Have we redefined what tough times are?

Have we redefined what tough times are?
(Image: Getty)
Cameron Bagrie
Lots of people are doing it tough, and that question in the headline is not meant to demean inflation’s ruthless impact – particularly on society's most vulnerable, whom the social safety net will need to support – or the pressure on businesses or the negative consequences of rising unemployment.I’m asking the question because I keep hearing how tough it is. Comparisons are being made between the current downturn and other severe ones, such as in the early 1990s, the global financial crisis (GFC), and the Asian crisi...

More Economy

Spending up 3.7% in year, Westpac data says
Economy

Spending up 3.7% in year, Westpac data says

Westpac’s senior economist, Satish Ranchhod, says spending is "starting to pick up again" after the bank’s data showed a 3.7% annual rise in spending on Westpac-issued credit and debit cards. Westpac's Retail Spending Pulse, released on Friday, showed the upward shift was hel...

How NZICC could change Auckland's CBD
Economy

How NZICC could change Auckland's CBD

Developers are pouring billions into Auckland CBD's midtown area.

Dileepa Fonseka 13 Mar 2025
Gap between NZ and Aus bank interest margin grows
Economy

Gap between NZ and Aus bank interest margin grows

In New Zealand, 2024 net interest margins were flat at 2.34%.

Gregor Thompson 12 Mar 2025
School lunch provider Libelle Group tipped into liquidation
Retail

School lunch provider Libelle Group tipped into liquidation

It is contracted to deliver approximately 125,000 meals a day. 

Staff reporters 11 Mar 2025