Gold prices fall as geopolitical tensions ease; U.S. CPI looms
Investing.com-- The Reserve Bank of New Zealand cut interest rates as expected on Wednesday amid a steady decline in inflation and deteriorating local economic conditions, especially in the face of increased U.S. trade tariffs.
The RBNZ cut its official cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.5%, in line with market expectations. The cut is the RBNZ’s fifth rate reduction since it began an easing cycle in mid-2024.
The central bank noted that inflation remained near the midpoint of its 1% to 3%, while local economic growth was resilient, albeit only in some sectors.
The RBNZ flagged “downside risks to the outlook for economic activity and inflation in New Zealand” from recent increases in “global trade barriers,” likely referring to heightened U.S. import tariffs under President Donald Trump.
Trump’s new round of reciprocal tariffs are set to take effect later on Wednesday.
Still, the RBNZ said it had scope to cut interest rates further, as the full extent and effect of Trump’s tariff policies becomes clearer.
The central bank also said that future policy decisions will be based on the medium-term outlook for inflation.
Wednesday’s rate decision was the first under interim RBNZ Chair Christian Hawkesby, who will hold the role for six months as the bank seeks a replacement for former Chair Adrian Orr, who abruptly resigned in early-March.
Under Orr, the RBNZ embarked on a delayed easing cycle in late-2024, as inflation finally appeared to be cooling in line with the central bank’s expectations.
But cooling inflation also came amid heightened pressure on the New Zealand economy, especially from slow household spending and a softening labor market.