This week, U.S. mortgage rates have eased, with the 30-year fixed-rate average dropping below 6% to 5.98%, one of the lowest levels since the end of 2022. Federal Reserve Vice Chair Michelle Bowman stated that capital rules restrict banks' participation in mortgage issuance and servicing, and regulators are reviewing adjustment plans to better align related requirements with risks. Analysts believe that increased competition among banks may slightly reduce borrowing costs, but given the ongoing weakness in housing demand and high home prices, regulatory adjustments alone are unlikely to bring rates back to the lows seen during the pandemic.