Here's my summary of the key news overnight in 90 seconds at 9 am, including news that is dominated by the death of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
Thatcher memorably said the euro was "perhaps the greatest folly of the modern era", a view that some would argue has been borne out by events in recent years.
She went on to say that poorer countries would lose out from the euro because it would "devastate their inefficient economies". However, being 'right' never made her popular and even today there will be little affection even if there is respect. In Europe the mood is for the easy options rather than facing up to making tough decisions, even when tough situations are forced upon them.
Portugal and Greece are suffering further pain, while key data out of Germany is positive.
The Australian have announced a currency deal with China, although it may be somewhat less than they were seeking.
Their currency is being blamed by some for the shrinking of domestic carmaker Holden, although consumers are voting with their dollars for other brands many of which are more expensive in their market.
The Japanese stimulus package looks like it is being well received in Japan and on the way to achieving its goals - but it early days yet and remember, so many previous Japanese initiatives have come to nothing.
The Japanese stock market has gained almost 50% since the beginning of the year and climbing strongly in the past week. The Dow is up in mid-day trade, US oil is unchanged (although New Zealand pump prices are falling), and gold is at US$1,575/oz.
The New Zealand dollar hit new heights overnight as is now over 78 on the TWI. This morning, it is leading all currencies higher. NZ First says exporters should get at tax cut to mitigate the impact of a high NZ$.
The Kiwi dollar starts today at 84.6 USc, 81.3 AUc, 83.6 Japanese yen, and our TWI is at another record post-float high of 78.07.
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