The European Central Bank has reached into its monetary weapons kit, in a bid to stimulate growth in the eurozone.

The number of houses sold around the country has fallen to its lowest level in seven months, although prices continued to grow everywhere but Auckland.

The manufacturing sector is stuck in the doldrums, contracting for a second consecutive month and languishing at levels last seen in 2012.

A breakdown of two collapsed building companies' books -- Stanley Group and Tallwood --have revealed a shortfall of around $16-million .

A brief update on the movements in the financial sector

The building industry tries to chart a future path away from past problems. KiwiBank prepares for the chance of negative interest rates. Falling fuel sales a sign of softer economy. Financial markets modestly firmer.

An early look at the day's business news and a catch up on overnight global market action.

For the latest from the markets we're joined by Brad Gordon of Hobson Wealth Partners.

Life insurers need to do more to be trusted by consumers, if they want more people to buy their policies.

Kiwibank will start targeting businesses in Auckland, in a bid to double its size and grow its commercial lending portfolio.