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China's housing ministry will hold a press briefing to provide more details on measures to support the country's struggling property sector and boost economic growth. The briefing will include officials from the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, the People's Bank of China, and the Ministry of Finance. The focus will be on promoting the steady and healthy development of the property sector. This comes after the Finance Ministry promised efforts to back the real estate sector, including allowing local governments to use funds from special bonds to buy unsold homes. The Chinese government has been implementing stimulus measures to address the country's growth slowdown, with a particular emphasis on stabilizing the property market. Preliminary data shows a significant decline in the value of new-home sales in September compared to the previous year. [Extracted from the article]

Home price gains in Seoul have slowed down, indicating a shift in the Bank of Korea's policy. The growth in prices decreased from 0.83% in August to 0.54% in September, marking the first loss of momentum since January. The central bank's decision to cut its benchmark interest rate to 3.25% was influenced by early signs of cooling in the market. The high share of wealth held in residential properties by South Koreans and the risk associated with mortgage loans for apartment purchases in Seoul were also factors considered by the bank. The bank will continue to monitor home prices and their impact on household debt as it determines the pace of easing going forward. [Extracted from the article]

Bellway Plc, a homebuilder in the UK, has seen an improvement in the housing market after a period of declining sales. The company's private reservation rate has increased, and it expects its average selling price to rise in the next financial year. The easing of mortgage interest rates has contributed to increased customer demand. Bellway's focus on mid-market homes and apartments may be advantageous as buyers seek smaller homes due to higher mortgage rates and the cost-of-living crisis. The company's forward order book has also increased. However, challenging trading conditions have led to a drop in total revenue. Bellway decided against pursuing a deal with Crest Nicholson Holdings Plc, incurring costs as a result. The company remains optimistic about the government's plans to reform the planning system and increase housing supply. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te delivered his first National Day address, indicating that he would stand up to the challenges posed by China. He emphasized his commitment to resisting annexation or encroachment upon Taiwan's sovereignty and stated that China had no right to represent Taiwan. These comments are likely to provoke a sharp response from Beijing and suggest that tensions between Taipei and Beijing will continue. The Taiwan issue will also remain a point of contention between China and the US, which supports Taiwan militarily, economically, and politically. President Lai expressed his commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and expressed a desire to work with China on various issues. He also pledged to address the issue of high housing prices in Taiwan. [Extracted from the article]

Mortgage rates in the US have increased for the second consecutive week, reaching the highest level since early September. The average rate for a 30-year fixed loan is now 6.32%, up from 6.12% the previous week. This rise in rates is primarily due to shifts in expectations rather than the underlying economy, according to Sam Khater, Freddie Mac's chief economist. While higher rates may make affordability more challenging, they demonstrate the economic strength that should continue to support the housing market's recovery. However, potential buyers who have been waiting for rates to fall below 6% may now hesitate, although some experts suggest that now may be a good time to act as more favorable rates may not materialize in the near future. [Extracted from the article]

According to a report by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), UK house prices have experienced their first growth in almost two years. This increase is attributed to hopes that the Bank of England will further ease borrowing costs. The report also highlights a rise in buyer demand and sales, as well as the affordability of buying a home due to the BOE's interest-rate cut. However, the survey also reveals imbalances in the rental market, with a decline in rental properties and increasing demand, leading to expected rent price increases. [Extracted from the article]

The Bank of Korea has cut its benchmark interest rate by a quarter-percentage-point to 3.25% in response to cooling property markets and a decrease in inflationary pressure. This decision aligns with a trend among central banks to shift towards easing cycles in order to stimulate economic growth. The rate cut reflects concerns over stagnant private spending and credit risks in the construction industry, and is aimed at reducing interest expenses and boosting consumption. [Extracted from the article]

According to a report by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), UK house prices have experienced their first growth in almost two years. This increase is attributed to hopes that the Bank of England will further ease borrowing costs. The report also highlights a rise in buyer demand and sales, as well as the affordability of buying a home due to the BOE's interest-rate cut. However, the survey also reveals imbalances in the rental market, with a decline in rental properties and increasing demand, leading to expected rent price increases. [Extracted from the article]

