James Hardie Industries, an Australian building materials manufacturer, reported a 28% year-over-year decline in quarterly profit, driven by weak demand in the US housing market and high borrowing costs. The company’s first-quarter fiscal 2026 results showed adjusted earnings per share of $0.29 and revenue of $899.9 million, both below market expectations, with net income at $62.6 million. The slowdown in new construction and remodeling activity, particularly in states like Texas, Florida, and Georgia, contributed to the downturn. The company is also integrating its recent acquisition of AZEK, which has delivered some synergies but has not offset the broader market weakness. Following the earnings release, James Hardie shares plunged as much as 35% in a single day, marking the largest one-day drop since 1973 and the biggest decline in five years. Analysts have lowered price targets amid concerns over the US housing sector's momentum. In contrast, John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc. reported flat revenue of $269.1 million for Q4 2025 but saw a 33.7% increase in earnings per share to $1.15, driven by improved efficiencies and reduced operating expenses.