We are a proud member of the Financial Services Online network!
Connect with us on your favourite social media platform for the latest financial news, views, tips, tricks, resources and information.
Recent challenges have left Australians with a cautious outlook on interest rates. A prolonged period of economic turbulence steered by global events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine War have impacted the nation profoundly. The decline in living standards and economic stability has been exacerbated by a central bank hesitant to alter course.
However, the tides appear to be turning. The once rampant drivers of inflation, including pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions, have diffused significantly, resulting in a reduction in headline inflation to acceptable levels within the RBA's target range.
A key factor contributing to this stabilising inflation includes the global easing of the goods inflation cycle post-COVID and the resolution of the energy shocks emanating from overseas conflicts, neutralizing the impact on consumer prices at home.
Immigration trends have also played a crucial role in shaping the current economic landscape. The initial surge in population growth post-COVID, which placed upward pressure on rental markets and subdued wage growth, has reversed. As affordability issues have prompted shared living arrangements, the demand pressure has eased considerably.
According to David Llewellyn-Smith, a noted financial analyst whose insights appeared in MacroBusiness, the current economic model of Australia—which relies heavily on immigration to expand the labour market—has inherently stifled sustained wage growth and therefore, inflation. This distinct approach warrants a distinct monetary strategy as compared to other developed economies.
Critics argue that the RBA's previous approach lacked recognition of Australia's unique economic dynamics. As most developed economies bolster growth through business investment, Australia's growth predominantly relies on expanding the workforce rather than tangible productivity enhancements. This has kept wage inflation low, questioning the steadfastness of RBA’s interest rate strategy up to this point.
In response to these economic nuances, the Albanese government instigated reforms within the RBA, aiming for a fresh perspective under a new governor. These changes signify a paradigm shift in how monetary policy might be handled, potentially ushering in a period of rate relief.
The market anticipates that an initial rate cut could be announced soon, although it might not herald the start of a prolonged cutting cycle. Observers note that, given the downward trajectory of inflation without further external shocks, additional cuts could be necessary to sustain economic momentum.
As the RBA deliberates its decisions, the Australian public and financial markets remain poised for impending announcements, which could recalibrate the economic outlook and provide much-needed respite to mortgage holders and businesses alike.
Published:Monday, 17th Feb 2025
Source: Paige Estritori
| Telstra Boosts Dividend and Announces $750 Million Share Buy-back 20 Feb 2025: Paige Estritori Telstra, Australia's leading telecommunications giant, has unveiled a significant financial move with an increase in its dividend and plans for a substantial share buy-back initiative. Following a notable 7.1% rise in first-half profit, the company aims to allocate up to $750 million for repurchasing shares. - read more |
| Victoria's Land Tax Shift: A Boon for First-Time Home Buyers Amidst Investor Retreat 20 Feb 2025: Paige Estritori In recent findings by Ray White, reports indicate a notable retraction of property investors from Victoria due to increased land tax rates introduced by the state government. The data highlights that investors owned over one-third of Melbourne homes auctioned by Ray White in the past year and 32.2% of regional Victorian homes. - read more |
| Softer Employment Figures Could Ease Inflation Concerns 20 Feb 2025: Paige Estritori In light of recent economic indicators, Australia's central bank may find comfort in softer job growth numbers. Despite earlier concerns over potential interest rate hikes, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) could see current trends as easing pressure on inflation. - read more |
| The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining a Healthy Credit Score Welcome to our ultimate guide on maintaining a healthy credit score. Whether you're just starting your credit journey or you're an experienced borrower, understanding how to keep your score high is crucial. - read more
|
| Avoid Common Budgeting Mistakes for First-Time Borrowers As a first-time borrower, understanding the importance of budgeting is crucial. Effective budgeting can make all the difference in achieving financial stability and meeting your financial goals. It helps you manage your income, control your spending, and save for future needs. - read more
|
| Proven Strategies to Boost Your Personal Loan Approval Odds Embarking on the journey to secure a personal loan can often seem like navigating through a complex financial landscape. Particularly for Australians, where the market is bustling with a multitude of lenders each with their respective criteria and rates, increasing the chances of loan approval is a pursuit that requires insight and preparation. - read more
|
|
|
Proven Strategies to Boost Your Personal Loan Approval Odds Embarking on the journey to secure a personal loan can often seem like navigating through a complex financial landscape. Particularly for Australians, where the market is bustling with a multitude of lenders each with their respective criteria and rates, increasing the chances of loan approval is a pursuit that requires insight and preparation. - read more
|
|
Key Strategies for Smooth Loan Approval Pre-approval loans are a preliminary step in the loan approval process. They provide borrowers with a conditional commitment from a lender, indicating the maximum amount they are willing to lend, based on the borrower’s financial situation. - read more
|
|
Comparing Loan Options: Strategic Thinking for the Financially Conscious Australian As Australians navigate the complex world of finance, understanding the nuances of borrowing can make a significant difference in one’s economic well-being. Being credit-savvy is not just about securing a loan; it's about making informed decisions that align with your long-term financial goals. In this pursuit, comparing loan options emerges as a crucial step for the financially conscious Australian. - read more
|