The S&P/NZX 50 index closed virtually unchanged at 13,696.03, gaining just 1.35 points or 0.01% in a session defined by investor caution.
The flat performance marks a continuation of subdued trading conditions, with market participants weighing the impact of escalating geopolitical risks against domestic economic signals.
Heightened tensions in the Middle East and rising oil prices have created a backdrop of uncertainty, dampening enthusiasm for risk assets.
While major indices across the Asia-Pacific region posted gains, the New Zealand market diverged, reflecting local investor discomfort with the external risk environment.
Trading volume remained thin, suggesting a wait-and-see approach among institutional and retail investors alike.
This session follows a period of volatility for the NZX 50, which had closed lower for the third consecutive session prior to today’s flat close.