New Zealand’s benchmark S&P/NZX 50 rose 1% to close at 13,557 on Thursday, snapping a three-day losing streak. The gain was driven by easing trade fears after reports of a Greenland framework deal and US President Trump’s decision not to impose new tariffs. Strong quarterly results from US regional banks also supported global sentiment, boosting confidence in the financial sector. Most sectors traded higher, including financials, health care, utilities, consumer, and communications. Investors are optimistic ahead of Friday’s inflation data, expected to show year-on-year inflation holding at 3%. Key contributors to the advance were heavyweights Meridian Energy (2.5%), EBOS Group (1.7%), Contact Energy (1.6%), Auckland International Airport (1.2%), Ryman Healthcare (1%), Fisher & Paykel (0.9%), and Infratil (0.9%).
