This week in banking - Is another RBA cut on the cards?

In this week's banking recap, we take a look at Aussies’ saving and spending habits, an exciting newcomer to the energy market, and the possibility that the Reserve Bank will cut rates again.

Will we see another RBA rate cut?

Just as we were finally winding down from June’s RBA rate cut, it looks like another one might be right around the corner. In a recent speech, RBA Governor, Philip Lowe set the stage for a potential July cut, citing weak employment figures and unsatisfying levels of wage growth. 

If the Board does opt to reduce official interest rates to 1.00% in July, this will be the first time since 2012 that the RBA has cut in consecutive months. The big question is whether lenders will see fit to pass on the full cut to customers this time round. 

Kogan plans to branch out into energy

Online retailer Kogan is on a mission to become Australia’s one stop shop for all its household needs. After staking out a spot in the consumer goods, mobile and internet, home loan, and insurance markets, it now has its sights set on the energy market. 

And with a number of Mozo Experts Choice Awards under its belt for its home loans and NBN plans, and a planned partnership with Australia’s greenest energy provider, Powershop, we’re pretty confident that Kogan’s success streak will continue. 

1 in 5 Aussies in a savings slump

As cost of living increases and wages flatline, saving money has come to seem like a herculean task for many. But just how dire is the situation for everyday Australians? A report from AMP found that 1 in 5 have less than $250 in savings. And of that group, two thirds don’t have any savings at all. 

Half of married couples plagued by wedding budget regrets

Does thinking about the money you spent on your wedding make you shudder? You’re not alone. According to a report from ME Bank, 51% of married couples regret how much they spent on their wedding day. 

“Decisions are commonly made with the heart rather than the head when it comes to weddings,” said ME money expert Matthew Read. “Couples can easily get caught up in the moment, failing to consider the financial impact of their decisions."

Travellers hit with high card fees

Travelling is hard on your budget as it is, but according to a recent analysis from Mozo, jetsetting Aussies could find themselves $385 out of pocket thanks to exorbitant travel card fees. 

“When you consider the fact that some travel credit cards can hit you with fees that are the equivalent to landing return flights for your next getaway, it pays to compare travel money options before you take off,” said Mozo Director Kirsty Lamont.

UBank drops rates for UHome Loan

Yesterday, UBank cut variable rates on its UHome Loan by 0.25%, putting it among the best value home loans in our database. Both new and existing customers will now be treated to rates as low as 3.34% (3.34% comparison rate*). And when you factor in the free extra repayments, redraw facility, and ability to split the loan, you’ve got one of the more attractive deals out there.

If you’re on the market for a home loan, keeping an eye on current variable rates is a must. Have a look at some of the options below, or head to our variable rate home loan comparison page for a more in-depth look.