New Zealand markets close in 30 minutes
  • Business
    Australian Associated Press

    Asian shares higher in defensive trade

    Asian shares have edged higher as investors shrug off concerns stocks may have rallied too far too fast in the past year and focus instead on optimism that imminent US stimulus will energise global recovery.45 per cent in early trade while E-mini S&P; futures were up 0.

  • Business
    Australian Associated Press

    HBF customers' windfall from fewer claims

    Customers of health insurer HBF will receive a small payment after the non-profit group confirmed it will share the benefits of fewer claims from the COVID-19 pandemic.HBF on Wednesday said almost half a million hospital and extras policyholders could receive a payment of between $31 (extras only) and $140 per policy (hospital and extras).

  • Business
    Australian Associated Press

    Nine appoints Stan's Sneesby as new CEO

    Nine's new chief executive is Mike Sneesby.He replaces Hugh Marks who announced in November he was leaving the media and entertainment group after five years in the top job.

  • Business
    Australian Associated Press

    Regulators watching home lending standards

    Australian regulators are closely watching lending standards in the housing market as prices race higher amid record-low interest rates.The Council of Financial Regulators said on Wednesday lending standards were generally being maintained, at this stage.