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.
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
| Consumer Confidence Takes a Hit Amid Economic Uncertainty 15 Jan 2025: Paige Estritori In a recent shift, consumer sentiment has experienced a noticeable decline as January brings a wave of pessimism about the economy. This change in mood among consumers could signal challenges ahead for various sectors, particularly in retail and discretionary spending. - read more |
| ASIC Unveils Updated Guidance to Strengthen Financial Advice Standards 14 Jan 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has rolled out a fresh set of guidelines aimed at enhancing the quality of financial advice in the wake of significant legislative reforms. This move aligns with the recently enacted Treasury Laws Amendments (Delivering Better Financial Outcomes and Other Measures) Act 2024, which is designed to foster better financial outcomes for consumers. - read more |
| Adviser Qualifications Surge as 2026 Deadline Approaches 14 Jan 2025: Paige Estritori With the looming 2026 deadline for financial advisers to upgrade their qualifications, nearly 3,000 existing advisers in Australia are ramping up efforts to meet educational requirements. The industry is seeing a significant influx of postgraduate students aiming to secure their credentials by January 1st, 2026. - read more |
| Australian Dollar Decline: Economic Impacts and Opportunities 13 Jan 2025: Paige Estritori The Australian dollar has faced significant depreciation recently, sinking to its lowest level in nearly five years. This decline raises important questions about its implications not only for the economy but also for consumers and businesses alike. - read more |
| Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Draws Controversy with New Branch Withdrawal Fees 08 Jan 2025: Paige Estritori Bendigo and Adelaide Bank has recently come under fire after implementing a new fee structure that charges customers $2.50 for cash withdrawals at branches, marking a significant shift as the bank attempts to navigate the current economic climate. This decision follows in the footsteps of the Commonwealth Bank, which faced backlash for a similar fee hike late last year. - read more |
| The Complete Checklist for Choosing a Car Loan Provider in Australia Finding the right car loan in Australia can be just as critical as selecting the car itself. Car finance, though a common undertaking, involves nuanced decisions that can have a significant impact on your financial future. - read more
|
| From Fuel to Finance: A Comprehensive Breakdown of Car Costs When it comes to owning a car in Australia, many of us view it as a symbol of freedom, an essential convenience, or even a reflection of our personal style. Yet, for all the road trips planned and errands run, the cost of owning a car extends well beyond the sticker price. - read more
|
| Top Tips for Australians Navigating the Online Car Market The Australian automotive landscape has witnessed a significant transformation with the rise of online car sales. The concept of browsing, selecting, and purchasing a vehicle through digital platforms has gained immense popularity, offering consumers a vast array of choices at their fingertips. - read more
|
| 5 Strategies for Balancing Your Budget with a New Car Loan With the excitement of purchasing a new vehicle, the financial responsibilities that come with a new car loan can often be overlooked. Balancing your budget when you have taken on a new car loan is crucial to financial well-being and long-term happiness with your purchase. In this article, we will explore five practical strategies that can help you navigate the common financial challenges that accompany car loans. - read more
|
| Avoid the Pitfalls: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Seeking Car Finance Entering the world of car finance can be both an exciting and daunting venture. With a plethora of options for car loans in Australia, it is essential for potential buyers to arm themselves with knowledge to make the best financial decision. A well-informed choice can be the difference between a loan that propels your personal mobility, and one that hinders your financial stability. - read more
|
|
Car Loans: Secured vs Unsecured Car loans play a pivotal role in empowering individuals to afford their own vehicle, which can be a significant purchase. These loans, structured to fit within one's financial situation, can ease the burden of acquiring a car and assist in achieving personal convenience and mobility. - read more
|
|
Understanding Car Loan Refinancing in Australia: When Is It the Right Move? Car loan refinancing involves replacing an existing car loan with a new one, usually to lower the interest rate, reduce monthly payments, or modify the loan term. In Australia's fluctuating economic landscape, refinancing can be a strategic financial decision for borrowers looking to adjust their finances to more favorable terms. - read more
|
|
|
Top Tips for Australians Navigating the Online Car Market The Australian automotive landscape has witnessed a significant transformation with the rise of online car sales. The concept of browsing, selecting, and purchasing a vehicle through digital platforms has gained immense popularity, offering consumers a vast array of choices at their fingertips. - read more
|
|
|
Avoid the Pitfalls: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Seeking Car Finance Entering the world of car finance can be both an exciting and daunting venture. With a plethora of options for car loans in Australia, it is essential for potential buyers to arm themselves with knowledge to make the best financial decision. A well-informed choice can be the difference between a loan that propels your personal mobility, and one that hinders your financial stability. - read more
|
|
Your Car Loan Journey: From Application to Approval In this article, we are embarking on a guided journey that we believe will help immensely in navigating the intricacies of the car loan process. - read more
|