The Prosperity Project

The Reserve Bank can hold the OCR steady, so why can longer-term mortgage rates still move? On The Prosperity Project, Nadine Higgins talks to Matt Logan, portfolio manager at Fisher Funds, about what rising US bond yields mean for Kiwi borrowers and savers. They also look at how Big Tech is borrowing to build AI data centres, and whether rising borrowing costs could slow the boom.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could paying for an electric vehicle out of your pre-tax salary make switching more affordable? Mike Casey joins Nadine Higgins on The Prosperity Project to explain his proposal for an Australian-style EV leasing scheme, how it could work through employers and why he believes it would help more New Zealanders cut their transport costs. They also discuss battery life, road user charges, depreciation and charging on longer trips — and when keeping the petrol car already in your driveway might still be the cheapest option.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could a $5,000 investment at birth help set every New Zealander up for retirement? Nadine Higgins speaks to Fraser Whineray about his KiwiSaver 2.0 proposal, including automatic enrolment at birth, compulsory employer contributions that rise gradually over time, and bringing the self-employed into the system. They also discuss the trade-offs around first-home withdrawals, who ultimately pays for higher contributions, and why Whineray wants KiwiSaver access protected from changes to the pension age.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Think you know where your money goes? Small, everyday purchases can add up to a very different picture — and cancelling a subscription might only be the start. Nadine Higgins is joined by James Blair, Wealth Director at Lighthouse Financial, to explain how to give your finances a spring clean. They discuss setting realistic goals, identifying spending that doesn’t match your priorities, and using automatic payments to keep your savings on track. Plus, how to approach mortgage repayments, why insurance needs change over time, what to review in your KiwiSaver, and why chasing shortcuts can put you further behind.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can likes and followers turn into a full-time income? On The Prosperity Project, Nadine talks to talent manager Molly about the business behind social media influencing, from brand deals worth thousands to valuable freebies and the work that goes into every post. They explore how creators earn money, why going viral doesn’t guarantee a lasting career, and what happens when the algorithm changes or the offers dry up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.