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Money

Australian watchdog investigating shipping cost price-hike

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Australia’s consumer watchdog has opened up an investigation into the dramatic rise in global shipping and container costs following the pandemic

The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission confirmed it has opened the inquiry, particularly focusing on the sharp rise on the price and movement of shipping containers.

ACCC chairman Rod Sims says he is aware of what is going on within the shipping industry and “is investigating it.”

“There is a limited amount I can say on it, but we are looking at the freight system – particularly the role that containers play, I can certainly say that, and that is certainly on the list of investigations”

The costs of shipping containers have risen more than 300 per cent in the last year, with steeper prices crunching retailer profit margins.

Shipping containers costs have risen more than 300 per cent in the last year, with steeper prices crunching retailer profit margins.

The shortage of containers

The insufficient supply of container ships has been blamed on supply chain disruptions caused by COVID and recent virus outbreaks at key ports in China.

But many Australian business executives say that they believe the container shortage is “partially artificial” and that the industry is just playing on the excuse as a reason to squeeze higher prices.

The massive steel containers piled onto ships are vital for the international movement of goods.

The skyrocketing cost of shipping containers that bring everything from sneakers and sofas to washing machines to Australia has ratcheted up costs for importers – especially the retail sector, which has shaved its profit margins.

RBA responds to shipping crisis

Reserve Bank of Australia responds

The economic impact has also reached the attention of the Reserve Bank.

In its May statement on monetary policy, the RBA reported on a five-fold increase in shipping container prices since 2019.

The RBA stated that the lack of shipping containers had resulted in sharp increases in global shipping prices and also contributed delivery delays.

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Money

Federal Reserve lowers rates amid eased job market

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The Federal Reserve has cut interest rates by a quarter-point, bringing the benchmark rate to a range of 4.5% to 4.75%, as economic growth continues but job gains slow.

The Fed noted that labour market conditions have “generally eased,” even with low unemployment, signalling a more cautious approach amid a stable economic expansion.

The statement marks a shift in Fed language, now saying inflation has “made progress” toward the 2% goal instead of the prior “further progress.”

With inflation holding steady around 2.6%, policymakers aim to keep economic risks balanced, despite pressures from slower job growth.

This rate cut reflects a strategic move to sustain economic momentum while cautiously watching inflation’s gradual trend toward the Fed’s target.

The decision was unanimous, aligning Fed priorities with a balanced approach to support both employment and price stability.

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Money

Trump victory sparks market surge as Wall Street soars

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Donald Trump’s election victory has sparked a massive rally in the stock market.

Banks and industrial companies led the surge as investors bet that Trump’s plans for deregulation and tax cuts will boost economic growth.

Shares of big banks, like JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs, soared as investors predicted fewer regulatory restrictions.

Meanwhile, industrial giants such as Caterpillar and steelmakers like Nucor also hit record highs, reflecting optimism about U.S. manufacturing.

In contrast, clean-energy stocks took a hit, as Trump’s policies are expected to favour traditional energy sectors.

This surge comes amid rising Treasury yields and falling gold prices as investors gain confidence in the transition to a Trump administration.

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Money

Australian Treasurer and RBA chief clash over economy

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A rare dispute has emerged between Australia’s Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Reserve Bank Governor Michele Bullock over the nation’s economic trajectory.

Governor Bullock argues the economy remains overheated, even as growth data shows recent slowdowns.

Treasurer Chalmers, however, warns that sustained high interest rates are “smashing the economy.”

This debate is critical for Australians, as it will influence the future of interest rates and inflation.

Data shows a mixed economic picture: while inflation is down, it’s still above target, and the jobs market remains historically strong.

Ultimately, deciding who’s right may come down to theory and perspective on economic health.

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