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
| ANZ Faces Shareholder Discontent Over Remuneration Amid Scandal 19 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori ANZ is grappling with a significant backlash from its shareholders following a bonus dispute linked to a recent bond trading controversy, marking an unprecedented strike against the bank's executive pay proposals. - read more |
| Mortgage Rates Climb: Australians Face a Holiday Financial Surprise 18 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori As the festive season approaches, Australian homeowners are facing unexpected challenges with increased mortgage repayments. Recent analyses highlight a notable shift in interest rates, impacting both fixed and variable loan agreements. - read more |
| Private Credit's Momentum Persists Amid Changing Rate Landscape 17 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori As interest rates begin their downward trend, one might assume that private credit investments would lose some of their appeal. However, the chief executive of Pengana Capital Group's dedicated private credit division remains optimistic about the sector's future due to ongoing investor enthusiasm. - read more |
| Chalmers Unveils New Corporate-Backed RBA Advisory Boards 16 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori Treasurer Jim Chalmers has made pivotal changes to the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) by appointing a new advisory board rich in corporate experience. This move comes as part of an extensive reform agenda aimed at enhancing the central bank’s decision-making processes. - read more |
| New Zealand's Economic Woes: Facing Prolonged Uncertainty 16 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori New Zealand is grappling with a greater per capita GDP contraction than any other English-speaking country in the past year, highlighting a challenging economic landscape that surpasses the downturns post-Global Financial Crisis. - read more |
| ASX Listings Decline: A Sign of Shifting Investor Preferences 13 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori As 2024 draws to a close, the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) is facing a notable decline in the number of listed companies, a trend reflecting an increasing investor shift towards private markets. The ASX Group's Monthly Activity Report for November confirms a decrease in listings—from 2,191 companies at the year's start to 2,121 by the end of November, marking a net loss of 70 listings. - read more |
| How to Avoid Capsizing Your Budget When Comparing Boat Loans The excitement of buying a boat and the role of right financing: The dream of sailing on the open seas or cruising through tranquil waterways can be incredibly enticing. The prospect of owning a boat opens up a world of adventure, relaxation, and luxury. However, much like navigating through uncharted waters, purchasing a vessel requires sound financial planning. Choosing the right boat loan is crucial in making this dream a reality without causing a financial shipwreck. - read more
|
| How to Navigate Refinancing Your Boat Loan with Ease in Australia Refinancing a boat loan can be a strategic financial move, enabling boat owners to reap the benefits of lower interest rates, reduced monthly payments, or shorter loan terms. The concept of refinancing involves replacing your existing loan with a new one, often with more favorable conditions that better suit your current financial situation. - read more
|
| Why You Should Consider a Specialist Broker for Your Next Australian Boat Purchase The allure of the open waters, the thrill of steering your very own vessel, and the prestige of boat ownership are undeniably intoxicating dreams for many. Whether zipping through waves on a swift personal watercraft or unwinding aboard a serene sailboat, purchasing a marine vessel in Australia holds a certain romantic appeal that's hard to resist. - read more
|
| How to Navigate Your Boat Loan Options with a Varied Credit History Australia's crystal-clear waters and expansive coastlines make it a haven for maritime enthusiasts. Boating is not just a leisure activity but a way of life for many Australians, with vessels ranging from modest dinghies to luxurious yachts gracing the shorelines. The boating lifestyle in Australia speaks to a culture of adventure, relaxation, and a love for the great outdoors. - read more
|
| Why Pre-Approval Could be Your First Step to Owning Your Dream Boat Imagine the spray of the sea caressing your face, the horizon stretching infinitely ahead, and the sense of freedom that sailing on your own boat provides. Owning a dream boat is a privilege that encapsulates excitement, adventure, and prestige – a tangible reward for hard work and dedication. - read more
|
| Building a Solid Financial Foundation for Your Next Boat Purchase When it comes to purchasing a boat, meticulous financial planning is essential. A boat is a significant financial commitment, often rivalling that of a home mortgage. Just as you wouldn't jump into buying a house without careful preparation, the same caution should be applied to a boat purchase. - read more
|
|
|
Why Pre-Approval Could be Your First Step to Owning Your Dream Boat Imagine the spray of the sea caressing your face, the horizon stretching infinitely ahead, and the sense of freedom that sailing on your own boat provides. Owning a dream boat is a privilege that encapsulates excitement, adventure, and prestige – a tangible reward for hard work and dedication. - read more
|
|
|
Why You Should Consider a Specialist Broker for Your Next Australian Boat Purchase The allure of the open waters, the thrill of steering your very own vessel, and the prestige of boat ownership are undeniably intoxicating dreams for many. Whether zipping through waves on a swift personal watercraft or unwinding aboard a serene sailboat, purchasing a marine vessel in Australia holds a certain romantic appeal that's hard to resist. - read more
|
|
How to Get the Most Value for Your Money When Buying a Fishing Boat Investing in a fishing boat can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it's important to make sure you're getting the most value for your money. There are several key factors to consider when buying a fishing boat, including your specific needs, budget, and financing options. It's also important to research boat brands and negotiate the sale to ensure you're getting a fair price. - read more
|
|
How to Improve Creditworthiness and Increase Chances of Boat Financing Approval Are you dreaming of purchasing your dream boat but worried about getting approved for financing? Ensuring you have a good creditworthiness is essential when it comes to obtaining boat financing. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of creditworthiness in boat financing and provide valuable tips on how you can improve your creditworthiness to increase your chances of getting approved for boat financing. - read more
|
|
Tips for Getting Approved for a Boat Loan with Bad Credit Having bad credit may make it seem challenging to secure a boat loan, as it can negatively impact your creditworthiness in the eyes of lenders. However, it's not impossible to get approved for a boat loan even with bad credit. - read more
|
|
|
How to Avoid Capsizing Your Budget When Comparing Boat Loans The excitement of buying a boat and the role of right financing: The dream of sailing on the open seas or cruising through tranquil waterways can be incredibly enticing. The prospect of owning a boat opens up a world of adventure, relaxation, and luxury. However, much like navigating through uncharted waters, purchasing a vessel requires sound financial planning. Choosing the right boat loan is crucial in making this dream a reality without causing a financial shipwreck. - read more
|