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# updated_at  = 2024-10-06T04:32:08Z
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2024-09-27T01:15:00Z	**Casino operator Star reports A$1.68b annual loss amid liquidity, regulatory squeezes**
By Stuart Condie

Star Entertainment reports a massive annual loss in its delayed results as the embattled Australian casino owner moves to shore up its balance sheet and keep hold of its license to operate in Sydney. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/the-wall-street-journal/casino-operator-star-reports-a168b-annual-loss-amid-liquidity-regulatory-squeezes)
2024-09-27T01:30:00Z	**KiwiRail ferry cancellation cost nears half a billion**
Cancelling the order for two rail-enabled Cook Strait ferries has cost KiwiRail $468.8 million so far, according to notes to its financial accounts, released today.

However, further costs loom as the price for exiting the contracts with South Korean shipbuilders Hyundai MIPO has yet to be finalised. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/transport/kiwirail-ferry-cancellation-cost-nears-half-a-billion)
2024-09-27T03:00:00Z	**A2 Milk on trading halt as it goes shopping**
A2 Milk was put on a trading halt on the New Zealand and Australian stock exchanges pending further announcement about a potential acquisition.

The shares were up 11.31% at $6.79 just before going on a trading halt. It had touched a high of $7.050 earlier in the session. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/a2-milk-on-trading-halt-as-it-goes-shopping)
2024-09-27T05:00:00Z	**a2 Milk has $1 billion to spend**
a2 Milk was put in a trading halt on the New Zealand and Australian stock exchanges on Friday afternoon pending a further announcement about a potential acquisition.

The shares were up 11.31% at $6.79 just before going into the halt. It had touched a high of $7.050 earlier in the session. a2 Milk has gained 16.1% this month. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/a2-milk-has-1-billion-to-spend)
2024-09-27T05:20:00Z	**New Zealand exporters brace for potential US port strike disruptions**
New Zealand exporters could face logistics chain disruptions and freight price increases if a planned port workers strike goes ahead on the East Coast of the United States.

Tens of thousands of International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) longshore workers at ports from Maine to Texas will strike on October 1 (US time) if the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents employ ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/trade/new-zealand-exporters-brace-for-potential-us-port-strike-disruptions)
2024-09-27T06:15:00Z	**Market close: Market eases after a strong afternoon of trading**
Global marketer a2 Milk brought end-of-week excitement to the New Zealand sharemarket, rising more than 10% and then going into a trading halt as it finalises a potential acquisition.

After strong afternoon trading, the S&P/NZX 50 eased late in the day and closed at 12,457.451, down 34.17 points or 0.27%. The index was flat for the week but is ahead nearly 6% for the year. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/market-close-market-eases-after-a-strong-afternoon-of-trading)
2024-09-27T17:00:00Z	**On the Money: Protests, Wellington, Metroglass, East Timor, Andy Foster and more**
**On the Money is our weekly newsletter of general frippery from the worlds of business and government.**

They’ve scaled the sides of oil rigs, raced in rubber dinghies to save whales in freezing polar oceans. They were even the target of the first terrorist attack on New Zealand soil when the French secret service blew up their flagship the Rainbow Warrior in Auck ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/on-the-money/on-the-money-protests-wellington-metroglass-east-timor-andy-foster-and-more)
2024-09-27T17:00:00Z	**It’s in the Bag**
Definition of "in the bag": as good as secured. “Once we had secured the third goal, the game was pretty much in the bag” or “the election is in the bag”.

It was also the name of an iconic New Zealand game show broadcast initially on radio and then on television for some 25 years with Selwyn Toogood (legend – the man in everyone’s living room) as the host. John Hawkesby and others took over the helm on and off until 2013. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/its-in-the-bag)
2024-09-27T17:00:00Z	**Big Tech is rushing to find clean power to fuel AI’s insatiable appetite**
By Jennifer Hiller and Amrith Ramkumar

Tech giants swore just a few years ago that they would slash their carbon emissions. Then they got swept up in artificial-intelligence mania. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/technology/big-tech-is-rushing-to-find-clean-power-to-fuel-ais-insatiable-appetite)
2024-09-27T17:00:00Z	**The inside story of Elon Musk’s Twitter takeover**
By Zack Ruskin

As it turns out, making the decision to ban a sitting US President from a social media platform that hails itself as a “global town square” can be rather stressful. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/books/the-inside-story-of-elon-musks-twitter-takeover)
2024-09-28T16:00:00Z	**My Net Worth: Mark Heine, Eroad co-chief executive**
For the past two years, Mark Heine has led one of New Zealand's biggest technology companies, NZX-listed Eroad, based in Auckland. Before that, fresh out of university with a law degree, he went straight into a solicitor role and worked for and with some major legal names. Having wanted to be a lawyer from a young age, he didn't have leadership in business on his personal roadmap. But after falling into it, he soon found he e ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/the-life/my-net-worth-mark-heine-eroad-co-chief-executive)
2024-09-28T16:00:00Z	**Mercedes-Benz E300: the very latest in M-B's engineering**
Meet the all-new E300. It’s a three-box sedan, old-school styles, it has a small-capacity petrol engine and it’s absolutely loaded with cutting-edge equipment – as is tradition for the E-class, which has often served as a technology leader for the Three-Pointed Star.

The new E-class is also magnificent; just wanted to get that out there at the start. Very cool in a classic Mercedes manner, but also deeply impressive  ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/cars/mercedes-benz-e300-the-very-latest-in-m-bs-engineering)
2024-09-28T16:00:00Z	**How a surfie who never finished uni became a biotech billionaire**
By David Wainer

There is a myth that making money in biotechnology stocks requires an advanced degree. But Bob Duggan, an avid surfie who never graduated from university, has proven that notion wrong. Twice. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/health/how-a-surfie-who-never-finished-uni-became-a-biotech-billionaire)
2024-09-28T16:00:00Z	**Keep forgetting your shingles shot? These sufferers wish they hadn’t**
By Elizabeth Cohen

When Nancy Greeley was in her 50s, her sister, an infectious-disease specialist at the University of Rochester in New York State, told her to get the shingles vaccine. Despite Greeley’s best intentions, life got busy, and she never got the shots. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/health/keep-forgetting-your-shingles-shot-these-sufferers-wish-they-hadnt)
2024-09-28T23:00:00Z	**Government consults on merging building consent authorities**
The Government is planning a major overhaul of the building consent system, including changing who might end up liable when things go wrong, and combining building consent authorities.

