The third wheel of economic policy
Craig James
CommSec
I think there are two factors behind low inflation results. The first is the ongoing conservatism post GFC. This will pass in time. The second is “disruption” – the ability of consumers to buy whenever and wherever they want. In the current environment, businesses are more likely to look for ways to cut costs than put up prices. I think in hindsight, we will measure the low inflation period in years rather than decades. But it all depends on technological change and the extent to which more innovations are uncovered allowing businesses to lower prices and compete. The only tool at the Reserve Bank’s disposal to combat low inflation is reducing interest rates. But while the RBA can still cut rates further, it may need to be accompanied by tighter prudential or lending policy by financial regulators – the “third wheel” or economic policy.
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I am married with three children (all in their 20s) and currently live in Huntleys Cove in the inner west of Sydney. Chief interest is athletics and trying to keeping up with the children.My current role is Chief Economist, Commonwealth Securities, interpreting big picture economic and financial trends for customers, clients and staff. Previously I was Chief Economist at Colonial and have worked at the Australian Financial Review as a senior writer.As well as providing presentations to staff and clients and commentaries on financial and economic trends, I appear regularly in the electronic and print media.I have worked in banking, finance and journalism for 38 years.I hold both Bachelor and Master degrees in Commerce (Economics). Both degrees were undertaken at University of NSW. I am an Adjunct Professor at Curtin Business School in Perth.
3 topics
Craig James
Chief Economist
CommSec
I am married with three children (all in their 20s) and currently live in Huntleys Cove in the inner west of Sydney. Chief interest is athletics and trying to keeping up with the children.My current role is Chief Economist, Commonwealth...
Expertise
No areas of expertise
Craig James
Chief Economist
CommSec
I am married with three children (all in their 20s) and currently live in Huntleys Cove in the inner west of Sydney. Chief interest is athletics and trying to keeping up with the children.My current role is Chief Economist, Commonwealth...
Expertise
No areas of expertise
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