Annual number of NZ citizens leaving the country long-term at a three year low in January year

The IEA agreed to release 400m barrels from strategic oil reserves; small mercies whilst the Strait of Hormuz effectively remains closed; Brent crude trading near top of daily range. US CPI data in line, but US Treasury yields show steady grind higher

Government receiving advice on potential fuel demand restraint, but would look at sourcing first

We look at how wholesale money markets are reacting to the current geopolitical crises, and what is in store for fixed home loan rates

The Red Bank moves its rates up for both mortgages and term deposits as wholesale money cost rises show no signs of slowing

December quarter GDP figures due for release in the coming week may prove to be disappointment - which wouldn't provide a helpful background as we face the uncertainties of the Middle East situation

BNZ is the next to raise fixed mortgage rates, but they do it differently to Westpac, holding advantages in some terms. BNZ did not raise term deposit rates at the same time, as Westpac did