On Sunday afternoon, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk announced the start of a consultation to improve the consistency of building consent processes across the country. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/policy/government-consults-on-merging-building-consent-authorities)
2024-09-29T16:00:00Z	**Sponsored: How Rangiuru Business Park supports the wider Bay of Plenty**
A new business park being built near Tauranga will be a huge advantage for the Bay of Plenty, helping to boost the region’s economy. But even before the Rangiuru Business Park is up and running, it’s already bringing huge benefits to the area.

This large infrastructure project has made significant strides in the past year. It operates within a complex setting, with five different lead contractors each ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/sponsored/how-rangiuru-business-park-supports-the-wider-bay-of-plenty)
2024-09-29T16:00:00Z	**Alliance Group likely to bring on new shareholder to strengthen balance sheet**
After nearly 140 years, Timaru’s Smithfield freezing works has possibly killed its last sheep.

Now its owner Alliance Group is about to appoint investment bankers to help scout out a new equity partner as it looks to strengthen its embattled balance sheet. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/alliance-group-likely-to-bring-on-new-shareholder-to-strengthen-balance-sheet)
2024-09-29T16:00:00Z	**Analysts see more risk than bargain at The Warehouse**
Forsyth Barr analysts have downgraded The Warehouse Group to underperform from neutral and  “it’s hard to turn a red tide”.

Jarden analysts, however, were more optimistic about the medium term. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/analysts-see-more-risk-than-bargain-at-the-warehouse)
2024-09-29T16:00:00Z	**Fleet admin startup Bonnet to raise $800k for UK launch**
Fleet paperwork management startup Bonnet is raising $800,000 in pre-seed capital, much of which is being filled through crowdfunding.

Founded by Steph Kennard in 2019, Bonnet was originally focused on providing a consumer mobile application to help households keep track of their vehicles’ warrant of fitness (Wof) and registration. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/technology/fleet-admin-startup-bonnet-to-raise-800k-for-uk-launch)
2024-09-29T16:00:00Z	**Making public servants return to the office is no panacea**
Will more active encouragement of public servants to return to the office, or fewer central government layoffs (which are being driven by demands for savings), turn the dial on the Wellington economy?

It may help at the margin but it’s no panacea. Wellington underperforms under a blue government and does better under a red one. Being hooked into the political cycle is a flawed economic model that offers no sub ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/economy/making-public-servants-return-to-the-office-is-no-panacea)
2024-09-29T16:00:00Z	**Why these aren’t the last days of US democracy, according to Alexander Heffner**
If United States democracy seems increasingly frayed and threatened, US broadcaster and historian Alexander Heffner believes it’s hanging on strongly at the local, grassroots and state level.

Heffner hosts The Open Mind on the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) television network and [Breaking Bread](https://deadline.com/2024/07/breaking-bread-bloomberg-1236000227/) on B ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/politics/why-these-arent-the-last-days-of-us-democracy-according-to-alexander-heffner)
2024-09-29T16:00:00Z	**Light needs shining on the ‘dark side’ of investing**
InvestNow once described New Zealand’s wholesale investor regime as the dark side of the moon.

Beyond the brightly lit licensed fund hemisphere, a different investment industry operates in the regulatory shadows, it opined. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/property/light-needs-shining-on-the-dark-side-of-investing)
2024-09-29T16:00:00Z	**A life of law: Nick Malarao**
Nick Malarao began his legal career at Meredith Connell in Auckland 23 years ago, but the firm's longest-serving member and senior partner of 14 years is leaving to become a barrister.

In a leaving speech to his colleagues reflecting on his career, Malarao referred to the Japanese proverb: a frog in a well does not know the great sea. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/law-regulation/a-life-of-law-nick-malarao)
2024-09-29T20:15:00Z	**QuiznessDesk: Monday, Sept 30**
02. Which is New Zealand’s most valuable fresh vegetable export: onions, sweet corn or squash?
03. Which French impressionist was famous for his paintings of water lilies?
04. The Italian city of Cremona is associated with the manufacture of what: crystal, high-performance cars or violins?
05. What is the London Eye?
06. In which film did Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall first star together: The African Queen, Casablanca or To Have and Have Not?
07. What was Leni Ri ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/the-quiz/quiznessdesk-monday-sept-30)
2024-09-29T21:00:00Z	**Fonterra: ‘significant’ capital return coming if consumer business is sold**
Fonterra Co-operative Group has increased its target average return on capital and its dividend policy as it looks to deepen its focus on its ingredients and food service businesses.

It has also flagged a “significant” capital should it sell its consumer business. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/fonterra-significant-capital-return-coming-if-consumer-business-is-sold)
2024-09-29T23:00:00Z	**Inside Domino’s quest to revive sales with ‘emergency pizza’**
By Heather Haddon

Domino’s Pizza needed a hit. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/the-wall-street-journal/inside-dominos-quest-to-revive-sales-with-emergency-pizza)
2024-09-29T23:35:00Z	**Hallenstein Glasson declares 50.5 cent full-year dividend as sales growth continues**
Gross margin gains and strong performance in Australia have enabled Hallenstein Glasson to reward shareholders with a 50.5 cents per share full-year dividend.

In full-year earnings to Aug 1, released to the market on Monday, the cross-Tasman clothing retailer recorded a net profit after tax (Npat) of $34.5 million, up 7.8% compared with last year. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/retail/hallenstein-glasson-declares-505-cent-full-year-dividend-as-sales-growth-continues)
2024-09-30T01:10:00Z	**The a2 Milk Company confirms discussions to potentially buy a manufacturing facility**
The a2 Milk Company has confirmed it is in discussions to potentially buy a manufacturing facility.

The dual-listed milk marketer was put into a trading halt on Friday after a price query from the ASX and to give it more time to update the market on a potential acquisition. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/the-a2-milk-company-confirms-discussions-to-potentially-buy-a-manufacturing-facility)
2024-09-30T03:00:00Z	**Businesses believe the worst is behind us, ANZ survey says**
ANZ’s September Business Outlook survey indicates the number of New Zealand businesses which believe better days are coming is higher than at any time during the last decade.

