Broadly in line with the expectations of economists, the RBA has kept the cash rate at 0.25 per cent. According to Finder, all 37 experts showcased had predicted the RBA’s decision for August.
AMP Capital chief economist Shane Oliver said that having provided massive monetary stimulus back in March, the RBA is still in ‘watch and wait’ mode, with the focus on fiscal policy.
“It could still ease monetary policy a bit further later this year but the Bank does not see any value in going negative on rates, cutting to say 0.1 per cent is hardly worth the effort (although it’s possible) which leaves more QE as the main tool for any further easing. And rate hikes at still at least 3 years away.
Griffith University economics professor Tony Makin said COVID-19 continues to create gross economic uncertainty, domestically and globally.
“However, given the large ongoing bond issues by federal and state governments to fund huge budget deficits due to responses to contain the virus’ spread, market interest rates should continue to rise, with the three-year bond rate already above the RBA’s target 0.25 per cent,” Mr Makin said.
“The dollar has appreciated some 25 per cent March-July reflecting capital inflow chasing Australia’s AAA rated bonds and could keep climbing as happened post GFC, to the detriment of industries in the tradables sector of the economy, making economic recovery that much harder.”
Reference – “www.mybusiness.com.au”