Business
New Law Eliminates Card Surcharges, Saving Kiwis $150 Million

The Government of New Zealand has announced the elimination of card surcharges at the point of sale, a move expected to save consumers approximately $150 million annually. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson confirmed that the ban will include additional fees associated with in-store credit and debit card transactions, such as paywave fees.
Simpson emphasized the need for pricing transparency in a competitive market. “Surcharges are annoying, they’re pesky and most customers don’t actually know whether they’re paying the full price,” he stated. This regulatory change aims to enhance consumer experience by ensuring that the prices displayed reflect the actual amounts customers will pay.
The decision follows extensive discussions among stakeholders in the retail sector, who recognized the burden these surcharges placed on shoppers. Many consumers expressed frustration over hidden fees that made it difficult to understand the total cost of their purchases. By removing these surcharges, the Government intends to foster a more straightforward and fair shopping environment.
Consumer Impact and Business Adaptation
With this new regulation, businesses will need to adapt their pricing strategies. The Government believes that removing surcharges will not only benefit consumers but also encourage businesses to compete more effectively on price. The hope is that this move will lead to a reduction in overall prices, enhancing affordability for New Zealanders.
Retailers will have to absorb the costs previously passed on to consumers through surcharges. This adjustment may prompt some businesses to reevaluate their pricing models and operational strategies to maintain profitability while complying with the new law. The Government is confident that, in the long run, this will lead to a healthier market where fair pricing prevails.
Simpson’s announcement marks a significant step towards consumer rights advocacy in New Zealand. By taking a firm stance against card surcharges, the Government is reinforcing its commitment to protecting consumers from unexpected fees and promoting transparency within the marketplace.
As this law takes effect in March 2024, Kiwis can look forward to a more transparent shopping experience, free from the frustrations of hidden surcharges. The Government’s proactive approach to this issue reflects a growing recognition of the need for consumer protection in an increasingly complex retail landscape.
Business
EU Faces Major Setback in Trade Deal with the US

Reports regarding the EU-US trade deal indicate a significant advantage for the United States while suggesting a substantial concession from the European Union. The specifics of the agreement remain largely undisclosed, but discussions are set to intensify as former President Donald Trump prepares to meet with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in the coming days.
The anticipated meeting will focus on the ongoing negotiations surrounding the trade deal, which has raised concerns within the EU about its implications for European businesses. According to analysts, the terms of the agreement reportedly favor American economic interests, potentially sidelining EU priorities.
In a detailed analysis, UK correspondent Gavin Grey noted that the balance of power appears to tilt towards the US, especially in sectors crucial to both economies. The lack of transparency regarding the deal’s content has led to speculation and uncertainty among EU member states. Grey explained that the EU may need to reassess its strategies in light of this development, particularly if the trade deal is finalized in its current form.
While the specific details of the agreement have not been made public, insiders suggest that the deal could lead to increased American exports to Europe, which may not align with European economic goals. The meeting between Trump and Starmer is viewed as a critical juncture that could shape the future of transatlantic trade relations.
The implications of this deal extend beyond trade; they could also impact political dynamics within the EU. Member states are likely to scrutinize the agreement’s terms to ensure they do not disadvantage their economies. As the situation evolves, EU officials are expected to respond strategically to safeguard their interests.
As stakeholders await further clarity from the upcoming discussions, the outcome of the EU-US trade negotiations remains uncertain. The potential repercussions of this deal could redefine economic alliances and influence global markets in the years to come.
In summary, the latest analysis of the EU-US trade deal highlights a pivotal moment in international trade relations, with significant implications for both the US and the EU. As leaders prepare to engage in discussions, the focus will be on finding a balance that serves the interests of all parties involved.
Business
EU Faces Trade Setback in US Deal Negotiations

