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Market Commentary – September

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U.S. ECONOMIC OUTLOOK

Real GDP saw a notable recovery in Q2 2025, growing at an annualized rate of 3.0% following a decline of 0.5% in Q1. Forecasts for the full year project growth between 1.4% and 1.6%, aligning with projections from the OECD and private sector analysts.

While inflationary pressures have lessened, they remain persistent. The headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) is tracking around 2.7% year-on-year, with core inflation estimates ranging from 2.9% to 3.1%.

Unemployment rates are steady, currently hovering between 4.2% and 4.3%, reflecting continued strength in the labor market.

The Federal Reserve has maintained its policy rate within the 4.25%–4.50% range and continues to emphasize a data-driven approach. Market participants are anticipating possible rate cuts later in 2025 if disinflation continues.

Recent tariff hikes have contributed to ongoing uncertainty, disrupting supply chains and constraining growth prospects

NEW ZEALAND ECONOMIC OUTLOOK

New Zealand’s GDP contracted during the first quarter of 2025 but is on a path to gradual recovery. Annual growth is expected to range between 1.4% and 2.0%, with momentum anticipated to build into 2026.

Inflation is now within the Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s target band of 1–3%, registering around 2.5%–2.7% for the June quarter.

The Official Cash Rate (OCR) was reduced to 3.00% in August, and additional rate cuts remain a possibility should economic conditions warrant further easing.

Unemployment stands at approximately 5.1%, with projections indicating a potential rise to 5.4% before stabilizing.

Key export industries, particularly dairy and red meat, continue to perform well, providing resilience despite softer global demand.

GLOBAL OUTLOOK AND RISKS

Trade tensions and increased tariffs are reshaping global supply chains, leading to higher costs and reducing overall trade volumes.

The risk of “stagflation-lite” persists in the U.S., as moderate economic growth coincides with ongoing inflationary trends.

Global uncertainty remains elevated due to fiscal imbalances, escalating geopolitical tensions in Asia and the Middle East, and a cautious stance from central banks.

Investors are encouraged to maintain diversified portfolios and pay close attention to policy updates as markets navigate these challenging conditions.

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High-earning professionals deserve more from their KiwiSaver. Discover how tailored advice and the KiwiWrap platform give doctors, lawyers, and executives greater control and flexibility over their retirement savings.

Tailored KiwiSaver for Doctors, Lawyers, and Executives

In the fast-paced worlds of medicine, law, and corporate leadership, your time is precious. As a high-earning professional, your KiwiSaver strategy shouldn’t be an afterthought, it should be as bespoke as your career. But are default KiwiSaver schemes truly serving your long-term financial ambitions? Or is it time to demand more control, flexibility, and expert guidance?

At Hamilton Hindin Greene, we understand the unique KiwiSaver needs of New Zealand’s doctors, lawyers, and executives. Discover how a tailored approach, supported by the innovative KiwiWrap KiwiSaver platform, can empower you to take charge of your retirement savings, align investments with your goals, and make every dollar work harder for your future.

Why High-Earning Professionals Need Tailored KiwiSaver Advice

The Limitations of Default KiwiSaver Schemes

Most default KiwiSaver providers offer a narrow selection of funds and limited investment choices. For high-income professionals like you, accustomed to making informed decisions, this lack of control can be frustrating. You may also face generic advice that doesn’t reflect your complex financial circumstances, tax position, or appetite for risk and opportunity.

Unique Needs of Doctors, Lawyers, and Executives

Doctors, lawyers, and senior executives often:

  • Earn above-average incomes, allowing for larger KiwiSaver contributions

  • Value transparency, flexibility, and the ability to customise investments

  • Seek strategies for maximising tax efficiency and long-term growth

  • Want to integrate KiwiSaver planning with broader wealth management and retirement goals

  • Prefer professional advice tailored to their career trajectory and life stage

Tailored KiwiSaver advice helps transform KiwiSaver from a passive savings tool into a proactive wealth-building strategy, aligned with your career ambitions and family’s future.

Introducing KiwiWrap: Greater Control and Flexibility

What is KiwiWrap KiwiSaver?

KiwiWrap KiwiSaver is a unique platform that gives you greater control over your KiwiSaver investments. Unlike conventional schemes, KiwiWrap allows you to:

  • Select from a wide universe of New Zealand and global shares, fixed interest, listed property, and more

  • Build a portfolio that matches your values, risk profile, and long-term goals

  • Make timely adjustments as your circumstances change—whether you receive a promotion, buy a home, or plan for retirement

At Hamilton Hindin Greene, our advisers use KiwiWrap to craft truly bespoke KiwiSaver solutions for professionals who demand more.

Key Benefits for Professionals

  • Personalised Investment Choices: No more one-size-fits-all. Choose investments that reflect your career, interests, and financial objectives.

  • Transparency and Reporting: Track your portfolio’s performance with detailed and regular reporting, giving you peace of mind.

  • Integrated Wealth Planning: Coordinate your KiwiSaver with your wider investment, tax, and retirement strategies for holistic financial management.

How Hamilton Hindin Greene Delivers Tailored KiwiSaver Advice

Step 1: Understanding Your Unique Profile

We begin by getting to know you, your career, family situation, financial goals, and risk tolerance. This comprehensive understanding enables us to recommend KiwiSaver strategies that are highly personalised.

Step 2: Designing a Bespoke KiwiSaver Portfolio

With KiwiWrap, we help you:

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  • Adjust your portfolio as your career evolves or as market conditions shift

  • Incorporate socially responsible or sector-specific investments if these align with your values

Step 3: Ongoing Guidance and Review

We provide regular reviews and transparent reporting, so you stay informed and confident. Our advisers are always available to answer questions, discuss opportunities, and help you navigate legislative or economic changes that may impact your KiwiSaver.

Actionable Tips for Professionals Optimising Their KiwiSaver

  • Maximise Contributions: Take advantage of employer matching and the government contribution to maximise your annual return.

  • Review Annually: Your career and financial situation will change, so should your KiwiSaver strategy. Schedule an annual review with an expert adviser.

  • Seek Professional Advice: The right adviser can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as unnecessary tax or missed opportunities for growth.

Ready to Take Control of Your KiwiSaver?

Don’t let your retirement savings be an afterthought. If you’re a doctor, lawyer, or executive ready for a tailored KiwiSaver approach, Hamilton Hindin Greene is here to help. Our experienced advisers will help you unlock the full potential of KiwiWrap, giving you more control, flexibility, and confidence as you plan for a rewarding future.

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NZX Adviser. MBA. B.COM (FINC). NZX Dip. F.A.

Toll Free: 0800 10 40 50
DDI: (03) 353 0797
Web: www.hhg.co.nz
Email: jeremy@hhg.co.nz

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KiwiSaver for Professionals: Customising Your Retirement Strategy

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KiwiSaver offers flexibility in how much you contribute, but many professionals stick to the minimum, missing out on significant long-term gains. Consider:

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  • Transparent, high-touch service built on longstanding client relationships

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If you value independence, transparency, and a genuine relationship with your adviser, it’s time to explore how Hamilton Hindin Greene can help you achieve your financial goals. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and discover the difference that true independence makes.

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