Market & Portfolio Update - August 2023
Global share markets gave back some of their gains in August, declining 1.8% in local currency terms, but with the NZ dollar weakening against most major currencies, returns were positive for NZ-based investors.
During the month, investors assessed weaker economic data coming out of China. China’s latest industrial production, retail sales, and fixed asset investment reports all came in below expectations, prompting a surprise rate cut from the People’s Bank of China. Policymakers have been attempting to spur growth and spending in the world’s second-largest economy throughout the year.
The developments in China contributed to the weakening New Zealand dollar over recent months. As noted above, a weakening New Zealand dollar supports the value of overseas investments for New Zealand-based investors. It also helps support the New Zealand economy. When the New Zealand dollar falls, it makes the prices of our exports more competitive on the global stage.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) left New Zealand’s Official Cash Rate (OCR) unchanged at 5.5% at its meeting in August. The RBNZ’s economic growth and inflation forecasts were little changed, and it continues to expect OCR cuts in the second half of 2024.
What could Capital Gains Tax mean for property investors?
If Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is introduced from 1 July 2027 under Labour’s proposal, property investors will naturally want to understand what it could mean for them, particularly if they already own property that has increased significantly in value.
Selling a short-term rental: Will GST apply?
In certain circumstances, GST is not due on the sale of a property, even if it has been used for short-term accommodation (such as Airbnb), the income has exceeded $60,000 in any 12-month period, and/or the entity is GST registered.