21.12.202522:51:39UTC+00New Zealand Stocks Higher to Begin the Week

The NZX 50 experienced an upward movement, gaining 78 points, or 0.6%, to reach 13,412 in Monday morning trading. This rise continues the upward trend from the previous session, marking the index's peak since December 11. The increase was largely driven by advancements in the financial, healthcare, and technology sectors. This performance mirrors a positive session on Wall Street last Friday, primarily propelled by strong results in tech stocks. The recent positive economic data has bolstered market sentiment, reflecting the country's economic rebound despite the absence of new domestic stimulants. Investors remain optimistic that the Federal Reserve might reduce interest rates further, following softer inflation figures. Nonetheless, trading activity remains cautious in this shortened week, with reduced trading volumes anticipated in the run-up to the Christmas holiday. Notable early risers included Infratil, up 1.9%, Ebos Group, which gained 1.5%, Summerset Group up by 1.0%, and Fisher & Paykel climbing 0.9%. Conversely, Chorus experienced a decline of 1.2% following news confirming that the government plans to sell approximately $650 million in interest-free loans owed by Chorus, which are not required to be completely repaid until 2036.