1A summary of this week's financial news, including interim dividends announcements to beat the Budget.

2Dunlop New Zealand shareholders have been told that the company's British parent Dunlop Rubber is selling its 51.7% holding to the Australian independent Dunlop Olympic. Now Dunlop Olympic wants the remainder of the shares, and shareholders faced with a decision of whether or not to sell. A look at what a listing on the New Zealand Stock Exchange could mean for Dunlop New Zealand's future potential.

3Interest rates rose sharply during the past week, but observers regard this as a short term aberration caused by a combination of aggressive Government funding, tax drain, half yearly balance statements and some major corporate game-playing.

4Trade and Industry Minister David Caygill announced this week that the phase out of import licensing would occur faster than previously anticipated. These latest measures will see protection for New Zealand industries moved away from import licensing to tariffs, opening New Zealand up to international competition. Analysis.