Money

Australia is choosing protectionism over global economics

Published

2 years ago

April 11, 2024

In a paradigm shift in global economic strategy, nations are increasingly prioritising protectionist measures to safeguard their industrial base and economic sovereignty.

Australian Prime Minister Alex Ellinghausen has explained this trend, asserting that protectionism is not a retreat from global markets but rather a response to the evolving landscape of economic competition.

Addressing the Queensland Press Club in a pre-budget speech, Ellinghausen highlighted the proactive measures being taken by Australia and like-minded nations, including the United States, Canada, Korea, Japan, and the European Union.

These countries are implementing schemes akin to Industrial Regional Advantage (IRA) strategies to bolster their manufacturing capabilities and economic resilience.

Central to this approach is the recognition that market forces alone cannot ensure national prosperity and security.

Governments are increasingly intervening in their economies to promote domestic manufacturing, innovation, and self-reliance.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Global stage

This marks a departure from traditional laissez-faire policies and underscores the growing importance of economic protectionism on the global stage.

As part of Australia’s strategic agenda, Ellinghausen announced plans to introduce the “Future Made in Australia Act,” consolidating existing and new policies aimed at promoting domestic manufacturing.

Under this Act, initiatives such as the National Reconstruction Fund, skills agenda, clean energy manufacturing incentives, and support for solar panel production will be streamlined to drive economic growth and resilience.

The move towards protectionism is not without its challenges and criticisms.

Critics argue that domestic manufacturing may struggle to compete with cheaper imports, particularly from countries like China.

However, proponents argue that the long-term benefits of self-reliance and economic sovereignty outweigh short-term cost considerations.

Internationally, the United States has also voiced concerns about unfair trade practices, particularly in industries like solar panel manufacturing.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen recently confronted China over its industrial overcapacity and called for measures to protect global markets from distortions caused by cheap imports.

Money

How Iran conflict is driving oil prices and global market volatility

Published

15 hours ago

March 5, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Energy prices soar amid Iran conflict, with investors reassessing risks and market dynamics.

The ongoing conflict in Iran has sent energy prices soaring and markets reeling. Investors are reassessing inflation expectations, central bank rate paths, and global growth prospects as risk aversion rises.

David Scutt from Stonex gives his insights on how surging oil prices and rising energy risk premia are influencing investor sentiment and market dynamics.

Markets may need weeks to fully digest the economic impact of the conflict, with volatility likely to persist as investors weigh geopolitical and financial risks.

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Money

Middle East crisis: Global markets, tech, and supply chains under pressure

Published

2 days ago

March 4, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Navigating global uncertainty as the Middle East crisis reshapes markets, technology, and supply chains

The ongoing Middle East crisis is sending shockwaves through global markets, driving energy prices higher and intensifying volatility. Investors are facing growing uncertainty as inflationary pressures mount and risk sentiment shifts. Supply chains are under stress, with key trade routes disrupted, forcing businesses worldwide to rethink logistics, procurement, and operational strategies.

The technology sector is feeling the ripple effects as semiconductors, critical components, and AI infrastructure come under pressure. Volatility in tech stocks is rising, while defence and cybersecurity firms are navigating both new risks and opportunities. At the same time, investment in renewable energy and energy tech could accelerate as companies adapt to energy price surges and seek more resilient solutions.

Brad Gastwirth from Circular Technologies joins us to break down what these developments mean for global markets and long-term strategic planning.

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#MiddleEastCrisis #GlobalMarkets #TechIndustry #EnergyPrices #SupplyChain #InvestorAlert #AI #Innovation

Money

Australia’s inflation report and Nvidia earnings impact explained

Australia’s inflation report sparks market shifts, influencing interest rates, the Aussie dollar, and investor sentiment amid Nvidia’s earnings.

Published

1 week ago

February 26, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Australia’s inflation report sparks market shifts, influencing interest rates, the Aussie dollar, and investor sentiment amid Nvidia’s earnings.

Australia’s latest inflation report is creating waves across the market, with questions about interest rates, the strong performance of the Aussie dollar, and the uneven nature of the stock market rally. Investors are watching closely as changes in carry trade risks this month add another layer of complexity.

David Scutt from StoneX discusses what these shifts mean for trading strategies and the broader economic outlook. He provides insight into how underlying factors are shaping investor confidence and market dynamics.

On the tech side, Nvidia’s upcoming earnings are expected to influence AI development and the broader tech sector. Coupled with trends in SaaS and bitcoin price action, these movements are signalling how investor sentiment is evolving in a fast-changing landscape.

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#AustraliaEconomy #InflationReport #AussieDollar #NvidiaEarnings #AIInvesting #StockMarketNews #BitcoinTrends #SaaSInsights