Trump-era dollar strength compounding margin pressures, analysts say

Trump has dubbed April 2 Liberation Day for his tariffs. (Image: Supplied)

Wed, 02 Apr 2025

The strong US dollar, brought on by President Donald Trump's policies, is putting pressure on New Zealand importers.Paul Koraua, an analyst at Forsyth Barr, said that at a time when retailers are competing for limited discretionary spending, they are feeling the effects of a strong US dollar. “You have gross margin impact from competing with other firms that are trying to increase promotions to drive sales, and you have gross margin impact from more expensive landed costs."Chief economist at Kiwibank Jarrod Kerr said im...

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