Fri, 6th Feb 2026

In this episode of Financial Services Online, Paige Estritori covers key shifts in Australia's housing market. Rising mortgage rates have led to plummeting housing affordability, with only 17% of properties within reach for first-home buyers in the previous year. Buyers are combatting this trend by using initiatives like the Home Guarantee Scheme and considering purchases outside major cities. Property prices are set to escalate to $1M nationally by 2026, necessitating strategic financial planning and professional advice. Predictions of interest rate hikes by major Australian banks point to imminent economic changes impacting loan repayments. In other news, Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM AG secures €600m in funding from Bajaj Auto, promising continued service. Estritori encourages audiences to review budgets, consider refinancing, and consult financial advisors to prepare for these changes.