UPDATE: NZ labour data has soft underbelly, will keep rate cut prospects alive

UPDATE: NZ labour data has soft underbelly, will keep rate cut prospects alive
Rebecca Howard
By Rebecca Howard May 1 (BusinessDesk) - New Zealand’s unemployment rate nudged lower and annual wage inflation ticked slightly higher. But given the underlying softness, the data is unlikely to sway the central bank from either cutting rates next week or at least setting the stage for a cut later this year.  The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell to 4.2 percent in the three months ended March 31, from 4.3 percent in the December quarter, Stats NZ said in its household labour force survey. The data was in line with expectations. ...

More Economy

RBNZ signals U-turn on bank capital requirements
Finance

RBNZ signals U-turn on bank capital requirements

A major shift at RBNZ's first public outing since Adrian Orr's sudden departure.

Trump trade war could push cash rate lower
Economy

Trump trade war could push cash rate lower

The monetary policy decision is on April 9. 

US tariffs will ‘squeeze, not choke, growth’
Economy

US tariffs will ‘squeeze, not choke, growth’

Uncertainty and weak domestic demand delay NZ’s recovery

Rebecca Howard 26 Mar 2025
How US fees on Chinese vessels could impact NZ
Economy

How US fees on Chinese vessels could impact NZ

The plan aims to counter China's global shipbuilding dominance.

John Anthony 24 Mar 2025