The big picture: Global forces shaping your investments
In this episode, Nigel Grant (Head of Wealth Product, ASB) welcomes Ben Powell (Chief Investment Strategist for APAC & Middle East, BlackRock Investment Institute) for a wide-angle look at the global investment landscape. They unpack BlackRock’s 2025 Midyear Global Outlook, diving into the shifting macro anchors and the “mega forces” driving long-term change. Ben shares where he sees opportunity in today’s complex environment - and what it means for investors planning ahead.
***
This material has been created with the co-operation of BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited (BIMAL) ABN 13 006 165 975, AFSL 230 523 on 18/09/2025. Comments made by BIMAL employees here represent BIMAL’s views only. This material provides general information only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation, needs or circumstances. Before making any investment decision, you should obtain financial advice tailored to you having regard to your individual objectives, financial situation, needs and circumstances. Refer to BIMAL’s Financial Services Guide on its website for more information. This material is not a financial product recommendation or an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any financial product in any jurisdiction.
--------
27:49
--------
27:49
Investor confidence dips: What’s driving the shift?
ASB Senior Economist Chris Tennent-Brown joins host Nigel Grant (Head of Wealth Product, ASB) to unpack the latest ASB Investor Confidence Survey results for Q2 2025. They explore why investor confidence has dipped to its lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic, and examine trends in demographic and regional sentiment. With signs that the worst of the slowdown is behind us, they discuss the economic outlook and offer timely insights and practical strategies for investors navigating today’s uncertain and volatile environment.
--------
26:39
--------
26:39
Mood of the CFO: Economic outlook, policy shifts, and the future of NZ finance
Host Nigel Grant (Head of Wealth Product, ASB) is joined by Steve Cooper (CFO & COO, Parkable) and Lee Marshall (Managing Partner, Hunter Campbell) to unpack the latest Mood of the CFO report. They discuss the realities of New Zealand’s two-speed economy, the economic outlook, and the policy changes CFOs are calling for. The conversation explores how finance leaders are navigating macroeconomic uncertainty, the rise of AI and technology in finance, and the ongoing challenges of talent and succession planning. Tune in for insights on board dynamics and the key issues shaping New Zealand’s finance community in 2025.
--------
32:52
--------
32:52
Mind over market: How emotions shape your investment outcomes
Host Nigel Grant (Head of Wealth Product, ASB) is joined by Jim Renitsky (Senior Growth Consultant, BlackRock Business Consulting) to discuss how emotions like fear and envy can derail smart investment decisions. From Isaac Newton’s costly mistake to Olympic medal psychology, this episode explores why discipline, not timing, drives long-term success. Plus, why minimising losses is often more powerful than chasing big gains, and how working with a financial advisor can help you stay the course.
***
This material has been created with the co-operation of BlackRock Investment Management (Australia) Limited (BIMAL) ABN 13 006 165 975, AFSL 230 523 on 31/07/2025. Comments made by BIMAL employees here represent BIMAL’s views only. This material provides general information only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation, needs or circumstances. Before making any investment decision, you should obtain financial advice tailored to you having regard to your individual objectives, financial situation, needs and circumstances. Refer to BIMAL’s Financial Services Guide on its website for more information. This material is not a financial product recommendation or an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any financial product in any jurisdiction.
--------
26:34
--------
26:34
OCR cuts, housing headwinds and what it means for investors
Host Nigel Grant (Head of Wealth Product, ASB) is joined by Chris Tennent-Brown (Senior Economist, ASB) for a mid-year check-in on the New Zealand economy. They unpack the Reserve Bank’s latest OCR decision, inflation and labour market dynamics, and housing market developments. With a wave of mortgage refixes on the horizon and global uncertainty still in play, Chris shares insights on what could drive further OCR easing, how households and businesses are responding, and what investors should consider in the months ahead.
New Zealand