U.S. Builder Confidence Rises Amid Falling Mortgage Rates

20 Sep 2024 CW Team

U.S. home builder confidence increased in September, marking a break from four consecutive months of decline, as mortgage rates fell. The NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index rose to 41, up from 39 in August, surpassing economists' expectations of 40. This shift indicates the first positive outlook for future home sales since May. Despite the rise, builder confidence remains low, largely due to ongoing construction costs and inflation. The Federal Reserve's anticipated rate cuts are expected to ease mortgage interest rates and reduce costs for land development and construction loans. Notably, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has dropped to 6.20%, down from nearly 8% last October. Builder sentiment about sales expectations for the next six months also improved, climbing four points to 53. The easing mortgage rates have allowed builders to reduce price cuts, with the share of those lowering prices falling for the first time since April, and the average price concession dropping below 6% for the first time since July 2022.

Infrastructure Transport

16 Sep 2025

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..