Sun, 12th Jan 2025

On this episode of Financial Services Online's Weekly Finance News Wrap, Paige Estritori discusses two key topics dominating Australian finance. Firstly, Bendigo and Adelaide Bank's introduction of a $2.50 fee for cash withdrawals at branches amidst rising trends towards digitisation, despite lingering customer preference for in-person services. Critics caution about potential reputational damage amid intensified scrutiny of banking practices following the royal commission. Secondly, Estritori examines the escalating housing affordability crisis marked by rising home prices defying the Reserve Bank's 4.25% interest rate boost. As affordability gets squeezed, lower-priced properties see increased traction. Varied predictions hint at either a moderation in price rises, a potential rebound with falling interest rates, or possible price declines in Sydney and Melbourne. Critical rate decisions loom large as Australia grapples with its affordability quake with significant implications for buyers and the property market.