In a surprising move, the Australian Central Bank announced on Tuesday that it would raise the key interest rate by 25 basis points to 4.1 percent. This decision reflects concerns over the persistent risk of higher inflation within the economy.
The bank’s unexpected rate hike caught analysts off guard, as a Reuters poll had indicated that economists and analysts were predicting the bank would maintain the interest rate at its current levels.
As a result, the Australian stock market experienced a decline following the announcement, with the S&P/ASX 200 index trading 1% lower. On the other hand, the Australian dollar showed a slight increase of 0.73% against the U.S. dollar, reaching a value of 0.6667 shortly after the central bank’s decision.
In March 2023, the inflation rate in the Australian economy stood at 6.3 percent. Analysts had predicted that the inflation rate for April would not surpass 6.4 percent.
However, April saw a significant increase, with housing prices jumping by 8.9 percent, food and non-alcoholic beverage costs rising by 7.9 percent, and transport expenses experiencing a 7.1 percent surge. These price hikes contributed to the unexpected rise in inflation during April.
Philip Lowe, the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia, stated on Tuesday that although the peak of inflation in Australia may have passed, inflation remains with significant presence in the economy. In the statement, Lowe remarked, “Recent data indicates an amplified potential for inflationary risks, and the Board has taken appropriate action in response.”
Lowe emphasized that the decision to raise interest rates was made with the intention of instilling greater confidence in the return of inflation to its target range within a reasonable timeframe. The Central Bank’s objective is to maintain inflation between 2 and 3 percent.
The governor’s statement also indicates a strong likelihood of future interest rate hikes, as the central bank intends to persist with an aggressive policy in its efforts to reduce inflation.
The board responsible for determining interest rates at the Reserve Bank of Australia will closely monitor global developments pertaining to inflation, household spending within the country, the labor market, and the level of unemployment. This indicates that they will carefully assess these factors when considering any potential future rate hikes.
The central bank is motivated to lower inflation rates promptly, as an extended period of higher interest rates may lead consumers to perceive them as the new norm in the economy. Such a situation could have profound impacts on various aspects, including employment, investment, government budgets, and personal spending.
Lowe warned that if high inflation were to firmly take root in people’s expectations, it would result in significant costs to address later. This would involve the need for even higher interest rates and a more substantial increase in unemployment.
The Reserve Bank of Australia is actively working to prevent the economy from entering a recession. However, consecutive interest rate hikes can potentially push the country closer to a recession. Each subsequent increase in interest rates further diminishes the likelihood of achieving a smooth and gradual economic adjustment.