Post #16208

New Zealand Employment Figures Come Out Mixed NZD/USD up 1%, the second straight session of gains after NZ unemployment dipped to 5.3%, beating the 5.4% forecast. The print was mixed. Employment grew just 0.2% vs 0.3% expected, and wage growth remains subdued — signs of spare capacity despite the headline beat. The war has crushed business confidence, keeping firms cautious on hiring. The RBNZ held in April but left the door open for hikes if second-round inflation effects emerge. Markets price just 35% odds of a May move, down from 60% last week after Governor Breman said core inflation remains within target. July is still fully priced. The kiwi is getting some tailwind as the dollar is taking a beating via the Yen strength this early morning. - Alan