Economists are divided on whether unemployment is finally starting to fall. 

Stats NZ is releasing its latest employment update at 10.45. 

Economic conditions are improving, but that's also prompting more people to re-join the labour market. 

Most bank economists expect the unemployment rate to remain unchanged from three months ago at an historically high 5.3%, but ASB economists think it will fall slightly to 5.2% – the first fall in unemployment in four years. 

Senior Economist Mark Smith told Mike Hosking that hiring is starting to pick up after being on the backburner for so long.  

He says the economy has some underlying momentum, and after waiting on the sidelines last year, firms are going to convert those intentions into actions.  

LISTEN ABOVE 

Economists are divided on whether unemployment is finally starting to fall.&nbsp;
Stats NZ is releasing its latest employment update at 10.45.&nbsp;
Economic conditions are improving, but that's also prompting more people to re-join the labour market.&nbsp;
Most bank economists expect the unemployment rate to remain unchanged from three months ago at an historically high 5.3%, but ASB economists think it will fall slightly to 5.2% – the first fall in unemployment in four years.&nbsp;
Senior Economist Mark Smith told Mike Hosking that hiring is starting to pick up after being on the backburner for so long. &nbsp;
He says the economy has some underlying momentum, and after waiting on the sidelines last year, firms are going to convert those intentions into actions. &nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE&nbsp;

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Open your mind to the world with New Zealand’s number one breakfast radio show. Without question, as New Zealand’s number one talk host, Mike Hosking sets the day’s agenda. The sharpest voice and mind in the business, Mike drives strong opinion, delivers the best talent, and always leaves you wanting more. The Mike Hosking Breakfast always cuts through and delivers the best daily on Newstalk ZB.

Open your mind to the world with New Zealand’s number one breakfast radio show.Without question, as New Zealand’s number one talk host, Mike Hosking sets the day’s agenda.The sharpest voice and mind in the business, Mike drives strong opinion,...

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Mark Smith: ASB Senior Economist on their expectation unemployment will fall slightly to 5.2%

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/0740825b-cc67-40bd-84c1-b3e6013e2b4c/transcript