Monday's survey said that business confidence rose 10 points to 61 in September, while expected own activity – how respondents expect they will do going forward – lifted 8 points to 45. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/economy/businesses-believe-the-worst-is-behind-us-anz-survey-says)
2024-09-30T05:10:00Z	**NZ sharemarket ends day down but Hallenstein Glasson reports solid annual result**
The New Zealand sharemarket was hampered by end-of-quarter portfolio rebalancing in late heavy trading, while Hallenstein Glasson reported a solid annual result.

The S&P/NZX 50 Index reached an intraday high of 12,504.89 but fell in the flurry of the broker matching session, closing at 12,423.82 – down 33.59 points or 0.27%. A total of 65.04 million shares worth $2 ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/nz-sharemarket-ends-day-down-but-hallenstein-glasson-reports-solid-annual-result)
2024-09-30T16:00:00Z	**Sponsored: How smart data improves infrastructure**
**Data and tech we already have can cut costs and build a better NZ.**

Our population is growing and our cities are expanding – and New Zealand’s aging infrastructure is buckling under the pressure. We must invest in the right projects, and maintain our critical systems, to build a sustainable and connected future for Aotearoa. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/sponsored/how-smart-data-improves-infrastructure)
2024-09-30T16:00:00Z	**Metro Performance Glass tries to escape the 'penny dreadful' zone**
Metro Performance Glass sees its mission as getting its share price above “penny dreadful”, but the company’s leadership acknowledges regulatory changes around insulation and a slow pick-up in new home construction are a risk to those plans.

At the Metro annual general meeting on Thursday, independent chair Shawn Beck put the company’s goal of becoming a desirable listed equity investment, front ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/property/metro-performance-glass-tries-to-escape-the-penny-dreadful-zone)
2024-09-30T16:00:00Z	**Game on in the fight between major milk processors Synlait and Fonterra over supply**
“It’s game on.”

That’s how Grant Watson, chief executive of the embattled Synlait Milk, describes the fight for milk supply. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/game-on-in-the-fight-between-major-milk-processors-synlait-and-fonterra-over-supply)
2024-09-30T16:00:00Z	**Could Trade Me be for sale as global takeover activity increases?**
There’s nothing like a bit of deal-making to get imaginations running riot.

So don’t be surprised if the recent flurry of activity in online classifieds businesses around the world has a few besuited bankers beseeching some local players to have another look at their portfolio. This includes Kiwi powerhouse Trade Me, whose owner, Apax Partners, briefly dusted off its exit options last year. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/could-trade-me-be-for-sale-as-global-takeover-activity-increases)
2024-09-30T16:00:00Z	**RBNZ pushes back on banking competition critique**
Ensuring a competitive banking sector comes second to ensuring the banking system is sound, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand says in its submission to the upcoming inquiry into banking competition.

The country’s banking regulator indicates it will continue to reject Commerce Commission findings that its prudential capital rules are responsible for stifling more competitive banking when it appears before the select committee in p ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/finance/rbnz-pushes-back-on-banking-competition-critique)
2024-09-30T16:00:00Z	**Scoring the builders: New financial health tool in the works**
Building industry body Master Builders and credit bureau CreditWorks have joined forces to create a tool for checking the financial health of builders.

The initiative will give Master Builders members a financial rating that goes beyond their credit history and analyses their financial metrics to provide a comprehensive picture of their wellbeing. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/property/scoring-the-builders-new-financial-health-tool-in-the-works)
2024-09-30T16:00:00Z	**Lodestone: building a billion-dollar company on sunshine**
Lodestone Energy is steadily increasing its solar farm portfolio and is on track to become a billion-dollar company with a medium-sized solar array in towns all around New Zealand.

The company has two solar farms and recently broke ground near Whitianga, part of its phase one programme, which includes solar farms near Kaitaia, Edgecumbe and Waiotahe. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/energy/lodestone-building-a-billion-dollar-company-on-sunshine)
2024-09-30T16:00:00Z	**QuiznessDesk: Tuesday, Oct 1**
02. Which kills the greatest number of people globally: malaria, cancer or heart disease?
03. What word starting with “p” means the murder of one’s father?
04. What was the name of the Salvation Army children’s home that inspired a 1967 Beatles hit written by John Lennon?
05. Grace Nweke represents New Zealand in what sport?
06. What first name is shared by actresses with the surnames Alba, Chastain, Lange and Biel?
07. What European country is known by its inhabitants ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/the-quiz/quiznessdesk-tuesday-oct-1)
2024-09-30T16:00:00Z	**Nappies fight involving Zuru founder set down for 2025 trial**
Legal action between global nappies brand Rascals – part of the Zuru Edge stable of consumer goods – and the family that founded the company has been set down for a four-week trial starting next August.

The original company behind Rascals, which rebranded from Rascal and Friends this year, was founded by Grant Taylor and his sister Louise Stainthorpe in Hamilton. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/law-regulation/nappies-fight-involving-zuru-founder-set-down-for-2025-trial)
2024-09-30T20:00:00Z	**Commerce Commission declines Foodstuffs merger**
The Commerce Commission has declined the merger proposal of Foodstuffs North Island and Foodstuffs South Island.

ComCom chair John Small said the proposed merger would have resulted in a permanent structural change to the grocery industry and was not satisfied it would not substantially lower competition. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/retail/commerce-commission-declines-foodstuffs-merger)
2024-09-30T21:20:00Z	**Australian shares round out September with fresh record**
By Derek Rose

The Australian share market has ended September with a fresh record as the local currency hit a 19-month high. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/australian-shares-round-out-september-with-fresh-record)
2024-09-30T22:00:00Z	**Commission says ‘no’: Foodstuffs co-ops disappointed by merger rejection**
Foodstuffs North Island and Foodstuffs South Island say they are "disappointed" by the Commerce Commission's rejection of their merger proposal.

The separate grocery co-operatives sought clearance to merge into a single national entity in late 2023. [After extending](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/retail/comcom-extends-decision-on-foodstuffs-merger-again) the process on several oc ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/retail/commission-says-no-foodstuffs-co-ops-disappointed-by-merger-rejection)
2024-10-01T02:00:00Z	**Effective risk management the key to climate adaptation, says finance committee**
Adapting to climate change will be a balancing act between helping those in need while ensuring people take responsibility for managing climate risk, a new report from Parliament says.

