Westpac IQ
Economics
First Impressions: NZ Consumers Price Index, December quarter 2024
January 21 2025 • 4 mins
Consumer prices rose by 0.5% in the December quarter. That saw annual inflation remaining at 2.2%. However, core inflation has continued to ease. The result was close to expectation.
First Impressions: REINZ house sales and prices, December 2024
January 21 2025 • 2 mins
House prices ticked up slightly in December, though on light activity ahead of the holiday period.
First Impressions: NZ retail card spending, December 2024
January 20 2025 • 2 min
Retail spending levels rose strongly in December, recording their fifth consecutive increase.
Weekly Economic Commentary 20 January 2025
January 19 2025 • 10 mins
Analysis and forecasts of the economy and markets, along with previews of data for the week ahead.
Australia and NZ Weekly 20 January 2025
January 19 2025 • 10 mins
Monday re-issue edition: analysis and forecasts for this week's key releases.
Australia and NZ Weekly 20 January 2025
January 17 2025 • 10 mins
Friday edition: analysis and forecasts for this week's key releases.
Cliff Notes: continued labour market resilience constructive for outlook
January 17 2025 • 5 mins
Key insights from the week that was.
The exchange rate and the big pivot
January 16 2025 • 7 minutes
A depreciating exchange rate sometimes gets interpreted as a ‘vote of no confidence’ in that economy or currency. In fact, it is often a necessary and welcome shock absorber.
New Zealand fiscal update, January 2025
January 16 2025 • 3 mins
The HYEFU revealed a greater-than-expected deterioration in the fiscal outlook. Even so, the risk remains tilted towards a further increase in the government borrowing programme over time.
NZ Weekly Economic Insight 17 January 2025
January 16 2025 • 2 mins
A two-minute video update on the New Zealand economy and markets from Chief Economist Kelly Eckhold.
December Labour Force: strong finish to the year
January 16 2025 • 5 mins
Employment: +56.3k (from +28.2k). Unemployment Rate: 4.0% (from 3.9%). Participation Rate: 67.1% (from 67.0%).
NZ CPI preview, December quarter 2024
January 15 2025 • 3 mins
New Zealand’s annual inflation rate is expected to slip to 2.1% in December (down from 2.2% previously). That would be in line with the RBNZ’s last published forecast.
Westpac NZ Retail Spending Pulse
January 15 2025 • 2 mins
After a soft end to 2024, the outlook for retail spending over 2025 is looking brighter.
Westpac McDermott Miller Employment Confidence Index, December 2024
January 14 2025 • 2 mins
Employment confidence picked up by 2.4 points to 91.6 in the December quarter, led by an improvement in perceptions of job availability.
Consumer sentiment slips a little further in January
January 13 2025 • 6 mins
The Westpac–Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Index declined –0.7% to 92.1 in January, from 92.8 in December.
First Impressions: NZIER Quarterly Survey of Business Opinion, December quarter 2024
January 13 2025 • 2 mins
The latest NZIER survey showed that economic activity remained soft at the end of last year, though firms are increasingly confident that lower interest rates will provide a boost.
First Impressions: NZ Monthly Employment Indicator, November 2024
January 12 2025 • 2 mins
Employment ticked up in November, particularly in tourism-related sectors.
First Impressions: NZ building consents, November 2024
January 12 2025 • 2 mins
The downturn in residential development looks like it has found a floor, but a turnaround is still a way off.
The Happy Commonwealth and the Big Black Rocks
January 12 2025 • 10 minutes
Once upon a time, a happy Commonwealth worried that its prosperity would decline if it could not keep increasing the amount of stuff produced per hour worked. This summertime fable is no fairytale.
NZ outlook for 2025 and week ahead calendar
January 12 2025 • 3 mins
2025 promises to be a tumultuous year, with changes in both domestic economic conditions and on the global stage. We see six key issues as being important in determining the RBNZ’s course over 2025.
Household spending indicator: Spending growth slows despite sales
January 10 2025 • 5 mins
A modest lift.
Australia’s Trade in Goods Account, November
January 9 2025 • 5 mins
Higher prices of key commodities and weaker exchange rate helped goods exports values to take another step higher in November. With imports rising by less, this left the goods trade surplus at its highest level since the start of 2024. Goods trade balance: $7.1bn. Exports: 4.8%mth. Imports: 1.7%mth.
Australian retail sales: The great Black Friday boost (and what comes after)
January 9 2025 • 5 mins
November retail sales: 0.8%mth, 3.0%yr. Gaining traction.
How to think about the exchange rate and inflation
January 8 2025 • 5 minutes
The Australian dollar has depreciated against the US dollar recently, as have many other currencies. This should not have material implications for interest rate decisions.
November Monthly CPI Indicator
January 8 2025 • 5 mins
Electricity bounces as rebates fade but dwelling prices surprise with a meaningful fall. All up there is an upside risk to our Q4 CPI estimate but we see a small downside risk to our current Q4 Trimmed Mean estimate.
Q4 Job Vacancies: Labour market easing pauses
January 8 2025 • 5 mins
Job vacancies rose for the first time since May 2022, increasing 14k (4.2%) between August and November. Gains were led by the private sector, where vacancies climbed a solid 13.9k (4.7%), while public sector vacancies edged 0.1k (0.4%) higher.
Pacific Pulse - highlights from small island nations
January 7 2025 • 10 minutes
Welcome to the Pacific Pulse, where we take a deeper dive and highlight major economic events from small island nations in the Pacific region.
Australian dwelling approvals: recovery tracking a slow, shaky pace
January 7 2025 • 5 mins
Total dwelling approvals –3.6%mth, +3.2%yr. Recovery tracking a slow, shaky pace.
Australian dwelling prices: prices 'dip into the close'
January 6 2025 • 4 mins
December CoreLogic home value index: –0.2%mth; 4.5%yr.
Westpac Economic Calendar January 2025
December 20 2024 • 5 mins
A summary of events and data releases over the coming month including previous results and forecasts for key data and central bank decisions.
Australia and NZ Weekly Calendars 23 December 2024 to 13 January 2025
December 20 2024 • 10 mins
Weekly calendar end of year edition: analysis and forecasts for key releases over the coming weeks.
Westpac Card Tracker, 20 December 2024
December 20 2024 • 5 mins
Short-lived surge with card activity still running ‘hot and cold’.
Australian private credit, November
December 20 2024 • 5 mins
Private sector credit rose by 0.5%mth in November, a touch slower than the 0.6%mth gain in October and directly in line with both Westpac and the market consensus forecast.
Cliff Notes: a volatile end to the year
December 20 2024 • 5 mins
Key insights from the week that was.
NZ Weekly Economic Insight 20 December 2024
December 19 2024 • 2 mins
A two-minute video update on the New Zealand economy and markets from Chief Economist Kelly Eckhold.
Westpac Coast-to-Coast December 2024
December 19 2024 • 10 mins
An assessment of current trends across the state economies and the prospects for 2025.
NZ GDP review, September quarter 2024
December 19 2024 • 3 mins
The latest GDP figures suggest a sudden and marked downturn in the middle part of this year. Some of this reflects temporary factors, and the tone of recent data has turned more positive.
OCR change of call, 19 December 2024
December 19 2024 • 2 mins
After today’s weak GDP figures, we have pencilled in an additional 25bp cut to the OCR in the RBNZ’s April 2025 meeting and revised down the trough for the OCR to 3.25% in May 2025.
Risks in focus for FOMC heading into 2025
December 18 2024 • 5 mins
Policy making will become more challenging in 2025, with a myriad of risks apparent.
First Impressions: NZ GDP, September quarter 2024
December 18 2024 • 3 mins
New Zealand’s GDP fell by 1% in the September quarter, much weaker than expected, with a sharp downward revision to the previous quarter as well.
2024-25 MYEFO: Surpluses left in the rear-view
December 18 2024 • 6 mins
Deficits are forecast to worsen across the forward estimates by a cumulative $21.7bn, compared with the May Budget. Public borrowing to reach 6½% of GDP by 2025-26.
Leading Index points to slow recovery in growth
December 17 2024 • 5 mins
The six-month annualised growth rate in the Westpac–Melbourne Institute Leading Index, which indicates the likely pace of economic activity relative to trend three to nine months into the future, stayed in positive territory in the November, lifting slightly to 0.32% from 0.22% in October.
Westpac McDermott Miller Consumer Confidence, December quarter 2024
December 17 2024 • 5 mins
The Westpac McDermott Miller Consumer Confidence Index rose 7 points in December to 97.5. While still a little below long run averages, that is the most upbeat households have been since 2021.
Half-Year Economic and Fiscal Update and Budget Policy Statement 2024
December 17 2024 • 6 mins
The HYEFU reported a much larger deterioration in the fiscal outlook than expected, reflecting a bigger downward revision to tax revenue than forecast and a slightly higher track for spending.
Consumer sentiment softens as economic doubts return
December 17 2024 • 5 mins
A short video update from the Westpac Economics team.
Commodities Update December 2024
December 17 2024 • 7 mins
Prices were broadly weaker through 2024 with the Westpac Export Price Index down –7% in the year to December. Gold was the exception rallying 30%. Leading the correction was met coal (-37%) and iron ore (-25%). Looking forward into 2025 Westpac is forecasting a further 9% decline in the export prices.
ACCI–Westpac Business Survey December quarter 2024
December 17 2024 • 10 mins
While manufacturers were able to find some pockets of demand through mid-year, that support looks to have dried up as the year drew to a close.
Consumer sentiment stalls as confidence on economy fades
December 16 2024 • 6 mins
The Westpac–Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Index dipped 2% to 92.8 in December from 94.6 in November.
Newton's Third Law applies in some form to economies
December 16 2024 • 5 mins
For every action there is a reaction, this applies to economies too. Looking into 2025, we are expecting three key themes to dominate -- Trump's agenda and its reaction from China among others; how economies adjust to high policy rates; and how expansive fiscal policy is managed.
First Impressions: REINZ house sales and prices, November 2024
December 16 2024 • 2 mins
Lower mortgage rates have seen a steadying rather than a strengthening in the New Zealand housing market at this stage.
Westpac commodity forecasts December 2024
December 15 2024 • 5 mins
Our latest forecasts for energy, metals, selected softs and our composite indices.
Weekly Economic Commentary 16 December 2024
December 15 2024 • 10 mins
Analysis and forecasts of the economy and markets, along with previews of data for the week ahead.
First Impressions: NZ Monthly inflation update, November 2024
December 15 2024 • 2 mins
November’s update on consumer prices reinforced the picture of well contained inflation pressures heading into the new year.
Australia and NZ Weekly 16 December 2024
December 15 2024 • 10 mins
Monday re-issue edition: analysis and forecasts for this week's key releases.
Australia and NZ Weekly 16 December 2024
December 13 2024 • 10 mins
Friday edition: analysis and forecasts for this week's key releases.
Westpac Market Outlook December 2024 – January 2025
December 13 2024 • 10 mins
Our latest thinking on Australia, markets and the global economy.
The RBA’s big pivot and the head fakes ahead
December 13 2024 • 7 minutes
The RBA’s language change this week revealed a change in thinking driven by shifts in the data. But some data surprises might just be head fakes.
Westpac Card Tracker, 13 December 2024
December 13 2024 • 5 mins
Black Friday spending propels card activity.
NZ Weekly Economic Insight 13 December 2024
December 12 2024 • 2 mins
A two-minute video update on the New Zealand economy and markets from Senior Economist Michael Gordon.
November Labour Force: Christmas comes early?
December 12 2024 • 5 mins
Employment: +35.6k (from +12.1k). Unemployment Rate: 3.9% (from 4.1%). Participation Rate: 67.0% (from 67.1%).
NZ GDP preview, September quarter 2024
December 12 2024 • 2 mins
We expect a 0.4% fall in GDP for the September quarter. Annual revisions will provide a less dim picture of our growth performance, and recent data has been looking more positive.
First Impressions: NZ retail card spending, November 2024
December 11 2024 • 2 mins
The recovery in retail spending paused for breath in November. However, we think that the stage is set for more positive conditions in New Zealand’s retail sector in the new year.
Westpac PNG December Update
December 11 2024 • 7 mins
The December PNG Economic Update reviews the 2025 Budget as well as the overall economic situation in Papua New Guinea.
Westpac’s GDP tracker for New Zealand
December 11 2024 • 6 mins
This article introduces our ‘nowcasting’ model for GDP, which provides a fast way of tracking how quarterly growth is shaping up as new data arrives.
2024-25 MYEFO Preview: Today’s revenue sugar-rush, tomorrow’s inevitable fallout
December 11 2024 • 6 mins
2024-25 Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook to show a deterioration in coming years. National public borrowing to reach 6¼% GDP by 2026-27.
RBA December 2024: cash rate constant, language pivots
December 10 2024 • 4 mins
A short video from Chief Economist Luci Ellis on the RBA Board decision and the economic outlook.
RBA remains on hold, slowly gaining confidence
December 10 2024 • 5 mins
The RBA remains on hold with the cash rate kept at 4.35%. But the Board is gaining confidence in its own forecasts that inflation is coming down.
Australian Business Conditions and Confidence, November
December 10 2024 • 5 mins
Business sentiment turns pessimistic as conditions gap lower. Conditions: down 5pts to +2. Confidence: down 8pts to -3.
NZ Agri Bites, 10 December 2024
December 9 2024 • 10 mins
This report focuses on current dynamics occurring within the agricultural sector and provides a forward view on where we see prices going for the main agricultural commodities.
Preview of Half-Year Economic and Fiscal Update and Budget Policy Statement 2024
December 9 2024 • 3 mins
The HYEFU is likely to reveal a further lift in the Government’s forecast borrowing requirement, albeit smaller than in recent fiscal updates.
Australia and NZ Weekly 9 December 2024
December 8 2024 • 10 mins
Monday re-issue edition: analysis and forecasts for this week's key releases.
Weekly Economic Commentary 9 December 2024
December 8 2024 • 10 mins
Analysis and forecasts of the economy and markets, along with previews of data for the week ahead.
Australian housing: soft finish to 2024 and a more uncertain year ahead
December 8 2024 • 5 mins
A short video update from the Westpac Economics team.
Australia and NZ Weekly 9 December 2024
December 6 2024 • 10 mins
Friday edition: analysis and forecasts for this week's key releases.
Early Black Friday figures looking positive
December 6 2024 • 4 mins
A short video update from the Westpac Economics team.
The care economy slow lane
December 5 2024 • 7 minutes
Weak household income is being masked by an expansion in non-market care economy. The implications for productivity are often misunderstood, meaning the end of that transition could come as a shock to some.
NZ Weekly Economic Insight 6 December 2024
December 5 2024 • 2 mins
A two-minute video update on the New Zealand economy and markets from Senior Economist Satish Ranchhod.
Q3 National Accounts: Public expansion to slow the private recovery
December 5 2024 • 3 mins
A short video update from the Westpac Economics team.
Household spending indicator: Spending rebound: solid start or short-lived surge?
December 5 2024 • 5 mins
Solid rebound from September’s weakness.
Australia’s Trade in Goods Account, October
December 5 2024 • 5 mins
Today’s goods trade balance report showed a notable increase in exports and almost flat imports, a combination that drove a recovery in trade surplus to $6.0bn, the highest level in six months. Exports: 3.6%mth. Imports: 0.1%mth.
Westpac Card Tracker, 5 December 2024
December 5 2024 • 5 mins
Card activity growth still subdued despite strong Black Friday turnout.
First Impressions: NZ Building work put in place, September quarter 2024
December 4 2024 • 2 mins
Construction activity fell 3.2% in the September quarter, with falls in both residential and commercial building. September’s fall was more pronounced than expected.
Australian national accounts, September quarter 2024.
December 4 2024 • 5 mins
The Australian economy continued to tread water in the September quarter. At 0.3%qtr and 0.8%yr, growth in GDP was below Westpac's and the market's expectations. Increased government spending drove all of the gain in the quarter. New private demand flatlined, with household consumption and new business investment surprising to the downside.
First impressions: Australian national accounts, September quarter 2024
December 4 2024 • 5 mins
The Australian economy grew by a sluggish 0.3% in the September quarter, with increased government spending driving all of the gain. Private demand (spending by consumers and businesses) flatlined with household consumption and new business investment surprising to the downside.
Q3 GDP Partials: Christmas comes early in Canberra
December 3 2024 • 5 mins
The Australian economy is expected to have grown 0.6% in the September quarter 2024, a touch above the 0.5%qtr expected in our Q3 GDP preview. Even though we were bullish on new public demand, today’s partials came in stronger. The contribution made by net exports and inventories were exactly as expected in our Q3 GDP preview.
Australian dwelling approvals: recovery gains a little more traction
December 2 2024 • 5 mins
Total dwelling approvals +4.2%mth, +6.1%yr. Up-trend looking a little more convincing.
Australian retail sales: early discounting enticing buyers ahead of Black Friday
December 2 2024 • 5 mins
October retail sales: 0.6%mth, 3.4%yr. Q4 off to a solid start.
Australian Business Indicators survey, September quarter
December 2 2024 • 5 mins
Today’s indicators were broadly consistent with the outlook presented in our Q3 GDP preview. Non-farm private inventories will detract 0.5ppts from economic growth in Q3. Sales edged higher while wages growth stepped down. The fall in non-mining profits was larger than anticipated driven by a few outliers, including other household services.
Westpac Housing Pulse December 2024
December 2 2024 • 7 mins
The inside word on Australia's residential property market drawing on detailed insights from the Westpac Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment survey and Westpac Economics' macro views.
Australian dwelling prices: price slowdown broadens
December 2 2024 • 4 mins
November CoreLogic home value index: 0.1%mth; 5.4%yr.
Weekly Economic Commentary 2 December 2024
December 1 2024 • 10 mins
Analysis and forecasts of the economy and markets, along with previews of data for the week ahead.
First Impressions: NZ Building consents, October 2024
December 1 2024 • 2 mins
While residential consent numbers fell in October, the downturn seen over the past year looks like it’s found a base.
Australia and NZ Weekly 2 December 2024
December 1 2024 • 10 mins
Monday re-issue edition: analysis and forecasts for this week's key releases.
Westpac Economic Calendar December 2024
November 29 2024 • 5 mins
A summary of events and data releases over the coming month including previous results and forecasts for key data and central bank decisions.
Australia and NZ Weekly 2 December 2024
November 29 2024 • 10 mins
Friday edition: analysis and forecasts for this week's key releases.
Australian private credit, October
November 29 2024 • 5 mins
Private credit increased 0.6%mth in October accelerating slightly from a steady 0.5%mth growth trend seen previously. September +0.6%mth, 6.1%yr.
Inflation takes a step down but we caution about getting too excited
November 29 2024 • 5 mins
A short video from the Westpac Economics Team taking a look at the Monthly CPI Indicator and what it may mean for the December quarter CPI.
Australian GDP Q3: Private demand expected to record a modest lift in Q3
November 29 2024 • 6 mins
Q3 GDP f/c: 0.5%qtr, 1.1%yr. Domestic demand is expected to have grown by a solid 0.8%qtr in Q3.
An appreciation of the implications of depreciation
November 28 2024 • 7 minutes
The shift to a more services-based economy increases economy-wide depreciation rates, and so the need to invest. Higher average interest rates – and economy-wide profit shares – are among the likely results.
NZ Weekly Economic Insight 29 November 2024
November 28 2024 • 2 mins
A two-minute video update on the New Zealand economy and markets from Chief Economist Kelly Eckhold.
CAPEX lifts, but businesses clearly pulling back on their plans
November 28 2024 • 5 mins
Capex spending firmer than expected, with 2024-25 capex plans revised lower. Q2 Capex: 1.1%qtr; +1.0%yr. 2024/25 Capex Plans: Adjusted Est 4 $189.9bn; vs. Adjusted Est 3 $193.7bn. Non-mining capex in real (or price adjusted) terms expected to grow 2.7% in 2024-25 (down from the 5.7%yr expected last quarter), while mining capex expected to fall 1.3% in 2024-25 (broadly in line with last quarter).
First Impressions: NZ business confidence, November 2024
November 28 2024 • 2 mins
Businesses remain very upbeat about the year ahead. There are also some signs that current conditions are gradually improving.
CAPEX to pick up, despite the move to services: 2024 Annual national accounts
November 27 2024 • 7 mins
The economy is undergoing once in a generation structural changes. Industries at the forefront of these shifts are boosting their capital stocks. These changes also mean trend investment growth will be higher going forward, even as we become a more services based economy.
First Impressions: NZ Monthly Employment Indicator, October 2024
November 27 2024 • 2 mins
Employment continued its gradual slide in October.
Inflation tracking RBA forecasts, with rebates having an outsized monthly impact on electricity
November 27 2024 • 5 mins
The headline October print of 2.1%yr was a touch softer than the 2.3%yr Westpac and the market was expecting. The softer outcome was mainly driven by the larger than expected fall in electricity prices, as government cost of living measures continue to flow through. The cost of new dwellings eased for a second consecutive month. Notwithstanding this positive sign, underlying measures of inflation ticked higher, but remain in line with RBA forecasts.
Review of RBNZ November 2024 Monetary Policy Statement
November 27 2024 • 4 mins
The RBNZ delivered the expected 50bp cut and looks set to continue at this pace in February. We now see a 50bp cut to 3.75% as more likely than not at the February Monetary Policy Statement.
Q3 Construction Activity: revisions point to easing capacity constraints
November 27 2024 • 5 mins
Construction activity surprises to upside, with revisions suggesting capacity constraints are starting to ease. Q3: +1.6%qtr, 3.2%yr.
First Impressions: Forthcoming revisions to lift NZ GDP growth
November 27 2024 • 2 mins
Upcoming revisions show a better growth performance for the New Zealand economy during a period of very strong population growth.
NZ Chief Economist travel notes UK and Europe, Nov 2024
November 26 2024 • 2 mins
This note summarises the key themes of discussions held with clients during our recent trip to the UK and Europe in the last two weeks.
2024 Christmas Spending Intentions
November 25 2024 • 6 mins
Retailers to face a less challenging environment.
Westpac Card Tracker, 25 November 2024
November 25 2024 • 5 mins
Card activity lifts slightly but momentum remains unconvincing.
Westpac New Zealand RBNZ pulse client survey
November 25 2024 • 5 mins
Ahead of this week’s RBNZ policy review, our survey finds that offshore clients remain more dovish than locals. However, there is an awareness of global factors that could curtail the easing cycle.
First Impressions: NZ Retail trade, September quarter 2024
November 24 2024 • 2 mins
Retail sales fell 0.1% in the September quarter, a smaller drop than we expected. Retail spending remains soft, but is likely to firm over the coming months.
Weekly Economic Commentary 25 November 2024
November 24 2024 • 10 mins
Analysis and forecasts of the economy and markets, along with previews of data for the week ahead.
Australia and NZ Weekly 25 November 2024
November 24 2024 • 10 mins
Monday re-issue edition: analysis and forecasts for this week's key releases.
Australia and NZ Weekly 25 November 2024
November 22 2024 • 10 mins
Friday edition: analysis and forecasts for this week's key releases.
NZ Weekly Economic Insight 22 November 2024
November 21 2024 • 2 mins
A two-minute video update on the New Zealand economy and markets from Chief Economist Kelly Eckhold.
Inflation Deeper Insights
November 21 2024 • 6 mins
Energy rebates have a meaningful impact on the CPI but they don’t have any impact on core inflation.
RBA cash rate: later but faster cuts now more likely
November 21 2024 • 4 minutes
We have revised our view of the most likely scenario for the path of the RBA’s cash rate, pushing out the start date of the rate-cutting cycle from February to May, but more front-loaded than previously assumed.
Australia has a debt edge as other economies navigate post-pandemic fiscal challenges
November 20 2024 • 5 mins
Strong spending has seen debt rise substantially across the developed world. Countries need to focus on how growth in debt is managed, ensuring it is used to improve capacity and that economic growth is sustained in a way that contains the burden of debt servicing.
Markets
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 22 January 2025
January 21 2025 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
January 21 2025 • 3 mins
Today’s note includes comments on BHP, Northern Star, Wesfarmers, Plenti and Securitisation Review.
FinanceAM
January 21 2025 • 2mins
The US dollar was volatile following Trump’s latest tariff comments, initially rising and then reversing the move. Bond yields and equities rose.
FinanceAM
January 21 2025 • 2mins
The US dollar was volatile following Trump’s latest tariff comments, initially rising and then reversing the move. Bond yields and equities rose.
Westpac Strategy Antipodean Daily Wrap
January 21 2025 • 5 mins
Pardon me, is that a tariff in your agenda?
NZD FX Weekly
January 21 2025 • 4mins
A weekly update on the market for NZD crosses, including outlooks.
LGFA Tender Preview
January 21 2025 • 3mins
A preview of the forthcoming LGFA tender, as well as observations on the LGFA market.
Westpac ABSolute Coverage - 10 Minute ABS January 2025
January 20 2025 • 10 mins
10 Minute ABS - A short video that examines the Australian Securitisation market over 2024 and looks at what can be expected in 2025
Around the Grounds
January 20 2025 • 3 mins
Today’s note includes comments on ORDE, MA Money and the Credit Fans.
FinanceAM
January 20 2025 • 2mins
The US dollar fell after President Trump did not include trade tariffs in his initial executive orders. Bond yields in the futures market also fell, the physical market closed for a US holiday.
Antipodean CPI remains the near term focus for markets - A$ & NZ$ Rates Strategy
January 20 2025 • 10 mins
Our updated views on A$ and NZ$ Rates markets.
Aussie braces for volatility on Day 1 of Trump 2.0
January 20 2025 • 5 mins
Markets are braced for a volatile week as soon as Trump takes the oath of office at a second historic inauguration on 20th January. Any insights into Trump’s trade policy agenda will be key for FX markets, in what is otherwise a fairly quiet data week.
Wide potential ranges for AUD this week, by Executive Order.
January 20 2025 • 5 mins
The data calendars are light this week but there's consequential event risk around Trump's inauguration and a barrage of Day One Executive Orders that likely include trade measures. We reckon that FX markets will turn primarily on the type of Executive Authority that President Trump invokes and pencil in a very wide potential AUD range this week: 0.6050 to 0.6300.
NZGB Benchmark Increase Looming
January 20 2025 • 3mins
The maturity of the nominal NZGB April 2025 bond will increase NZGB benchmark durations.
Strategy Views on a Page
January 20 2025 • 6 min
A summary of Westpac Strategy Group's key market views
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 20 January 2025
January 19 2025 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
January 19 2025 • 3 mins
Today’s note includes comments on the corporate week ahead and S&P SPIN Data.
FinanceAM
January 19 2025 • 2mins
US bond yields rose amid solid economic data outturns and improved risk sentiment, the S&P500 up 1.0% on the eve of President Trump’s inauguration. The US dollar was volatile but rose slightly overall.
Gold: breakout potential builds
January 17 2025 • 4 min
A high level snapshot of our short term views on gold
Westpac Strategy Antipodean Daily Wrap
January 17 2025 • 5 mins
Yields retreat from their twin peaks.
Strategy Views on a Page
January 16 2025 • 6 min
A summary of Westpac Strategy Group's key market views
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 16 January 2025
January 16 2025 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
January 16 2025 • 3 mins
Today’s note includes comments on Rio Tinto, BHP and MA Money.
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 16 January 2025
January 15 2025 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
January 15 2025 • 3 mins
Today’s note includes comments on Auckland Airport and AOFM RMBS.
FinanceAM
January 15 2025 • 2mins
US CPI core inflation was softer than expected, causing a fall in bond yields. The US dollar also fell in response, but recovered later. The S&P500 is up 1.6%.
Westpac ABSolute Coverage - AOFM SFSF RMBS BWIC
January 15 2025 • 3.0 mins
In the attached note we look at the announcement from the AOFM regarding their remaining RMBS holdings in the Structured Finance Support Fund.
AUD macro update: Load compression tests underway, breakage possible
January 15 2025 • 4 mins
Reports that President-elect Trump’s advisors are studying a slow ramping up of tariffs month to month have thrown AUD/USD a short-term lifeline. Just as well. The relentless rise in US yields and the USD was increasingly moving into a more disruptive phase. But there are two key points to underscore: 1) A “gradual” approach to tariffs says little about the overarching tariff impost that might ultimately be levelled; and 2) while this USD up-leg is mature, the underlying drivers remain intact, and they are largely unrelated to tariff risk.
NZGB Tender Preview
January 15 2025 • 3mins
A preview of the forthcoming weekly NZGB tender, as well as observations on the NZGB market.
Strategy Views on a Page
January 15 2025 • 6 min
A summary of Westpac Strategy Group's key market views
Around the Grounds
January 14 2025 • 3 mins
Today’s note includes a summary of local news, issuance and reports since our last update in December.
FinanceAM
January 14 2025 • 2mins
The US dollar fell slightly in response to reports that the Trump administration may apply trade tariffs only gradually. Longer term bond yields rose slightly, despite softer than expected US PPI data.
Monthly Japanese flow ACGBs/November.
January 14 2025 • 5 mins
The MoF has released Japan’s capital flow data for November which shows Japanese investors sold ACGBs and Semis again, and at a faster pace than October. Japan bought US Treasuries after a large sale and there were mixed flow for Europe.
NZD FX Weekly
January 14 2025 • 4mins
A weekly update on the market for NZD crosses, including outlooks.
FinanceAM
January 13 2025 • 2mins
Markets only slightly extended the recent themes of a stronger US dollar, higher bond yields and lower equities. There was little major news for markets to respond to.
Aussie starts the new year on the backfoot
January 13 2025 • 5 mins
AUD/USD starts the new year extending its bear trend, currently at 0.6140, its lowest levels since April 2020. The atmospherics around AUD remain decidedly challenging, producing clear cut trending conditions. Data and event risk pick up this week, led by US CPI and Australian labour force figures.
Fair Value: NTTC [5.75%] 21-Apr-2037 New Benchmark - A$ Rates Spotlight
January 13 2025 • 10 mins
Our pricing model estimates fair value based on existing bonds, without adjusting for cheapness/dearness along the curve or other market nuances.
Strategy Views on a Page
January 13 2025 • 6 min
A summary of Westpac Strategy Group's key market views
FinanceAM
January 12 2025 • 2mins
The US dollar rose to a two-year high in response to surprisingly strong US labour data. US bond yields also rose, helped by higher surveyed inflation expectations, while the S&P500 fell 1.5%.
Bank funding at a glance
January 9 2025 • 3 mins
The major banks have once again made a quick start to their funding programmes in 2025 with all four of the major banks having completed deals this week. In the attached note we provide a brief look at the funding task across the large banks.
AUD-NZD IRS Cross market trade idea. -A$ and NZ$ Rates Spotlight
January 7 2025 • 3 mins
Cross market levels between Australia and NZ in both swap and bond are on our watchlist given recent moves and the relative pace of central bank policy. We add a new trade in the cross market spread in the 3-year forward 2-year IRS.
APRA ADI Statistics - November 2024
January 6 2025 • 3 mins
APRA released its November ADI statistics which saw lending growth remain in place. Business lending slowed from the elevated levels seen in Sept/Oct, while both owner occupied and investor home lending growth continued to see a mild acceleration, however both segments face uncertainties in coming months.
ACGB fly- take profit. -A$ Rates Spotlight
January 2 2025 • 3 mins
In early December, we put out a trade rec on the ACGB 3s/10s/30s fly. There were several dynamics that underpinned what we saw as a mispricing. It has subsequently adjusted, and we take profit. We also update views on the ACGB/UST box and the NZGB curve, as well as NZGB vs UK Gilts.
ABSolute Coverage - Australian Securitisation 2024 Year in Review 2025 Year Ahead
December 19 2024 • 30 mins
ABSolute Coverage - Australian Securitisation 2024 Year in Review 2025 Year Ahead
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 20 December 2024
December 19 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Australian Credit Review 2024: A Breakout Year
December 19 2024 • 3 mins
2024 has outperformed expectations on all measures. We have seen record supply in corporates led by domestic issuers, volumes in banks superseded only by last year’s record TFF funding and a beat in all aspects of ABS funding.
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 19 December 2024
December 18 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
FY25 Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook: Debt Statement highlights
December 18 2024 • 10mins
Our quick response to the FY25 Federal Budget MYEFO and Debt Statement. We also estimate the AOFM's updated funding requirement for FY25 and forward projections.
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 18 December 2024
December 17 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Aussie limps into year’s end below 0.6400
December 17 2024 • 5 mins
AUD/USD starts a busy final full week of trading for the year still languishing, below 0.6400. The news flow out of Australia and China last week played in both directions for AUD/USD, but ultimately left it with weaker foundations. The main focus this week is offshore, in particular interest rate decisions from the Fed, the BoJ and the BoE.
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 17 December 2024
December 16 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Macro FX Trade Ideas
December 16 2024 • 4 mins
Weekly tactical and medium term strategic trade ideas from Westpac's macro FX team.
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 16 December 2024
December 15 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Strategy Views on a Page
December 13 2024 • 6 min
A summary of Westpac Strategy Group's key market views
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 13 December 2024
December 12 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
FinanceAM
December 12 2024 • 2 mins
After initially rallying on the US data, the US Treasury curve retraced to finish slightly higher and steeper. The US dollar is fractionally firmer while key US equity indexes are slightly weaker.
ACCUs heading into the twilight zone?
December 12 2024 • 10 mins
ACCU Weekly: Heading into the twilight zone?
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 12 December 2024
December 11 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
FinanceAM
December 11 2024 • 2 mins
The US Treasury curve steepened even as the core CPI met expectations and as the probability of a 25bp rate cut at next week’s FOMC meeting firmed to 95%.
Strategy Views on a Page
December 11 2024 • 6 min
A summary of Westpac Strategy Group's key market views
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 11 December 2024
December 10 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
December 10 2024 • 3 mins
Today's note includes comments on 2024 supply, Transurban and ColCap.
FinanceAM
December 10 2024 • 2 mins
US equities little changed overnight while bond yields and DXY nudge higher as investors eye today’s all-important US CPI report.
The Board is gaining some confidence that inflation is moving sustainably towards target. - RBA Side-By-Side
December 10 2024 • 5 mins
We compare the rhetoric in this month's RBA statement with the previous month
ABSolute Coverage - Securitisation & Covered Bond Weekly Update 10th December 2024
December 10 2024 • 5.0 mins
An update on the Australian Securitisation and Covered Bond Markets. This edition includes pricing details on transactions from Bluestone, Mortgage House, BC Invest, Angle Asset Finance & Finance One; a new mandate from Columbus Capital; our latest Auto Securitisation Logbook; and, our wrap of the Australian Securitisation Conference.
Energy Market Report
December 10 2024 • 8 mins
Analysis of macro drivers and price developments in energy markets
ACGB trade ideas in ACGB RV and Xmkt. -A$ Rates Spotlight
December 10 2024 • 5 mins
We add two trade ideas- one in this ACGB fly and the other in Xmkt ACGB vs USTs 10/30s and we also flag the NZGB ultra curve as a potential trade idea.
China stimulus signal lifts Aussie off the mat
December 10 2024 • 5 mins
China’s Politburo vowed to embrace more stimulus, giving the limping Aussie a much needed shot in the arm to start the week. Aussie focusses on the RBA, US CPI and more policy news out of China this week.
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 10 December 2024
December 9 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
December 9 2024 • 3 mins
Today's note includes comments on APRA on AT1, Woolworths, ANZ, ColCap and the Credit Fans.
FinanceAM
December 9 2024 • 2 mins
Stimulus talk out of China’s Politburo lifted metals, AUD and NZD. Bond yields reversed Friday’s modest post-payrolls decline while US equities fell slightly.
Investor & Liability Manager Flow Highlights - A$ & NZ$ Rates Strategy
December 9 2024 • 10 mins
Our updated views on A$ and NZ$ Rates markets.
Holding back the Tiers: APRA confirms the phase out of AT1
December 9 2024 • 3 mins
APRA has confirmed that AT1 will be phased out of the bank capital structure. Today’s release has provided little change to the original discussion paper, however it has provided some guidance for banks on expectations during the pre-2027 period and broader thoughts around the Tier 2 construct. Implementation commences now.
Monthly Japanese flow ACGBs/Semis-October
December 9 2024 • 5 mins
The MoF has released Japan’s capital flow data for October which shows Japanese investors sold foreign bonds in most markets over the month. This Included a large chunk of US debt and a second successive sale of Australian debt.
Strategy Views on a Page
December 9 2024 • 6 min
A summary of Westpac Strategy Group's key market views
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 9 December 2024
December 8 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
December 8 2024 • 3 mins
Today's note includes comments on APA, Bluestone and the ASF Conference.
FinanceAM
December 8 2024 • 2 mins
The US dollar rose slightly and bond yields fell modestly in response to a firm non-farm payrolls gain, accompanied by a rise in the unemployment rate.
CER downgrades 2024 issuance forecast
December 6 2024 • 10 mins
ACCU Weekly: CER downgrades 2024 issuance forecast
Westpac ABSolute Coverage - Australian Securitisation Conference 2024 – Wrap-Up
December 6 2024 • 5.8 mins
In the attached note we look at some of the more interesting takeaways from the 2024 ASF Conference.
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 6 December 2024
December 5 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
December 5 2024 • 3 mins
Today's note includes comments on Angle Asset Finance and ColCap.
FinanceAM
December 5 2024 • 2mins
The US dollar fell slightly, while bond yields were little changed amid little major news for markets to digest. Markets await tonight’s important US payrolls data release.
Westpac Strategy Antipodean Daily Wrap
December 5 2024 • 5 mins
Cross market performance of Australia.
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 5 December 2024
December 4 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
December 4 2024 • 3 mins
Today's note includes comments on Fonterra, Bluestone and Angle Asset Finance.
FinanceAM
December 4 2024 • 2mins
The US dollar and bond yields fell in response to softer data on the US services sector, partially retracing later following Fed Chair Powell’s comments advocating caution regarding the easing cycle.
Westpac Strategy Antipodean Daily Wrap
December 4 2024 • 5 mins
Poor Australian GDP sparks big moves…eventually.
NZGB Tender Preview
December 4 2024 • 3mins
A preview of the forthcoming weekly NZGB tender, as well as observations on the NZGB market.
Strategy Views on a Page
December 4 2024 • 6 min
A summary of Westpac Strategy Group's key market views
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 4 December 2024
December 3 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
December 3 2024 • 3 mins
Today's note includes comments on Woolworths and Angle Auto.
FinanceAM
December 3 2024 • 2mins
The US dollar fell slightly, as did short maturity bond yields. Fedspeak was slightly dovish. South Korea’s declaration of martial law caused a brief bid for safe-haven assets.
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 3 December 2024
December 2 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
December 2 2024 • 3 mins
Today's note includes comments on Northern Star and the Credit Fans.
FinanceAM
December 2 2024 • 2mins
The US dollar rose in the wake of the weekend’s Trump comments on the US dollar’s leading global role. Bond yields were mixed, amid solid US economic data.
A closer look at Semi Ratings. - A$ & NZ$ Rates Strategy
December 2 2024 • 10 mins
Our updated views on A$ and NZ$ Rates markets.
NZD FX Weekly
December 2 2024 • 4mins
A weekly update on the market for NZD crosses, including outlooks.
Strategy Views on a Page
December 2 2024 • 6 min
A summary of Westpac Strategy Group's key market views
AUD Rates Morning Chartpacks - 2 December 2024
December 1 2024 • 10 mins
Morning ACGB, Semi, SSA relative value chartpacks.
Around the Grounds
December 1 2024 • 3 mins
Today's note includes comments on the Credit Chart Pack, APRA ADI Stats, Lendlease/Stockland, Virgin Australia, Ampol, the ABS Logbook, Mortgage House, BC Invest and Bluestone.
FinanceAM
December 1 2024 • 2mins
The US dollar and bond yields fell, while equities rose. There was little economic data of note, and market concerns about Trump tariffs have abated.
Thought leadership
Understanding nature impact and dependencies may be easier than you think
December 13 2024 • 7 mins
Awareness of the economic value of nature for business is rising rapidly.
Securitisation issuance grows in strength with diversity
December 11 2024 • 3 mins
2024 began auspiciously as Westpac set the pace for Australian securitisation markets in January with the largest major bank deal in four years.
Mandatory climate reporting: What do you need to know?
December 9 2024 • 5 mins
Australia’s move to mandatory climate reporting represents a major change for larger organisations and a chance to prepare for more sustainability disclosure requirements on the way.
Payments: Building the future of banking in real-time
November 20 2024 • 7 mins
Banks are moving fast, embedding new technologies to embrace the push to real-time payments that’s coming from customers, regulators, payment schemes, and new competition within Australia and across the globe. The impact is transformational and will provide better outcomes for both consumers and large institutions.
Sustainable Finance Market Update
November 4 2024 • 8
In this quarter’s Sustainable Finance Market Update, we cover trends in sustainable debt issuance globally and in the Australian-New Zealand markets, as well as industry insights such as updates to the Green Star Performance for building sustainability and ASFI’s progress on the Australian Sustainable Finance Taxonomy.
Business scams on the rise – be alert!
November 1 2024 • 5 mins
No matter how legitimate a request looks, Westpac is urging customers to be alert to scammers. Here’s how.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - October 2024
October 31 2024 • 7 mins
Welcome to your Westpac IQ monthly wrap on sustainable finance and ESG.Here’s the latest round-up of the standout ESG developments making the headlines, fromindustry highlights to policy updates. Why do they matter? What do they mean for you?
Building momentum for Australia's offshore wind industry
October 23 2024 • 7
Westpac IQ’s new infographic highlights Australia’s advantages and the catalysts for future growth, along with the solutions to accelerate development of the emerging industry.
Inside Westpac's decarbonisation challenge
October 11 2024 • 8
Australia’s oldest bank progresses initiatives to cut greenhouse gas emissions on the way to net-zero.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - September 2024
September 30 2024 • 7 mins
Australia’s transition journey looks a little clearer with the release of the Climate Change Authority’s Sector Pathways Review. Westpac IQ’s ESG Impact explores the report’s highlights, and examines the Federal Government’s updated National Hydrogen Strategy and the latest on corporate transition progress from the Transition Pathway Initiative’s recent report.
Streamlining payments for businesses and governments in real-time
September 12 2024 • 8
A unique Westpac payments platform is making real-time payments for large organisations seamless and safe.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - August 2024
August 30 2024 • 7 mins
While much of the world watched Olympians go for gold, host city Paris kept a close eye on the event’s environmental footprint. In this edition, we look at the greening of the Olympic Games, a new report on decarbonising iron and steel production, fresh plans for Rio Tinto’s Boyne smelter near Gladstone, Boral’s exploration of low-carbon concrete, plus a hospitality giant’s support for the circular economy, and more.
Corporates team up to block cyber threats
August 13 2024 • 10
A new partnership designed to share collective cyber intelligence amongst some of Australia’s biggest corporations is honing more effective ways to counter cyberattacks.
Q2 2024 Sustainable Finance Market Update
August 8 2024 • 9
In this quarter’s Sustainable Finance Market Update, we cover trends in sustainable debt issuance globally and in the Australian-New Zealand markets, as well as insights from Westpac and Economist Impact’s Financing for Sustainability Report on the Asia-Pacific sustainable finance market.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - July 2024
July 29 2024 • 7 mins
The latest edition of Westpac IQ’s ESG Impact puts energy investment in the spotlight with the recent release of the International Energy Agency’s World Energy Investment 2024 report. We also explore new recommendations for increasing First Nations employment in the clean energy industry, the environmental impact of artificial intelligence, efforts to cut the carbon footprint of fashion, and more.
Growing the links in sustainable supply chains
July 29 2024 • 10
How are organisations making their supply chains future-fit on the pathway to a more sustainable future? A recent Women in Sustainable Finance panel event at Westpac’s Melbourne HQ uncovered some innovative ideas.
Beating the scammers
July 18 2024 • 7 mins
Australian banks are collaborating to tackle the cyber crime challenge with a range of measures, including ‘confirmation of payee’ systems. Westpac experts outline what to expect.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - June 2024
June 27 2024 • 7 mins
There were several roadmaps to follow this month, with the Federal Government outlining its courses of action on sustainable finance and decarbonising the transport sector. We also report on the progress of zero-emissions haulage, a groundbreaking new electricity deal for a New Zealand aluminium smelter, how sustainable snake meat may boost food security, and more.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - May 2024
May 28 2024 • 7 mins
This edition explores the bumper investment in renewables in the Federal Budget 2024-5, how energy giants are breathing new life into ageing coal-fired assets, sustainability R&D in the red meat and livestock industry, new priorities announced at the First Nations Clean Energy Symposium, and more.
Infographic: Future prospects for Australia’s transition minerals
May 21 2024 • 5
Uncertainty driven by plummeting prices formed the prevailing theme for Australia’s critical minerals sector in early 2024, but – by contrast – the long-term outlook continues to be particularly bright.
Federal Budget 2024-25: The impact by sector
May 21 2024 • 7 mins
At first glance, everyone will be a winner following the Federal Budget 2024-25, but what are the likely longer-term outcomes for different sectors of the Australian economy? A team of Westpac analysts digs deeper to find out.
New report: How credibility is reshaping sustainable finance
May 10 2024 • 2 mins
Positive themes are emerging in sustainable finance, despite the Asia-Pacific markets following a recent global trend to consolidation, according to the new Financing for sustainability: Asia-Pacific’s ESG market opportunities report commissioned by Westpac.
Q1 2024 Sustainable Finance Market Update
May 6 2024 • 9
Welcome to Westpac IQ’s quarterly sustainable finance market update.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - April 2024
April 23 2024 • 5 mins
This month we report on the looming deadline for large corporations and asset managers to prepare for mandatory climate reporting in Australia, Queensland’s new legislation with ambitious targets for carbon emissions and renewable energy, plus the faster focus on nature-based that’s coming from corporates and government, and more.
How carbon markets are rising to the net-zero challenge
April 10 2024 • 2 mins
The credibility of the Australian carbon market is growing as it continues to put in place the necessary integrity-enhancing infrastructure and governance, paving the pathway to realise some forecasts of Australia becoming one of the world’s largest producers of carbon credits.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - March 2024
March 27 2024 • 7 mins
This month we bring you positive indicators for an increase in appetite for large-scale renewable energy projects, a breakthrough likely to expand solar cell production across different sectors of the economy, and developments in a new scheme for soft plastics recycling in Australia, and more.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - February 2024
February 28 2024 • 5 mins
This month we report on how the latest boom in battery industry activity could have exponential impact, new Australian Government support for the critical minerals industry, the surge in sustainable bonds, and more.
Q4 2023 Sustainable Finance Market Update
February 11 2024 • 9
Welcome to Westpac IQ’s quarterly sustainable finance market update.
ESG Impact: 5 themes and developments to watch in 2024
February 1 2024 • 5
Welcome to the first ESG Impact for 2024, which looks set to be an eventful year for climate policy. We’ve compiled a list of five key Australia-based ESG policy changes, standards and regulations to keep on your radar for the year ahead and what they’re likely to mean for you.
Positive momentum in the Australian structured finance market
December 6 2023 • 5 mins
The structured finance market has seen positive momentum over 2023 with significant levels of primary market activity and a robust secondary market buoyed by increasing global participation.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - November 2023
November 30 2023 • 7 mins
This month we look ahead to COP28 and the first Global Stocktake to gauge worldwide progress toward the Paris agreement goals, and we report an upswing in activity around sector-specific transition, and much more.
Pressure testing Australia’s hydrogen dream
November 16 2023 • 5 mins
Enough of the dreaming, it’s time for tangible policies and action on Australia’s plans to develop a green hydrogen industry, says Westpac’s Head of Energy, Infrastructure and Resources David Scrivener.
Sustainable Finance Q3 2023 Market Update
November 14 2023 • 8
Welcome to Westpac IQ’s quarterly sustainable finance market update.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - October 2023
October 31 2023 • 5 mins
This month we are reporting on delays in renewables generation in Australia, draft standards for mandatory disclosure for Australian businesses, new global commitments on critical minerals, and much more.
Offshore wind: Turning on renewable energy’s next generation
October 23 2023 • 8
A global market is booming, and developers and investors are eyeing the huge potential of Australia’s world class offshore wind resources as the nascent industry starts to move ahead.
Reimagining power stations: Next generation assets
October 17 2023 • 8
Drawing on existing skill sets and infrastructure, old coal-fired power stations are being repurposed into renewable energy hubs and vibrant community assets as the low-carbon transition gains pace.
New report: A reality check for Australia’s great hydrogen dream
October 8 2023 • 5
Can Australia still realise its dream to become a clean hydrogen superpower? A new report by Westpac Institutional Bank and AFRIntelligence pressure-tests the viability of the nation’s ambitions with a group of energy industry leaders.
Payments transformation: Get ready for exponential change
October 5 2023 • 10
There’s no time to lose with a new strategic plan for Australia’s payment system enmeshing all industry players in a seven-year transformation journey, but it’s just one of many forces to watch.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - September 2023
September 28 2023 • 7 mins
This month we report on Australian companies’ challenges in meeting net-zero targets, some breakthroughs on the way to a circular economy, a gap in funding for biodiversity solutions, plus a trailblazing sustainability linked loan that puts the emphasis on social impact.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - August 2023
August 31 2023 • 6 mins
This month we report on key developments from the Australian federal and state governments, plans for a green tariff to keep Australian companies internationally competitive, the latest evolution in biodiversity markets, and more.
Biodiversity: Our dependence on nature
August 23 2023 • 5 mins
Expectations on businesses to manage biodiversity risk and opportunities are growing, so how are organisations stepping up to measure their nature footprints?
Sustainable Finance Q2 2023 Market Update
August 15 2023 • 7
Welcome to Westpac IQ’s quarterly sustainable finance market update.
11 key lessons from Australia’s cyber crime challenge
August 10 2023 • 6
From misappropriated passwords to fake audio and video calls, the ruses of cyber criminals are escalating in sophistication as they proliferate in numbers.
ESG Impact: what you need to know - July 2023
July 28 2023 • 5 mins
Welcome to our latest round-up of the standout ESG developments making the headlines, from corporate highlights to policy updates. What’s happening locally and globally? Why does it matter? What does it mean for you?
How to navigate the latest cyber scams
June 30 2023 • 5 mins
As financial losses to cyber fraud ratchet-up across Australia’s business community, Westpac experts explain the latest criminal tactics and how businesses can best avoid them.
ESG Impact: what you need to know - June 2023
June 29 2023 • 5 mins
Welcome to the June round-up of the standout ESG developments making the headlines, from corporate highlights to policy updates. What's happening globally? Why does it matter? What does it mean for you?
Safeguard Mechanism new rules snapshot
June 14 2023 • 3 mins
Significant structural changes are set to redefine carbon markets and pricing as part of Australia’s push for a more sustainable future.
ESG Impact: what you need to know - May 2023
May 30 2023 • 5 mins
Welcome to the May round-up of the standout ESG developments making the headlines, from corporate highlights to policy updates. What's happening globally? Why does it matter? What does it mean for you?
Counting the cost of carbon
May 29 2023 • 7 mins
Reforms to the nation’s Safeguard Mechanism are the latest tool in the Federal Government’s bid to achieve its 2030 and 2050 greenhouse gas emissions targets.
Federal Budget 2023: The impact by sector
May 17 2023 • 10 mins
There’s a surplus and plenty of winners, but what will the Federal Budget 2023-4 mean for different sectors of the Australian economy? A team of Westpac analysts explains in this exclusive report.
ESG Impact: what you need to know - April 2023
May 1 2023 • 5 mins
Welcome to the April round-up of the standout ESG developments making the headlines, from corporate highlights to policy updates. What’s happening globally? Why does it matter? What does it mean for you?
Payments innovation: Trends to watch in 2023
March 30 2023 • 5 mins
Whether it’s cross-border or domestic, the pace of change in payments is moving fast. Westpac’s Global Head of Product Nish Dharmaratne outlines what to expect in the months ahead.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - March 2023
March 26 2023 • 5 mins
Welcome to this month’s round-up of the standout ESG developments making the headlines, from corporate highlights to policy updates. What’s happening globally? Why does it matter? What does it mean for you?
ESG Impact: What you need to know - February 2023
February 27 2023 • 5 mins
Welcome to Westpac IQ’s first monthly round-up for 2023 of the latest standout ESG developments making the headlines, from corporate highlights to policy updates. What's happening globally? Why does it matter? What does it mean for you?
How digital innovation is transforming supply chains
February 20 2023 • 5 mins
As businesses prepare for 2023 and beyond, innovation in supply chains is not only changing the way they operate but potentially revolutionising entire sectors.
The race to circularity: Can Australia meet the 2030 deadline?
January 30 2023 • 5 mins
A circular economy policy has been declared, but will Australia make the transformation in the next eight years? An expert panel considers some of the big strides and step changes in the race ahead.
How to navigate 2023: Trends and tactics
December 12 2022 • 5 mins
Experts at the Westpac Sustainable Future Forum delivered cues for action for Australian business leaders as they prepare for a new year dealing with a range of highly dynamic issues.
Fast-tracking sustainability: ‘Acknowledge that it’s hard’
December 7 2022 • 7 mins
Australia’s financial system is reshaping towards a resilient and inclusive future, but there’s still much to do, industry experts agreed at the launch of ASFI’s latest Progress Tracker.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - November 2022
November 30 2022 • 7
Your round-up of the latest standout ESG developments making the headlines, from corporate highlights to policy updates. What’s happening globally? Why does it matter? What does it mean for you?
Sibos 2022: New global priorities for payments
November 22 2022 • 5 mins
This year’s Sibos conference flagged the need for banks and their customers to get ready for the new world of instant global payments. Westpac’s Jeff Byrne and Nish Dharmaratne explain what’s on the way.
Federal Budget 2022: The impact by sector
November 6 2022 • 10 mins
The first Federal Budget by the Albanese government presented many potential positives, but in this sector-by-sector analysis Westpac experts ask how deliverable some will be due to ongoing workforce shortages.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - October 2022
October 31 2022 • 7 mins
Welcome to this month’s round-up of the standout ESG developmentsmaking the headlines, from corporate highlights to policy updates.What’s happening globally? Why does it matter? What does it mean foryou?
Momentum behind sustainable finance innovation
October 25 2022 • 10 mins
The size and breadth of the sustainable finance market has grown and with it the ambition of its participants. In September, KangaNews Sustainable Finance and Westpac Institutional Bank hosted a group of borrowers, each of which has expanded the boundaries of what is achievable in the Australian market, to discuss their motivations, aspirations and challenges.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - September 2022
September 28 2022 • 7 mins
In Westpac IQ’s September wrap of the latest ESG developments making the headlines, Westpac Institutional Bank’s team of ESG experts explain what’s happening globally, why it matters and what it means for you.
Scaling hurdles in the race to net-zero
September 9 2022 • 5 mins
As one of the major roadblocks to sustainable finance looks set to shift, more than a third of companies say they will be issuing or utilising green or social funding for the first time in the next year
Cheat sheet: Carbon trading in Australia and beyond
September 5 2022 • 10 mins
Westpac IQ asks three experts to explain how carbon markets work and unpack the reasons for the rapidly rising demand in Australia for high-integrity carbon offset schemes.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - August 2022
August 31 2022 • 7 mins
In Westpac IQ’s August wrap of the latest ESG developments making the headlines, Westpac Institutional Bank’s team of ESG experts explain what’s happening globally, why it matters and what it means for you.
Hydrogen’s central role in decarbonising Australia’s economy
August 25 2022 • 7 mins
Touting benefits of lower costs and greater energy security, Australia’s gas distributors explain their transition plans for a green hydrogen future and what needs to change to make it happen.
How decarbonisation is reshaping business
August 17 2022 • 7 mins
From disruption to shifting priorities, three Australian business leaders explain how decarbonisation is changing their organisations.
Foundations for success in the new data era
August 2 2022 • 5 mins
To extract maximum value from data, organisations are reshaping their data strategies. Westpac’s DataX offering is helping Australia’s top businesses and Government embrace the change.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - July 2022
July 29 2022 • 10 mins
In our July wrap of the latest ESG developments, Westpac Institutional Bank’s team of ESG experts explain what’s happening domestically and locally, why it matters, and what it means for you.
Rising to the transition challenge
July 26 2022 • 7 mins
To mark Westpac joining the global UN-convened Net-Zero Banking Alliance, two of the bank’s ESG thought leaders outline how it’s leaning into the transition of hard-to-abate industries – and why.
Inside Asia-Pacific’s sustainable finance surge
July 4 2022 • 5 mins
Two Australian corporate leaders explain what’s changing for companies and investors as uptake of sustainable finance opportunities rapidly surges across the Asia-Pacific.
ESG Impact: What you need to know – June 2022
June 28 2022 • 5 mins
In our June wrap of the latest ESG developments, Westpac Institutional Bank’s team of ESG experts explain what’s happening domestically and locally, why it matters, and what it means for you.
Data insights: a new currency for strategic growth
June 9 2022 • 7 mins
Westpac DataX gives business and government access to powerful data insights to inform decision-making and achieve growth through sophisticated data analytics.
Navigating the digital highway
June 8 2022 • 7 mins
Digital connectivity and data have transformed the way organisations operate. Keeping pace with accelerating digital evolution is essential for long-term success.
Hydrogen: Steps towards Australia’s powerhouse plan
June 7 2022 • 7 mins
CSIRO Hydrogen Industry Mission Leader Patrick Hartley outlines some of the key moves required for Australia to realise its plans to become a major hydrogen exporter in this Q+A for Westpac IQ.
Valuing Nature - Seeing the Ecological Assets through the Trees
May 29 2022 • 15 mins
Is it possible to attach a monetary value to something as seemingly priceless as Nature? For Tasmanian forestry management and timber plantation company Forico, the answer is yes.
ESG Impact: What you need to know - May 2022
May 23 2022 • 10 mins
In our May wrap of the latest ESG developments, Westpac Institutional Bank’s team of ESG experts explain what’s happening domestically and locally, why it matters, and what it means for you.
Realising Australia’s rare earths’ potential
May 5 2022 • 10 mins
Massive growth potential is anticipated for rare earths, the crucial raw materials for wind turbines and electric vehicle motors, which will play a central role in global decarbonisation efforts.
Budget 2022: Analysis sector by sector
April 11 2022 • 20 mins
One-off payments to ease Australians’ cost-of-living pressures were this year’s Budget scene-stealers, but who will be the longer-term beneficiaries? Westpac Institutional Bank analysts reveal its impact by sector.
Green lights for lithium producers
April 6 2022 • 10 mins
Massive growth in the electric vehicle market has spurred global interest in Australia as a source of sustainably produced lithium. Two industry leaders share their insights with Westpac IQ on how the sector is powering ahead.
Payments Innovation: Trends to watch in 2022
March 23 2022 • 15 mins
Reform of Australia’s A$650 billion-a-day payments industry is long overdue, but will the changes come at the cost of creativity across this rapidly changing landscape?
Next Phase for Corporate Debt
March 16 2022 • 5 mins
Financial markets are at the heart of era-defining changes happening in today’s world. How adequately the Australian market rises to the challenge will help define its own future and that of the whole economy.
Sustainable finance hits fast forward
March 10 2022 • 1 mins
A new survey by Economist Impact for Westpac Institutional Bank shows how sustainable finance is forging ahead as a core strategy for issuers and investors across the Asia Pacific, and what’s holding it back.
How corporate treasurers are taking the lead on ESG
February 23 2022 • 7 mins
Corporate treasurers are increasingly engaging with the ESG goals of their organisations and turning to green finance products to help achieve their treasury objectives.
The rapid rise of sustainable finance
December 12 2021 • 7 mins
2021 has been a massive year for sustainability broadly, and the ever-sharpening global focus can be clearly gauged by the rapid evolution and upward trajectory of sustainable finance.
Holding businesses accountable for sustainability
December 6 2021 • 15 mins
Sustainability is indisputably now a top agenda item for all businesses and, while it presents many challenges for organisations, the welcome news is that greater clarity is looming around one of the persistent uncertainties: how to report?
SIBOS 2021: Key trends and themes
November 29 2021 • 7 mins
From innovative payments methods to new standards for interoperability, global financial leaders explored how banks are disrupting themselves and fast evolving at Sibos 2021. Here Westpac IQ talks to the key trends and themes to come out of the conference.
Reforming Australia’s energy future
November 28 2021 • 10 mins
Renewables sector concerns around a “fit-for-purpose” grid are expected to be tempered by the latest recommendations of the Energy Security Board, its Chairman Kerry Schott tells the AFR as part of Westpac Institutional Bank’s Reforming the Grid discussion.
Cyber safety: New insights for countering threats
October 14 2021 • 5 mins
To maximise their cyber safety, businesses must learn to “drive defensively” in the face of ever mounting and evolving risks. Westpac experts highlighted critical actions to counter the most prevalent threats in a recent virtual forum.
Addressing social issues with sustainable finance
October 7 2021 • 10 mins
A surge in socially driven sustainable finance brought on by COVID-19 looks set to endure. In this third report by Bloomberg Media Studios for Westpac IQ, we examine some of the key developments underway globally likely to accelerate further uptake.
Building muscle memory to tackle cyber risk
October 6 2021 • 7 mins
Mature organisations must recognise today’s complex kaleidoscope of cybercrime is a business risk that will inevitably be realised – and plan accordingly, leading Australian cyber expert Alastair MacGibbon told a recent Westpac webcast.
Cybercrime’s rising scale of deceit
October 5 2021 • 3 mins
Deception on the internet continues to grow by the day. One of the most intriguing forms of cyber deceit is the rapidly evolving field of fake people - better known as deepfakes.
Wesfarmers' trailblazing Sustainability-Linked Bond
September 15 2021 • 7 mins
In a trailblazing issuance for the local market, Wesfarmers launched the first Australian dollar denominated sustainability-linked bond (SLB) in June this year, raising AUD 1 billion in a transaction that was enthusiastically over-subscribed by approximately 2.5 times.
Closing the loop: Rethinking digital supply chains
September 7 2021 • 7 mins
The transformative potential of data generated through digital supply chains is now capturing the attention of senior executive teams and boards as companies position themselves for greater resilience and growth in a post-pandemic world.
Western Sydney: From growth dynamic to new dynamic
September 2 2021 • 7 mins
The pandemic coincided with the end of a prolonged growth surge in Western Sydney, according to a new report that analyses the region’s past prosperity and explores what needs to change to boost its economic prospects in the post-pandemic future.
Rebooting manufacturing will buoy the economy
August 29 2021 • 5 mins
The outlook for Australian manufacturing is looking bright – from consumers turning their attention to locally-made goods and the onshoring of supply chains, to the economic boost for specific sectors from the Australian Government’s AUD1.5 billion Modern Manufacturing Strategy. However, in a recent Rebooting Manufacturing roundtable leading manufacturers identified key challenges to be addressed before the sector can be fully revitalised.
2021 trends to watch: BNPL on the money
July 28 2021 • 10 mins
In a fast-changing payments landscape, buy-now-pay-later services are an increasingly powerful tool for businesses seeking to drive up revenue and deliver a superior payments customer experience. Here’s why.
Data and AI: The next revolution
July 26 2021 • 5 mins
From honing competitive edge to solving complex social problems, adoption of data analytics and artificial intelligence is transforming the way businesses operate and informing government policymaking.
Sustainable finance for a world in transition
July 7 2021 • 7 mins
In its second report on the fast-evolving field of sustainable finance for Westpac IQ, Bloomberg interviews leading international experts on the latest in transition finance and how the market is maturing.
How to develop a winning hybrid cloud strategy
July 5 2021 • 7 mins
Migration of workloads to the cloud was one of the digital trends rapidly escalated by pandemic lockdowns. We explain what makes a hybrid cloud strategy fly.
Cybercrime: Countering the latest threats
June 1 2021 • 7 mins
Cyber attacks on public sector organisations are on the rise, both in volume and levels of sophistication. Westpac experts deliver insights on the latest rouses of cyber criminals and how to counter them.
Western Sydney Aerotropolis: Next steps for lift-off
May 27 2021 • 7 mins
Extensive rezoning of land has cleared the way for the fast-tracking of the Aerotropolis development in Western Sydney. Guests at a Westpac-sponsored event were given an update on progress.
Federal Budget 2021: Analysis by sector
May 25 2021 • 7 mins
Widespread job creation is the attention-grabber in this year’s Federal Budget, Westpac Institutional Bank analysts explain its likely impacts, sector by sector.
Thinking like a hacker keeps organisations safe
May 21 2021 • 7 mins
The mass shift to digital, accelerated by the pandemic, has exposed networks and data to new cyber security risks. Ethical hacking is a vital resource in the first line of defence.
Big opportunities in the RCEP trade deal
May 11 2021 • 7 mins
Australian businesses can look forward to massive potential opportunities predicted to come from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement.
A clear-cut path for defining sustainable investments
May 7 2021 • 7 mins
Westpac IQ has partnered with Bloomberg Media Studios to examine the EU taxonomy and its likely impact on Australian businesses.
Digital game-changers in financial markets
March 30 2021 • 7 mins
Digitisation is driving competitive edge in financial markets globally. Giulio Katis, Head of Financial Markets eCommerce at Westpac Institutional Bank, explains what’s on the way.
KangaNews - The big renewal
March 29 2021 • 7 mins
Westpac Institutional Bank is taking a lead position in Australia’s renewable-energy space – a key sector for investment growth.
IWD 2021: The female changemakers in financial leadership
March 9 2021 • 7 mins
In the final video in our series we discover how our four women executives chose to challenge to make it into top roles in finance. What were their game-changing experiences?
IWD 2021: Four women in finance on their greatest career challenge
March 8 2021 • 7 mins
Four months into her role as Group Chief Financial Officer at Qantas, Vanessa Hudson faced her greatest career challenge when she realised Australia’s national airline would lose all its forward revenue.
IWD 2021: How does diversity bring on change?
March 7 2021 • 7 mins
Four trailblazing women who ‘chose to challenge’ to make it into senior executive roles in finance share their compelling insights with Westpac IQ for International Women’s Day 2021.
The emerging threat of deepfake technology
February 16 2021 • 7 mins
Deepfake technology has mainly targeted individuals – particularly women – but there is now a growing expectation that the increased availability of technologies will, inevitably, be used by organised crime against businesses.
2021 trends: What’s next for payments?
February 10 2021 • 7 mins
The ever-dynamic payments space gained further momentum in 2020. Nish Dharmaratne, Global Head of Product, provides an insider view on some of the key payments trends to watch in 2021.
New directions for Australia's green bond market
February 4 2021 • 7 mins
Increasing emphasis on ESG in the wake of the pandemic looks set to power growth for green bonds and provide lift-off for further sustainability-focused bonds.
A burning issue: Turning waste into energy
December 10 2020 • 7 mins
As Australia plays catch-up on turning waste into energy, this Westpac IQ cheat sheet explains how it works.
Leading the way on sustainable and renewables finance
November 24 2020 • 5 mins
As Australia’s economy recalibrates, the transition to clean, green energy will gain further momentum, predict experts at Westpac, the country’s leading lender to greenfield renewable energy, and the bank is ready to support the next phase. Here’s how.
Transurban: The quiet revolution in roads
October 20 2020 • 5 mins
After a year of video-conferencing and remote technologies, we’re entering a new era of innovation in mobility, transportation and physical connectivity, explains Transurban CFO Adam Watson in this Q+A for Westpac IQ by Reuters Plus.
Paving the way for a smarter motoring future
September 30 2020 • 5 mins
As the uptake of electric vehicles in Australia starts to surge, Charles Griplas, Managing Director of Melbourne tollway operator ConnectEast, gives Westpac IQ the steer on what’s driving consumer preferences towards a more sustainable motoring future.