As EOFY approaches, investor activity yesterday leaned towards shorter duration, likely driven by liquidity needs.
The short end of the yield curve has flattened, with 3–6 month BBSW differing by just 1–2 basis points.
Following the recent drop in interest rates, we’ve seen increased NCD flow directed to foreign branch banks, where +50 to +55 is currently achievable.
Underlying Inflation Drops Into the RBA’s Target Band
Q1 2025 inflation printed at 0.9% q/q, hotter than market expectations of 0.8%. Annual headline inflation edged up to 2.4% y/y, sitting within the RBA’s 2–3% target band.
Core inflation (Trimmed Mean) rose 0.7% q/q, taking the annual pace to 2.9% y/y—bringing it back into the RBA’s target range for the first time in two years.
Electricity prices surged 16.3%, largely due to the wind-down of rebates, notably Queensland’s $1,000 lump sum.
Market services inflation—which captures price growth in private sector services—fell by 0.1% q/q, the first decline since 2020.
Despite the slightly hotter headline print, the underlying moderation in inflation has reinforced market expectations for easing, with five RBA rate cuts still priced in for the year.