South Korea has made progress in cooling the increase in home prices and plans to increase housing supply, according to the Finance Ministry. The government has seen a decline in apartment transactions and moderating growth in prices since implementing housing policies in August. The central bank, which has kept its benchmark rate at 3.5% due to concerns about an overheated housing market, is expected to conduct a policy pivot with a quarter-percentage-point rate cut. The government's measures and signs of a cooling property market are likely to influence the bank's decision. [Extracted from the article]

Iceland's central bank, Sedlabanki, unexpectedly cut interest rates by 25 basis points to 9.0%, marking the first reduction since August last year. This move comes as inflation in the country has started to ease, with consumer-price growth slowing to 5.4% in September, the lowest in two and a half years. The central bank remains concerned about high long-term inflation expectations, driven by housing prices, and the impact of volcanic activity on the housing market. The decision to lower rates was seen as a wise step, and further reductions are expected in the future if inflation remains under control. [Extracted from the article]

New Zealand house prices have continued to decline for the seventh consecutive month, although at a slower rate, according to property consultancy CoreLogic. The decline in prices reflects a lack of confidence among buyers due to a cooling economy and rising unemployment. However, there is some optimism in the market following a recent interest-rate cut by the Reserve Bank, which has boosted sentiment. Despite this, houses still remain expensive relative to incomes, there is a large stock of listings, and the labor market remains weak. The market is expected to remain subdued for the rest of 2024, with a potential rise in sales volumes and house prices in 2025. [Extracted from the article]

The Bank of Korea has stated that the foundation for price stability is strengthening, despite inflation slowing more than expected. Consumer prices in September increased by 1.6% compared to the previous year, which is the slowest pace since early 2021 and below economists' forecasts. The bank's policy board will consider whether to cut the benchmark interest rate on October 11th, with some officials expressing optimism that the property market is cooling. Weak private spending and credit risks in construction have also increased the likelihood of a rate cut. [Extracted from the article]

Copper and other metals have seen a slight increase in value due to optimism surrounding Chinese stimulus measures and the possibility of further interest rate cuts in the US. Chinese authorities recently announced an economic rescue package, which has boosted base metals and iron ore prices. Additionally, the US Federal Reserve Chair, Jerome Powell, stated that the central bank will continue to loosen monetary policy if the economy progresses as expected. Copper rose by 0.6% to $9,885.50 a ton, while aluminum and zinc also experienced slight increases. However, iron ore dipped by 1.7% following a significant jump the previous day. [Extracted from the article]

Vietnam's factory activity has contracted for the first time in five months due to disruptions caused by Typhoon Yagi. The purchasing managers' index (PMI) for Vietnam dropped to 47.3 in September, indicating a decline in output, new orders, purchasing, and stocks of inputs. However, experts believe that this is likely to be a temporary setback and expect a quick rebound in the sector. Taiwan and Thailand also experienced a slowdown in factory activity, while the Philippines saw a rise in its manufacturing sector. China's manufacturing PMI remained in contraction territory for the fifth consecutive month. [Extracted from the article]

Copper and other metals have seen a slight increase in value due to optimism surrounding Chinese stimulus measures and the possibility of further interest rate cuts in the US. The Chinese government's recent economic rescue package, which included easing restrictions on home buying, has boosted the demand for metals. Additionally, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has indicated that the central bank will continue to implement loose monetary policies if the economy progresses as expected. Copper rose by 0.4% to $9,868 a ton, while aluminum and zinc also experienced slight increases. However, iron ore saw a small dip after a significant jump the previous day. Chinese markets will be closed for public holidays until the following Monday. [Extracted from the article]

Seoul's housing market in South Korea is showing signs of cooling, with apartment prices and transactions continuing to decline. The number of trades dropped significantly in September, and the average sales price also slipped. The Bank of Korea (BOK) is considering a policy pivot next week, and the cooling trend in the property market may encourage this decision. The BOK has been concerned about high apartment prices in Seoul, which has prevented them from making a policy change. The government has implemented measures to address the overheating, including tightening lending rules and addressing the housing supply shortage. The BOK board members have differing opinions on whether a policy pivot should be made, with one member expecting housing price growth to moderate and another suggesting a pivot could be made without definite signs of cooling. The article suggests that the BOK may deliver a rate cut next week, but caution is advised due to limited apartment supply. [Extracted from the article]

