New Zealand’s benchmark S&P/NZX 50 index inched up 0.05% to close at 13,409 on Wednesday, marking its fourth straight day of gains. The local market took cues from a positive lead on Wall Street, where major US equities finished at record highs on Tuesday, buoyed by strong corporate earnings and AI enthusiasm, while investors awaited the Federal Reserve’s rate decision due later today. Global sentiment was also supported by growing optimism that the US and China are nearing a trade deal. Among the notable gainers were aged-care providers Ryman (+1.8%) and Oceania (+1.3%), alongside Air New Zealand (+1.7%). Mining-related stocks also saw sharp gains, with New Talisman Gold jumping 17.0% and Santana Minerals adding 5.3%. However, the broader market advance was capped by losses in Vista Group (-3.9%), Auckland Intl Airport (-0.7%), and Precinct Properties (-0.8%).