19.09.202503:22:05UTC+00New Zealand to Appoint New RBNZ Chief Amid Leadership Turmoil

New Zealand's Finance Minister is poised to announce a new leader for the central bank in the upcoming weeks, a move anticipated to bring stability following the unexpected departures of the Reserve Bank's governor and chairman. The new appointee will be tasked with the formidable challenge of restoring the bank's credibility during a severe economic downturn and amid increasing political scrutiny. "We are currently undergoing a test of trust and confidence as an organization," interim Governor Christian Hawkesby stated earlier this month, emphasizing the bank's ongoing commitment to "achieving low and stable inflation over the medium term, and maintaining a resilient and supportive financial system." Hawkesby, who is vying for a permanent appointment, has been at the helm since the controversy led to the departure of RBNZ chair Neil Quigley, who resigned before Finance Minister Nicola Willis could officially request his resignation.