NEWS & VIEWS

Inflation uptick: How will this affect interest rates in October?

The annual inflation rate climbed higher month on month in August 2023 for the first time in four months, according to the latest economic data.

Is it better to get a term deposit or a high interest savings account?

With the cash rate set to stay on hold before potential rate cuts in 2024, is now the time to get a high interest savings account or lock in a term deposit rate?

How natural disasters hurt us all financially - what to do before one hits

Floods, bushfires, torrential storms. These are just some of the natural disasters that can sweep communities across Australia and cause catastrophic damage. While these events visibly impact people, properties, and the environment, finances can also take a major hit.

When Will Interest Rates Go Down? (Australia 2023) - RateCity

The Reserve Bank of Australia has hiked the cash rate multiple times this year alone, resulting in home loan rates rising across the country. Millions of Australian homeowners are likely asking themselves: when will interest rates fall again?

Interest Rate Predictions & Forecast Australia | RateCity

The Reserve Bank of Australia is forecast to hike the cash rate periodically over the next six months. Here's how high experts predict the cash rate hike may climb.

Stamp duty exemption expanded: what you need to know

In good news for first home buyers in New South Wales, stamp duty exemptions and concessions will be getting a boost. The First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme will be expanded in 2023.

Fixed rates continue to tumble as ANZ sharpens its rates

Australia’s fourth largest home loan lender, ANZ, has today cut fixed rates across its 1- to 3-year terms for both owner-occupiers and investors by up to 0.30 percentage points.

Some of the top-rated home loans for investors and refinancers in September 2023

With no movement from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) on the cash rate this month, why aren’t Australian homeowners and investors breathing a sigh of relief? Some of Australia’s biggest banks have been hiking their home loan interest rates out of cycle from the RBA, making refinancing more challenging.

Don’t be afraid to switch

The Big Four Banks - ANZ, Westpac, NAB and Commonwealth Bank - are notorious in the Australian financial market for commanding the largest share of both deposits and mortgage lending.

Biggest Qantas frequent flyer points at credit card sign up this September

In September, there are 18 providers offering credit cards with Qantas frequent flyer points bonuses on sign up that range from 20,000 points to 150,000 points.

Biggest credit card reward points bonuses on sign up: September 2023

This month, there are nine credit card issuers offering competitive six-figure bulk bonus rewards points ranging from 100,000 to 275,000 points. 

Westpac hikes new customer variable rates as NAB slashes rates for owner-occupiers with small deposits

Australia’s second largest home loan lender, Westpac, has today increased new customer variable rates on its Flexi First Home Loan by 0.10 percentage points.

House prices bounce back - what does this mean for first home buyers?

Australia’s housing market may be recovering from its recent downturns, thanks to rising home values and more housing stock. Higher house prices could prove challenging for some first home buyers to overcome, though it’s possible the recovery could stall later in the year.