Section
Australian and global economic indicators, ASX market movements, corporate earnings and trade developments. Summaries updated every two hours.
Business news covering the Australian economy, ASX market movements, corporate earnings and trade developments. This section tracks GDP figures, employment data, Reserve Bank commentary, major mergers and acquisitions, and the performance of Australian companies on the global stage. From mining and agriculture to banking and retail, our summaries provide a quick snapshot of the economic forces shaping Australian prosperity.
Guy Singh-Watson, founder of Riverford, reflects on the benefits of empowering women in his business and addressing the gender pay gap. Since measuring the gap in 2017, he has seen improved productivity and profitability after promoting a woman to a leadership role. He emphasises the importance of men engaging in discussions about gender issues.
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Under President Donald Trump, America embraces a new form of state capitalism, impacting both the economy and the health of the republic. This shift raises concerns about the long-term implications for governance and societal stability. Analysts warn of potential dangers stemming from this approach.
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Fair Work criticises Uber for its handling of a complaint involving a driver who was sacked after touching his groin during a trip. In a recent hearing, the driver presented a tube of ointment as evidence to support his case. The incident raises concerns about Uber's complaint processes.
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Qantas' frequent flyer points program faces potential challenges as banks consider making it harder for consumers to earn points. This change could impact the popularity of the program, which has been a significant revenue source for the airline. The outcome remains uncertain as consumer behaviour may shift in response to these changes.
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Qantas frequent flyer points are a significant revenue source for the airline, but upcoming changes by banks may affect their appeal. As banks consider making it more challenging to earn points, consumer interest in accumulating them could decline. This situation presents a crucial test for the loyalty program's popularity.
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Savers are facing challenges in accessing the full benefits of recent interest rate rises from the Reserve Bank, as banks are only partially passing on these increases. Many institutions require customers to meet specific conditions to receive higher rates, complicating the savings process.
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Savers are facing challenges in accessing the full benefits of recent interest rate increases by the Reserve Bank, as banks are only partially raising rates on savings accounts. Many institutions require customers to meet specific conditions to qualify for higher rates, complicating the process for savers.
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US B-2 bombers and F-35 fighter jets are currently engaged in operations over Iran, intensifying the geopolitical landscape. This military action is contributing to fluctuations in oil prices, as global markets react to the ongoing conflict. Analysts are closely monitoring the situation for its potential economic impact.
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US B-2 bombers and F-35 fighter jets are currently engaged in operations over Iran, intensifying the ongoing conflict in the region. This military action has significant implications for global oil prices, as tensions rise and markets react to the developments.
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Australian fuel companies anticipate a prolonged recovery for petrol prices, which remain high following the war. Despite Donald Trump's prediction of a rapid decline in oil prices, local experts suggest it may take significant time for prices to return to pre-war levels.
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Australian fuel companies anticipate a prolonged recovery for petrol prices, which remain high following recent conflicts. Despite Donald Trump's prediction of rapid declines in oil prices, local experts warn that it may take time for prices to return to pre-war levels. Consumers should prepare for sustained elevated costs at the pump.
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The Taybeh community, one of the oldest Christian communities in the world, faces increasing attacks from Israeli settlers, threatening its existence. Historically resilient, Taybeh now feels besieged, with its future uncertain amid rising tensions in the West Bank. The town, known as Ephraim in ancient times, has survived numerous historical challenges.
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One in four Woolworths stores in Sydney are now Metro locations, reflecting a trend towards gentrified supermarkets. Coles is responding by expanding its Local chain, raising concerns about whether this shift is negatively impacting shoppers. The changes highlight the evolving landscape of grocery shopping in urban areas.
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One in four Woolworths stores in Sydney are now Metro locations, reflecting a trend towards gentrified grocery shopping. Coles is responding by expanding its Local chain, raising concerns about whether this shift is negatively impacting shoppers. Experts debate the implications of these changes on affordability and accessibility.