UK house prices experienced growth in September, following a surprise fall the previous month. The Nationwide Building Society reported a 0.7% increase in home prices, surpassing economists' expectations of 0.2% growth. This was the strongest month-on-month showing since February, with the average house price rising to £266,094 ($356,200), a 3.2% increase from the previous year. Factors such as income growth, lower borrowing costs, and improved affordability have contributed to the increase in activity and house prices, although they remain subdued compared to historical standards. The housing market is strengthening due to rising real incomes, stronger savings, easing mortgage costs, and a more stable economic outlook. The Bank of England's interest rate cut in August has also boosted housing activity. The UK is currently building homes at the fastest pace in almost two years, bringing the government closer to meeting its target of constructing 1.5 million new homes over the next five years. [Extracted from the article]

According to the Nationwide Building Society, UK house prices experienced growth in September, following a decline in the previous month. The increase of 0.7% exceeded economists' expectations of 0.2% growth. This marks the strongest month-on-month data since February, with the average house price rising to £266,094 ($356,200), a 3.2% increase from the previous year. Factors such as income growth, lower borrowing costs, and a more stable economic outlook have contributed to the improvement in affordability and increased activity in the housing market. Additionally, the UK is currently building homes at the fastest pace in almost two years, bringing the country closer to its goal of constructing 1.5 million new homes over the next five years. [Extracted from the article]

Seoul's housing market in South Korea is showing signs of cooling, with apartment prices and transactions continuing to decline. The number of trades dropped significantly in September, and the average sales price also decreased for the third consecutive month. The Bank of Korea (BOK) is considering a policy pivot in response to these trends. The BOK has been concerned about high apartment prices in Seoul, which have hindered previous policy changes. The central bank will make its decision on October 11 and is closely monitoring housing data to assess potential financial imbalances. The South Korean government has implemented measures to address the overheating market, including tightening lending rules and addressing housing supply shortages. Some experts predict that the BOK may cut interest rates by a quarter-percentage point, but caution is advised due to limited apartment supply in the coming years. [Extracted from the article]

UK house prices experienced growth in September, following a surprise fall in the previous month. Nationwide Building Society reported a 0.7% increase in home prices, surpassing economists' expectations of 0.2% growth. This was the strongest month-on-month performance since February, with the average house price rising to £266,094 ($356,200), marking the fastest annual increase in two years. Factors such as income growth outpacing house price growth, lower borrowing costs, and the expectation of further interest rate cuts by the Bank of England have improved affordability and increased activity in the housing market. The number of mortgage approvals also rose, reaching the highest level since September 2022. The housing market's recovery is attributed to rising real incomes, stronger savings, easing mortgage costs, and a more stable economic outlook. The UK is also witnessing a surge in home construction, bringing the government closer to its target of building 1.5 million new homes over the next five years. The housing market's upturn is supported by various reports indicating growing optimism and buyer demand. House prices rose across most UK regions, with Northern Ireland experiencing the highest year-on-year increase of 8.6%. Detached homes have seen greater price increases compared to flats, likely due to the demand for more space during the pandemic. [Extracted from the article]

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers has praised China's new stimulus effort during his visit to Beijing, stating that it is a positive development for both Australia and the global economy. Chalmers discussed China's plans to boost its economy with officials, including the chair of the National Development and Reform Commission. China's recent actions, such as cutting interest rates and increasing fiscal spending, are in response to a housing market slump and a slow recovery from the pandemic. As China is Australia's largest trading partner, these developments have significant implications for the Australian economy. [Extracted from the article]

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers has praised China's new stimulus effort during his visit to Beijing, calling it a positive development for both Australia and the global economy. Chalmers discussed China's plans to boost its economy with officials, including the chair of the National Development and Reform Commission. China's central bank recently cut a key interest rate and the Politburo announced plans to increase fiscal spending in order to meet economic growth targets. This is significant for Australia, as China is its largest trading partner. The two countries have also agreed to hold economic talks in Australia in 2025. [Extracted from the article]

The Bank of Korea is considering cutting its benchmark interest rate before the housing market shows signs of cooling, according to a board member. The member, Shin Sung Hwan, emphasized the need to support the domestic economy and stated that waiting for a clear slowdown in the housing market may not be affordable. These comments, along with Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok's focus on policies that boost private spending, suggest that the Bank of Korea may pivot its policy at its next decision in October. The bank has refrained from cutting rates recently due to concerns about increasing household debt. [Extracted from the article]

