05.03.202604:12:43UTC+00NZX 50 Ends Higher for First Time in 4 Sessions

The NZX 50 advanced 87 points, or 0.6%, to finish at 13,618 on Thursday, snapping a three-session losing streak as broad-based sector gains lifted the index, led by non-energy minerals, energy minerals, and consumer shares. Market sentiment improved after New Zealand’s largest trading partner, China, pledged renewed efforts to stabilize its property sector, optimize housing supply, and outlined a wide-ranging economic blueprint, even as it lowered its 2026 growth target to 4.5%–5%—its first downgrade since 2023. Confidence was further bolstered by reports that Wellington and New Delhi are close to a free trade agreement that would extend beyond goods into a comprehensive economic partnership. Upside momentum was limited, however, by a pullback in U.S. equity futures, following Wednesday’s Wall Street rally on signs that Iran may be open to negotiations to end the war. Leading gainers on the day included Gentrack Group (up 5.1%), Sky Network Television (3.6%), A2 Milk Co (3.2%), and Fletcher Building (2.6%).