NSQ for 1 April 2026

This episode of No Stupid Questions marks the show's 25th anniversary and airs on April 1st, coinciding with major KiwiSaver reforms. The host, Susan Edmonds, explores a range of listener questions about KiwiSaver, including the political unlikelihood of removing first-home withdrawal rights, the futility of timing market moves during geopolitical tensions, and the best strategies for switching funds during market downturns. She emphasizes that staying in a risk-appropriate fund and avoiding emotional decisions—like moving to cash during conflict—is key to long-term success. The episode also tackles the inequity of employers stopping KiwiSaver contributions for workers over 65, despite ongoing employment, and questions whether KiwiSaver access age should be decoupled from New Zealand Superannuation age. A conversation with Reserve Bank Chief Economist Paul Conway underscores New Zealand’s persistent cost-of-living crisis, with wages failing to keep pace with inflation despite strong productivity challenges. The episode closes with a nostalgic look at New Zealand’s failed 1979-1980 carless days and a call for listener engagement on the history of superannuation in the country.