USD weakens as mortgage applications improve, refinancing activity rises

US mortgage applications showed improvement for the week ending October 10, declining only 1.8% compared to the previous week's 4.7% drop, with the market index at 317.2. The purchase index fell modestly to 166.0 from 170.6, while refinancing activity remained robust at 1168.0 versus 1180.2 previously. The 30-year mortgage rate edged slightly lower to 6.42% from 6.43%, potentially supporting housing market stability. This data suggests resilient domestic demand despite elevated interest rates, which could influence Federal Reserve policy considerations. The improved mortgage application figures may provide mild support for USD pairs, though this indicator rarely causes significant market movements. Traders should monitor upcoming housing starts and existing home sales data for confirmation of housing sector trends, which could impact broader USD sentiment and positioning.