RBA Rates Decision: What Happens Next?

RBA Rates Decision: What Happens Next?

From CommBank View: Economics & Markets by LiSTNR

May 6, 2026 · 28 min · Season 2 · Episode 10

About this episode

The episode discusses the RBA's recent interest rate hike and the implications for inflation and economic stability.

The Reserve Bank has delivered another interest rate hike, but is the tightening cycle now nearing its end and how concerned should policymakers be about stagflation risks? Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Head of Australian Economics Belinda Allen about the RBA’s latest decision to lift the cash rate to 4.35% and why inflation remains the central concern for policymakers. From rising inflation expectations to the economic impact of the Middle East conflict, they unpack the difficult balancing act facing central banks as growth slows and supply shocks continue to pressure prices. Belinda explains why the RBA now believes it has space to monitor developments from here, what could still trigger another rate hike later this year, and why maintaining credibility on inflation remains critical in a world of rolling economic shocks. She also discusses the risk of stagflation, the outlook for household spending and housing, and whether inflation pressures could prove more persistent than expected. Plus, CommBank’s Harry Ottley shares the key focuses for markets in the week ahead. Important Information This podcast is approved and distributed by Global Economic &amp…

People in this episode

Host: Mandy Drury

Guest: Belinda Allen

Topics covered

  • interest rates
  • RBA decision
  • inflation
  • stagflation risks
  • economic impact
  • household spending
  • market outlook

Keywords

  • RBA
  • interest rates
  • inflation
  • stagflation
  • economic growth
  • cash rate
  • market focus
  • supply shocks

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: CommBank, Global Economic & Markets Research, Commonwealth Bank of Australia

More episodes of CommBank View: Economics & Markets

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the CommBank View: Economics & Markets podcast page.