Story perspectives

Job Confidence Rises Despite Unemployment Projections

1/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Westpac-McDermott Miller Employment Confidence Index increased to 91.1 in December, signaling improved job prospects.
The current opportunities measure improved from -50 to -44, reflecting renewed optimism about job availability.
Unemployment is projected to rise to 5%, with the September rate at 4.8%.
Confidence grew in seven regions, especially Auckland and Christchurch, despite job ads being at a 2013 low.
The survey involved 1,553 participants, conducted from December 1-11, 2024.

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Story summary

The Westpac-McDermott Miller Employment Confidence Index increased to 91.1 in December, signaling improved job prospects.
The current opportunities measure improved from -50 to -44, reflecting renewed optimism about job availability.
Unemployment is projected to rise to 5%, with the September rate at 4.8%.
Confidence grew in seven regions, especially Auckland and Christchurch, despite job ads being at a 2013 low.
The survey involved 1,553 participants, conducted from December 1-11, 2024.