Reserve Bank hikes the official cash rate by surprise 50 basis points

Reserve Bank hikes the official cash rate by surprise 50 basis points
(Image: Getty)
Staff reporters
The Reserve Bank has today lifted the official cash rate by 50 basis points to 5.25%.The 11th successive hike, it takes the rate to its highest level since December 2008.Inflation is still too high and persistent, and employment is beyond its maximum sustainable level.The recent severe weather events in the North Island have led to higher prices for some goods and services, the Reserve Bank said. The New Zealand dollar rallied sharply on the higher than expected hike. In the minutes following the release, the Kiwi was trading at US63.6c, u...

More Economy

Independent review warm on ACC investment arm but eyes risk
Economy

Independent review warm on ACC investment arm but eyes risk

A review of ACC’s investment arm issues warm findings but homes in on risk factors.

Staff reporters 25 Jul 2025
Tariff-led fall in NZ export demand less than in GFC: RBNZ
Economy

Tariff-led fall in NZ export demand less than in GFC: RBNZ

RBNZ's Paul Conway concluded that global supply chains were becoming less efficient.

Staff reporters 24 Jul 2025
Northland targets $60b regional economy by 2050
Primary Sector

Northland targets $60b regional economy by 2050

The bullish goal represents a six-fold increase over 2024 figures.

Oliver Lewis 24 Jul 2025
No sign 10% tariff will increase but uncertainty remains: Mfat
Economy

No sign 10% tariff will increase but uncertainty remains: Mfat

Ongoing uncertainty is of concern for New Zealand exporters, an Mfat spokesperson says.

Rebecca Howard 24 Jul 2025