FEAR & GREED | Business News Q+A: The Week Ahead | 17 Nov 2025
Nov 16, 2025
Stephen Koukoulas, a seasoned economist and commentator, joins to delve into the implications of recent strong labour force data. He discusses how this affects hiring dynamics and sector-specific skill shortages. Koukoulas argues that an RBA rate cut is unlikely, emphasizing that the upcoming RBA minutes will shed light on their cautious stance. He highlights the importance of wages growth as a critical barometer for inflation, making for a thought-provoking conversation on the current economic landscape.
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Economist Keeps Tabs Even On Holiday
- Stephen Koukoulas kept up with economic news while holidaying in Italy, checking feeds and listening to Fear & Greed.
- He enjoyed Chianti and Campari soda while still tracking markets informally each day.
Labour Market Showing Resilience
- October's labour force showed resilience with a 42,000 rise in jobs and unemployment down to 4.3%.
- Monthly figures are volatile, but the moving-average outcome aligns with RBA expectations.
Tightness Has Moderated, Not Vanished
- The labour market eased from extreme tightness but still lacks much slack, aided by high immigration.
- Finding staff is easier than a year or two ago but shortages persist in sectors like construction.