NEWS & VIEWS

Some of the top-rated personal loans in October 2023

The latest lending indicators from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) saw the value of new loan commitments for fixed term personal finance rise 6.1% in August, following a rise of 6.0% in July 2023.

Some of the top-rated savings accounts in October 2023

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) held the cash rate at 4.10% in October 2023 for the fourth month in a row. While it’s not yet certain if the cash rate has peaked, there are several banks offering savings accounts with interest rates that may be able to help you beat inflation.

Some of the top-rated home loans in October 2023

The decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to keep the nation’s cash rate on hold this month may have come as a relief to Australia’s first home buyers and other owner occupiers. But with the possibility that rate could rise again before the year’s end, and with no rate cuts expected until mid to late 2024, it’s important for borrowers to carefully consider their mortgage options before making an application, to make sure it suits their finances.

Refinancing down but not out as new home lending stages a comeback

The value of refinanced loans dropped in the month of August, but still recorded the fourth highest total since the start of the hikes, after climbing to a record high in the previous month.

These top-rated car loans for October could help you finance your next car

The new vehicle sales in Australia have continued to climb, with new data showing that four of the past five months have each been record months. 

RBA on hold + have you pocketed a rate cut of more than 0.63% points?

The Reserve Bank has again left the cash rate at 4.10 per cent, announcing today a pause for the fourth meeting in a row.

What to expect from the RBA in October 2023

A recent uptick in monthly inflation has some concerned that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) could prematurely end the current cash rate hiking pause. But economists from the big banks aren’t predicting rate hikes in the October meeting, though there could still be another hike before the year is out.

NAB bumps up select fixed rates

The National Australia Bank has today bucked the recent trend of big bank fixed cuts, by hiking select rates by up to 0.15 percentage points.

Inflation uptick: How will this affect interest rates in October?

The annual inflation rate climbed higher month on month in August 2023 for the first time in four months, according to the latest economic data.

Is it better to get a term deposit or a high interest savings account?

With the cash rate set to stay on hold before potential rate cuts in 2024, is now the time to get a high interest savings account or lock in a term deposit rate?

How natural disasters hurt us all financially - what to do before one hits

Floods, bushfires, torrential storms. These are just some of the natural disasters that can sweep communities across Australia and cause catastrophic damage. While these events visibly impact people, properties, and the environment, finances can also take a major hit.

Stamp duty exemption expanded: what you need to know

In good news for first home buyers in New South Wales, stamp duty exemptions and concessions will be getting a boost. The First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme will be expanded in 2023.

Fixed rates continue to tumble as ANZ sharpens its rates

Australia’s fourth largest home loan lender, ANZ, has today cut fixed rates across its 1- to 3-year terms for both owner-occupiers and investors by up to 0.30 percentage points.