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Inflation, OCR, and closures: a look at New Zealand's economy in 2024 - The Front Page


Published on 2024-12-17 11:20:49 - The New Zealand Herald
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  • The economy has been uncertain for quite some time, and 2024 was no different. Over the last year, we've seen some improvement. In October, the annual rate for inflation had fallen from 3.3% to 2.2%.

The article from the New Zealand Herald discusses the economic landscape of New Zealand in 2024, focusing on several key issues. Inflation remains a significant concern, with the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) having raised the Official Cash Rate (OCR) to 5.5% in an attempt to curb rising prices. Despite these efforts, inflation is still above the target band, affecting household budgets and business costs. The article also touches on the closure of various businesses, attributing these closures to a combination of high operational costs, labor shortages, and reduced consumer spending power. Additionally, there's mention of the economic recovery post-Covid, with sectors like tourism showing signs of revival, yet facing challenges from global economic pressures and supply chain disruptions. The piece concludes with insights into potential economic strategies for 2024, including government interventions and the possibility of adjusting monetary policies to foster growth while managing inflation.

Read the Full The New Zealand Herald Article at:
[ https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/inflation-ocr-and-closures-a-look-at-new-zealands-economy-in-2024-the-front-page/PBC27ZS2EFHYTGHQAZJRF675II/ ]