FX.co ★ U.S. MBA Purchase Index Slips to 159.8, Signaling Softer Mortgage Demand

The latest reading of the U.S. MBA Purchase Index shows a decline in mortgage application activity, highlighting a cooling in housing demand. According to data updated on 29 July 2026, the index eased to 159.8 from a previous level of 165.8.

The drop in the Purchase Index indicates that fewer buyers are applying for home loans compared with the prior period. While the data alone does not clarify the underlying drivers, the lower reading points to a more cautious mortgage market and potentially softer momentum in U.S. housing transactions. Investors and policymakers will be watching subsequent releases to see whether this marks the start of a broader downward trend or a temporary pause in demand.