The RBA shocked markets this week by keeping interest rates on hold at 3.85%, despite widespread expectations for a third cut in five months. That decision left millions of mortgage holders disappointed and raised new questions about the central bank’s strategy as inflation continues to ease.

This week on the podcast, Chris Bourke speaks with economy reporter Swati Pandey about why markets misread the RBA, what Governor Michele Bullock’s signals mean for future moves, and what could prompt the next cut. They also unpack the impact on housing and how global risks like President Trump’s tariff threats are complicating the outlook.

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Australians have enthusiastically embraced rooftop solar panels. Now the government has introduced a A$2.3 billion rebate plan to get more people to install batteries at their homes, to store all of that solar power to smooth out supply at times of peak demand. This week on the podcast, Rebecca Jones talks to energy reporter Keira Wright about why the government wants more batteries, how much people stand to save under the rebate scheme, and what it all means for the country’s power supply.

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Virgin Australia is back on the ASX after a five-year absence, marking the biggest IPO so far this year. Once grounded by the pandemic, the airline is now making money again and flying under new leadership.

This week on the podcast, Rebecca Jones talks to Angus Whitley about the airline’s financial reboot, its rivalry with Qantas, the risks of private equity ownership, and whether this new Virgin can deliver for both investors and travelers.

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