Australia shares pare losses, NZ stocks end winning streak

[SYDNEY] Australian shares pared early losses on Wednesday after surprisingly subdued inflation reinforced speculation of more monetary easing, sending investors on a yield hunt.

The S&P/ASX 200 index edged 0.2 percent lower to 5,335.2 at the close of trade, not far from a 2-1/2-month peak touched on Monday.

New Zealand's benchmark NZX 50 index ended a 12-session rally that had propelled it to all-time highs above 6,000, and closed a listless session 2.03 points down at 5,998.99.

REUTERS