Brendan Larsen: Milford Asset Management expert on markets calming down from Middle East conflict shock

The US President's social media posts suggest he's worried about the price of oil, as the US and Israel bombard Iran into an 11th day. More than 1700 have been killed in the Middle East - most in Iran, and hundreds in Lebanon. Despite this, markets appear to have calmed down following the initial…

Rod Duke: Briscoe Group managing director on the business posting steady result in tough financial year

The balance sheet is looking strong for Briscoe Group, which managed to score a few goals late in the game.  The retailer's posted record annual sales of close to $800 million, for the year ending January 25th.  Its homeware brand Briscoes saw 1.42 percent sales growth - while Rebel Sport trailed…

Paula O'Kane: Otago University associate professor calls for changes to be made to sick leave

Public health experts have noticed this latest Covid wave is worsening as fewer Kiwis are getting vaccination boosters and tests, and it's renewed debate about sick leave. Wastewater analysis from PHF Science shows that the number of cases is at the highest rate it's been for over six months, and …

Alan McDonald: EMA Head of Advocacy on Heinz Wattie's shutting down at least three manufacturing facilities

There's predictions Heinz Wattie's won't be the last to shutter operations this year. It's proposing closing three manufacturing facilities in Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin, and packing operations in Hastings - with 350 jobs at risk. It also plans to phase out sales of products including fro…

Maree Tassell: iFindProperty founder on the growing calls to regulate property flippers

There's been a significant increase in property flippers and it's prompted concerns from experts. One of the country's most prominent buyers' agencies has complained to the Real Estate Authority about the increase - following a sharp drop in 2023.  iFindProperty founder Maree Tassell says there's…

Matt Goodson: Salt Funds Management managing director on the markets fluctuating amid Middle East conflict

Stock markets have rebounded and oil prices have dropped below yesterday's forecast, following recent comments from US President Donald Trump. Trump indicated the war in the Middle East could be over 'very soon', and it's led to ripple effects across sharemarkets all over the world. Matt Goodson …

Cynthia Robins: Formerly the Blackball Hilton owner on the pub being forced to remove outdoor seating

A legendary West Coast pub has removed its popular outdoor seating under threat of a $20,000 fine. It was decided the Formerly the Blackball Hilton's tables and chairs fell outside the licensed boundary. Owner Cynthia Robins says they've been there for decades - and never caused a problem.   "Th…

Irene King: aviation commentator on Air New Zealand lifting fares in response to Middle East conflict

An aviation commentator says Air New Zealand needs to look at ways to cut costs as the war in the Middle East impacts fuel prices.  The airline's adjusted fares - lifting domestic flights $10 and long-haul flights $90. It's suspended its guidance from less than a fortnight ago, expecting second-h…

Shane Solly: Harbour Asset Management expert on the economic impact of the war in Iran

There's growing concerns about the economic impacts of the war in Iran. Crude oil prices have topped $100 US dollars a barrel for the first time since 2022 - and our petrol prices surged another 14 cents over the weekend. Harbour Asset Management's Shane Solly says these attacks are directly impa…

Nicola Willis: Finance Minister on the Government's plan to monitor fuel prices amid Middle East conflict

The Government is actively monitoring the impact international fuel prices are having on the price we're being asked to pay at the pump. Crude oil prices have topped $100 US dollars a barrel for the first time in three years - and our petrol prices surged another 14 cents in the weekend. Finance …