The Bank of Korea may consider cutting its benchmark interest rate before the housing market shows clear signs of cooling, according to a board member. The member, Shin Sung Hwan, emphasized the need to support the domestic economy and stated that waiting for a definite slowdown would not be affordable. The comments have sparked speculation that the Bank of Korea may implement a policy pivot in October based on early indications of a cooling housing market. However, concerns about rising household debt and the need for more evidence of a sustained housing market slowdown may still delay the rate cut. [Extracted from the article]

Hong Kong has surpassed Singapore as the top financial center in Asia, according to the latest Global Financial Centres Index. Globally, Hong Kong ranked third, behind New York and London. The report also highlighted that Shenzhen overtook San Francisco in the fintech ranking, while Chicago and Los Angeles climbed past Shanghai. The index, compiled by Z/Yen Partners and the China Development Institute, assesses 121 financial centers using data and survey results from financial professionals. [Extracted from the article]

According to a survey conducted by the Bank of Korea, South Koreans anticipate that the housing market will continue to rise. The index measuring the one-year outlook for home prices increased slightly in September, although at a slower pace than in previous months. The central bank is expected to cut interest rates in October, but the survey results may encourage policymakers to be cautious due to concerns about increasing consumer appetite for mortgage loans and the need to address household debt. Overall consumer sentiment slightly decreased in September, but the outlook for interest rates in the next six months remained unchanged. [Extracted from the article]

China has announced new measures to support its struggling real estate market. The People's Bank of China will lower borrowing costs on up to $5.3 trillion in mortgages and ease rules for second home purchases. The central bank will cut mortgage rates for individual borrowers by an average of 0.5 percentage point and reduce the minimum down-payment ratio for second-home buyers from 25% to 15%. These actions are aimed at addressing a housing-led slowdown in China's economy amidst increasing protectionism and a shaky global outlook. [Extracted from the article]

UK property portal Rightmove has rejected an improved takeover offer from REA Group. The bid, valued at nearly 750 pence a share or £5.9 billion ($7.9 billion) in total, was deemed to undervalue the company. Rightmove, which holds the largest market share in the UK property portal market, saw its shares rise over 20% since the initial approach from REA. The deal would have expanded REA's presence in the Australian online real estate industry and other markets. Both companies declined to comment on the matter. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's central bank has raised the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) for banks in an effort to cool down the country's hot property market. This move comes as housing costs in Taiwan have been rising for a record-breaking 23 consecutive quarters. The central bank also left the benchmark interest rate unchanged at 2%, the highest level in 16 years. In addition to raising the RRR, the central bank has implemented targeted measures to address the increasing cost of homes, including tightening home-buying rules and limiting the amount of money people can borrow for mortgages. [Extracted from the article]

Taiwan's central bank has increased the reserve requirement ratio for banks in an effort to cool down the country's hot property market. The benchmark interest rate has been kept at its highest level in 16 years. The central bank also announced additional targeted measures to address the rising cost of homes. [Extracted from the article]

Mortgage rates in the US have reached their lowest level since February 2023, with the average rate for a 30-year fixed loan at 6.09%. This decline in rates is due to anticipated interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, which announced a half-point reduction on Wednesday. While the immediate impact on the housing market may be minimal, experts are optimistic that lower loan costs will attract more buyers and sellers, addressing the current shortage of inventory. Autumn is traditionally a slower time for the housing market, making it a potentially opportune time for house hunters to find a deal before the market becomes more competitive. [Extracted from the article]

Bank of Canada officials are divided on the balance of inflation risks as they consider interest rate decisions. Some members of the governing council are concerned about downside risks to inflation, while others see the risks as more balanced. The council ultimately decided to cut the policy rate to 4.25% and indicated that further easing may be necessary. The differing views were reflected in discussions about two scenarios related to consumption and the housing market. Governor Tiff Macklem had previously mentioned these scenarios, and policymakers are still looking for progress on core price pressures. The Bank of Canada will announce its next rate decision and release updated forecasts on October 23rd. [Extracted from the article]

House prices in London dropped by 0.4% in July, influenced by uncertainty surrounding the tax plans of the new Labour government. The average price of a home in London is now £521,000 ($688,890), according to Land Registry data reported by the Office for National Statistics. There are concerns that Chancellor Rachel Reeves may announce increases to capital gains and inheritance taxes in her budget on October 30. London house prices are still around 4% below their peak two years ago. In contrast, average UK home prices increased by 2.2% in the year through July. [Extracted from the article]

