"D.R. Horton's Impact on Homebuilder Stocks and Margins"
D.R. Horton's weaker-than-expected quarterly orders and earnings per share miss led to a 9% drop in its stock, impacting the SPDR S&P Homebuilders ETF as well. The company plans to continue using mortgage rate buydowns as an incentive for buyers, despite caution over potential rate shifts. While longer-term interest rates have risen, new construction has helped boost housing inventory amid low supply in the resale market. D.R. Horton expects higher home closings this fiscal year, reflecting ongoing challenges and strategies in the housing market.