressure on affordability, which is why it is critical to increase supply by building more homes,” Yun said.
Weather could have impacted sales as sales were weakest in the NorthEast and South - where the winter storm was most impactful.
Pending-homes sales tend to be a leading indicator for previously owned homes, as houses typically go under contract a month or two before they’re sold.
Tyler Durden
Thu, 02/19/2026 - 10:10