Bank of England data show mortgage approvals dropped in August as borrowing costs rose, while diesel prices approached a new record high, the Guardian reports.
The average price of a litre of diesel at UK pumps now stands at 198.32p, according to the RAC motoring body, the BBC reports.
Diesel prices at UK forecourts have climbed to a record 199.18 pence per litre, even as housebuilder shares gained following the announcement of a new homes scheme.
The RAC expects the average UK diesel price to reach a new record high this weekend, according to the BBC.
Fuel costs in Australia have climbed to their highest levels since early April, with analysts warning of further increases if the US moves to cut diesel exports.
A CNBC report says record-high diesel prices are already straining trucking and rail industries, with the outlet cautioning that sustained high energy costs could ripple across the wider U.S. economy.
Trucking and rail companies say soaring diesel costs, linked to tensions involving Iran, are squeezing an industry they call the backbone of the economy.
Average diesel prices in the United States reached just under $6.27 per gallon Tuesday, a new high, amid disruptions to global fuel supplies.