Markets

Labour Party Contemplates Dual Monetary Policy Mandate for RBNZ

The Labour Party is weighing the reintroduction of a dual monetary policy mandate for the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. Finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds indicated in a recent interview that they are considering including maximum sustainable employment in addition to the current inflation targeting. This potential policy shift aims to address broader economic stability and employment levels amid ongoing economic challenges. Edmonds emphasized the need for a balanced approach to manage New Zealand's monetary policy effectively. The discussion reflects growing concerns about unemployment and the economy's overall health as the country navigates post-pandemic recovery.

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January Sees Rise in Industrial Producer Prices in Euro Area and EU

In January 2026, industrial producer prices rose by 0.7% in the euro area and 0.8% in the EU, as reported by Eurostat. This marks a shift from the previous month's decline of 0.3% in the euro area. The increase indicates a potential recovery in industrial

Euro Area Unemployment Rate Drops to 6.1% in January 2026

The euro area recorded a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 6.1% in January 2026, showing a slight decrease from 6.2% in December 2025 and 6.3% a year earlier. Similarly, the broader EU unemployment rate fell to 5.8%, down from 5.9% in the previous month and

UK Service Sector Shows Steady Growth Amid Staffing Challenges

The UK service sector experienced a continued increase in business activity during February, buoyed by improving demand. Despite this positive trend, staffing levels fell for the seventeenth consecutive month, reflecting ongoing pressure on margins stemming from elevated business costs. Service providers are struggling to balance growth with expenses, complicating their