Economics

Catch up on all the latest movements and commentary in less than five minutes, featuring data and analysis from Benham & Reeves, Halifax, Zoopla, Savills, Knight Frank, LonRes & more...

Bank of England data show an increase in mortgage approvals, remortgaging activity, and in net borrowing.

"Prospective tax changes in the impending budget have caused buyers to become more cautious in the prime housing markets, offsetting the benefit of lower interest rates," says Savills.

Miami, Tokyo and Zurich are still at high risk of a housing bubble, warns UBS, while London, New York and Paris are deemed to be 'low risk'.

Although more sub-4% mortgages are appearing, uncertainty ahead of the Budget means some buyers are hesitant, writes Knight Frank's head of UK resi research.

Savills research highlights a resurgence of mortgage lending and the highest level of first-time buyer activity in eight years.

'We heard recently of an American couple who have bought houses in seven different countries in the past 18 months – and are keen to buy more': Top buying agent Philip Harvey explains what's driving…

Berry Everitt of Chas Everitt shares a rosy view of the South African economy and property market, following the election of the Government of National Unity.

Today's unsurprising decision 'suggests that bringing interest rates down will be a test of stamina not speed,' notes Jackson-Stops boss.

Next month's Budget could send shockwaves through every stratum of the property market, writes veteran agent Trevor Abrahmsohn.

It's a "super-rich explosion", declares Henley & Partners, as the number of individuals with more than US$100mn to their name soars - but "the geography of extreme affluence is shifting".

Market indices have given sellers false hope, reports buying agent Emma Fildes, and there is an air of desperation amongst those who went too big on price before the summer.