Tag

Rba

All articles tagged with #rba

RBA hikes rates to 15-year high as global bond rout forces Australia’s hand
economy21 days ago

RBA hikes rates to 15-year high as global bond rout forces Australia’s hand

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) raised the cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.6% on September 29, 2026, marking the fourth hike of the year and the highest level since November 2011. The decision was driven by persistent inflation, capacity constraints, and a global surge in bond yields. Unlike previous hikes, this move will directly increase monthly mortgage repayments for almost all borrowers, as most had not reduced payments during the 2025 rate cuts. While the RBA cited the Middle East conflict and AI-driven demand, critics argue government spending is a primary driver. The move adds approximately $114 to monthly repayments on a $750,000 loan, with further hikes priced in by markets.

economy26 days ago

Australia's August Unemployment Hits Post-Pandemic High of 4.6% Amid Rate Hike Expectations

Australia's unemployment rate rose to 4.6% in August, the highest since the pandemic, driven by a surge in labor force participation rather than a drop in employment. Despite this increase, economists and markets expect the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to raise interest rates next week to combat persistent inflation, with the cash rate potentially reaching 4.6%.

RBA rate relief may be brief as Aussies brace for higher costs
finance2 months ago

RBA rate relief may be brief as Aussies brace for higher costs

After stronger-than-expected inflation data, economists expect the RBA to hold rates this week, but a housing market downturn could create near-term turbulence—the so‑called "air pocket"—with a minority forecasting a rate increase; most predictions are for a hold, but about half of experts foresee at least one more hike this year, potentially lifting the cash rate to around 4.6%, while NAB warns of a roughly 10% housing downturn.

Australia’s Q1 inflation cools but remains elevated, keeping RBA hike bets alive
economy5 months ago

Australia’s Q1 inflation cools but remains elevated, keeping RBA hike bets alive

Australia's Q1 CPI rose 4.09% year-on-year and 1.4% quarter-on-quarter, cooler than the 4.2% forecast but the highest in over two years; March inflation climbed 4.6%, underscoring persistent price pressures and keeping the case for further RBA rate hikes on the table as officials say inflation will stay above the 2%–3% target for some time. GDP grew 2.6% year-on-year in Q4, with oil-price risks adding to policy challenges ahead of the next RBA meeting.

Australia's Inflation Drops, Boosting Prospects for Rate Cut
economy1 year ago

Australia's Inflation Drops, Boosting Prospects for Rate Cut

Australia's inflation rate in Q2 dropped to 2.1%, the lowest since March 2021, supporting the case for a rate cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia, which has already reduced rates twice this year. Despite the lower inflation, the RBA has kept rates steady at 3.85%, citing strong inflation indicators and labor market conditions, but analysts expect a rate cut in August due to global economic slowdown and rising unemployment.

RBA Hints at Possible February Rate Cut Amid Inflation Confidence
economy1 year ago

RBA Hints at Possible February Rate Cut Amid Inflation Confidence

Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Governor Michele Bullock stated uncertainty about a potential interest rate cut in February, emphasizing the need to be data-driven. While not ruling out a rate cut, Bullock highlighted the importance of upcoming economic data, including jobs and CPI reports, in guiding the RBA's decision. This uncertainty is expected to keep the Australian dollar volatile until the next RBA meeting on February 18.

RBA Maintains 4.35% Rate Amid Global Economic Uncertainty
economy1 year ago

RBA Maintains 4.35% Rate Amid Global Economic Uncertainty

The Reserve Bank of Australia has maintained its benchmark interest rate at 4.35% for the eighth consecutive meeting, citing high underlying inflation despite a decline in headline inflation to 2.8% in the third quarter. The RBA expects inflation to remain above its 2%-3% target until 2026, with uncertainties in labor market conditions and external geopolitical risks influencing future economic outlooks.

RBA Meeting Minutes: Debate Over Rate Hike Decision
finance2 years ago

RBA Meeting Minutes: Debate Over Rate Hike Decision

The Reserve Bank of Australia's February meeting minutes revealed that the board considered the possibility of a 25 basis points rate hike or maintaining the current rate, with the latter being the stronger option due to balanced risks to the outlook. While data provided more confidence in inflation returning to target, the board acknowledged the need for more time to be confident in this. Despite this, the board agreed it was appropriate not to rule out another rate increase, but also noted that hiking rates would not prevent them from cutting if the economy weakens. The minutes also highlighted weaker-than-expected data on the labor market and consumption, as well as the impact of high inflation, higher tax, and interest payments on consumption.