The home-building industry is facing a rocky start to the season as new data from The Wall Street Journal highlights a slump in housing starts and builder earnings. Industry analysts attribute this downturn to several factors, including fluctuating interest rates, escalating material costs, and a hesitancy among prospective buyers stemming from economic uncertainty. This slowdown is particularly significant as the spring season traditionally marks a peak period for new home constructions, which subsequently drives builder earnings. The current market conditions are prompting analysts to revise their forecasts for 2025, predicting a continued softening in new home sales. Builders are now grappling with the challenge of aligning their strategies to navigate this shifting landscape. This news comes at a critical time for stakeholders in the housing industry as they assess future investments and growth opportunities. Understanding these data trends is crucial for real estate developers, investors, and market observers to make informed decisions moving forward.
The Wall Street JournalNew data shows KiwiSaver managers underperforming in returns
June 3, 2026
Recent analysis indicates that the largest KiwiSaver managers in New Zealand are currently underperforming, raising concerns among investors about returns on their retirement savings. The