A private gauge of new Australian home sales rose for a second consecutive month in October, offering signs of stability in a market that has cooled this year. The Housing Industry Association (HIA) reported that its monthly survey of large-volume builders said new home sales rose 2.7% in October, following a 6.1% gain in September. The monthly gauge is considered highly volatile and is prone to large fluctuations. According to the HIA, recent fluctuations in new home sales reflect sharp declines in multi-unit activity. The industry group has also projected a sharp deceleration in construction projects heading into ... (full story)