Economy · Business · Press ✓ 3 outlets
Business confidence rebounds to a net 40% in NZIER survey, though demand stays soft
The NZIER Quarterly Survey of Business Opinion showed general business sentiment up to a net 40% positive from 14% in June, hiring intentions at net 23% positive, trading activity net −1 and expected trading net +15 (Westpac IQ summary of NZIER, Bloomberg). The survey ran from 9 to 28 September, with later answers more cautious as fuel prices rose.
Business confidence shapes hiring and investment decisions.
It hints at a slightly better jobs market, but past employment fell.
Optimists say the recovery is gaining traction.
Sceptics say demand is still soft and fuel costs are rising.
Confidence leads, activity lags. Watch the Reserve Bank review on 28 October.
DailyDrop New Zealand edition No. 3 · Morning · WED., OCT. 7, 2026