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Business Optimism Fades Amid Rising Costs | Auckland News
Business confidence in New Zealand briefly surged as Middle East tensions eased, with 12% of firms now optimistic—up from just 1%—but that glow may fade fast as fighting resumes. While some sectors like retail see modest gains, others like construction are struggling with falling demand and prices, and manufacturing has cooled to neutral. Inflation is heating up, with more businesses reporting rising costs and planning price hikes, hinting at persistent inflation. Overall, the economy is poised for a small contraction this quarter, staff cuts continue, skilled labor remains scarce, and the…
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