There's hopes the Iran war won't bring a big bump in unemployment.

Stats NZ data shows the rate reached 5.3 percent in the March quarter, down from 5.4 percent in the three months to December.

Infometrics expect it'll rise again throughout 2026.

Principal Economist, Brad Olsen, says they're not expecting any mass firings.

"It's more that those hiring intentions are likely to be more subdued - i.e., businesses probably won't be as keen to hire into the future just because of how uncertain things are." 

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There's hopes the Iran war won't bring a big bump in unemployment.
Stats NZ data shows the rate reached 5.3 percent in the March quarter, down from 5.4 percent in the three months to December.
Infometrics expect it'll rise again throughout 2026.
Principal Economist, Brad Olsen, says they're not expecting any mass firings.
"It's more that those hiring intentions are likely to be more subdued - i.e., businesses probably won't be as keen to hire into the future just because of how uncertain things are."&nbsp;
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.

Best of Business

Brad Olsen: Infometrics Principal Economist on whether unemployment is set to get worse again

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/7ac01560-5f02-4256-98fb-b44200646449/transcript