Market & Portfolio Update - May 2025
The global share market (represented by the MSCI World Gross Index) was up +5.3% in NZ dollar terms during May, as consumer sentiment improved and trade tensions eased. Progress in US trade negotiations with the European Union and a temporary delay to planned tariff hikes reduced fears of a global recession and fuelled broad-based gains. While the information technology sector was one of the best performing US sectors, the rally also extended to cyclical sectors such as industrials and consumer discretionary.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) cut the Official Cash Rate by 0.25% to 3.25% during May, as largely expected by the market. The RBNZ noted they remain confident the inflation outlook is benign and are well placed to respond to developments as they unfold. Similarly, the Reserve Bank of Australia cut their cash rate in May by 0.25% to 3.85%, as anticipated.
The NZ government released Budget 2025, which contained few surprises from a macroeconomic perspective. The flagship policy for the Budget was a new rule allowing businesses to write off 20% of the value of new assets – such as machinery, tools and equipment – from their tax bill in addition to regular depreciation.
Disclaimer: This article has been prepared for the purpose of providing general information, without taking into consideration any particular person's objectives, financial situation or needs. Any opinions contained in it are held by the author as at the report date and are subject to change without notice.
Market & Portfolio Update: July 2026
Early in the month, renewed tension in the Middle East briefly pushed Brent crude oil above US$100 a barrel, which lifted energy prices and brought inflation concerns back into focus.
Lifetime Book Club: Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz
In The Paradox of Choice, psychologist Barry Schwartz explores a curious feature of modern life: while freedom and choice are undoubtedly valuable, there can come a point where having more options makes decisions harder, increases our expectations and leaves us questioning whether we made the right choice at all.
From what to buy and where to eat to decisions about careers, relationships and money, Schwartz looks at the hidden mental cost of constantly comparing our options – and makes the case that sometimes, simplifying our choices can leave us better off.