Brent crude oil prices are nearing $103 a barrel due to fears over supply disruptions linked to increased attacks on shipping in the Gulf region. Reports indicate that there were at least 12 attacks on tankers last week, coinciding with reduced U.S. production amid hurricane threats.
In the UK, the housing market is feeling the impact of rising interest rate expectations, with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors noting a decline in house price balance. New buyer inquiries have weakened for the first time since March, while rental demand continues to rise amid a shortage of available properties.