Q4 marked a turning point for New Zealand's labor market. The working-age population expanded at its fastest rate in 24 months, fueled by an uptick in economic activity that's drawing foreign workers back into the job market. This momentum reflects broader economic optimism—when employment prospects improve, migration patterns shift. For asset markets and investors tracking global economic cycles, labor force expansion in developed economies like New Zealand often signals growing consumer spending power and domestic demand revival. The trend underscores how macroeconomic conditions across traditional markets can create ripple effects on sentiment toward riskier assets.