Money
Briefing: Mortgage refinance demand plunges 19% after interest rates shoot higher
Strategic angle: Mortgage rates shot higher last week, as the war with Iran stoked fears over inflation, leading to a significant drop in refinance demand.
editorial-staff
1 min read
Updated 24 days ago
As of March 18, 2026, mortgage refinance demand has decreased by 19%, primarily attributed to rising interest rates influenced by ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the war with Iran.
The increase in interest rates raises concerns regarding inflation, which can further impact the housing market and refinancing activities.
Despite the decline in refinance demand, there are indications that buyer demand is improving, suggesting a complex interplay in the mortgage market dynamics.