The Finance and Expenditure Select Committee’s final report on climate adaptation was released on Oct 1. The Government now has 60 working days to respond. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/climate-policy/effective-risk-management-the-key-to-climate-adaptation-says-finance-committee)
2024-10-01T03:10:00Z	**Carbon emissions and environmental protections in trade agreements more than 'best endeavours', MFAT says**
Carbon emission and environmental protection clauses in free trade agreements are not just “best endeavours” clauses as the Government has [previously](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/accelerated-nz-eu-fta-timeline-gives-kiwifruit-exporters-a-full-season) maintained, at least according to previously h ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/politics/carbon-emissions-and-environmental-protections-in-trade-agreements-more-than-best-endeavours-mfat-says)
2024-10-01T05:15:00Z	**NZ sharemarket rallies on increasing business confidence**
A more positive New Zealand sharemarket posted a healthy gain as two surveys showed business confidence is returning on the prospect of another interest rate cut next week.

The S&P/NZX 50 Index traded strongly in the afternoon and closed at 12,466.69, up 42.87 points or 0.35% following two successive falls. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/nz-sharemarket-rallies-on-increasing-business-confidence)
2024-10-01T16:00:00Z	**ESG jumps the shark**
ESG has finally made it to the prime-time: TV.

According to the Slate online magazine, [season 3 of HBO investment bank-set series Industry](https://slate.com/culture/2024/09/industry-hbo-season-3-episode-7-harper-yasmin-pierpoint-bank-buyout-esg-finance.html) shows its financial shark characters feed off the “real-life furore over environmental, social, and governance investing, also known as ESG investing”. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/opinion/esg-jumps-the-shark)
2024-10-01T16:00:00Z	**A 50-basis point cut is still on the cards**
Businesses may be in a slightly better mood, but economists aren’t ruling out a 50-basis point rate cut next week.

“We’re calling for a 50bp cut. It’s needed, and the business confidence report supports the view. Game on,” said Kiwibank chief economist Jarrod Kerr. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/economy/a-50-basis-point-cut-is-still-on-the-cards)
2024-10-01T16:00:00Z	**Up to 40 million Spark shares look set to be short-sold**
Leading New Zealand broking houses are telling clients that between 34 million and 40m Spark shares are tied up in what market observers believe is a short-selling campaign.

Spark shares have plummeted in six weeks to trade as low as $3.01 early this week, their lowest point in more than nine years. Spark shares [last traded below $3.03 in August 2015](https://www.google.com/search?q=spark+share+prce+history&oq=sp ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/up-to-40-million-spark-shares-look-set-to-be-short-sold)
2024-10-01T16:00:00Z	**Business of Government: the woke don't go broke, backslapping, and Brian 'will he, won't he' Roche and more**
**The woke don’t go broke**

The appointment of Police Commissioner **Andrew Coster** as chief executive of the **Social Investment Agency** and [Secretary for Social Investment](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/news-in-brief/andrew-coster-new-ce-of-social-investment-agency) caused quite the buzz in some circles. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/public-sector/business-of-government-the-woke-dont-go-broke-backslapping-and-brian-will-he-wont-he-roche-and-more)
2024-10-01T16:00:00Z	**Why our healthcare system is ailing**
Pencil in healthcare as a rising election, societal and economic issue.

With each passing day, we appear to be seeing more of the realities – whether it be hospital costing blowouts, challenges and trade-offs –  we have to face addressing legacy underinvestment, problems with the capacity to deliver and manage large-scale projects, Treasury drawing more attention to ageing population pressure, or rising concern in society over healthcare. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/economy/why-our-healthcare-system-is-ailing)
2024-10-01T16:00:00Z	**Dairyworks: the bright spot in Synlait’s tough year**
Dairyworks is expected to grow significantly in the next three to four years, Synlait Milk’s chief executive says.

Synlait signed a deal to buy the cheese producer from the Cross family in late 2019 for $112 million. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/dairyworks-the-bright-spot-in-synlaits-tough-year)
2024-10-01T16:00:00Z	**NZTA board, not ministers, to decide on Wellington 'long tunnel'**
Transport Minister Simeon Brown says the New Zealand Transport Agency board will decide whether the proposed Wellington mega-tunnel should go ahead, although BusinessDesk understands ministers have now expressed a preference for a cheaper option.

The so-called long tunnel, consisting of twin two-lane tunnels from north of the Terrace to Kilbirnie, bypassing the central city, would cost several billion ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/policy/nzta-board-not-ministers-to-decide-on-wellington-long-tunnel)
2024-10-01T19:40:00Z	**Risk aversion clips New Zealand dollar's wings**
The New Zealand dollar lost ground overnight as tensions rose in the Middle East.

The kiwi was trading at 62.99 US cents at 8am in Wellington versus 63.70 US cents late Tuesday in Wellington. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/risk-aversion-clips-new-zealand-dollars-wings)
2024-10-01T20:15:00Z	**QuiznessDesk: Wednesday, Oct 2**
02. Name the year Bill English became Prime Minister, trade unionist Helen Kelly died and New Zealanders voted to retain the existing flag.
03. What father and son played a father and son in the 1987 film Wall Street?
04. What vegetable (technically a fruit) is used in the Greek dish moussaka?
05. What currency is used in the Vatican City?
06. “You must remember this” are the opening words from a song in what classic film?
07. In America, what is an “open carry” st ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/the-quiz/quiznessdesk-wednesday-oct-2)
2024-10-01T22:00:00Z	**Maersk cautions on costs and delays from US dockworkers strike**
By Dominic Chopping

Maersk has warned that the US dockworkers strike will affect supply chains, leading to delays in cargo movement, increased costs and logistical challenges for businesses relying on US East Coast and Gulf ports. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/transport/maersk-cautions-on-costs-and-delays-from-us-dockworkers-strike)
2024-10-01T23:00:00Z	**KMD Brands names former Nike exec as next CEO**
KMD Brands director Brent Scrimshaw will take over as group chief executive after the resignation of Michael Daly.

