At its meeting today, the Board decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 1.50 per cent. Conditions in the global economy are continuing to improve. Labour markets have tightened and further above-trend growth is expected in a number of advanced economies, although uncertainties remain. Growth in the Chinese economy is being supported by increased spending on infrastructure and property construction, with the high level of debt continuing to present a medium-term risk. Australia's terms of trade are expected to decline in the period ahead but remain at relatively high levels. Wage growth remains low in most ... (full story)

HOLD your horses. The Reserve Bank has left the official cash rate on hold, avoiding a nasty Melbourne Cup day surprise.AS WIDELY expected, the Reserve Bank has remained in the stalls on Melbourne Cup day to leave the official cash rate on hold at its record low of 1.5 per cent for the 15th month in a row. The RBA last cut the cash rate in August 2016, following an earlier cut to 1.75 per cent in May. There has not been an official cash rate increase since November 2010. Today marks five Melbourne Cups without a change, but the November meeting has traditionally been a popular day to move, with the RBA moving rates ... (full story)