Bank of New Zealand
May 26, 2026
Financial Markets Wrap
Monthly UpdateEquitiesFXRates Govt BondsEnergyFinancials
Global markets saw a strong recovery in risk assets during April following a US-Iran ceasefire, despite ongoing conflict uncertainties and elevated oil prices. The NZD rebounded and the RBNZ signaled a hawkish shift as domestic inflation remained sticky at 3.1%.
Key Takeaways
- 1.Risk assets recovered significantly in April following a US-Iran ceasefire, despite the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
- 2.The NZD/USD recovered nearly 3% after a sharp 4% drop in March, supported by improved global risk appetite.
- 3.The RBNZ adopted a more hawkish stance, indicating a readiness for 'decisive and timely' rate increases if inflationary pressures persist.
Table of Contents
- Risk appetite recovery in April, despite the war
- Monthly Performance Table
- Contact Details
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Authors
Jason WongStephen ToplisMike Jones
Securities
NZD/USDBrent CrudeMSCI AC World IndexNZ 2-year swapUS 10-Year Treasury
Themes
Geopolitical Stalemate vs Market OptimismInflation ResilienceCentral Bank Vigilance
Regions
Asia PacificEuropeNorth AmericaNew ZealandUnited StatesJapan