Legal & General Group Plc, a British financial-services firm, has agreed to sell homebuilder Cala Group to alternative-asset managers Sixth Street Partners and Patron Capital. The deal is valued at £1.35 billion ($1.8 billion) and will result in cash proceeds of £1.16 billion. Legal & General plans to use the proceeds for its own growth and may also consider buying back shares. The sale comes as the UK housing market shows signs of revival, with increased optimism among home-sellers. The deal is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of the year. [Extracted from the article]

Bajaj Housing Finance Ltd., India's most valuable mortgage lender, believes that competition in the housing market is decreasing as larger banks shift their focus to corporate credit. The chairman of the company, Sanjiv Bajaj, stated that banks have been concentrating on retail business due to softer demand from corporate borrowers, making the housing finance market highly competitive. However, as corporate lending restarts, Bajaj expects there to be less margin pressure on the home loan business. Bajaj Housing has been growing faster than the industry rate and plans to continue expanding in key markets. The total inventory of vacant homes has also decreased, signaling the start of another cycle of construction and lending to the sector. [Extracted from the article]

Bajaj Housing Finance Ltd., India's most valuable mortgage lender, believes that competition in the housing market is decreasing as larger banks shift their focus to corporate credit. The chairman of the company, Sanjiv Bajaj, stated that banks have been concentrating on retail business due to softer demand from corporate borrowers, making the housing finance market highly competitive. However, as corporate lending restarts, Bajaj expects there to be less margin pressure on the home loan business. The company plans to expand in a sensible manner and has been growing faster than the industry rate. The total inventory of vacant homes has also decreased, signaling the beginning of another cycle of construction and lending to the sector. Outside of major cities like Delhi and Mumbai, home prices have remained steady and are growing at a steady pace. Bajaj Housing Finance's shares have rallied since its IPO debut. [Extracted from the article]

Traders are optimistic about a potential rebound in Hong Kong property developers' shares, as they anticipate that a US interest rate cut will stimulate property purchases. Hong Kong's interest rates are linked to the US due to its currency peg. Analysts predict a 5% recovery in home prices in 2025, following an expected 8% drop this year. While a US rate cut could provide some relief for developers, analysts caution that it may take time for them to benefit, as banks are slow to pass on the reduction and weak buyer sentiment and high inventory remain challenges. The Hong Kong government's efforts to attract professionals from mainland China through talent programs are also expected to lead to higher rents. [Extracted from the article]

Asking prices for houses in the UK have risen at twice their usual pace in September, according to a report by property site Rightmove. The average price of homes on the market increased by 0.8% to £370,759 ($487,000), indicating increased optimism among sellers following the Bank of England's recent interest-rate cut. Lower borrowing costs and a higher number of properties for sale have contributed to a rise in demand and agreed sales. However, experts have warned of potential uncertainty in the market due to the upcoming budget announcement and a slowdown in hiring by businesses. [Extracted from the article]

China's home prices have continued to decline, with new-home prices in 70 cities dropping by 0.73% in August compared to July. The decline in values of used homes was even steeper, at 0.95%. These figures indicate the challenges faced by Beijing in trying to stabilize the property market amidst deflationary pressures and a sluggish economy. Efforts to stimulate domestic demand have not been successful, leading economists to call for further stimulus measures. [Extracted from the article]

The UK housing market is experiencing a boost following a rate cut by the Bank of England, according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Buyer demand and sales increased in August, and estate agents are expecting further improvement in the final quarter of the year. Mortgage rates have also continued to decrease, making home buying more affordable. However, RICS emphasizes the importance of realistic pricing and notes that the scope of future interest-rate cuts is uncertain. The report aligns with a recent Halifax report showing rising house prices, although Nationwide Building Society reported a decrease in prices. [Extracted from the article]

China's home prices experienced a slightly faster decline in August, indicating that the government's housing rescue plan is losing its effectiveness. New-home prices in 70 cities, excluding state-subsidized housing, dropped by 0.73% from July, while the values of used homes declined by 0.95%. These figures highlight the challenges Beijing faces in managing the property downturn amidst deflationary pressures. Efforts to stimulate domestic demand have not been successful in reviving the housing market, leading economists to call for further stimulus measures. [Extracted from the article]

