Total lending to individuals increased by £4.3 billion in August, compared to the average monthly increase of £3.5 billion over the previous six months. Analysts were predicting increase by £4.1 billion. The three-month annualised and twelve-month growth rates were 3.5% and 2.7% respectively. Lending secured on dwellings increased by £3.4 billion in August, compared to the average monthly increase of £2.4 billion over the previous six months.
The number of loan approvals for house purchase was 71,030 in August, compared to the average of 65,594 over the previous six months. The number of approvals for remortgaging was 40,931, compared to the average of 35,811 over the previous six months. The number of approvals for other purposes was 11,685, compared to the average of 10,477 over the previous six months.
Sterling is currently being traded around 1.5180 area. Pair is likely to find support around 1.5150 handle and resistance above 1.5230 level. Later today, in the US session, CB Consumer Confidence figures are scheduled for a release.