FX.co ★ New Zealand Stocks Fall further After Inflation Data

New Zealand's stock market experienced a decline of 37 points, equating to a 0.3% drop, bringing the index to 13,252 on Monday morning. This marks the second consecutive session of losses, largely due to weaknesses across logistics, commercial services, and communications sectors. The downturn was influenced by new data indicating that New Zealand's annual inflation reached 3% in the third quarter of 2025, marking the highest level in five quarters primarily due to increased electricity tariffs. Investors maintained a cautious approach ahead of significant Chinese economic reports to be released later in the day, including third-quarter GDP figures and September's industrial output and retail sales data, given China's critical role as New Zealand's leading trading partner. Additionally, attention was focused on a four-day assembly of China's ruling elite in Beijing, centered around discussions for the upcoming five-year plan. The market decline was somewhat cushioned by a slight rise in U.S. futures, spurred by optimism that recent turbulence in the U.S. banking sector would remain under control. Notable companies experiencing declines included Third Age Health Services (-5.2%), Winton Land Ltd. (-4.6%), Vista Group International (-2.2%), and Meridian Energy Ltd. (-1.6%).