Citi reiterate forecast for a 25bp RBA rate hike at the Bank's August meeting.
From the original
Earlier: Australia lifts minimum wage by 4.75%. Analysts at Citi said Australia's minimum wage increase, layered on top of existing cost pressures, reinforced their call for a fourth RBA rate hike in August to 4.60%. The bank flagged upside inflation risks persisting into the sec
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4 itemsBank consensus builds for near term RBA hike as economists cite sticky inflation
The prevailing sentiment among economists indicates a high likelihood of an RBA rate hike within the year, driven by persistent inflation concerns. Per the full note [source], six out of seven major banks now foresee at least one rate increase, narrowing the debate to the timing of such a move, particularly focusing on the upcoming September and November meetings. This shift translates to expectations of rising bond yields and upward pressure on the Australian dollar as markets react to inflation data and economic indicators leading up to these meetings. With CBA's adjustment to anticipate a hike in November, now at 4.60%, the market's response will be critical, particularly as data releases on employment and GDP come into play ahead of the RBA decisions, making every data point a substantial market signal.
CBA sees RBA on hold for rest of 2026 after third consecutive hike to 4.35%
The desk anticipates that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will maintain its cash rate at 4.35% for the remainder of 2026, with potential rate cuts beginning in 2027. This outlook is supported by Commonwealth Bank's recent analysis, which highlights inflation concerns and a downgraded GDP forecast. Per the full note [source], the RBA's decision to raise rates for the third consecutive time reflects a cautious approach to monitoring economic developments, particularly in light of inflationary pressures stemming from energy costs. The desk notes that the market's current pricing may not fully reflect the potential for an August rate hike if inflation data surprises to the upside.