FEAR & GREED | Business News $250b public servant bill; Microsoft CoPilot backdown; Trump’s tough few days
Nov 6, 2025
Public servant wages soar to a staggering $250 billion, raising inflation concerns. Microsoft faces backlash, offering refunds for allegedly misleading sales. National Australia Bank’s profits plummet, creating investor unrest. A treasure trove of Jim Morrison's lost recordings is rediscovered in Tasmania. Meanwhile, Donald Trump endures a challenging week with political setbacks and declining approval ratings. The discussion also touches on trade figures and the competitive landscape of AI, with speculations about China taking the lead.
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Rising Public Sector Bill Risks Inflation
- Australia’s public service wages bill surged to nearly $250 billion, driven by more hires and big pay rises in areas like healthcare and aged care.
- The hosts argue this scale likely adds to aggregate demand and inflationary pressure despite government claims otherwise.
NAB Faces Margin And Cost Headwinds
- National Australia Bank reported a slight profit drop to $7.1 billion with concerns about higher costs and rising bad loans driving the share price down.
- NAB faces margin pressure in business lending and absorbed a $130 million underpayments bill, highlighting operational headwinds.
Claim Microsoft Co-pilot Refunds Now
- If you were charged for Microsoft Co-pilot features you didn't want, request a refund before the end of the year as Microsoft offered reimbursements to affected customers.
- The ACCC alleged Microsoft hid an option to switch to a cheaper 'Classic Plan' without Co-pilot, which prompted the refunds.