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Apple celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking the company's inception on April 1, 1976, when founders Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak signed a foundational document. Over the decades, Apple has significantly influenced technology and culture, becoming a leader in innovation and design. Its journey includes notable comebacks and the introduction of groundbreaking products.
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Apple celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking the company's founding on April 1, 1976, by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. Over the decades, Apple has significantly influenced technology and culture, known for its innovative products and remarkable comebacks in the competitive tech landscape.
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Australians continue to face surcharges for card payments, despite the growing popularity of QR code payments in countries like Japan. Experts suggest cultural preferences for cash and a reluctance to change payment habits are significant barriers to adopting QR codes widely. As a result, many Australians still opt to pay extra for card transactions.
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Australians continue to prefer card payments despite widespread dislike for surcharges, unlike Japan where QR codes are popular. Experts suggest cultural habits and a strong cash preference hinder the adoption of QR code payments in Australia. The trend indicates a reluctance to change established payment methods.
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David Murray, former Commonwealth Bank CEO, sells his six-bedroom sandstone mansion in Sydney for $26.25 million, setting a record for the suburb. The sale reflects the ongoing demand for luxury properties in the area. Murray and his wife, Stephanie, have moved on from the grand residence.
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Melbourne's median house price exceeds $1.1 million, prompting interest in affordable alternatives. Four overlooked towns in Victoria offer budget-friendly housing options just a couple of hours from the city. These towns provide potential homebuyers with value-for-money choices away from the high costs of urban living.
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A newly designed elevated house in Melbourne, situated on a river flood plain, is engineered to withstand flooding. The home features a unique architectural style that integrates seamlessly with its lush garden surroundings, giving it the appearance of floating among the trees. This innovative design aims to enhance both aesthetics and resilience against natural disasters.
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David Murray, former Commonwealth Bank CEO, sells his six-bedroom sandstone mansion in Sydney for $26.25 million, setting a suburb record. The sale reflects the ongoing demand for luxury properties in the area. Murray and his wife, Stephanie, completed the transaction on April 3, 2026.
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In March, US employers added 178,000 jobs, significantly exceeding economists' expectations of 70,000, while the unemployment rate fell to 4.3%. This positive trend follows a larger-than-previously reported job loss in February, indicating resilience in the labour market despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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The chief executive of a major Australian bank warns of a potential recession due to ongoing Middle East tensions and domestic inflation challenges. This statement highlights growing concerns about the economic outlook as these factors continue to impact financial stability.
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More than 50 tankers are en route to Australian import terminals as major petrol and diesel suppliers work to prevent fuel shortfalls. This effort follows a global search for alternative fuel supplies to ensure adequate availability in the country.
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Over 50 tankers are en route to Australian import terminals as petrol and diesel suppliers work to prevent fuel shortages. This surge in supply comes in response to increasing demand and potential shortfalls in the market.
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Concerns grow over the lack of official investigations into the turmoil surrounding Donald Trump's decision-making. Critics argue that the current political climate resembles a 'banana republic', highlighting issues of governance and accountability. The situation raises questions about the integrity of democratic processes in the United States.
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There is growing concern over the lack of official investigation into the turmoil linked to Donald Trump's decision-making. Critics argue that the current state of affairs resembles a 'banana republic', highlighting issues of governance and accountability. The absence of oversight raises questions about the integrity of the political system.
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Sydney Fish Market experiences a bustling Good Friday as shoppers flock to its newly opened location, celebrating Easter since its upgrade in January. Customers enthusiastically plan their seafood purchases, with many discussing quantities of fillets, oysters, scallops, and prawns for family gatherings over the long weekend.
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UK entrepreneur Nick Candy sells his London home for $517 million, marking what is believed to be the most expensive house sale in history. This sale follows his divorce from Australian actress Holly Valance last year. The transaction highlights the ongoing trend of high-value real estate deals in the UK market.
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