The Economy, Stupid cover image

The Economy, Stupid

Is the Reserve Bank doing a good enough job?

Sep 12, 2024
John Simon, former Head of Economic Research at the Reserve Bank and now an Adjunct Professor at Macquarie University, shares insights on the Reserve Bank's performance amid rising interest rates. He discusses the ongoing tensions between the government and the RBA, the challenges in assessing its effectiveness beyond inflation rates, and the importance of transparency in economic forecasting. Additionally, he reflects on the role of trust in expert advice and the need for improved governance. The conversation also touches on evolving trends in financial literacy and children's pocket money.
29:03

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The proposed reforms to establish separate boards within the RBA aim to enhance governance and improve monetary policy effectiveness in Australia.
  • Increasing the transparency of the RBA's forecasting process may bolster public confidence and encourage accountability in its decision-making.

Deep dives

RBA Reforms and Accountability

The proposal to establish two separate boards within the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) aims to improve monetary policy governance. One board would specifically manage monetary policy, determining the cash rate, while the other would focus on governance to enhance the bank's performance. Discussions around these reforms have stalled, leaving the current single-board structure intact. Experts argue that implementing these reforms could significantly benefit Australia's economy in the long term, fostering greater transparency and accountability within the institution.

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