Oliver’s Insights – The RBA ends bond buying – but remains “patient” on rates. We expect the first rate hike in August

Oliver’s Insights – The RBA ends bond buying – but remains “patient” on rates. We expect the first rate hike in August Key points The RBA will end quantitative easing this month. While it now sees unemployment falling below 4% and higher inflation it is prepared to be “patient” for now. We expect rate hikes to commence in August. Ultimately, we see the cash rate rising to around 1.5 to 2% in the years ahead …

Oliver’s Insights – The longer-term legacy of coronavirus – nine implications for investors

The longer-term legacy of coronavirus – nine implications for investors Key points Likely key longer-term implications flowing from the coronavirus pandemic are: bigger government; increased money supply and excess saving; increased geopolitical tensions; reduced globalisation; a faster embrace of technology; a greater focus on lifestyle; and a potential post-pandemic boom. The biggest risk is of significantly higher inflation, reversing the long-term downtrend in interest rates. Introduction The magnitude of the coronavirus shock means it will …

Oliver’s Insights – US political protests, inflation and rising bond yields

US political protests, inflation and rising bond yields Key points US protests are only an issue for investment markets if they significantly impact economic activity. Global and Australian recovery will boost bond yields and there is good reason to believe that (after yet another false ending) the now nearly 40-year super cycle decline in bond yields may be at or close to over. But the end of the bond bull market is likely to be …