Episode 63: If the economy's improving, why are consumers still holding back?

As new investment trends gain momentum, is following them the right move? Milford Wealth Management Adviser Jess Travers talks to Ryan Bridge about why investors can be drawn to the latest market trends - and the risks of following the hype. Jess shares practical guidance on how to look beyond the headlines, assess opportunities on their merits, and stay focused on a long-term investment strategy.

New Zealand’s economy is showing tentative signs of recovery, but is the momentum strong enough to last? In this episode of Bridge talks Business, Investment Analyst Jeremy Hutton talks to Ryan Bridge about the latest macroeconomic data, signs of life in retail spending, and what rising fuel costs and global interest rates could mean for households and businesses. He looks at the upcoming election and its potential market implications, why retirement village stocks have taken another hit, and whether the electricity sector has anything to worry about. With pockets of resilience emerging across the NZX, he discusses whether the recovery is finally gaining traction or fresh headwinds are about to slow things down.

New Zealanders now have almost $150 billion invested through KiwiSaver. Could more of that capital be helping fund New Zealand's infrastructure – and what would investors get in return? Milford Investment Director Max Harrison joins Ryan Bridge to discuss how infrastructure investing works, why Australia is further ahead, Milford's recent $100 million commitment to public-private partnership infrastructure fund Zealandia, and whether directing retirement savings into local infrastructure should be legally mandated.

What can past crises teach us about the pressures facing financial markets today? Milford Investment Analyst Katlyn Parker talks with Ryan Bridge about the rapid rise in US government debt, the bond market’s demand for higher yields and the renewed inflation threat from rising oil prices. She explains where vulnerabilities are emerging, what could turn a market repricing into something more serious, and why the consequences extend far beyond the United States.

Are industry awards just a pat on the back, or should they be genuinely considered when choosing a KiwiSaver provider? In this episode of Bridge talks Business, we’re joined by Murray Harris to discuss Milford’s latest KiwiSaver award wins from Canstar, including Provider of the Year and Outstanding Value KiwiSaver Scheme. Murray shares what these awards recognise, why they matter when choosing a KiwiSaver provider, and how Milford stays focused on delivering strong long-term outcomes, expert support and quality service for clients working towards their saving and retirement goals. This podcast is intended to provide general information only. It does not take into account your investment needs or personal circumstances. It is not intended to be viewed as investment or financial advice. Should you require financial advice you should always speak to a Financial Adviser. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Milford is an active fund manager with views and portfolio positions subject to change. Milford Funds Limited is the issuer of the Milford KiwiSaver Plan and the Milford Investment Funds. Please read the relevant Milford Product Disclosure Statement at milfordasset.com. Before investing, you may wish to seek financial advice. The disclosure statements of all Milford Financial Advisers contain more information and are available for free on request. For more information and to see our Financial Advice Provider Disclosure statement, please visit milfordasset.com/getting-advice