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Qantas: What is going on with your credit?

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Alan Joyce, the CEO of Qantas, is facing mounting challenges as he prepares to step down from his role. Recent court battles with Qantas employees over illegal sackings and a class-action lawsuit from customers seeking reimbursement of over half a billion dollars in flight credits.

Furthermore, Joyce recently found himself in the hot seat during a Senate hearing on Australia’s cost-of-living crisis. Lawmakers accused him of profiteering and contributing to the national inflation rate. This unexpected confrontation comes after Qantas received $2.7 billion in taxpayer support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In response, Joyce argued that the best way for Qantas to repay the taxpayer support is by continuing to make profits and paying corporate taxes. However, it was revealed that Qantas has not paid any corporate taxes during Joyce’s 15-year tenure as CEO. In fact, the airline has received more in credits from the Australian Tax Office than it has paid in taxes, on top of the government support it received.

Tax strategy

This tax strategy was achieved by reporting losses, particularly in 2012 when Joyce’s decision to ground the airline resulted in substantial losses. Two years later, the airline reported more losses after a market share battle with Virgin. In both cases, the losses allowed Qantas to receive significant financial support.

The government’s support for Qantas during the pandemic has raised questions about equity stakes and the return on investment for taxpayers. While Joyce claimed that the airline was weeks away from insolvency, no equity stake was secured in return for the financial assistance.

Instead, Joyce oversaw the return of $1.5 billion to investors through share buybacks, increasing the Qantas share price and benefiting Qantas executives.

The question remains whether Qantas will pay back taxpayers for the support it received during the pandemic or continue on its path without any obligation.

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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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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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