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CBA rates call: RBA expected to lift rates in March and May as Iran conflict boosts inflation risk

Strong local economic conditions are expected to outweigh global uncertainty in the RBA’s next rate decisions.

 

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Video features

Oil is the starting ingredient for petrol, diesel and jet fuel. When its price rises, it can push up transport costs, which can gradually make many everyday things more expensive, even for people who never visit a service station.

February marks the first monthly decline since September 2024 as spending begins to soften. CommBank senior economist Ashwin Clarke explains the data.

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Regional

'Never seen this': fuel shortages hit farming towns

Regional towns are reporting fuel shortages, with some stations running out completely as prices rise in the wake of fresh conflict in the Middle E...
16 March 2026
Wealth

Alarm as Gen Z turns to 'finfluencers' for money advice

Social media is fuelling riskier financial investments with nearly two out of three young people turning to platforms for advice on their money.
16 March 2026
Business

Australian shares drop as Iran war enters third week

Australian shares slipped as the Israel-Iran war dragged into a third week, with investors also bracing for this week’s RBA rates decision.
16 March 2026
Technology

The difference a sponsor makes for women in tech

Having a sponsor can be the difference between being capable and being seen, pairing high-performing women in tech with senior advocates who open d...
16 March 2026
Economy

Global instability, inflation and interest rates: what it could mean for Australia’s housing market

CommBank Premier Banking's Property Pulse event explored how global volatility is shaping Australia’s economic outlook.
16 March 2026
Economy

Fuel reserves released as government moves to steady supply

Hundreds of millions of litres of extra fuel will flood the market in response to price increases and supply shortages caused by the Middle East war.
13 March 2026

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Newsroom Insights

Insights, explainers and features exploring the economy and the latest financial news.

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Featured stories

Luke Yeaman

What you need to know about Middle East conflict and higher oil prices, even if you don’t own a car

Economy
Oil prices can affect everyday Australians far beyond what it costs to fill up your car. Why are they so important to the economy? 

 

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How to make CommBank Newsroom a preferred source on Google

Community
How to choose CommBank as one of your preferred sources for news, analysis, information and announcements.

 

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What is capital gains tax and why is everyone talking about it again?

Economy
Capital gains tax is back in the news again. What is it, where did it come from, and what's behind this latest discussion?

 

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Journalists and members of the media can contact the CBA Media team by calling 02 9595 3219 or email us via [email protected]. For all other enquiries, here's how to get in touch.

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