Wealth Management Podcast Network

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford is joined by AMP chief economist Shane Oliver to break down the latest Australian jobs and wages data, what a still‑tight labour market means for inflation and RBA rate hikes, and how households are really faring in the cost‑of‑living squeeze. They also look at why the ASX is hitting new highs despite valuation risks, and scan key geopolitical flashpoints – from Iran and oil prices to possible US tariff changes – that could rattle markets in the months ahead. Tune in to hear: Why steady unemployment, strong full‑time job growth, and a slightly lower participation rate are keeping conditions a little tight. How real wages in the negative but broader earnings measures and strong employment suggest households overall are OK, not fantastic. What is driving the ASX to record highs, and where potential geopolitical flashpoints could impact markets.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver discuss the RBA's decision to increase rates and what it signals for inflation, growth, and housing. Oliver delves into how elevated aggregate demandis colliding with capacity constraints and weak productivity, leaving Australia more inflation‑prone even at modest growth rates, as well as the impact that the RBA's decision will have on the housing market. Tune in to hear: Why the time is ripe for a tax reform to go further than the mooted changes to the CGT discount. Whether tech shares are overvalued as even strong results are met with price dips. How a new Federal Reserve chair could impact US monetary policy.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver unpack Donald Trump's latest Greenland saga, the TACO pattern of bold threats and inevitable backdowns, and what it all means for markets. Oliver explains recurring tariff scares, attacks on institutions like the Fed, and broader geopolitical tensions are feeding a persistent "sell America" trade, supporting record gold prices, a weaker US dollar, and heightened demand for defensive assets. Tune in to hear: How to avoid getting caught up in the cycle of trying to decipher Trump's announcements and stick to investing fundamentals. Why local political machinations are unlikely to impact markets in the short term. What you should know about Japan's bond yields.

In this final episode of Relative Return Insider for 2025, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver wrap-up the year, look ahead to 2026, and break down the most interesting numbers from the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook. The last 12 months was full of challenges and volatility, but for Oliver the most important takeaway has been the resilience of markets as they were buffeted with geopolitical tensions, inequality concerns, and speculation about an AI bubble. Listen as they explore: Why the government should use its strong political position to pursue meaningful fiscal restraint. What the US Fed is likely to do in the face of patchy data due to the shutdown and a slowing but still-resilient labour market. Oliver's expectations for the coming year, including moderate growth, higher volatility and still-positive returns.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver discuss the September quarter GDP figures, which show Australia's economy regaining momentum, with annual growth lifting to 2.1 per cent, the fastest pace in two years, despite a softer-than-expected 0.4 per cent quarterly print. Oliver explains that headline GDP was dragged down by inventory run-downs and weaker net exports, but underlying domestic demand was supported by robust business investment – particularly in data centres and AI-related infrastructure. Listen as they explore: The implications of the GDP figures on the RBA's future interest rate decisions. Why Australian home prices continue to climb. How to address the supply side issues constraining housing affordability.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver discuss the Reserve Bank of Australia's cautious stance in response to persistent inflation, subdued growth prospects, and political shifts affecting the nation's journey towards net zero emissions. The discussion also looks at the growing role of cryptocurrencies, considering whether they could hinder productivity by diverting capital away from productive assets, and if there are any potential risks if investment in the digital asset surges. Listen as they explore: • RBA as Australia faces inflation and sluggish productivity growth. • What a resolution to the US government shutdown means going forward. • Political uncertainty around net zero targets continuing to cloud the business investment climate.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP deputy chief economist Diana Mousina take a look at the Reserve Bank's unanimous decision to leave rates on hold on Melbourne Cup Day and whether future cuts are still on the cards. Following higher-than-expected inflation numbers last week, the RBA surprised no one as it left rates unchanged, however Mousina suggested the central bank might be overemphasising recent inflation data and not fully accounting for potential weakening in the labour market and consumer spending. They also explore: • The impact that Q3 reporting for AI and tech stocks has had on the US market. • Continued volatility in cryptocurrency markets reflecting the speculative nature of digital assets. • Whether the government shutdown in the US will start to impact the broader economy.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, MLC Expand CEO Liz McCarthy and Shadforth Financial Group CEO Terry Dillon join host Keith Ford to discuss the transformative role of AI in financial advice and how AI tools are being implemented to drive efficiency. With advice firms looking for greater automation of routine administrative tasks, AI is set to reshape the advice profession's approach to client service and business growth. Tune in to hear: How MLC Expand and Shadforth are responding to the need for greater efficiency through AI tools. Why rigorous governance and privacy protocols to ensure data security and accuracy are so vital. The crucial role of AI in expanding client service capacity, improving financial literacy, and addressing the broader advice gap in the market.