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Make your professional services firm a magnet for talent

Make your professional services firm a magnet for talent

28 October 2022

The coming months will be full of opportunity but also challenges for the growing professional services sector. With staffing a critical factor, we identify the trends you should navigate to become an employer of choice in 2023.

Make your professional services firm a magnet for talent

Article

Insights, Trends & Case Studies

NAB Consumer Anxiety Survey Q3 2020

NAB Consumer Anxiety Survey Q3 2020

5 November 2020

With COVID-19 restrictions easing across much of the country, consumer anxiety has continued to moderate and spending behaviours are shifting.

NAB Consumer Anxiety Survey Q3 2020

Insight

AMW: Labour market recovering more quickly than expected

AMW: Labour market recovering more quickly than expected

22 September 2020

Traditionally the labour market has been a lagging indicator of activity. However, in this pandemic it is largely contemporaneous and is thus a good summary indicator of the wider economy as well as being timely given new data sets such as weekly payrolls and regular job ad updates by SEEK and Indeed.

AMW: Labour market recovering more quickly than expected
AMW: the uneven impact of job losses

AMW: the uneven impact of job losses

8 September 2020

Despite strong job gains in June and July, there are still over half a million people who have lost work since March and an unknown number supported by JobKeeper.

AMW: the uneven impact of job losses
NAB Consumer Anxiety Survey Q4 2019

NAB Consumer Anxiety Survey Q4 2019

28 January 2020

The cost of living remains the single biggest driver of consumer anxiety, despite low levels of economy-wide inflation. To understand why, we asked Australians to tell us which costs are adding most to their living expenses.

NAB Consumer Anxiety Survey Q4 2019
NAB Monthly Business Survey: October 2019

NAB Monthly Business Survey: October 2019

12 November 2019

Conditions and confidence each saw a small improvement in the month with conditions edging up 1pt and confidence lifting 2pts – though both remain below average.

NAB Monthly Business Survey: October 2019
NAB Monthly Business Survey: September 2019

NAB Monthly Business Survey: September 2019

8 October 2019

Business conditions rose 1pt in September to +2 index points. This continues the below average run of business conditions but suggests that the trend weakening since mid-2018 has slowed.

NAB Monthly Business Survey: September 2019
NAB Monthly Business Survey: July 2019

NAB Monthly Business Survey: July 2019

13 August 2019

We're seeing below average confidence and conditions. The picture remains unchanged since last month - business sector has lost significant momentum since early 2018 and forward looking indicators don't point to an improvement in the near term.

NAB Monthly Business Survey: July 2019
State Economic Handbook: April 2019

State Economic Handbook: April 2019

18 April 2019

Deterioration in conditions in most states, with current momentum negative. Household sector weakness evident, investment still ok (outside mining), while agri. facing easing prices and needs rain. Housing sector downturn, population growth centred on the eastern states, agricultural prices easing.

State Economic Handbook: April 2019
NAB Monthly Business Survey: February 2019

NAB Monthly Business Survey: February 2019

12 March 2019

Business conditions fell by 3 pts to +4 index points in February, driven by declines in profitability (now +1) and trading (+8) sub-indexes. Employment was unchanged at +5. Confidence fell 2pts in the month to +2 index points.

NAB Monthly Business Survey: February 2019
NAB Consumer Behaviour Survey Q4 2018

NAB Consumer Behaviour Survey Q4 2018

8 February 2019

Consumer anxiety reaches its highest level in over 3 years as slow income growth, high debt levels and weaker growth in household wealth weighed on households and their spending.

NAB Consumer Behaviour Survey Q4 2018
NAB Consumer Behaviour Survey Q3 2018

NAB Consumer Behaviour Survey Q3 2018

24 October 2018

Anxieties around future spending and savings plans, household finances, the economy, financial concerns and how these are impacting spending behaviours and levels of financial hardship.

NAB Consumer Behaviour Survey Q3 2018
NAB Quarterly Business Survey: Quarter 3 2018

NAB Quarterly Business Survey: Quarter 3 2018

18 October 2018

The business conditions index decreased 2pts to +13 in 2018 Q3, but remains well above its long-run average. Business confidence also fell, declining 4pts to +3 index points, a little below its historical average.

NAB Quarterly Business Survey: Quarter 3 2018
NAB Monthly Business Survey: September 2018

NAB Monthly Business Survey: September 2018

9 October 2018

Business conditions seem to have stabilised at high levels in recent months following some sharp falls earlier and the dip in confidence last month appears to have been temporary.

