Steady Rates Persist as RBA Eyes Inflation Moderation
Steady Rates Persist as RBA Eyes Inflation Moderation
0
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
In a recent monetary policy review, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has upheld the current cash rate at 4.35%, indicating a possible plateau in monetary tightening.
This update aligns with widespread market analyses and fuels conversations about potential rate reductions in the coming year.
RBA Governor Michele Bullock remarked that although there has been a calming in inflation figures, future interest rates decisions remain open-ended, guided by the economic data flow. Bullock highlighted a softening in goods inflation, yet also noted persistently high services inflation hinting at ongoing economic demand surges and domestic cost pressures.
While the efficacy of higher interest rates in regulating demand-supply balance stands evident, labor market conditions are adjusting more slowly, thereby pressing on persistent full employment and inflation alignment with the RBA's targeted range.
Deceleration in wage growth is observable with speculations of it normalizing in forthcoming months, a trend that’s considered supportive of the inflation goals, assuming productivity surges to historical norms. Nevertheless, existing inflation levels continue to stress household income and curb consumption and housing investments.
In their examination of inflationary trends vis-à-vis the medium-term outlook, RBA officials point to prevailing cautious optimism. National data exhibits a deceleration in economic expansion, with consumption growth pinched by inflationary dynamics and escalated interest rates.
There's a silver lining: projections suggest a rejuvenation in real incomes, potentially reviving consumption trends late in the year. Still, concerning labor costs' growth poses ambiguity about the sustainability of observed productivity increments.
The central bank projects a normalization in inflation to the desired 2-3% range by 2025, gradually centering mid-range by the following year.
Estimates further indicate controlled employment growth, moderate ascent in unemployment figures, and a slow descent in service price inflation as labor cost growth slackens.
Dwyfor Evans of State Street Global Markets shares an expert lens on the recent RBA’s stance, noting a slightly dovish tone yet not explicitly signaling an apex in rates. The taming of inflation and a relaxed labor market could play pivotal roles in RBA's near-term directional decisions.
Published:Wednesday, 20th Mar 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
In July 2025, Japanese banking giants Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) emerged as significant growth drivers in Australia's business lending sector. SMBC recorded a 4.66% increase in their business loan book, adding A$1.19 billion, while MUFG achieved a 3.63% expansion, contributing an additional A$0.62 billion. - read more
The Australian Finance Industry Association (AFIA) has recently introduced its Finance Industry Code of Practice, marking a significant advancement in the non-bank lending and specialist banking sectors. This pioneering initiative aims to establish a new standard for integrity, transparency, and fairness within the industry. - read more
Australia is currently experiencing a housing 'super cycle,' characterised by a substantial increase in demand for new homes. This surge is driven by a chronic undersupply of housing, demographic shifts, and evolving lifestyle preferences. For mortgage brokers, this trend presents a unique opportunity to expand their client base and services. Find out now if you qualify and compare rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check! - read more
Australian non-bank lender Moneytech has announced a strategic integration with Xero, the global small business accounting platform. This partnership aims to provide small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with a more efficient and streamlined process for accessing working capital. - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is currently assessing whether further reductions in interest rates are necessary, following recent economic data indicating increased consumer spending and persistent inflation in certain sectors. This evaluation comes after the RBA's decision to hold the cash rate steady at 3.60% in September, subsequent to three cuts earlier in the year. - read more
The Federal Court of Australia has issued permanent injunctions against Cigno Australia Pty Ltd and BSF Solutions Pty Ltd, preventing them from engaging in unlicensed credit activities and charging prohibited fees. This ruling follows findings that, between July 2022 and October 2023, the companies provided loans totaling $34 million to over 100,000 consumers, while charging fees exceeding $70 million, all without holding an Australian Credit Licence. - read more
Australia is experiencing a surge in investments in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) as the nation aggressively pursues its goal of achieving 82% renewable energy by 2030. This transition, driven by rapid expansion of solar and wind infrastructure and the closure of coal plants, has created a growing demand for flexible energy storage solutions. - read more
Recent data reveals a significant resurgence in property investor activity within Australia's mortgage market. In the three months leading up to June 2025, investor loans accounted for 38% of new mortgages, marking the highest proportion since 2017. This uptick translates to nearly 50,000 loans valued at approximately $33 billion. - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has released its October 2025 Financial Stability Review, providing a comprehensive assessment of the nation's financial health. The report concludes that Australia's financial system remains well-positioned to navigate the current global economic uncertainties. - read more
In a strategic move to streamline operations, ANZ Bank has announced plans to reduce its workforce by 3,500 employees by September 2026. This decision is part of the bank's broader initiative to enhance operational efficiency and reduce redundancy within its organisational structure. - read more
Understanding the nuances of financial health is a crucial component in the journey of loan acquisition. It is the bedrock on which potential borrowers build their case for credibility and reliability. Among the myriad of factors influencing your fiscal stability, credit scores stand out as a beacon indicating your creditworthiness to lenders. A robust credit score simplifies the path to securing loans, garnering favorable interest rates, and negotiating better terms. - read more
Financial health refers to the state of one's personal financial situation. It encompasses a variety of factors, such as income stability, expenses control, savings, investments, and debt management. - read more
Embarking on the journey to secure a loan can feel like navigating a minefield with your credit score as the prize. It's no secret that your credit score is your financial fingerprint, impacting not just your loan prospects but also the terms you're offered. However, the act of loan hunting itself, if not done carefully, can take a toll on this crucial number. - read more
Your credit score is more than just a number; it's a reflection of your financial health. Essentially, it’s a numerical expression that represents your creditworthiness. Lenders use this score to assess the level of risk involved in lending you money. - read more
Managing debt effectively is crucial for young adults, especially as they start building their financial independence. Understanding how to manage debt properly can help you avoid financial pitfalls and set you up for a stable future. - read more
A financial crisis can come in many forms, such as a job loss, unexpected medical bills, or an economic downturn. These events can drastically alter your financial stability and may lead to financial distress. - read more
Financial stress is a common issue that affects a large portion of individuals, often due to unexpected expenses, unemployment, or a high cost of living. It can lead to both mental and emotional strain, influencing one's quality of life and decision-making abilities. Credit scores, a critical measurement of financial health, are used by lenders to evaluate the risk of lending money. - read more
Understanding the mechanics behind credit scores is pivotal for anyone navigating the intricate world of finance. A strong credit score does not only unlock the gates to a plethora of borrowing options but also secures favorable interest rates, which can save you a substantial amount of money over time. It acts as a financial passport, one that enables you to achieve milestones such as purchasing a home or car with ease. - read more
When embarking on the journey to secure financing, particularly for significant purchases such as a car, your credit score takes center stage in the eyes of lenders. A credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, derived from your financial history and behaviors. It wields substantial influence on your ability to acquire loans with favorable terms. - read more
Understanding financial health is paramount when venturing into the realm of loan acquisition. It's the backbone that supports not just your immediate monetary requirements but ensures longevity in your fiscal stability. At the heart of this understanding lies a critical aspect: the credit score. It's a numerical representation of your financial trustworthiness, influenced by past fiscal decisions and behaviors. - read more
Need Help Finding a Loan?
Find out now if you qualify and compare
rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check!
All finance quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your
privacy.
Knowledgebase
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM): A type of mortgage in which the interest rate applied on the outstanding balance varies throughout the life of the loan.