US MORTGAGE DEMAND JUMPS AS 30-YEAR RATE FALLS TO 7.21% US mortgage applications surged 6.2% last week as borrowing costs eased, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. Home purchase applications jumped 7.5%, while refinancing demand rose 4.5%. The average 30-year mortgage rate fell 9 basis points to 7.21%, offering some relief to prospective homebuyers. Housing demand is showing signs of life, even with mortgage rates still above 7%.(彭博社)