Inflation stories - Page 2

Boards enter 2026 pushing AI from experiments to governed, resilient systems as volatile economies demand proof of value and stability.

After a bruising 2025, falling inflation, rate cuts and small-cap strength are teeing up 2026 as the widest market rally in years.

AI dominates CEO earnings calls for the first time, as leaders pair record investment pledges with mounting warnings of an AI market bubble.

Energy bills surge for Australian SMEs as federal rebates end, driving cost cuts, delayed investment and a pivot to digital and AI tools.

CBA data shows wage growth nudging higher while jobs remain steady, reinforcing expectations the RBA will stay cautious on interest rates.

Australian holiday shoppers are spending strategically, forcing retailers to sharpen promotions, personalise offers and boost in-store experience.

Crypto fans pen a festive wishlist to Santa, hoping 2026 brings calmer markets, clearer rules and fewer awkward family debates.

CMC says AI, energy, robotics, defence and store-of-value trades will be the “Furious Five” megatrends steering markets into 2026.

Retailers in Australia and New Zealand must act like technology firms, using real-time data and strong security to thrive during peak shopping seasons.

Small businesses in Australia and New Zealand report high confidence ahead of the holidays, despite financial pressures and concerns over AI in marketing.

Australian holiday spending is set to rise 18% to AUD $969 per shopper, driven by price hikes and stress, with many using AI to aid gift buying this season.

As small businesses surge in Australia, aligning physical branding with digital presence is now essential for customer trust, loyalty and growth.

Australia's tech sector sees 4.4% job growth and rising wages, yet cities like Brisbane and Perth face hiring declines amid reduced working hours.

Australian SMBs spend on average AUD $7,600 yearly on recruitment, yet only 6% rate their hiring process as excellent amid economic struggles.

As Asia Pacific factories adopt AI and IoT, cybersecurity becomes crucial amid rising ransomware, with 21% of global attacks targeting manufacturing.

Kiwi investors face rising risks by focusing solely on local markets, as a 10% NZD drop boosts returns for those diversifying into global equities, especially US tech.

Rising economic pressures drive UK, US and Australian proposal teams to adopt AI, boosting bid quality and revenue despite tougher market conditions.

Research shows 79% of Australian small businesses linking milestone celebrations with better performance, yet only 21% take time to mark achievements.

AI is transforming procurement, shifting focus from 'future-proofing' to being future-ready by boosting agility and resilience amid global disruptions.

Global volatility is revealing key risks in Asia Pacific firms' finance operations, with fragmented intercompany processes causing cash and compliance issues.