The Economy, Stupid

Most Australians die with more money than they retired with. Are we squirrelling away too much into super — and if so, who benefits?

Every Australian generation has expected to be more prosperous, healthier and safer than the last. But the latest national wellbeing data tells a more complicated story.

In this discussion, Anna Scarbeck, Chief Executive of ClimateWorks, and Michael Yander, ABC Business Editor, delve into Australia's ambitious 2035 climate target. They debate the balance between political caution and scientific ambition, exploring the economic implications of meeting these goals. The conversation highlights various policy options, including carbon pricing and sector plans, while assessing the urgency of action in light of potential economic risks. Their insights reveal whether this target is a strategic move or a missed opportunity.

Amelia Terzon, an ABC National business reporter, and Felicity Dean, a trade law expert from the Queensland University of Technology, dive into the impacts of new U.S. trade barriers on Australian businesses. They discuss how rising tariffs are squeezing small retailers and complicating shipping regulations. The conversation shifts to the legal battles surrounding these tariffs and their potential consequences on the separation of powers. The urgency of navigating chaotic grant applications and future Supreme Court decisions adds to the pressing stakes for international trade.

Australia's GDP is climbing, but is that making life better for everyday citizens? The podcast digs into the gap between economic metrics and personal experiences. It critiques traditional measures like GDP and GNI, exploring their real implications on well-being. Global trade is surprisingly resilient against tariffs, raising questions about future economic literacy. Geopolitical tensions with the US and China pose unique challenges, while the discussion on well-being indicators urges caution in interpreting market trends.

James Ayres, a banking specialist, and Megan Flamer, a tech entrepreneur, delve into the tumultuous journey of Australia's banks after the Royal Commission scandal. They discuss how the Commonwealth Bank maintains its dominance and consumer loyalty amidst public skepticism. The conversation covers the complexities of banking fees that impact consumer trust, ethical dilemmas in workplace monitoring, and the humorous struggles of compliance in a return-to-office culture. Can the banking sector truly regain trust in a time of innovation and scrutiny?

Dan Ziffer, an ABC business reporter, and Amy Oster, a former senior Treasury official, dive into Australia's economic stagnation. They discuss the alarming decline in competition and the pressing need for reforms to revive the economy. With insights from a recent summit, they explore the challenges of government incentives and the impact of a crucial court ruling on workplace regulations. The conversation also sheds light on progress in gender pay equity and the ongoing wage gap, making for a compelling discussion on Australia’s economic future.

Treasury has warned that Australia’s tax base is shrinking - and without reform, wage earners will carry more of the burden. So, who should pay more tax: workers, wealthy retirees, or big business?

This week on The Economy, Stupid: the biggest superannuation scandal in Australian history — and who should have stopped it.

Australians are still in work, and inflation is coming down, yet economic uncertainty is far higher now that it was during the peak of COVID.So why are so many of us feeling uneasy?