RBA Signals Possible Rate Cut: Economic Relief on the Horizon

2

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 December, the RBA maintained the status quo by keeping interest rates steady, aligning with expectations. However, what caught the attention of analysts was a marked shift in the language used by the central bank-a shift considered by many as paving the way for a possible rate cut in February.

Interest rates have been consistently pegged at 4.35 percent for over a year, a figure set primarily to temper a heated economy while striving to manage inflation. These higher rates have undeniably strained mortgage-holders, simultaneously turning economic management into a focal point for upcoming federal elections.

A key factor suggesting imminent rate cuts includes the RBA's newfound confidence that "inflation is moving sustainably towards target." According to Commonwealth Bank economist Gareth Aird, the omission of the phrase "the board is not ruling anything in or out" from the latest RBA statement signifies a potential end to rate hikes.

"In simple terms, the statement seems to reflect increased board confidence that the next change in interest rates will be a decrease," Aird stated in an economic review note. Such interpretation underscores the ongoing anticipation of a February rate cut-a stance bolstered by the recent communique from the RBA.

All focus is now directed towards the upcoming detailed consumer price index report for December, expected in late January. The scrutinized number is the underlying trimmed mean measure of inflation, which presently stands at 3.5 percent, surpassing the target range.

According to the RBA, reaching the designated two-three percent inflation threshold may not materialize until 2026. Until then, continued progress on curbing "too high" underlying inflation remains a primary concern, urging the bank to monitor further advancements in this area carefully.

As reported by AAP, these developments highlight the mid-term prospects of substantive interest rate relief, marking a possible shift in the trajectory of Australia's economic strategy.

Published:Wednesday, 11th Dec 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

AADA Reports Stabilisation in Australian Used Car Market for 2025

13 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA), in collaboration with AutoGrab, has released the Annual 2025 Automotive Insights Report, providing a comprehensive overview of the nation's used car market over the past year. The report indicates a stabilisation in the market, with total used car sales reaching 2.32 million vehicles in 2025, a slight decrease of 0.37% compared to 2024. - read more

CEFC and Hyundai Capital Australia Collaborate to Lower EV Loan Rates

13 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) has announced a significant partnership with Hyundai Capital Australia (HCAU), committing up to $60 million to reduce the upfront costs associated with electric vehicle (EV) ownership. This initiative is designed to make EVs more accessible to Australian households and small businesses by offering discounted finance rates on eligible Hyundai and Kia electric models. - read more

ASIC Investigates Car Finance Practices to Strengthen Consumer Safeguards

20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has commenced a thorough review of the motor vehicle finance sector, focusing on enhancing consumer protections and ensuring compliance with responsible lending obligations. This initiative is particularly attentive to the experiences of borrowers in regional and remote areas, including First Nations communities. - read more

New Low-Interest Loans Make Electric Vehicles More Accessible to Australians

20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian government has unveiled a new initiative to make electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible to a broader segment of the population. This program offers low-interest loans to Australians earning less than $100,000 annually, as well as to essential workers such as police officers, teachers, firefighters, and nurses, regardless of their income level. The loans are available for both new and used EVs priced up to $55,000. - read more

Macquarie Bank Ends New Car Loan Services to Enhance Home Loan Offerings

20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Macquarie Bank has announced a strategic decision to cease offering new car loans through its direct, broker, and novated leasing channels. This move is part of the bank's broader strategy to concentrate on expanding its home loan and deposit services. - read more

Click for more Finance News