Money

Generational divide – Only 13pc of Australians can buy a home

Published

3 months ago

September 2, 2023

ticker NEWS

A recent report from PropTrack, the analytics division of REA Group, has revealed that housing affordability in Australia has plummeted to its lowest level in at least three decades.

The study indicates that only 13 percent of Australians with average incomes can afford to purchase a home, with rising mortgage rates and soaring property prices cited as the primary culprits behind this concerning trend.

The comprehensive analysis conducted by PropTrack assessed housing affordability and accessibility across various income brackets, geographic locations, and age groups, highlighting the extent of the problem.

Regional Disparities in Housing Affordability

For prospective homebuyers in New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania, finding a property within their budget is proving increasingly challenging. In Tasmania, for instance, a typical-income household could only afford 5 percent of homes sold over the past year, marking the lowest rate of affordability in the nation.

First-time homebuyers and lower-income households are grappling with the situation, with the report indicating that many are facing difficulties in both mortgage repayment affordability and saving for the requisite 20 percent deposit.

PropTrack economist Paul Ryan emphasized the challenges faced by Tasmanian families, where mortgage repayments now account for a staggering 35 percent of household income, reaching a record high. He noted that while property prices in Tasmania have surged significantly and are approaching those in Victoria, incomes have not kept pace, contributing to the state’s worsening housing affordability crisis.

Money

RBA maintains 4.35% rates as mortgage applications surge

Published

14 hours ago

December 5, 2023

ticker NEWS

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has decided to keep its official cash rate at 4.35%, citing concerns over the rapidly increasing number of mortgage applications.

This decision comes after several consecutive meetings where the RBA has refrained from adjusting interest rates.

The central bank’s decision to hold rates steady reflects their cautious approach to managing the current housing market boom. Mortgage applications have seen a significant surge in recent months, driven by record-low interest rates and increased demand for housing. While this has been a boon for the real estate industry, it has raised concerns about the potential for a housing bubble and financial stability.

Experts are divided on whether the RBA’s decision is the right course of action.

Some argue that maintaining low-interest rates is necessary to support economic recovery, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Others worry that the continued surge in mortgage applications without rate adjustments could lead to unsustainable levels of household debt.

In light of this decision, homeowners, prospective buyers, and investors will be closely watching the housing market’s trajectory and wondering how long the RBA can maintain its current stance.

Money

There’s a 50/50 chance of a 2024 recession

Published

20 hours ago

December 5, 2023

ticker NEWS

The economy has been remarkably resilient despite massive pressures – but is that about to change in 2024?

The US economy is in for a sharp slowdown in 2024 as a closely watched survey of top economists foresees stubbornly high inflation, a rise in unemployment and a 50% chance of recession.

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Money

Tesla insurance sued for ‘inflated’ premiums, judge rules

Published

23 hours ago

December 5, 2023

ticker NEWS

A judge has ruled that Tesla’s insurance unit must face a lawsuit alleging “inflated” premiums.

The decision comes after policyholders claimed the electric car company’s insurance division overcharged them for coverage.

The lawsuit, which was filed by a group of Tesla policyholders, alleges that the premiums charged by Tesla’s insurance unit were significantly higher than market rates for similar coverage.

The plaintiffs argue that Tesla’s insurance division engaged in unfair pricing practices, leading to overpayment by policyholders.

Tesla has not yet commented on the judge’s decision, but the lawsuit raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the company’s insurance pricing.

It also highlights the growing scrutiny on how tech companies enter and compete in traditional industries like insurance.