Equities and bonds advanced as a larger-than-expected drop in the US trade deficit bolstered optimism about the accelerating pace of growth in the world’s largest economy, while a Federal Reserve official recommended maintaining a high level of stimulus. The US trade deficit narrowed more than expected in November, shrinking 12.9 percent to US$34.3 billion, Commerce Department data showed. “The report …

Dairy product prices fell in the first GlobalDairyTrade auction for 2014, led by skim milk powder while rennet casein made a new record high. academic essay service The GDT Price Index dropped 0.8 percent compared to the last sale two weeks ago. The average winning price was US$4,943 a tonne, still an elevated level, from US$4,990 a tonne. Skim milk …

New Zealand shares fell, paced by Fletcher Building, while Diligent Board member Services and Wynyard Group led gains among companies favoured for their growth outlook. The NZX 50 Index fell 5.693 points, or 0.1 percent, to 4759.625. Within the index, 21 stocks fell, 22 rose and seven were unchanged. Turnover was $76 million, the most since before the Christmas-New Year …