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

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.

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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.