On Wednesday, the outdoor clothing retailer told the New Zealand Exchange (NZX) that Daly had given his notice, having held the top job since May 2021. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/retail/kmd-brands-names-former-nike-exec-as-next-ceo)
2024-10-02T02:00:00Z	**'Complete dereliction of duty’: Insolvency practitioner's licence cancelled**
A disciplinary tribunal has stripped insolvency practitioner Kelera Nayacakalou of her licence and found her guilty of all four charges laid against her.

[The case](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/law-regulation/sock-puppet-insolvency-practitioner-before-disciplinary-tribunal), brought by the New Zealand Institute of Chartered Accountants (NZICA), was heard in Wellingt ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/law-regulation/complete-dereliction-of-duty-insolvency-practitioners-licence-cancelled)
2024-10-02T02:10:00Z	**Genesis takes majority stake in ChargeNet for $64m**
Power generator and retailer Genesis Energy said it will spend $64 million on taking a majority stake in ChargeNet, New Zealand’s largest nationwide electric vehicle public charging network.

Genesis said the move would make it a key investor in the growth of the country’s electric vehicle (EV) market and in the energy transition. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/genesis-takes-majority-stake-in-chargenet-for-64m)
2024-10-02T02:25:00Z	**Tradify app sells to UK firm for more than $100m**
Curtis Bailey, who left school for an apprenticeship at a small electrical engineering company in South Auckland, is in line for a $9 million-plus payday.

UK firm The Access Group has entered an agreement to buy Tradify, the firm Bailey created in 2010 after becoming frustrated there was no app for tradies to manage and book jobs. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/news-in-brief/tradify-app-sells-to-uk-firm-for-more-than-100m)
2024-10-02T02:35:00Z	**Miraka ups its milk price forecast**
Taupō-based dairy processor Miraka has upped its forecast milk price for the season.

It is now forecasting a payout of $9.17 per kilogram of milk solid (kgMS) for 2024/25 season, having opened at $8.42/kgMS. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/miraka-ups-its-milk-price-forecast)
2024-10-02T05:20:00Z	**Middle East conflict weighs on NZ sharemarket**
The New Zealand sharemarket, trading flat, was overshadowed by uncertainty over the escalating conflict in the Middle East and the size of next week’s interest rate cut here.

The S&P/NZX 50 Index followed Wall Street by falling in the morning but recovered in the afternoon to close at 12,451.69, down 15 points or 0.12%. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/middle-east-conflict-weighs-on-nz-sharemarket)
2024-10-02T16:00:00Z	**Sponsored: Businesses struggle to manage skyrocketing tech costs amid AI boom**
**A new report shows only 57% of Australia and New Zealand leaders have a clear understanding of their tech expenses.**

Businesses are facing mounting pressure as soaring technology costs force difficult choices between innovation and protecting the bottom line. With global tech spending rising 8% annually and outpacing revenue growth for many, budgets are feeling the squeeze. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/sponsored/businesses-struggle-to-manage-skyrocketing-tech-costs-amid-ai-boom)
2024-10-02T16:00:00Z	**Business of Tech: What it takes to make AI truly trustworthy**
Can AI ever be truly trustworthy when the stakes are high? That's what machine learning and artificial intelligence researcher Jessica Zosa Forde hopes to achieve with her studies at Brown University. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/technology/business-of-tech-what-it-takes-to-make-ai-truly-trustworthy)
2024-10-02T16:00:00Z	**Lincoln Agritech's $10.4m project aims for wool industry revival**
Lincoln Agritech is forecasting its new $10.4 million Endeavour fund grant will lead to annual returns of more than $200m from wool-based exports by 2040.

It's a bold prediction but could help give New Zealand's sheep farmers and downstream wool industry a new lease of life if its research plans bear fruit. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/lincoln-agritechs-104m-project-aims-for-wool-industry-revival)
2024-10-02T16:00:00Z	**Sanford sought smaller orange roughy cut, Sealord takes more conservative view**
Sanford may not be getting all the orange roughy it wanted but major rival Sealord is happy to take the cut.

As the fishing year started on Tuesday, Sanford had to contend with seeing the catch allowance for a major orange roughy fishery, known as the Challenger Plateau, [cut by 57%](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/fisheries-minister-shane-jones ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/sanford-sought-smaller-orange-roughy-cut-sealord-takes-more-conservative-view)
2024-10-02T16:00:00Z	**Big hurdles to overcome to make GovGPT really useful**
If war-ravaged Ukraine can harness artificial intelligence to improve its citizens' access to government services, why can’t New Zealand?

That’s the question that inspired GovGPT, the Government chatbot developed by a small team at Callaghan Innovation and which is set to become available on October 16. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/opinion/big-hurdles-to-overcome-to-make-govgpt-really-useful)
2024-10-02T16:00:00Z	**The case for an NZX short-selling register**
The second-worst performing stock on the NZX over the past month was Spark.

Since announcing a weaker-than-expected profit on Aug 23 and raising its final dividend despite not generating sufficient cash flow to cover a payout at the old dividend rate, the share price has plummeted. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/the-case-for-an-nzx-short-selling-register)
2024-10-02T16:00:00Z	**Lyttelton Port Company reports jump in six-figure earners amid cost-cutting drive**
Despite its efforts to rein in costs, the number of employees earning more than $100,000 at Lyttelton Port Company has increased significantly over the past year, at a time when the port delivered reduced profits.

The South Island port, the third largest in the country, released its annual report for the year ending June 30, 2024, last week. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/infrastructure/lyttelton-port-company-reports-jump-in-six-figure-earners-amid-cost-cutting-drive)
2024-10-02T16:00:00Z	**Shane Jones supports geothermal over LNG terminal to solve NZ's energy woes**
Resources Minister Shane Jones says a liquefied natural gas import terminal is not his “ideal” solution to the country’s energy woes and instead believes a major investment by the Crown into geothermal is needed.

Jones has also asked for officials to look at decommissioning costs on oil and gas assets to see if New Zealand is going beyond what was required. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/infrastructure/shane-jones-supports-geothermal-over-lng-terminal-to-solve-nzs-energy-woes)
2024-10-02T16:00:00Z	**From yacht racing to the space race**
Auckland custom composites manufacturer Southern Spars is renowned for building the masts and booms on many an America’s Cup contender, as well as a serious chunk of the world’s superyachts.

