Businesses Cautiously Optimistic Amid Inflation Concerns

The Westpac New Zealand RBNZ client pulse survey for September 2026 has been released. The survey aims to gauge the sentiment of businesses and individuals towards the economy, with a focus on the Reserve Bank of New Zealand's (RBNZ) monetary policy.

According to the survey, businesses are cautiously optimistic about the future, citing improved economic conditions as a reason for their optimism. However, they also expressed concerns about inflation and interest rates.

The RBNZ has maintained its focus on controlling inflation, which has been a key concern in recent months. The central bank has raised interest rates to curb rising prices, but businesses are worried that this may have a negative impact on economic growth.