West Fraser sees positive lumber trends, but tariffs add uncertainty

West Fraser Timber said key trends that have been positive drivers of new home construction in recent years are expected to continue, but also said potential U.S. tariffs add an element of uncertainty. Markets Outlook Sean McLaren, the company's president and chief executive officer, said the company saw somewhat challenging markets in Europe and the U.K. in the fourth quarter, as the region appears to be undergoing a protracted recovery. McLaren also said relatively high mortgage rates present an affordability challenge for consumers and housing markets. He added that potential tariffs from the U ...