Today the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) met for its August meeting and decided to cut the official cash rate by 25 basis points to just 1.50%, creating the lowest cash-rate ever on record!
The decision follows the release of June quarter inflation data last week that revealed inflation has slipped well below the RBA’s target range. The RBA is also concerned the Aussie dollar remains stubbornly high compared to other global currencies, which tends to have a dampening effect on economic growth.
Forecasters remain divided over the possibility of further rate cuts this year. On the one hand, strong employment data suggests the economy is starting to respond to the stimulus the RBA has already applied, and a further cut may not be necessary if the economy continues to improve following today’s cut. On the other hand, the inflation figures may indicate a softening trend that could require further stimulus to lift the inflation rate into the RBA’s target band of around 2%. Global economic developments, such as the possibility of a rate rise in the US, will most likely prove to be the deciding factor.
We expect that lenders will make reductions to home loan interest rates following today’s decision. It’s entirely possible that these adjustments will bring the lowest interest rates we can expect for the foreseeable future, so if you’ve been waiting to refinance your home loan or fix your interest rate, then talk to us now.
Conditions are also looking much more attractive for property investors, first home buyers and next home buyers, so give us a call on 0437 498 800 if you’re in the market to make a property purchase and we’ll help you get a really competitive rate on your loan.
