What Could Stop Markets Reaching New Highs: Episode #180

Markets may be near record highs, but are investors becoming too comfortable? In this episode, My Bui and Diana Mousina explore the latest developments in the US-Iran conflict, what a potential deal could mean for markets and oil prices, and why rising geopolitical tensions could have lasting consequences for inflation, government debt and defence spending. They also unpack concerns around Japan's debt and currency pressures, Australia's latest inflation data, and what it all means for interest rates, household spending and investment markets.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 07 August 2026. AWM Services Pty Ltd ABN 15 139 353 496, AFSL No. 366121, part of the AMP Group00:00 Markets near record highs: what's driving optimism?00:31 US-Iran tensions and escalating geopolitical risks02:13 Why markets still expect a deal03:25 What a full-scale conflict could mean for markets and oil04:16 Strait of Hormuz and global energy supply risks06:10 Long-term consequences of the conflict06:30 Modern warfare: drones, cyber attacks and AI07:37 Defence spending and its economic impact08:48 Inflation, debt and higher government spending09:31 Why rising debt could keep bond yields elevated10:14 Japan's debt burden explained11:10 Inflation, currencies and Japan's economic challenges12:09 US support for the Japanese yen13:03 Currency intervention and market fundamentals15:29 Is now a good time to visit Japan?17:00 Australia's latest inflation update17:49 What it means for the RBA and interest rates18:36 Household spending remains surprisingly strong19:11 Why interest rates may stay higher for longer19:31 Wrap-up and key takeaways