The NZX 50 closed little changed at 13,094 on Tuesday, reversing early strength as gains in financials and healthcare were offset by losses in consumer durables, energy minerals, and logistics. Sentiment weakened amid a retreat in U.S. stock futures, despite President Trump’s remarks hinting at an end to the Iran war. In China, New Zealand’s largest trading partner, both exports and imports grew more than expected in the first two months of 2026, though the outlook remains clouded by external and domestic headwinds. In Australia, consumer mood rose for the first time in four months in March, while February’s business sentiment slipped into negative territory. Air New Zealand fell about 1% after suspending its H2 guidance, citing jet fuel volatility linked to the Middle East conflict. Other decliners included T&G Global (-6.7%), Mainfreight (-2.8%), and Channel Infrastructure (-1.8%). On the upside, Scott Tech gained 3.5%, followed by Summerset Group (2.5%), and Contact Energy (1.6%).
