New Zealand inflation data to be released next week; bond traders brace themselves, October rate hike remains a clear option

(1) New Zealand's third-quarter inflation data will be released next week, and bond traders are on high alert for further clarity on the Reserve Bank of New Zealand's next move. (2) The year-on-year inflation rate is expected to be slightly below 4.0%, which is sufficient to keep policymakers vigilant, especially as other data indicate that the country's economy remains robust. (3) The Reserve Bank of New Zealand's next policy meeting is scheduled for October 28. (4) ANZ Chief Economist Sharon Zollner remains cautious, stating that the weakening of the New Zealand dollar since September and rising oil prices make a rate hike in October still a clear option.