"The economy has recently shown signs of softening. GDP growth has continued to ease over recent quarters, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing that are exposed to the strong exchange rate," Reserve Bank Governor Alan Bollard said.
Sunday, July 31st 2005, 9:20AM
by The Landlord
"Indicators of business activity have been pointing downwards for some months and it now appears that household consumption growth is also beginning to weaken. However, residential housing market indicators remain firm, representing an upside risk for the future path of household spending and inflation.
"We view the overall easing in activity as broadly consistent with our June MPS economic outlook.
"Inflation pressures nevertheless remain present. Several years of strong growth have led to productive resources becoming stretched and the resulting inflation pressures will take some time to unwind.
