Government debt is lower than forecast, but financial pressures loom on the horizon.

The Government's interim financial statement shows net debt is at $70.5 billion in the seven months to the end of January.

It's $3.5 billion less than expected, mostly due to the Super Fund gaining value.

Infometrics Chief Economist Brad Olsen told Kate Hawkesby it might be time to rein in the spending due to material shortages and inflation.

He says the Government has to make a clear list of its financial priorities and potentially re-shuffle or scale back the spending.

LISTEN ABOVE

Government debt is lower than forecast, but financial pressures loom on the horizon.
The Government's interim financial statement shows net debt is at $70.5 billion in the seven months to the end of January.
It's $3.5 billion less than expected, mostly due to the Super Fund gaining value.
Infometrics Chief Economist Brad Olsen told Kate Hawkesby it might be time to rein in the spending due to material shortages and inflation.
He says the Government has to make a clear list of its financial priorities and potentially re-shuffle or scale back the spending.
LISTEN ABOVE

Best of Business is the home of all things business at Newstalk ZB, from morning market updates right through to incisive interviews with New Zealand’s top business leaders and decision makers. 

Whether you’re a small business owner or interested in what’s going on in the Big End of Town, this podcast encompasses the sharpest voices and minds in the world of business.

Best of Business is the home of all things business at Newstalk ZB, from morning market updates right through to incisive interviews with New Zealand’s top business leaders and decision makers. Whether you’re a small business owner or interested in what’s going on in the Big End of Town, this podcast encompasses the sharpest voices and minds in the world of business.

Best of Business is the home of all things business at Newstalk ZB, from morning market updates right through to incisive interviews with New Zealand’s top business leaders and decision makers.