August, 2007
Submission to the Taxation (Annual Rates, Business Taxation, KiwiSaver, and Remedial Matters) Bill
Submitted by Editor Policy on 15 August, 2007 - 11:26.CTU Economic Bulletin No. 82
Submitted by Editor Policy on 1 August, 2007 - 11:59.July 2007
Either read on or downlaod a printable version here (MS Word 223k)
Comment
There has been much comment lately on exchange rates. In particular there has been a focus on the exchange rate between the NZ and US dollar which went up 30% in the last year only to fall back somewhat in recent days. Against a basket of currencies the NZ dollar appreciated by 18% in the last year. Much of what drives these exchange rates is trends in other economies. But there is a margin that is driven by what is happening here. A high dollar can reflect underlying strength in the economy so in many ways is a good sign. But the concern is when a high NZ dollar is due in part to currency speculation attracted by high interest rates. There is over $120 trillion worth of hot money surging around the globe day and night looking for the best return. And Warren Buffet reputedly has made $100 million speculating on the NZ dollar.
CTU Submission on the Regulatory Responsibility Bill
Submitted by Editor Policy on 1 August, 2007 - 00:00.Submission to the Commerce Select Committee, Augsut 2007
Click here to download a printable version of this submssion (MS Word, 217k)
Summary
The CTU does not support the Regulatory Responsibility Bill. The CTU contends that it is a sign of a developed economy and society that there is a reasonable spread of regulation to ensure that rights and responsibilities are balanced and that regulations meet high standards of transparency, consistency, plain language, and minimum regulation for the purpose required.