NZ consumer confidence falls in third quarter as rising rates dim outlook

NZ consumer confidence falls in third quarter as rising rates dim outlook
By Jonathan Underhill Sept. 22 (BusinessDesk) - New Zealand consumer confidence fell in the third quarter amid signs rising interest rates and a slower pace of economic growth are dimming the outlook and kiwis' spending plans. The Westpac McDermott Miller Consumer Confidence Index fell to 116.7 in the September quarter, from 121.2 three months earlier and from a nine-year high of 121.7 in the March survey. A reading above 100 indicates more optimists than pessimists. The Reserve Bank has signalled a pause in its tightening cycle after...