NAB Monthly Business Survey: September 2018
NAB’s World on two pages: August 2018

NAB’s World on two pages: August 2018

17 August 2018

Global growth appears to have remained above average through the first half of 2018, but with our leading indicator pointing to a moderation in coming quarters, we think that this will represent the peak for this cycle.

NAB’s World on two pages: August 2018
Top of the hops: the growers dominating Australia’s beer

Top of the hops: the growers dominating Australia’s beer

14 June 2018

If you like a schooner of beer, it’s likely you’ve sipped a brew made with hops from Hop Products Australia. Having weathered this boom-bust industry, and as Australia’s largest hops grower today, the team at HPA is passionate about these little cone-like flowers – and about bringing distinct fresh flavour to every glass.

Top of the hops: the growers dominating Australia’s beer
Keeping my ‘why’ front and centre

Keeping my ‘why’ front and centre

29 May 2018

My ‘whys’ haven’t changed over 25 years at NAB. I’m still driven by the impact economics has on our lives and the importance of delivering independent analysis that helps people and institutions make better decisions.

Keeping my ‘why’ front and centre
NAB’s World on two pages: April 2018

NAB’s World on two pages: April 2018

13 April 2018

After a somewhat disappointing 2017 we continue to expect growth to gain more momentum during 2018 – with GDP increasing by around 3% through the year or 2.8% in year average terms.

NAB’s World on two pages: April 2018
NAB’s World on two pages: March 2018

NAB’s World on two pages: March 2018

16 March 2018

Financial market volatility has eased since the US equity market correction in late January but a range of geo-political and market events could trigger another bout of uncertainty.

NAB’s World on two pages: March 2018
Sustainable business changes the face of remote communities

Sustainable business changes the face of remote communities

6 March 2018

The award-winning Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation has created jobs in some of Australia’s most isolated communities. CEO Alastair King explains how ALPA is creating the jobs that are key to building successful communities in remote locations.

Sustainable business changes the face of remote communities
NAB’s World on two pages: February 2018

NAB’s World on two pages: February 2018

16 February 2018

The calm in financial markets for much of 2017 and into early 2018 recently came to an abrupt end with a surge in market volatility and big falls in share prices.

NAB’s World on two pages: February 2018
NAB’s World on two pages: December 2017

NAB’s World on two pages: December 2017

15 December 2017

Last month’s spike in business conditions was completely unwound in the November NAB Monthly Business Survey, although the index remains at very elevated levels. Business confidence has been less volatile, but appears to be showing a modest downward trend.

NAB’s World on two pages: December 2017
Australian Markets Weekly: 11 December 2017

Australian Markets Weekly: 11 December 2017

12 December 2017

Two weeks ago, we wrote on the outlook for the AUD from our Head of FX Strategy, Ray Attrill highlighting the expected move of the AUD/USD into the US$0.70-0.75 cent range.

Australian Markets Weekly: 11 December 2017
Markets Today: The beat goes on

Markets Today: The beat goes on

11 December 2017

If it wasn’t for Friday’s US labour market data, Lionel Richie’s “All night long” would have been a great option for a title today, highlighting PM May’s sleepless effort to strike a deal about a deal with the EU.

Markets Today: The beat goes on
Australia GDP Preview: Q3 2017

Australia GDP Preview: Q3 2017

1 December 2017

The economy is likely to have grown at a solid clip in Q3. While some pieces of the growth puzzle are falling into place, the stark divergence between business and consumer spending remains despite jobs growth. Non-mining and infrastructure investment will be encouraging for the RBA, but higher wages growth is required.

Australia GDP Preview: Q3 2017
NAB’s World on two pages: November 2017

NAB’s World on two pages: November 2017

17 November 2017

The read on business conditions was extremely strong in the October NAB Monthly Business Survey, with manufacturing posting a strong result despite the recent closure of auto manufacturing plants. The conditions index jumped to a record high, and while confidence is not quite as buoyant, it is holding above long-run average levels.

NAB’s World on two pages: November 2017
State Economic Handbook: October 2017

State Economic Handbook: October 2017

17 October 2017

Economic growth in most states is expected to strengthen somewhat in 2017-18 before moderating a little in 2018-19 as dwelling investment and LNG exports peak.

