Mary Jo Vergara
Mary Jo Vergara is a senior economist at Kiwibank, known for her expertise in monetary policy and economic forecasting. Recently, she has been in the news for advocating for further cuts to the Official Cash Rate (OCR) to stimulate economic recovery in New Zealand, suggesting that the current rate is insufficient to boost the economy effectively.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Mary Jo Vergara said the new data showed price increases were becoming less extreme.
Inflation has peaked: Why economists believe the worst is behind us
New Zealand· 2025-10-20
Kiwibank senior economist Mary Jo Vergara noted that grocery store trips were up but prices were also significantly higher.
Inside Economics: Why big events like Taylor Swift concerts don’t really boost the economyNew Zealand· 2025-10-14
Mary Jo Vergara noted that tradeable inflation was on the rise.
Inflation data delivers ‘green light’ for rate cut, but food prices cause concernNew Zealand· 2025-07-21
Kiwibank’s Mary-Jo Vergara noted that although the market is starting to show an uplift in the last few months, it’s been 'very small, not the trend we would have expected by now'.
New Zealand is in economic purgatory, and current indicators are flashing redNew Zealand· 2025-06-28
Mary Jo Vergara is a senior economist at Kiwibank who discussed the need for more rate relief.
Inside Economics: The recovery hits a ‘brick wall’ ... why tomorrow’s GDP data won’t tell the real storyNew Zealand· 2025-06-18
