Oliver’s insights – Inflation, rate hikes and public spending – Q&A
11 February
Key points Keeping inflation low and around target is important in terms of maximising living standards in Australia. We are optimistic that much of the recent rise in inflation will prove temporary. But some may reflect the economy hitting...[Read More]
Private demand under the microscope after rate hike
11 February
Australia’s economy is like a car exceeding the speed limit. Or is it an inflating balloon, squeezing up against the inside of a box? Either way, it’s too hot for the Reserve Bank to handle. Fresh data in the coming week will give the central...[Read More]
Reserve Bank boss calls on businesses to invest smarter
11 February
The Reserve Bank governor has called on businesses to help lift Australia’s sluggish productivity growth as she tries to bring inflation under control. Facing a string of questions about the government’s role in driving up inflation at a...[Read More]
Investment markets and key developments – Weekly market update 06-02-2026
11 February
Global share markets had a volatile ride over the last week with some sharp falls amidst increasing worries about tech valuations and overinvestment in AI, some weak US jobs data & ongoing fears of a US strike on Iran, but then a rebound in US and...[Read More]
Greens hold door open to capital gains tax reforms
11 February
Winding back the capital gains tax discount must be part of a broader tax reform package tackling intergenerational inequity and sluggish productivity, the federal treasurer has been told. The government refused to shut down reports it was...[Read More]
Signs point to RBA fine tuning, rather than hike spree
11 February
Fresh figures have allayed fears of a tightening in Australia’s labour market, which should rule out the Reserve Bank returning to a major rate-hiking cycle. Australia’s economy added an estimated 21,000 jobs in January, while wages grew by 0.8...[Read More]
Signs of softening spending could stay RBA’s rates hand
11 February
A sharp rise in consumption that caught the Reserve Bank off guard and prompted it to hike interest rates might have been more temporary than permanent, fresh data shows. Household spending fell 0.4 per cent in December – the biggest drop since...[Read More]
The way to happiness and success
5 February
Happiness and success are deeply intertwined but aren’t always the result of material gains or high-status positions. Instead, a fulfilling life and career stem from aligning your values, passions, and actions in ways that promote well-being and...[Read More]
Aged Care: Where to begin and why professional advice matters
5 February
Thinking about aged care is something many families put off until they’re forced into making decisions quickly. A fall, a hospital stay, or a sudden change in health can turn “we’ll deal with it later” into an urgent and emotional process....[Read More]
Why revisiting your home loan could be one of the smartest financial moves you make
5 February
For many Australians, a home loan is the largest financial commitment they will ever take on. Yet once the paperwork is signed and the keys are handed over, that loan often gets filed away and forgotten. Life, however, doesn’t stand still. Your...[Read More]
Why so many people don’t worry bout life insurance… until it’s too late
5 February
Why Getting Advice Matters More Than You Think Life insurance is one of those topics most people know they should think about, but often push to the bottom of the to-do list. It’s not exciting, it doesn’t deliver instant gratification, and it...[Read More]
Preparing to go caravanning in Australia
5 February
Preparing for a caravanning trip in Australia is an exciting venture, especially for those embracing the freedom of remote work. Australia’s diverse landscapes, from its sun-kissed beaches to the rugged outback, provide a spectacular backdrop for...[Read More]
Financial independence: guiding adult children to contribute at home
5 February
Many parents face the question of when their adult children living at home should start paying board and contributing to household expenses and chores as they transition into adulthood. The question of when and how much to charge, as well as the...[Read More]
Self-Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF) checklist – key considerations and requirements
4 February
A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) offers individuals more control over their retirement savings, but it comes with significant responsibilities. This checklist outlines key considerations and requirements to help ensure compliance and effective...[Read More]
Oliver’s Insights – RBA starts the year off with a rate hike
4 February
Key points The RBA hiked its cash rate by 0.25% to 3.85% as widely expected in response to inflation running above target. Its commentary was cautious and hawkish with inflation now expected to stay above target for longer even with assumptions...[Read More]