RBNZ Raises OCR 25bps to 2.50%

By Sophia Rodrigues

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand lifted the Official Cash Rate by 25bps to 2.50%. The decision was reached by consensus.

Describing the rate hike as a reduction in monetary stimulus, the RBNZ said the decision reflected above-target inflation and expectations of strengthening in economic activity.

Here are some key headlines:

--RBNZ Ups OCR 25bps to 2.5%
--RBNZ reaches consensus on hike decision
--Future decisions depend on incoming data, price setting, effect on medium-term inflation
--Financial conditions eased in recent weeks; OCR hike to avoid unwarranted easing
--Further OCR increases appear likely, but timing highly uncertain
--Current OCR level remains accommodative
--Gai noted recent geoeconomic shocks may have lifted neutral rate
--Hansen pointed to lower energy prices supporting stronger recovery
--Conway discussed downside risks; Breman focused on delay in consumption recovery
--Silk talked about impact on slower net immigration on activity
--Hayley emphasised upside from sustained NZD depreciation