MARKET CLOSE: NZ stocks inch higher ahead of earnings season

MARKET CLOSE: NZ stocks inch higher ahead of earnings season
Gavin Evans
By Gavin Evans Jan. 25 (BusinessDesk) - New Zealand shares inched higher but trading was mixed as investors prepare for the local earnings season and hope for progress on the on-going trade dispute between China and the US. The S&P/NZX 50 index rose 1.64 points, or 0.02 percent, to 9110.55. Within the index, 29 stocks rose, six were unchanged and 15 fell. Turnover was $120.8 million.  US markets finished slightly higher, aided by good results from semiconductor makers and airlines. But Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross downplayed the pros...