In a decision regarded by all economists as very finely balanced, Reserve Bank governor Alan Bollard opted to raise the official cash rate (OCR) from 5.25% to 5.5%, citing strong domestic inflation pressures.

The Reserve Bank has increased the Official Cash Rate to 5.5%.

Diana Crossan says the changes under the Business Law Reform Bill are good news for employers involved in superannuation

Christchurch

There are signs that inflation might be stirring again, bringing a need for investors to think about repositioning their portfolios.

Wellington

The one thing most economists agree on is that it will be a close call whether the Reserve Bank will raise interest rates tomorrow.

Rotorua

Christchurch

Changes at BT Funds Management and Fisher Funds have seen both firms replaced as advisers to the dual listed $74 million New Zealand Investment Trust, which is managed by Exeter Asset Management.

Auckland

Investor confidence was down slightly in the first quarter of 2004, but remains strong thanks to a growing faith in sharemarket returns.

Morningstar has upgraded two managers and knocked one back in its latest review of its star ratings.