OECD Warns of Sluggish Australian Economic Growth Amid Global Trade Concerns
OECD Warns of Sluggish Australian Economic Growth Amid Global Trade Concerns
0
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has issued a warning about a potential slowdown in Australia's economic growth over the next two years.
This prediction comes against the backdrop of heightened global uncertainty, spurred by trade policies introduced by US President Donald Trump.
The OECD projects Australia’s GDP to rise to 1.9% in 2025 but slip slightly to 1.8% in 2026, falling short of earlier expectations laid out in their December report.
Global economic growth is similarly anticipated to decelerate. OECD forecasts a reduction in growth from 3.2% in 2024 to 3.0% in 2026, attributing this trend to increased trade barriers among major economies and broader geopolitical tensions. The report specifically highlights that continued changes in trade policies, if maintained, could dampen global growth prospects and heighten inflationary pressures.
The potential slowdown has significant implications for both consumers and businesses within Australia. If growth rates dwindle, this could affect employment, wages, and investment levels across the country. Additionally, as higher trade barriers threaten global trade volumes, Australian exporters may face shrinking markets abroad, potentially putting additional pressure on domestic economic growth.
The report indicates that inflation, while expected to moderate gradually, could still surpass targets set by central banks, including the Reserve Bank of Australia. This poses a challenge for policymakers aiming to balance growth with inflation control. RBA Governor Michele Bullock emphasized the need to be vigilant against any resurgence of inflationary pressures in Australia.
: Experts suggest keeping a close eye on international trade developments, particularly the bilateral tariffs between major economies such as the US, Canada, and Mexico. If these tariffs were to be rolled back or applied more narrowly, it could lead to a more favourable growth and inflation outlook globally and in Australia.
The Reserve Bank of Australia has room to manoeuvre, given the current trajectory of moderating inflation. There’s potential for further interest rate reductions, which could stimulate domestic consumption and investment. Nevertheless, the caution remains as trade policy uncertainties continue to cast a long shadow over Australia’s economic future.
As policymakers navigate these challenging waters, strategic economic management will be crucial in cushioning Australia from external shocks and ensuring a steady growth trajectory amid a complex global landscape.
Published:Tuesday, 18th Mar 2025 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
The Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) recent decision to cut the official cash rate by 0.25% has had a significant impact on the small business sector. In the three months following the February rate cut, small business lending volumes surged by 40% year-on-year, according to data from SME lender OnDeck Australia. This uptick suggests a renewed confidence among small business owners, who are leveraging the lower interest rates to invest in growth and expansion. - read more
Recent findings from ScotPac's SME Growth Index Report reveal a significant shift in the financing preferences of Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Over half (54%) of SMEs plan to utilise non-bank lenders for business investment in the next six months, marking a notable increase from 47% recorded a year ago. This trend indicates a growing inclination among SMEs to seek alternative financing solutions that offer greater flexibility and accessibility. - read more
In a move to support self-employed Australians, non-bank lender Rate Money has announced significant reductions in interest rates across its 'Evolve Easy Doc' loan range. Effective from June 30, 2025, the new rates start from 6.64% per annum, aiming to provide more accessible financing options for small business owners and self-employed individuals. - read more
Renown Lending has announced a significant partnership with Marlbury Capital, securing a $100 million facility to expand asset-backed loans for Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This initiative is designed to offer fast, simple, and flexible financing solutions, enabling business owners to seize opportunities, manage cash flow, and stabilize operations. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently expressed concerns regarding the compliance practices of certain small credit lenders. A comprehensive review conducted by ASIC revealed that some providers of small amount credit contracts (SACCs) may be steering vulnerable consumers towards financial products that offer fewer protections, potentially exposing them to increased financial risk. - read more
In a significant development for Australia's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), recent interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) have led to a notable increase in small business loan applications. This trend underscores a renewed sense of optimism among business owners, eager to leverage more favourable borrowing conditions to drive growth and expansion. - read more
The Australian financial landscape is witnessing a significant shift as the private credit market experiences substantial growth, offering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) alternative avenues for financing. This expansion is particularly noteworthy in the context of traditional banks tightening their lending criteria, leaving many businesses in search of accessible funding solutions. - read more
As the Australian economy anticipates potential interest rate reductions, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has issued a cautionary note to households, advising against excessive borrowing that could lead to financial instability. This advisory comes amidst a backdrop of economic recovery efforts and aims to prevent the emergence of a boom-bust cycle driven by unsustainable debt levels. - read more
Westpac Banking Corporation has announced a significant expansion in its business banking division, with plans to recruit 350 new bankers over the next two years. This strategic move is part of Westpac's concerted effort to reclaim its leadership position in Australia's business lending market. - read more
Your credit score is a numerical representation of your financial trustworthiness. Lenders use this score to assess the risk of lending you money. - read more
Smart budgeting is one of the most vital tools in maintaining and improving your financial health. It provides a clear picture of your financial situation, helping you make informed decisions about spending, saving, and borrowing. - read more
In simple terms, a loan is an amount of money you borrow from a lender and agree to pay back over time, often with interest. Loans come in various forms and can be tailored to suit different needs, such as buying a home, financing a car, or consolidating debt. - read more
Credit scores play a crucial role in your financial life, influencing your ability to access loans, credit cards, and even housing rentals. In Australia, your credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, which lenders use to assess the risk of lending to you. - read more
It is no secret that the foundation of financial well-being is rooted in effective budgeting. In today's fast-paced world, where consumerism reigns, understanding how to manage one's finances has never been more crucial. Budgeting is not merely about restraining spending; it’s about creating a strategic plan that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle. It allows individuals to gain control over their money, rather than letting their spending habits dictate their life course. - read more
Interest rates play a vital role when it comes to borrowing money. They determine how much extra you'll pay on top of the amount you've borrowed. - read more
In the landscape of modern finance, credit scores can often feel like gatekeepers to our goals, barring or granting access to essential funding when we need it most. The truth is, debt is as common as it is complex, threading through the lives of many with silent tenacity. Understanding its prevalence is the first step in navigating the choppy financial waters it can create. - read more
Loans can play a significant role in shaping our financial landscapes. For many Australians, they are vital tools for achieving milestones like buying a home, financing education, or starting a business. However, selecting the wrong type of loan can have a detrimental impact on your financial health, leaving you with unwanted debt and stress. - read more
When it comes to borrowing money, whether it's for personal use or for your small business, understanding interest rates is paramount. An interest rate, simply put, is the cost you pay to borrow money. It's typically expressed as a percentage of the principal amount you're loaned. This fee is how lenders earn on the funds they lend and is a key component you should consider before signing a loan agreement. - read more
Need Help Finding a Loan?
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation. We
respect your
privacy.
Knowledgebase
Personal Loan: a loan that is granted for personal use, normally unsecured and granted by a lender on the borrower's integrity and capacity to repay