What is less well known is that it is translating that expertise into the aerospace sector, with Florida-based space infrastructure maker Redwire Space a significant new client. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/design/from-yacht-racing-to-the-space-race)
2024-10-02T18:00:00Z	**Aussie shares edge lower after Iran's missile strike on Israel**
By Derek Rose

The Australian share market finished slightly lower on Wednesday as the world waited to see if the conflict in the Middle East spirals into all-out war. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/aussie-shares-edge-lower-after-irans-missile-strike-on-israel)
2024-10-02T20:15:00Z	**QuiznessDesk: Thursday, Oct 3**
02. Which book has the most words: Gone with the Wind, The Lord of the Rings or War and Peace?
03. In northern Australia, what is a saltie?
04. The American lawyer and author Michelle Robinson became better known by what name?
05. What band recorded a 1994 hit album entitled Definitely Maybe?
06. In which European city would you see a famous sculpture of a naked boy peeing in a fountain?
07. Colac Bay is a surfing destination in which New Zealand region?
08. Complete ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/the-quiz/quiznessdesk-thursday-oct-3)
2024-10-02T20:20:00Z	**Mood of the Boardroom: CEOs give their verdict on Government**
Business leaders have given their verdict on the Government in the Herald’s Mood of the Boardroom survey.

They say it’s time to move on from blaming the previous administration and get on with the bold steps needed to spur economic growth. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/news-in-brief/mood-of-the-boardroom-ceos-give-their-verdict-on-government)
2024-10-02T22:10:00Z	**SEC sends a message to startups about ‘fake it’ culture**
By Marc Vartabedian

The US Securities and Exchange Commission, in a series of recent enforcement actions, is driving home a message to the startup world: fake it 'til you make it can be fraud. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/investments/sec-sends-a-message-to-startups-about-fake-it-culture)
2024-10-03T00:00:00Z	**FMA files civil proceedings against QEX Logistics and its founder**
The Financial Markets Authority has filed civil proceedings against QEX Logistics' sole director, Jingjie Xue, for failing to comply with financial reporting requirements under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013.

 According to the FMA, QEX failed to prepare and lodge its financial statements for the year ending March 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 with the Registrar of Companies. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/news-in-brief/fma-files-civil-proceedings-against-qex-logistics-and-its-founder)
2024-10-03T01:00:00Z	**Deep tech startups attracting more early investment than any other sector, says Callaghan Innovation**
Ten years after Callaghan Innovation launched its Deep Tech Incubator Programme, the sector now attracts more pre-seed and seed investment than any other business type.

The Crown entity has since disbursed $44 million in repayable grants. It has also co-invested $81m with private investors, although it hasn’t broken down it ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/technology/deep-tech-startups-attracting-more-early-investment-than-any-other-sector-says-callaghan-innovation)
2024-10-03T02:30:00Z	**Country Road Group restructure will affect NZ operation, analyst says**
The restructuring of clothing and accessories retailer Country Road Group will affect the company’s operation in New Zealand, a retail analyst says.

On Wednesday, the Australian reported group chief executive Raju Vuppalapati told Melbourne staff they needed to embrace a “mindset shift” as the company restructured. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/retail/country-road-group-restructure-will-affect-nz-operation-analyst-says)
2024-10-03T05:30:00Z	**NZ sharemarket rises as investors return to blue-chip stocks**
The mood of the New Zealand sharemarket improved with investors back buying blue-chip stocks and Hallenstein Glasson reaching a three-year high.

The S&P/NZX 50 Index increased 120.97 points or 0.97% to 12,572.66 while the major United States and Australian indices were flat and the Chinese – recently boosted by an economic stimulus – were closed for the Golden Week public holiday. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/nz-sharemarket-rises-as-investors-return-to-blue-chip-stocks)
2024-10-03T08:00:00Z	**Aussie shares edge higher amid growing Mideast conflict**
By Derek Rose

The Australian share market finished ever so slightly higher on Thursday as traders waited to see how Israel will retaliate against Iran for its missile barrage. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/aussie-shares-edge-higher-amid-growing-mideast-conflict)
2024-10-03T16:00:00Z	**Sponsored: Cloud can be an engine for top-line growth**
**New report reveals AI impacting cloud platform choices.**

**By Datacom’s Director of Cloud Mike Walls and Associate Director of Infrastructure Products Daniel Bowbyes.** ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/sponsored/cloud-can-be-an-engine-for-top-line-growth)
2024-10-03T16:00:00Z	**FMA was looking at Du Val statutory management on day of raids**
A police dawn raid with Financial Markets Authority staff on the home of Du Val group's founders was still under way when officials from the latter were briefing Commerce Minister Andrew Bayly that placing the group in statutory management could be the next step.

BusinessDesk has obtained a briefing to Bayly from a senior Financial Markets Authority (FMA) manager, marked "0800 2 August", just before ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/property/fma-was-looking-at-du-val-statutory-management-on-day-of-raids)
2024-10-03T16:00:00Z	**Solar farm consenting set to benefit from tweaks to land use rules**
Changes to rules on highly productive land use should ease the consenting path for solar farms and flood works.

They also clear up confusion over indoor farming activities, which the rules had appeared to prohibit. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/law-regulation/solar-farm-consenting-set-to-benefit-from-tweaks-to-land-use-rules)
2024-10-03T16:00:00Z	**Opinion divided over Genesis' move on ChargeNet**
Genesis Energy’s move to take a majority stake in electric vehicle charging company ChargeNet has met with a mixed reaction from analysts.

Forsyth Barr described the $64 million bid for a 65% stake in ChargeNet as a “poor strategic move”, while Jarden described it as a “positive” step. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/opinion-divided-over-genesis-move-on-chargenet)
2024-10-03T16:00:00Z	**Haven group company liquidated by IRD over $1.3m tax bill**
The Inland Revenue Department has succeeded in liquidating the owner of a multimillion-dollar Takapuna property over a $1.3m tax bill.

Lakefront Investments is part of the Haven group of companies and a wider battle by IRD to recover unpaid taxes. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/property/haven-group-company-liquidated-by-ird-over-13m-tax-bill)
2024-10-03T16:00:00Z	**Dairy firm in the spotlight over late filing of accounts**
The New Zealand arm of dairy giant Yashili has been referred to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's enforcement unit after failing to file its accounts on time.

