February 2026
The first month of 2026 has been a masterclass in market adaptation, as the initial optimism of the new year met a series of significant economic "reality checks." While the ASX 200 and S&P 500 both reached historic peaks, they finished the month with late-session pullbacks as global investors pivoted away from pure growth toward the resilience of hard assets. Domestically, a surprising rebound in headline inflation to 3.8% and a remarkably tight labour market have shifted the conversation from potential rate cuts to a decisive 3.85% cash rate hike by the RBA. The Australian property market remains remarkably defiant, recording a 0.8% increase in values in January as a chronic shortage of supply continues to act as a floor for prices.
November 2025
November 2025 has presented a stark divide for Australian investors, with significant volatility shaking the share market while the property sector continues its relentless climb. As the ASX 200 suffered a drop of nearly 5% due to banking sector weakness and global uncertainty, residential values surged on the back of supply shortages and the government’s expanded 5% Deposit Scheme. Underpinning these movements, the RBA kept the cash rate on hold at 3.60%, dashing hopes for a pre-Christmas cut as persistent inflation delays any easing of monetary policy until 2026.
October 2025
In October 2025, the Australian economy presented a mixed picture. While the S&P/ASX 200 saw modest gains, it was significantly outpaced by the robust, tech-driven rally of the US S&P 500. Domestically, the Australian residential property market continued its strong growth, with low listings and high buyer demand pushing prices up across the country, particularly in Brisbane, Perth, and Darwin. However, a higher-than-expected inflation figure for the September quarter has put a halt to expectations of further interest rate cuts by the RBA, with the cash rate now anticipated to remain on hold at 3.6% for the foreseeable future.
September 2025
In September 2025, the Australian ASX 200 lagged while the US S&P 500 hit record highs after a Federal Reserve rate cut and strong tech earnings. Australia’s housing market showed steady growth, supported by low supply and new first-home buyer incentives, as the Reserve Bank of Australia awaits key inflation data before deciding on further rate changes.