The RBA's Inflation Problem Isn't Going Away: Episode #181

Australia's latest profit reporting season is showing its strongest results in years, but is it enough to compete with booming global markets? Shane Oliver and Diana Mousina unpack company earnings, the outlook for Australian shares, the Reserve Bank's interest rate dilemma, persistent inflation pressures, and the debate around superannuation's role in tackling cost-of-living challenges.Important information: This podcast is general in nature and hasn’t taken your circumstances into account. It’s important you consider your personal circumstances and speak to a financial adviser before deciding what’s right for you. Any general tax information provided is intended as a guide only. Remember the value of investments may go up or down and you may not get back the amount you invested. The opinions and views featured in this podcast reflect the individual’s own. Date of publication 21 August 2026. AWM Services Pty Ltd ABN 15 139 353 496, AFSL No. 366121, part of the AMP Group00:00 Introduction and profit reporting season begins02:02 Australia's strongest earnings season in years03:21 Why US company profits are outperforming Australia04:39 Dividends, franking credits and investor returns06:06 Australia vs global shares outlook06:38 Budget changes and capital gains tax concerns08:00 Property market impacts and RBA policy outlook09:19 Should the RBA be raising rates now?13:26 Forecasts, inflation and the role of economists16:19 Shane and Diana's interest rate predictions17:09 Consumer spending, wages and inflation pressures18:04 Buying Australian products vs imports21:05 Could superannuation help fight inflation?23:23 Debate over accessing super during cost-of-living pressures24:25 Why long-term super investing still matters25:52 Wrap up