In this episode, we’re joined by Kiwibank Treasurer Belinda Newman to unpack the current lending landscape and the state of credit demand across New Zealand...

Activity remains mixed across sectors and regions. There’s still pockets of activity in the South Island, especially as farmers benefit from a weaker currency. But there’s a clear preference to pay down debt as the share of non-performing agri loans has fallen steeply. That’s great news, but it’s limited the spillover of activity into other parts of the real economy. More generally, the current weakness in the economy is still keeping credit demand subdued.

One standout trend over the past year has been households opting for shorter-dated rates to take advantage of falling interest rates. And with the Reserve Bank’s policy meeting just around the corner, we explore whether we’ve reached the bottom of the rate cycle and how markets are positioning for what’s next.

The conversation doesn’t stop there. We also discuss the lingering uncertainties weighing on businesses. A big one being next year’s election.

Hosted by Jarrod Kerr, Mary Jo Vergara and Sabrina Delgado.Follow our economic commentary & insights here: https://www.kiwibank.co.nz/business-banking/thrive-hq/kiwi-economics/commentary-insights/Any views or information shared in this podcast, while given in good faith, aren't necessarily the view of Kiwibank.