New Zealand’s ANZ Business Confidence fell sharply in April, dropping from 57.5 to 49.3. The own activity outlook also edged lower from 48.6 to 47.7.
ANZ noted the decline may reflect growing apprehension over the global economic outlook, particularly uncertainty stemming from the escalating US-China trade war and broader policy unpredictability from the US administration.
Cost expectations three months ahead surged from 74.1 to 77.9, the highest level since September 2023. This contrasts with a slight dip in pricing intentions, which eased from 51.3 to 49.4. Inflation expectations one year out remained largely steady at 2.65%.
