NZ: OCR increase 'Could happen as soon as May'

It is possible that the official cash rate could be up for discussion as early as May, one forecaster says. Inflation data for the December quarter came in stronger than expected, prompting questions about whether interest rates might have to start to rise again earlier than expected. ANZ pulled forward its forecast. Instead of expecting a first hike in February next year, it now thinks it will happen in December. Infometrics chief executive Brad Olsen said he still expected an increase in November. "However, strong growth and inflation numbers in the next few months, combined with a possible hawkish approach from ... (