0858 GMT - Last week's fiscal 2025 updates triggered a wave of earnings downgrades for U.K. housebuilders but equity prices have remained remarkably resilient, Jefferies analysts say. Still, investors could find current entry points attractive as stocks remain priced at a significant 15% discount to their underlying tangible book value, Jefferies says. While near-term margin expansion remains modest, the sector is poised for a shift in sentiment. Growing buyer interest, the prospect of further rate cuts through the first half and a renewed focus on housing policy ahead of the Spring budget are expected to catalyze investor engagement, Jefferies says. "Improving momentum in planning we see as driving the future potential of the sector," Jefferies says. Shares in Taylor Wimpey and Berkeley are down 0.8%, followed by Persimmon, down 0.6%. (anthony.orunagoriainoff@dowjones.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

January 19, 2026 03:59 ET (08:59 GMT)

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