Events · who it helps and who it hurts

Housing starts

The monthly count of new homes builders began.

Next release: Oct 20, 2026 at 08:30 US/Eastern · Last release: Aug 1, 2026, read as cooler

The reads below are for when more homes are started than expected. Expect the opposite when fewer homes are started. Cooler was the last call.

Sectors

Basic MaterialsUsually helpsLumber, cement and gravel.

Consumer CyclicalUsually helpsHomebuilders and home-improvement chains sit in this sector.

Financial ServicesUsually helpsMore mortgages get written.

IndustrialsUsually helpsBuilding products and equipment makers.

Communication ServicesLittle effectLittle direct link.

Consumer DefensiveLittle effectLittle direct link.

EnergyLittle effectLittle direct link.

HealthcareLittle effectLittle direct link.

Real EstateLittle effectNew homes compete with what landlords already own, but the sector barely moves on the day.

TechnologyLittle effectLittle direct link.

UtilitiesLittle effectLittle direct link.

Where each sector’s relative strength sits this week is on the rotation board.

Building Products & EquipmentUsually helpsEvery new home needs their products.

Lumber & Wood ProductionUsually helpsNew homes are built from it.

Residential ConstructionUsually helpsThis is the builders' own production figure.

Home Improvement RetailUsually helpsNew homes get fitted out.

Mortgage FinanceUsually helpsMore mortgages get written.

REIT - ResidentialUsually hurtsNew apartments compete with the ones they already own.