Midday Report for Monday 5 August 2019

12:35 PM.The cost of transporting New Zealand's produce to the rest of the world is forecast to increase due to stricter environmental regulations on the shipping industry. Audio

12:26 PM.The Australia batsman Steve Smith says he's made a 'dream comeback' to test cricket after his second consecutive century put the tourists in charge of the first Ashes test in Birmingham. Audio

12:23 PM.For the latest from the markets we're joined by Michael Grace of Jarden Securities. Audio

12:22 PM.Central banks around the world need to lose their obsession about lifting inflation rates. Audio

12:20 PM.Many investors still prefer bank deposits over all other types of investments, despite record returns on investments in the sharemarket and mutual funds. Audio

12:18 PM.The country's number three telecommunications company --2Degrees -- is promising to remain a disruptor and innovator in the sector as it enters its second decade. Audio

12:17 PM.The Briscoes Group expects a flat half year profit as it sees growth in sales offset by a squeeze on margins and costs. Audio

12:00 PM.The Justice Minister reveals a plan to modernise abortion law. The government details how it will protect native species from extinction. Audio