Key Takeaway: Goldman Sachs cuts Australia’s GDP forecast to 1.8% for 2025, citing anticipated spillovers from President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed 60% tariffs on Chinese exports.
Goldman’s Revised Outlook
- Economic Growth:
- 2025 GDP forecast lowered from 2% to 1.8%, reflecting the impact on exports to China, Australia’s largest trading partner.
- Tariff Impact:
- Trump’s protectionist policies are expected to hurt China-Australia trade, creating broader economic headwinds for Australia.
Monetary Policy Outlook
- Interest Rates:
- Goldman predicts the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will cut rates in February 2025, reaching a terminal rate of 3.25% by November.
- Current market consensus expects easing to begin in May, highlighting Goldman’s more dovish stance.
- Inflation and Spending:
- Elevated rates (currently 4.35%) have dampened consumer spending, contributing to the slowdown.
Fiscal Stimulus and Election Dynamics
- Federal Election by May 2025:
- Voter-friendly policies could provide an economic boost, with measures like:
- Energy rebates
- Expanded rental assistance
- University debt reductions
- Upside Risks:
- Potential for new fiscal stimulus ahead of elections may counteract some tariff-related challenges.
New Zealand Outlook
- Interest Rates:
- Goldman expects the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) to cut rates in 50 basis-point increments in November and February, slowing to 25 basis points per meeting.
- Terminal rate projected at 3% by July 2025.
Broader Implications
Trump’s tariffs are poised to disrupt global trade, disproportionately affecting economies heavily reliant on China, like Australia. While fiscal stimulus ahead of elections may cushion the impact, trade uncertainty and high rates will remain key challenges for Australia’s growth trajectory in 2025.
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