Relative Return Insider: Why Australia's Inflation Fight Is Far From Over

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:0c99ac78-f4a2-445e-b7fa-30ff2ac5b205-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:0c99ac78-f4a2-445e-b7fa-30ff2ac5b205-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant"> In this week's Relative Return Insider, host Olivia Grace Curran is joined by AMP Chief Economist Shane Oliver for a deep dive into the key forces shaping markets in Australia and globally. The conversation unpacks the Reserve Bank of Australia's latest decision to hold the cash rate at 4.35%, and what rising inflation pressures, wage dynamics, and slowing growth signals could mean for the path ahead - including whether further rate hikes are still on the table. The discussion then shifts to the United States, where a new Federal Reserve leadership approach signals a shift in communication strategy, reduced forward guidance, and a potentially more volatile outlook for markets as policy signals become less predictable. Shane also explores the geopolitical ripple effects of developments in the Middle East, including the potential impact of easing tensions on oil prices, inflation, and household fuel costs in Australia.