Bank of New Zealand
May 11, 2026
Markets Outlook
Weekly UpdateMacro Economic IndicatorsRates Govt BondsFXEnergyFinancials
The BNZ Markets Outlook highlights an impending spike in Q2 CPI driven by a Middle East-related energy shock, alongside evidence of a weakening NZ service sector. Markets are watching the upcoming RBNZ survey of expectations and the Australian federal budget for further policy direction.
Key Takeaways
- 1.The Middle East conflict has triggered a substantial energy cost shock, with diesel and petrol prices expected to surge by 42% and 16% respectively in April.
- 2.New Zealand growth is slowing sharply, with the Performance of Services Index (PSI) falling to a weak 46.0 in March, indicating the sector is under strain.
- 3.The RBNZ is focused on medium-term inflation expectations; while headline CPI is spiking, wage outcomes remain non-threatening for now.
Table of Contents
- Monitoring the cost
- Global Watch
- Key Event Previews
- Fixed Interest Market
- Foreign Exchange Market
- Technicals
- Quarterly Forecasts
- Annual Forecasts
- Key Upcoming Events
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Authors
Doug SteelJason Wong
Securities
NZ 2-year swapNZD/USDBrent FuturesMay-2027 NZ Nominal Bond
Themes
Energy Cost Pass-throughMonetary Policy DivergenceGeopolitical Risk Sentiment
Regions
Asia PacificNorth AmericaEuropeNew ZealandAustraliaUnited States
