The Reserve Bank of Australia December monetary policy announcement

Summary headlines:

  • says low rates supporting economy
  • progress on unemployment, inflation expected to be gradual
  • expect GDP growth to average around 3-1/2 % over two years
  • housing markets have slowed in Sydney, Melbourne
  • One continuing source of uncertainty is the outlook for household consumption
  • growth in household income remains low, debt levels are high
  • central scenario for inflation 2.25% in 2019, bit higher in 2020
  • Terms of trade have been stronger than earlier expected
  • labour market remains positive, further reduction in unemployment expected
  • pick up in wage growth likely to be gradual
  • Australian dollar remains within range seen in past two years

Full text:

Statement by Philip Lowe, Governor: Monetary Policy Decision

more to come

---

Background:

Picture is irrelevant: