RBA announces cash rate decision for July 2016
Two months after the last rate cut, the Reserve Bank of Australia has announced the outcome of its July board meeting.
As widely predicted by most economists and experts, the board has decided to leave the official cash rate at the record-low level of 1.75 per cent.
Out of the 31 experts and economists on finder.com.au, 30 predicted rates would remain on hold.
LJ Hooker chief executive Grant Harrod said the RBA has chosen to hold steady until it is known whether the federal election results in a hung parliament or which of the two major political parties can form government.
“A cash rate cut could still come by the traditionally busy spring [property] selling season if market conditions did not resume promptly,” said Mr Harrod.
BIS Shrapnel associate director of economics Richard Robinson said economic and employment growth is currently strong enough to keep the unemployment rate below six per cent, so there is no urgency to cut rates.
“There are also lingering concerns any cut will again bolster house prices,” said Mr Robinson.
