In Australia, the NAB July survey revealed a rise in business confidence to 7, up from 5 in the previous month, marking the highest level since August 2022. This increase is attributed to optimism about potential interest rate cuts. However, business conditions declined to 5 from 9, reflecting weaker sales, profits, and hiring activity. In the United States, mortgage applications surged by 10.9% in the week ending August 8, compared to a 3.1% increase the prior week, driven by a 23% jump in refinancing activity. The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate fell to 6.67% from 6.77%, the largest weekly decline since February, with the 15-year mortgage rate dropping below 6% for the first time in four months. Meanwhile, in the United Kingdom, the housing market showed signs of slowing, with the RICS house price balance dropping to -13% in July, worse than the expected -5% and the previous -7%. The decline is linked to rising tax concerns and uncertainty ahead of the Chancellor's upcoming budget, contributing to falling house prices and reduced buyer demand.