US MBA mortgage applications w.e. 19 February -11.4% vs -5.1% prior 0 (0)

Latest data from the Mortgage Bankers Association for the week ending 19 February 2021
–  -5.1%
– Market index 790.6 vs 892.6 prior
– Refinancing index 3,848.1 vs 4,337.0 prior
It looks like the housing market is not taking too kindly to the higher rates as both purchases and refinancing activity took a heavy dip in the past week. After

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Fedspeak on tap for North American trading later today 0 (0)

We’ll be hearing from a couple of Fed policymakers today with Powell set to testify in Congress for a second day
Here’s the agenda:
1500 GMT – Fed chair Powell testifies before the House select committee
I wouldn’t expect anything new from Powell that we haven’t already heard of yesterday. But again, it will serve as a reminder

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Japan reportedly to decide on Friday whether to end state of emergency measures 0 (0)

Kyodo News reports on the matter
The report cites remarks by Japanese prime minister, Yoshihide Suga, in saying that the decision will be taken on Friday as to whether or not they will end the state of emergency measures in place that is set to run through to 7 March.

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Heads up: BOE speakers scheduled for today 0 (0)

The BOE will be due to testify before the Treasury Select Committee on monetary policy later today
Here’s the agenda:
1200 GMT – BOE’s Haldane speaks in a seminar
Haldane will be making a speech in a flagship seminar on the changing world of work, wellbeing and management. As such, I wouldn’t expect much policy remarks, if any

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