FX.co ★ U.S. MBA Mortgage Applications Plummet to 18-Month Low, Down 90% from Previous Week

In a dramatic weekly shift, U.S. MBA Mortgage Applications have nosedived from 11.0% to just 1.1%, marking a staggering 90% decrease compared to the previous week. This unexpected drop, reported on May 14, 2025, represents an 18-month low for mortgage application activity in the United States.

This substantial contraction arrives amidst a backdrop of fluctuating interest rates and economic uncertainty, as potential homebuyers and refinancers face increased caution. The sharp decline highlights the current volatility in the housing market, emphasizing the importance for mortgage lenders and industry stakeholders to consider adaptive strategies.

The data released by the Mortgage Bankers Association indicates a significant shift in borrower sentiment over a brief period, suggesting potential wider implications for the U.S. economy if the trend continues. Financial analysts and policymakers will likely scrutinize upcoming data releases to assess the long-term impact of this sudden downturn on the housing sector and broader economic landscape.