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Economics

Chief economist update: Glass half-full or US recession on the way?

BENJAMIN ONG  |  WEDNESDAY, 29 MAY 2019
While the Fed sees the US economy as half-full, bond markets are looking at the half-empty inflation gauges and demanding less compensation for the prospect of inflation eroding the value of their Treasury holdings.

Chief economist update: The power of one

BENJAMIN ONG  |  TUESDAY, 28 MAY 2019
It took only one RBA rate reduction in August 2016 to reverse the downward pressure on the domestic economy. We could see a repeat in 2019 through to next year.

Chief economist update: Currency manipulators beware

BENJAMIN ONG  |  MONDAY, 27 MAY 2019
As if the world hasn't had enough of the overhanging pall engendered by lingering trade tensions, US President Trump is about to raise the stakes and expand the scope to currency manipulators.

Chief economist update: It'll hurt me more than it hurts you

BENJAMIN ONG  |  FRIDAY, 24 MAY 2019
While the TWI (Tariff War One) had Trump holding all the aces, this now is reversing in Beijing's favour.

Chief economist update: Like Britney Spears, Financial Standard's done it again

BENJAMIN ONG  |  THURSDAY, 23 MAY 2019
The A$ depreciation, the elimination of political and policy uncertainty (at least over the next three years) and the (expected) resurrection in the property market should be enough to restore confidence and growth in the Australian economy.

Property risks dip at Coalition win, APRA easing

KANIKA SOOD  |  WEDNESDAY, 22 MAY 2019
UBS has materially reduced downside risk for housing as last Saturday's elections lay to rest Labor's negative gearing plans and separately, APRA is easing its stance on mortgage lending.

Chief economist update: RBA to take rates to fresh record low

BENJAMIN ONG  |  WEDNESDAY, 22 MAY 2019
Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) governor Philip Lowe provided the clearest indication yet that the Australian central bank is poised to cut interest rates, potentially at its June 4 meeting.

Chief economist update: Devilish details

BENJAMIN ONG  |  TUESDAY, 21 MAY 2019
The topline GDP growth figures for Japan give it bragging rights. But, as always, the devil is in the details and the details are devilish.

Chief economist update: Fairy tales can come true

BENJAMIN ONG  |  MONDAY, 20 MAY 2019
The elimination of domestic political uncertainty surrounding the elections (with a government majority at that), the recent depreciation in the Australian dollar and, working in the background, the rise and rise in iron ore prices makes this time's ...

Chief economist update: June RBA rate cut not a sure bet

BENJAMIN ONG  |  FRIDAY, 17 MAY 2019
The odds that the Reserve Bank of Australia will cut interest rates to a new record low have intensified following the latest ABS employment stats.