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The economic outlook for New Zealand remains cautious, with the outlook for interest rates has become the key area of discussion for 2024 as the Reserve Bank and markets remain far apart in terms of what comes next – “higher for longer” or cuts sooner? 

The full effects of currently high interest rates will become clear in 2024, as households become more careful with spending. That reduced economic demand has helped shift inflationary trends in the right direction, as has improved global supply chains. Eyes are now turning to how new global and geopolitical challenges could upset world growth and export markets, alongside the policies and spending and savings commitments of the new Government. Migration stands out as continued challenge, with record high migration levels but a huge infrastructure deficit to contend with. 

Infometrics Chief Executive and Principal Economist Brad Olsen and Senior Economist Nick Brunsdon will discuss how these trends will affect Marlborough, how the local economy has performed recently, and what lies ahead for 2024. 

Brad Olsen is the Chief Executive and Principal Economist at Infometrics and is one of New Zealand’s leading economic commentators across TV, radio, and print media. Brad is passionate about using economics to make better informed decisions and can communicate complex and detailed trends in a simple, relatable, and useful manner. Nick Brunsdon is a Senior Economist at Infometrics with a focus on regional economies and demographic change.