He said Powell “again refused to cut interest rates,” arguing there was “absolutely no reason” to keep rates at current levels. Elsewhere, Oil prices surged, with WTI pushing back above the 65 mark to the highest level since late September. Four-week moving average of initial claims rose 2k to 206k. Confidence rose across industry, services, retail trade, and among consumers, with construction the only sector showing a marginal decline. Shipments to Australia rose NZD 204m (26% yoy), while exports to the EU increased NZD 120m (31%).