The UK housing market is experiencing a boost following the Bank of England's interest rate cut, according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Buyer demand and sales increased in August, and estate agents are expecting further improvement in the last quarter of the year. Mortgage rates have also continued to decrease, making home buying more affordable. However, RICS emphasizes the importance of realistic pricing and notes that the impact of future interest rate cuts and potential tax increases by the new Labour government remain uncertain. [Extracted from the article]

Australian real estate listing provider REA Group Ltd., which is part of Rupert Murdoch's media empire, has initiated preliminary takeover talks with Rightmove Plc, the UK's largest property portal. REA Group has made an initial proposal valuing Rightmove in the low-700 pence-per-share range, which would represent a premium of over 25%. While discussions are ongoing, there is no certainty that a deal will be reached. Rightmove, with a market value of approximately £5.3 billion, has not yet publicly responded to the offer. [Extracted from the article]

Singapore is closely monitoring the private and public housing resale markets after implementing cooling measures in August to increase the affordability of public flats. The Ministry of National Development has stated that they will take decisive action to ensure that housing prices align with economic fundamentals. Despite a weak first half, private home sales in Singapore rose to their highest level since March in July. The government is working to increase the supply of private housing in response to concerns about housing affordability and rising prices. [Extracted from the article]

According to a recent survey by SEB AB, Swedes' expectations for home prices have increased slightly due to the country's central bank's easing campaign and plans for accelerated interest-rate cuts. The survey found that 58% of respondents expect the value of homes to increase. Although housing prices have recovered somewhat from a 2022 decline, they are still more than 20% below their peak when adjusted for inflation. The Riksbank has indicated that it may lower its benchmark rate to 2.75% by the end of the year, which could further support a recovery in housing prices. However, economists predict that the recovery will be modest. [Extracted from the article]

UK house prices have risen for the second consecutive month, coming close to reaching a record high, according to data from Halifax. The average price of a typical UK home increased by 0.3% in August, reaching £292,505, just £1,000 short of the peak in June 2022. This rise is attributed to the Bank of England's interest rate cut in August, which has boosted confidence among prospective homebuyers. However, there are discrepancies between Halifax's data and that of Nationwide Building Society, which reported a month-on-month fall in prices in August. The housing market in London has seen slower growth compared to the national average, with prices increasing by 1.5%. Northern Ireland and Wales experienced the strongest price gains. Economists predict that if interest rates continue to fall, it could further stimulate demand and drive house prices up in the future. [Extracted from the article]

UK house prices have increased for the second consecutive month following a cut in interest rates by the Bank of England, according to data from Halifax. The average price of a typical UK home rose by 0.3% in the past month to £292,505 ($385,450), contributing to a 4.3% annual increase, the fastest since November 2022. This growth is expected to continue throughout the remainder of the year, with lenders reducing mortgage rates to attract potential buyers. The positive trend in the housing market is seen as a result of easing interest rates and a largely positive summer for the UK housing market. [Extracted from the article]

Vistry Group, a builder focused on affordable housing, expects to increase its homebuilding efforts in the UK due to the government's plan to reintroduce housing targets. The company is on track to deliver over 18,000 homes in 2024, compared to around 16,000 the previous year. Vistry is encouraged by the Labour Party's policy changes and anticipates further funding initiatives in the Autumn Statement. The company's growth strategy aligns with the government's goals to address the housing crisis. Despite a decrease in new home completions in England, Vistry's total completions increased by 9% in the first half of the year. [Extracted from the article]

Deutsche Bank has hired Peyman Dadgar, a managing director at Citigroup, to lead its telecom, media, and technology investment banking coverage in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Dadgar, who has been with Citi since 2010, will be joining Deutsche Bank in London. This move follows Deutsche Bank's earlier hiring of Alison Harding-Jones, the former head of mergers and acquisitions in Europe at Citi, as its global head of M&A. Deutsche Bank has recently been involved in advising REA Group Ltd. and Silver Lake on their respective deals. [Extracted from the article]

Norway's housing market remains strong, with home prices rebounding in August after a slight decline in July. The country's housing market has been outperforming its Scandinavian neighbors, thanks to a robust labor market and wage growth, as well as a limited supply of new homes. Despite concerns about inflation and delayed interest rate cuts, most analysts expect the Norwegian central bank to begin easing borrowing costs before the end of the year. [Extracted from the article]