PriceSensitive

Australia economic outlook CY26: What the year will mean for your money

ASX News, Contributors & Collaborations
19 January 2026 14:37 (AEDT)

This browser does not support the video element.

This week on Money and Investing, Mitch Olarenshaw and I take a hard look at Australia’s economic outlook for CY26 and what it may mean for investors, households, and businesses.

1. Inflation and Money Supply

Inflation is not only about CPI. With Australia’s money supply growing close to 9 percent, the real cost of cash is rising fast. We break down why prices feel higher and what that means for savings and investments.

2. Housing Pressures and First-Home Policies

With property already stretched, higher rates and low deposits expose buyers to larger mortgages. We talk about why current policies may hurt first-home buyers in the long run and how this impacts future affordability.

3. Migration, Jobs, and Productivity

Migration continues to push demand higher, yet productivity is falling. Many skilled migrants are underemployed, adding pressure to housing and wages. We discuss how this plays into rising living costs.

4. Banks, Interest Rates, and Market Risks

Rate moves can shift bank profitability quickly. Rising rates lift margins but hurt borrowers. Falling rates can signal weakness and increase loan stress. We unpack what this could mean for investors watching the financial sector.

5. Resources, Energy, and Market Opportunities

Australia still leans heavily on resources. We talk through the shift toward rare earths, energy challenges, and how changing global demand may shape local markets.

For more Info about Money and Investing, you can go to the podcast; The Wealth Playbook: Your Ultimate Guide to Financial Security; and The Wealth Playbook by Andrew Baxter – Audiobook, which is on Audible.

Join the discussion. See what’s trending right now on Australia’s largest stock forum and be part of the conversations that move the markets.

Disclaimer: Wealth Magnet Pty Ltd (ABN 52 618 868 830) trading as Australian Investment Education is a Corporate Authorised Representative (CAR no. 1255231) of Grange Financial Services Pty Ltd (AFSL No. 488609).

The material provided in this article is for information only and should not be treated as investment advice. Viewers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a certified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. For full disclaimer information, please click here.

Related News