State Economic Handbook: October 2017
NAB’s World on two pages: October 2017

NAB’s World on two pages: October 2017

13 October 2017

For Australia, outcomes in the September NAB Monthly Business Survey were generally upbeat. Business conditions remain rock steady at levels close to their multi-year highs, but business confidence rose only modestly after a big fall last month.

NAB’s World on two pages: October 2017
US Economic Update: September 2017

US Economic Update: September 2017

8 September 2017

Increasing household wealth (due to rising equity and house prices), as well as a high level of consumer confidence, remain tailwinds for consumer spending.

US Economic Update: September 2017
Australia GDP Preview: Q2 2017

Australia GDP Preview: Q2 2017

4 September 2017

Q2 GDP data will be released on Wednesday 6 September at 11:30am AEST. Additional partials will be available tomorrow and may alter our forecast.

Australia GDP Preview: Q2 2017
The day after tomorrow’s economy

The day after tomorrow’s economy

25 August 2017

NAB’s Mark Todd and a panel considered the future of fintech and the implications for investment at the KangaNews-NAB Fixed Income Beyond the Institutional Sector Summit.

The day after tomorrow’s economy
NAB’s World on Two Pages: July 2017

NAB’s World on Two Pages: July 2017

14 July 2017

Revisions to real GDP growth forecasts this month largely reflect a stronger than expected rebound in coal exports following disruptions from Cyclone Debbie in Q1. Further out, we have not fundamentally changed the tone of our outlook.

NAB’s World on Two Pages: July 2017
NAB Monthly Business Survey: June 2017

NAB Monthly Business Survey: June 2017

11 July 2017

Business conditions hit another multi-year high, with most industries performing well. Stronger trading conditions (sales) and profitability drove the improvement, while employment conditions were steady.

NAB Monthly Business Survey: June 2017
NAB’s World on Two Pages: June 2017

NAB’s World on Two Pages: June 2017

16 June 2017

The NAB Monthly Business Survey was a little softer in May, but still points to a healthy business sector. Business conditions are elevated and confidence is holding up above long-run average levels.

NAB’s World on Two Pages: June 2017
NAB Monthly Business Survey: April 2017

NAB Monthly Business Survey: April 2017

8 May 2017

The NAB Monthly Business Survey posted another strong result in April, with both business conditions and confidence improving – pointing to ongoing strength in business activity in the near-term.

NAB Monthly Business Survey: April 2017
Australian Markets Weekly: 10 April 17

Australian Markets Weekly: 10 April 17

11 April 2017

The APRA Chairman and RBA Governor both make clear that the recent moves reflect a desire to further tighten lending standards in what is considered to be an environment of heightened risks.

Australian Markets Weekly: 10 April 17
Australian Markets Weekly: 3 April 2017

Australian Markets Weekly: 3 April 2017

3 April 2017

With house prices rising, vacancy rates declining and a previous drop in building approvals, it’s likely that residential construction activity should begin to strengthen.

Australian Markets Weekly: 3 April 2017
State Economic Handbook: March 2017

State Economic Handbook: March 2017

8 March 2017

Growth will remain solid across the large south-eastern states, while there are signs of stabilisation in mining states as the end of the downswing in resource-related investment approaches.

State Economic Handbook: March 2017
Australia GDP Preview: Q4 2016

Australia GDP Preview: Q4 2016

24 February 2017

Q4 GDP data will be released on Wednesday 1 March at 11:30 AEDT. Additional partials will be available next week prior to the GDP release.

Australia GDP Preview: Q4 2016
Markets Today: Why I got March on my mind

Markets Today: Why I got March on my mind

16 February 2017

My colleague Rodrigo Catril warned yesterday of the possibility of a US Fed March rate hike – what he termed the Ides of March. That argument gained further currency overnight with the US CPI and core‑Retail Sales printing double the market consensus.

Markets Today: Why I got March on my mind
NAB Monthly Business Survey: January 2017

NAB Monthly Business Survey: January 2017

14 February 2017

The strength witnessed in last month’s NAB Monthly Business Survey continued into January, with both business conditions and confidence jumping to much higher levels.

NAB Monthly Business Survey: January 2017
US Economic Update: February 2017

US Economic Update: February 2017

10 February 2017

The US economy continues along the same moderate growth path it has experienced in its recovery from the Global Financial Crisis.

