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Economics

Japan's industrial output rises slightly in March, stronger growth ahead

Japan's industrial output rose only marginally in March but should power ahead in the coming months on the back of the nation's solid economic recovery, economists said today.

UK Chancellor backs Bank of England ahead of interest rate decision

UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown said on Wednesday that he supported the Bank of England in the difficult choices it had to make in its upcoming interest rate decisions.

Costello says CPI data consistent with growing economy

Treasurer Peter Costello said today the Consumer Price Index data for the March quarter was consistent with a growing economy.

Inflation slows to lowest in more than four years

Inflation has slowed to the lowest level in more than four years despite increases in the price of fruit and vegetables, petrol and medication in recent months.

China and Australia to fast-track FTA study

AAP  |  WEDNESDAY, 28 APR 2004
Australia and China have agreed to fast-track studies preparing for a possible free trade deal following talks between Trade Minister Mark Vaile and his Chinese counterpart, Bo Xilai.

US jobs confidence adds to recovery optimism

Americans were more upbeat in April about finding a job than they have been in almost 18 months, causing markets to quickly shift focus to next week's influential report on the U.S. employment situation.

European interest rates to remain steady, ECB chief hints

The European Central Bank is positioning itself to keep interest rates steady at its monthly meeting next week despite growing uncertainty about eurozone growth prospects, its president hinted Tuesday along with several other ECB officials.

Murdoch optimistic about Australian economy

AAP  |  TUESDAY, 27 APR 2004
Rupert Murdoch said today he was optimistic about the Australian, US and world economies, but warned Saudi Arabia and China posed risks.

European's believe inflation is higher than reality, ECB's Trinchet says

Europeans' perception of inflation is greater than the reality, European Central Bank President Jean-Claude Trichet said Monday in New York.

Australia well-insulated against US rate hikes: Costello

AAP  |  MONDAY, 26 APR 2004
Australian Treasurer Peter Costello today said Australia was well-insulated against expected rate rises in the United States, but declined to say whether he saw another rate hike in his own country.