It operates a processing site next to [Synlait Milk’s North Island site in Pōkeno](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/how-bright-dairy-plans-to-turn-synlaits-losses-into-profit), south of Auckland, and its reportin ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/dairy-firm-in-the-spotlight-over-late-filing-of-accounts)
2024-10-03T16:00:00Z	**'Moral hazard risks' of helping firms hit by high energy costs**
The closure of industrial firms affected by high energy costs will have regionally significant unemployment impacts and affect the profitability of the forestry and wood-processing sector, officials warned the Government.

However, in advice provided to Regional Development Minister Shane Jones on Aug 26, they noted there would be risks if the Government stepped in to prop up firms that hadn’t secured fu ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/policy/moral-hazard-risks-of-helping-firms-hit-by-high-energy-costs)
2024-10-03T16:00:00Z	**TPT Group still hungry for acquisitions after 25 years**
When you hear the phrase mergers and acquisitions, your mind’s eye might conjure up visions of Commercial Bay in downtown Auckland, New Zealand’s beating heart of commerce, where corporate lawyers and investment bankers regularly brush shoulders in the great glass elevators of the PwC Tower.

But perhaps it should turn to the less flashy office of TPT Group in East Tamaki, a more industrial-minded part of Auckland. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/opinion/tpt-group-still-hungry-for-acquisitions-after-25-years)
2024-10-03T16:00:00Z	**Ravensdown's Agnition is on a mission**
Agnition is on a mission.

Set up by [fertiliser co-operative Ravensdown](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/ravensdown-looks-to-ignite-ag-innovation) over a year ago as a corporate venture capital entity, it has a mandate to invest in future nutrient and soil health innovations. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/ravensdowns-agnition-is-on-a-mission)
2024-10-03T20:00:00Z	**AustralianSuper ratchets up US expansion moves**
By Rod James

AustralianSuper, one of the fastest-growing pension plans in the world, has moved a pair of top executives to New York and made several senior US hires as it aims to become a major private-markets investor in North America. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/finance/australiansuper-ratchets-up-us-expansion-moves)
2024-10-03T20:15:00Z	**QuiznessDesk: Friday, Oct 4**
02. What sandwich filling was mentioned in Aussie band Men at Work’s 1982 hit song Down Under?
03. What animal species includes dominant males called silverbacks?
04. What locality near the Otago town of Lawrence was named after the Australian prospector Gabriel Read?
05. Hydrophobia – a morbid fear of water – is a symptom of what disease?
06. What is the nationality of Marie Kondo, author of the best-selling book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up?
07. Mulligatawny s ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/the-quiz/quiznessdesk-friday-oct-4)
2024-10-03T22:30:00Z	**New school property agency to be established, separate from Ministry of Education**
The Government intends to separate the operational delivery of school property management from the Ministry of Education.

It is one of the key measures in its formal response to the [Ministerial Inquiry into School Property](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/education-announcement-expected-at-pm-christoph[…]s-post-cabinet-press-conference/LMEWGDWTKBHJ7PRLMKIXB ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/policy/new-school-property-agency-to-be-established-separate-from-ministry-of-education)
2024-10-03T22:35:00Z	**Tatua to pay farmers $10.50/kgMS for 2024 season**
Tatua will pay its farmer-owners $10.50 per kilogram of milksolids for the 2024 season.

The co-operative’s overall earnings equated to $12.20/kgMS. From that, it will pay out $10.50/kgMS, with the balance – equivalent to $26 million before tax – retained for reinvestment in the business. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/tatua-to-pay-farmers-1050kgms-for-2024-season)
2024-10-03T23:15:00Z	**Environmental Protection Authority seat for ex EMA chief Brett O'Riley**
Former Employers and Manufacturers Association chief executive Brett O’Riley has been appointed to the Environmental Protection Authority board.

Environment Minister Penny Simmonds said O’Riley's extensive experience across multiple sectors, combined with his governance expertise, leadership and deep commitment to innovation, would be a tremendous asset to the board. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/news-in-brief/environmental-protection-authority-seat-for-ex-ema-chief-brett-oriley)
2024-10-04T02:00:00Z	**Judge blocks printing company from selling Israeli artist's work**
A High Court judge has blocked an Auckland printing company from selling the work of an acclaimed Israeli artist who disputes a US$4.64 million (NZ$7.47m) invoice from the company.

Avraham Yaacov Agam, an artist based in Tel Aviv, applied for an interim injunction against Jonathan Moon and his printing company Outer Aspect IP (OAIP) after he found out they were looking to sell his artworks. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/law-regulation/judge-blocks-printing-company-from-selling-israeli-artists-work)
2024-10-04T02:40:00Z	**Marsden Point biorefinery could unlock the site's multimillion-dollar potential**
There is no certainty that Channel Infrastructure’s agreement with a consortium to develop a biorefinery at Marsden Point will go ahead, but most analysts say the proposal shows the value of the company’s real estate.

This week, Channel said it had entered into a conditional agreement with a Seadra Energy-led consortium to look at creating a refinery to make bi ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/infrastructure/marsden-point-biorefinery-could-unlock-the-sites-multimillion-dollar-potential)
2024-10-04T03:10:00Z	**Google threatens to remove links to New Zealand news**
Google is threatening to blow up its New Zealand news agreements and remove any ability for users to find local news on its search engine, in ramped-up threats to oppose new legislation.

News publishers said the threats are little more than “corporate bullying”. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/news-in-brief/google-threatens-to-remove-links-to-new-zealand-news)
2024-10-04T03:40:00Z	**US dock workers' strike ends after parties reach tentative wage deal**
A dock workers’ strike on the East Coast of the United States will end three days into the industrial action after a tentative deal on wages was agreed on.

Tens of thousands of International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) longshore workers at ports from Maine to Texas began striking on October 1 (US time) in response to the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) not meeting demands for h ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/economy/us-dock-workers-strike-ends-after-parties-reach-tentative-wage-deal)
2024-10-04T04:00:00Z	**Samsung considers trimming NZ workforce**
Samsung’s New Zealand staff may be caught up in the company’s efforts to reduce overheads worldwide.

