There are suggestions the next Official Cash Rate increase will be 50 basis points.

Latest figures from the December quarter show the unemployment rate has risen slightly to 3.4 percent, which was higher than expected.

It's sparked speculation from major banks that the next OCR hike to cool inflation will be lower, rather than the predicted 75 basis points.

NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny says people might be tempted to celebrate, but a 50 percent basis point hike is still a significant increase.

LISTEN ABOVE

There are suggestions the next Official Cash Rate increase will be 50 basis points.
Latest figures from the December quarter show the unemployment rate has risen slightly to 3.4 percent, which was higher than expected.
It's sparked speculation from major banks that the next OCR hike to cool inflation will be lower, rather than the predicted 75 basis points.
NZ Herald Wellington business editor Jenee Tibshraeny says people might be tempted to celebrate, but a 50 percent basis point hike is still a significant increase.
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.