The ongoing negotiations surrounding the EU-US trade deal have raised significant concerns for the European Union, which may be experiencing a considerable disadvantage. Recent analyses suggest that the deal primarily benefits the United States while representing a significant concession for the EU. Details of the agreement remain largely undisclosed, but the implications could reshape transatlantic trade relations.
Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in the coming days to delve deeper into trade discussions. This meeting is anticipated to address various aspects of the deal, potentially influencing future economic policies between the two regions.
Implications for the EU and Trade Relations
The findings surrounding the EU-US trade deal indicate that the EU may not only be conceding ground but also facing challenges that could affect its economic standing. Analysts suggest that the deal could further entrench US dominance in key sectors, while the EU may have to navigate a more complex trade environment.
The European Union has long viewed the United States as a critical trading partner. However, the current dynamics hint at a potential imbalance that could hinder the EU’s ability to negotiate favorable terms in future agreements. The ramifications of these negotiations extend beyond mere economics, as they could influence geopolitical relationships and the regulatory landscape.
Future of EU-US Relations
The forthcoming discussions between Trump and Starmer will likely focus on a range of issues, including tariffs, regulatory alignment, and market access. This meeting comes at a pivotal moment, as both sides seek to clarify their positions in light of shifting global trade patterns.
As the details of the trade deal continue to unfold, stakeholders within the EU and the US are closely monitoring developments. The outcome of these negotiations could have profound implications for businesses and consumers alike, shaping the future of trade relations across the Atlantic.
For the EU, adapting to these changes will be crucial in maintaining its competitiveness and ensuring that its interests are adequately represented. As the discussions progress, it remains to be seen how the EU will respond to the evolving trade landscape and what strategies it will employ to safeguard its economic interests.
Business
Youth Unemployment Rises as Construction Jobs Drop by 18,000

Employment data released by Stats NZ indicates a significant decline in job opportunities within the construction and manufacturing sectors, with a total loss of more than 18,000 filled jobs over the past year. This downturn has particularly impacted younger workers, with the number of employed individuals aged 15 to 19 years decreasing by 10% compared to the previous year.
According to Michael Gordon, a senior economist at Westpac, these trends reflect a stark shift in the economy since the tight labour market experienced two or three years ago. Gordon emphasized that for many young workers, the principle of “last in, first out” appears to be in effect, making it increasingly difficult for them to return to employment once they have been out of work.
The decline in filled jobs highlights the challenges facing the New Zealand economy as it adjusts to changing labour market conditions. The construction sector has been particularly hard hit, losing a substantial number of jobs that were previously filled. This has raised concerns about the long-term implications for both economic growth and youth employment.
As the economy continues to evolve, the resilience of younger workers is being tested. Many are finding it challenging to secure new positions as the job market becomes more competitive. Gordon’s insights shed light on the pressing need for support systems to aid young individuals in their job search and ensure they have the necessary skills to meet the demands of a shifting economy.
The latest employment indicators serve as a crucial reminder of the ongoing impacts of economic fluctuations. With the labour market in a state of transition, there is an urgent need for targeted policies that address the rising unemployment rates among youth and support sectors that are struggling to recover from recent downturns.
Business
Job Ads Decline for Second Consecutive Month in New Zealand

Job advertisements in New Zealand have experienced a decline for the second consecutive month, according to data from employment website Seek NZ. In June, job ads fell by 3% compared to May and were also 3% lower than figures from the same month last year. This reduction in job listings coincides with indications that the country’s economic recovery is stalling as the year progresses.
Rob Clark, country manager for Seek, noted that job ad levels have remained largely flat over the past year. “While the volume remains below pre-COVID levels, there are pockets of growth, which should be cause for some optimism,” he stated.
Regional Variations in Job Advertisements
The decline in job ads was not uniform across the country. Regions such as Gisborne, Marlborough, and Southland were the only areas to report month-on-month growth in June. In contrast, major regions like Auckland and Canterbury experienced a 2% drop, while Wellington saw a more significant decrease of 4%. Otago remained unchanged, and Waikato reported a decline of 4% as well.
In terms of sector performance, the only industry to witness an increase in job volumes was the Information & Communication Technology sector, which saw heightened demand for positions such as ICT managers and networks and systems administrators. Clark highlighted that, despite the overall monthly dip, there has been a notable surge in demand within the government and defense sectors, which has jumped by 51% year-on-year. He expressed optimism about seeing a growing number of industries returning to annual growth, particularly within the professional and consumer services sectors.
Economic Context and Future Outlook
The recent trends in job advertising are reflective of broader economic conditions in New Zealand. Various economic datasets suggest that the country is experiencing a slowdown in its recovery phase. Despite the challenges, Clark’s comments about pockets of growth provide a glimmer of hope that certain sectors and regions may still be poised for expansion.
As New Zealand navigates this complex economic landscape, the performance of job ads in the coming months will be closely monitored by analysts and job seekers alike. The resilience shown by certain industries indicates that while challenges exist, opportunities for growth remain, potentially paving the way for a more robust employment market in the future.
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