Earlier this week, [Bloomberg reported](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-10-01/samsung-to-cut-thousands-of-jobs-as-part-of-worldwide-layoffs) the Korean tech giant was targeting a 10% reduction in headcount across Southeast Asia, Australia and NZ ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/news-in-brief/samsung-considers-trimming-nz-workforce)
2024-10-04T05:15:00Z	**NZ market rises on potential for more Chinese stimulus**
A resilient New Zealand sharemarket posted a handy gain amid continuing global tension over Middle East geopolitics and speculation China may produce another round of economic stimulus.

The S&P/NZX 50 Index dipped in the morning after the United States' major indices were weaker but recovered in the afternoon when the Hong Kong Hang Seng index traded strongly. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/markets/nz-market-rises-on-potential-for-more-chinese-stimulus)
2024-10-04T16:00:00Z	**On the Money: Luxon's Soprano wardrobe, Paris and Ramaswamy, and counting sweets with Air New Zealand**
**On the Money is our weekly newsletter of general frippery from the worlds of business and government.**

It may be back to the office with formal workwear for all of Wellington’s public servants but for the boss supremo Prime Minister **Christopher Luxon** it was casual Friday in Auckland. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/on-the-money/on-the-money-luxons-soprano-wardrobe-paris-and-ramaswamy-and-counting-sweets-with-air-new-zealand)
2024-10-04T16:00:00Z	**Fail file: Film director Kevin Denholm**
**Each fortnight, Victoria Carter speaks to someone about failure and disappointment and what they learned. This week, she talks to Kevin Denholm, one of New Zealand’s top commercial film directors and behind much-loved TV adverts such as the Mitre 10 sandpit, Toyota’s ‘everyday people’ and the Air NZ ads.**

**I was really disappointed when:** the first Covid lockdown happened and I realised I had no gas left in my tank. It was a frightenin ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/business-advice/fail-file-film-director-kevin-denholm)
2024-10-04T16:00:00Z	**Asia suddenly the place to be as stocks and currencies shine**
By Richard Henderson and Charlotte Yang

Asian assets swung violently over the past three months, rocked by a succession of epochal events that culminated in a giant stimulus boost for China and propelled the region’s equities to world beaters. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/investments/asia-suddenly-the-place-to-be-as-stocks-and-currencies-shine)
2024-10-04T16:00:00Z	**Defence of the dark arts**
DADA, or Defence of the Dark Arts, was a course taught initially by Quirinus Quirrell at Hogwarts in the Harry Potter series. It taught students how to protect themselves from various dark spells, curses, and magical creatures.

There was, of course, the Patronus Charm (to fend off Chloe Swarbrick), the Unforgivable Curses (Jacinda Ardern earning $300,000 a lecture), the Cruciatus Curse (which inflicts excruciating pain on the victim) and the Imperius Curse (giving the caster ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/opinion/defence-of-the-dark-arts)
2024-10-04T16:00:00Z	**How Telegram became a hunting ground for crims – and cops**
By Joel Schectman, Sam Schechner and Alan Cullison

When federal agent Chris Janczewski was trying to strangle the flow of money to an al-Qaeda network in 2020, he first considered infiltrating an invite-only forum or hunting for clues on the dark web. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/law-regulation/how-telegram-became-a-hunting-ground-for-crims-and-cops)
2024-10-05T16:00:00Z	**Cadillac Lyriq EV first drive**
For a short time there, we were living the American dream: based at the Pendry Hotel just off Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, commuting through Beverly Hills, organically excellent lunch in Topanga and a gentle cruise through Malibu and Santa Monica in the late afternoon.

Nice context for the car we’re here to drive, but also all a bit of a distraction. We’re piloting the Cadillac Lyriq around some of the posher parts of Los Angeles, but we’re doing it as a first  ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/cars/cadillac-lyriq-ev-first-drive)
2024-10-05T16:00:00Z	**Spy mania sows fear among Russia’s scientists**
By Ann M. Simmons

Think of Russia’s most dangerous jobs and the role of research scientist doesn’t immediately spring to mind. Coal miner, maybe. Or a deep-sea diver on the Barents Sea oil rigs. The same kinds of jobs that are dangerous anywhere. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/world/spy-mania-sows-fear-among-russias-scientists)
2024-10-05T16:00:00Z	**Surgeons say ‘ballet body’ is in. Here’s what that means**
By Frances Vinall

The idealised look in the 1980s was muscular and toned (with leg warmers). That morphed into the skeletal “heroin chic” of the 90s. More recently, a curvier physique with big buttocks has dominated social media feeds. Is the return of slim the next women’s body trend? ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/health/surgeons-say-ballet-body-is-in-heres-what-that-means)
2024-10-05T16:00:00Z	**Happily married, but they can’t stand each other’s candidate**
By Elizabeth Bernstein

Politically mixed marriages are a dwindling species in America. And this election season, these couples are finding it even harder to avoid a blowup. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/relationships/happily-married-but-they-cant-stand-each-others-candidate)
2024-10-05T16:00:00Z	**My Net Worth: Mark Leslie, chief executive of Pāmu**
Mark Leslie has led the state-owned farming group Pāmu for just over two years. Pāmu, which trades as Landcorp, is the largest farmer in the country and operates 122 farming units across dairy, sheep, beef and deer, totalling more than 365,000 hectares. Leslie has also spent time at Fonterra and the New Zealand Dairy Board and more recently was chief operating officer of Silver Fern Farms. He has also held multiple gove ... ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/primary-sector/my-net-worth-mark-leslie-chief-executive-of-pamu)
2024-10-06T02:00:00Z	**Fast track consents for 149 projects including gold and seabed mining**
Nearly 150 projects will be fast-tracked including several high-profile mining projects.

These include the expansion of OceanaGold’s gold mining operations in Waihi and Otago, Santana’s plans for gold mining in Bendigo-Ophir, and the seabed mining of iron sands off the Taranaki coast by Trans Tasman Resources. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/policy/fast-track-consents-for-149-projects-including-gold-and-seabed-mining)
2024-10-06T04:25:00Z	**Govt fires first salvo in 'growth now' narrative**
The Government has delivered a first salvo in a new focus on “growth first” with the release of 149 projects to be considered under the fast-track legislation it intends to pass into law this month.

Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop said the list was part of an “unapologetic” push to get the New Zealand economy growing after the best part of two years in recession. ⌘ [Read more](https://businessdesk.co.nz/article/economy/govt-fires-first-salvo-in-growth-now-narrative)