Inflation stories

Retailers in Australia and New Zealand must act like technology firms, using real-time data and strong security to thrive during peak shopping seasons.

Small businesses in Australia and New Zealand report high confidence ahead of the holidays, despite financial pressures and concerns over AI in marketing.

The US penny's retirement signals a shift to blockchain micropayments, enabling fast, cheap digital transactions once hindered by legacy payments systems.

Australian holiday spending is set to rise 18% to AUD $969 per shopper, driven by price hikes and stress, with many using AI to aid gift buying this season.

Australian businesses could unlock a USD $60bn productivity gain by saving 8%-10% on external supplier spend without job or performance cuts.

As small businesses surge in Australia, aligning physical branding with digital presence is now essential for customer trust, loyalty and growth.

Finance firms are shifting from AI hype to mature, strategic use, aiming to cut costs by 81% and speed processing by 73% with integrated solutions.

Webull Malaysia launches Moneybull, a Shariah-compliant cash fund offering up to 6% bonus returns and instant access for investors with no fees.

Innovation in European FMCG markets has dropped 20%, yet smaller brands boost sales with new products that align with consumer lifestyles and values.

Australia's tech sector sees 4.4% job growth and rising wages, yet cities like Brisbane and Perth face hiring declines amid reduced working hours.

Australian SMBs spend on average AUD $7,600 yearly on recruitment, yet only 6% rate their hiring process as excellent amid economic struggles.

US and UK finance leaders cut FX hedging to lowest levels since 2024 start, but most will increase cover if interest rates rise next year.

For the first time, Cyber Monday has surpassed Black Friday in UK online sales, reflecting shoppers’ shift towards value-driven and personalised purchases amid inflation.

As Asia Pacific factories adopt AI and IoT, cybersecurity becomes crucial amid rising ransomware, with 21% of global attacks targeting manufacturing.

Almost all UK and Ireland CFOs work evenings or weekends, with 25% prioritising timely data access over inflation and cybersecurity concerns.

Canada’s 2025 Federal Budget prioritises digital innovation and food supply chain reform to boost productivity and combat rising consumer costs.

NZ small businesses saw 1.9% sales growth year-on-year, but jobs fell 1.2%, with sectors like construction and hospitality facing ongoing challenges.

Air IT Group unveils a new automation-focused strategy and omnichannel platform to boost technology adoption and growth for UK SMEs facing economic pressures.

Kiwi investors face rising risks by focusing solely on local markets, as a 10% NZD drop boosts returns for those diversifying into global equities, especially US tech.

US tech stocks soar, with the S&P 500 up 14.5% versus NZX’s 3.2%, urging New Zealand investors to diversify internationally for better returns.