Rate cuts might come sooner given weak economy

Rate cuts might come sooner given weak economy
The weak data could mean a more dovish RBNZ. (Image: Unsplash)
Rebecca Howard
Weaker-than-expected economic growth has amped up speculation rate cuts might be coming sooner than expected.“Should that weaker growth outlook translate into a swifter reduction in inflationary pressures, official cash rate cuts could come earlier than the early 2025 timeframe we’ve been anticipating up until now,” said ASB economist Nathaniel Keall.The economy contracted 0.3% on quarter in the September quarter, following a revised 0.5% increase in the June quarter.Substantially softerThe data was “substantially softer...

More Economy

How to Be Wrong: summer reading for the PM
Economy

How to Be Wrong: summer reading for the PM

Advice on leading for innovation, threats to democracy, gangs, and more.

Pattrick Smellie 28 Nov 2025
RBNZ officials not against more transparency, just cautious
Economy

RBNZ officials not against more transparency, just cautious

The key is that any changes add value, says Assistant Governor Karen Silk.

Rebecca Howard 28 Nov 2025
‘Looking up’: Recovery taking hold as business confidence hits 11-year high
Economy

‘Looking up’: Recovery taking hold as business confidence hits 11-year high

Business confidence jumped another nine points from 58 to 67 in November, the highest level in 11 years, the ANZ Business Outlook survey for November shows.“Things are looking up!” said ANZ chief economist Sharon Zollner.“Out of a hole, admittedly,” she added.When interpreting qu...

Staff reporters 27 Nov 2025
Rodger Finlay new RBNZ chair, Rhiannon McKinnon to board
Economy

Rodger Finlay new RBNZ chair, Rhiannon McKinnon to board

Finlay is expected to deliver increased accountability and transparency.

Rebecca Howard 27 Nov 2025