Find financial news and analysis across NZ and Australia.
6 results for “inflation-2026”
New Zealand financial markets are pricing in several 25 basis point OCR hikes as inflation remains at 3.10%, despite a significant divide among major bank economists regarding the timing of future increases.
The Australian dollar has weakened to 0.72415 as Middle East tensions drive oil prices above $100 per barrel. Domestically, the RBA has raised interest rates to 4.35% while consumer confidence has plummeted to near 50-year lows.
Australia's annual inflation rate reportedly eased to 4.3% in May 2026, down from 4.6% in March. While fuel price pressures moderated, housing costs and underlying inflation remain above the Reserve Bank of Australia's target band.
ANZ Group Holdings shares fell 4.3% last week as the banking sector faces a new economic landscape shaped by the RBA's rate hike to 4.35% and federal budget reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax.
New Zealand house prices are forecast to fall by 2% in 2026 as consumer confidence reaches a three-year low. Despite a marginal monthly rise in April, high inflation expectations and a retreat by property investors continue to weigh on the market.
New Zealand's Budget 2026 prioritises fiscal discipline and targeted relief, aiming for an earlier return to surplus. However, this cautious approach risks stalling broader economic growth at a time when businesses and workers need a real engine for recovery.