US Economic Update: February 2017
NAB Monthly Business Survey: December 2016

NAB Monthly Business Survey: December 2016

31 January 2017

Business confidence has held up quite well and is remarkably steady given the context of major uncertainties both at home and abroad. That said, the level of confidence has not picked up to reflect the overall strength in business conditions seen over the past year or more.

NAB Monthly Business Survey: December 2016
US Trade Policy. What Now?  January 2017

US Trade Policy. What Now? January 2017

23 January 2017

Re-building the US industrial base, aiming to “massively increase jobs, wages, incomes and opportunities for the people of our country” is the principal economic objective of the Trump Presidency.

US Trade Policy. What Now?  January 2017
Australian Markets Weekly: 16 January 2016

Australian Markets Weekly: 16 January 2016

17 January 2017

Against flatter job advertisements of late, job vacancies have been trending higher. Higher job vacancies are usually associated with a lower unemployment rate and greater employment growth

Australian Markets Weekly: 16 January 2016
Markets Today:  Seasons Greetings

Markets Today: Seasons Greetings

23 December 2016

As the markets quieten down for the holiday break, we reflect on the tumultuous year we’ve just been through: Trump, Brexit, the rise of far-right politics and the tide of anti-immigration fervour.

Markets Today:  Seasons Greetings
Australian Markets Weekly: 19 December 2016

Australian Markets Weekly: 19 December 2016

20 December 2016

Australia’s population growth remains strong by historical and international standards at around 1.4% y/y. That is 338,000 persons in the past year – nearly equivalent to the population of Canberra being added to Australia each year.

Australian Markets Weekly: 19 December 2016
Business leaders help each other excel

Business leaders help each other excel

8 December 2016

Business leaders can feel isolated with nowhere to turn for advice or support – which is what inspired Jason Tunbridge to co-found the Leadership Think Tank. He and three members discuss the benefits of speaking out.

Business leaders help each other excel
Markets Today: Poor Wages

Markets Today: Poor Wages

5 December 2016

An early song from English progressive rock band Barclay James Harvest. No, it’s not on my playlist either.

Markets Today: Poor Wages
Markets Today: Magic bus

Markets Today: Magic bus

23 November 2016

The USD continued to march a little higher, the Bloomberg spot dollar index up another 0.14%, gains mostly against the Euro, the Yen, and Sterling, the latter from some self-inflicted news.

Markets Today: Magic bus
Markets Today: Tangled up in red

Markets Today: Tangled up in red

17 November 2016

It’s been an overnight session of digestion and reflection for the market, one week on now from the Presidential election.

Markets Today: Tangled up in red
NAB’s World on Two Pages: November 2016

NAB’s World on Two Pages: November 2016

11 November 2016

Monthly business survey readings provide the most up to date measure of the pulse of global economic growth – and they have been improving in the months leading up to October.

NAB’s World on Two Pages: November 2016
Markets Today: Down in Mexico

Markets Today: Down in Mexico

2 November 2016

US Equities are off, the VIX is up, the US dollar is lower, US Treasury yields are lower and the Mexican Peso/Japanese Yen cross (-2.5%) is still proving to the be the FX market’s weapon of choice when it comes to reflecting sentiment regarding the prospect of Donald Trump.

Markets Today: Down in Mexico
Markets Today: The Fear

Markets Today: The Fear

31 October 2016

In the hour after it was announced that Hillary Clinton’s e-mails were the subject of a new FBI probe, USD/JPY dropped from Y105.50 to Y104.50, the S&P dropped 20 points or 1% with the VIX spiking by 19% and 10-year Treasuries dropped 2bps from 1.85% to 1.83%.

Markets Today: The Fear
NAB Quarterly Business Survey: September 2016

NAB Quarterly Business Survey: September 2016

20 October 2016

The quarterly iteration of the NAB Business Survey provides additional valuable insight into Australian business than the regular NAB Monthly Business Survey. This publication offers a more in-depth probe into the conditions facing Australian business.

NAB Quarterly Business Survey: September 2016
Markets Today: Counting the beat

Markets Today: Counting the beat

19 October 2016

Ahead of today’s welter of Chinese GDP and activity data, the AUD is trading this morning almost bang on where it was yesterday afternoon.

Markets Today: Counting the beat
The Forward View – Australia: October 2016

The Forward View – Australia: October 2016

14 October 2016

The outlook for the labour market is key. While we continue to expect the unemployment rate to remain in its recent range between 5½% and 5¾%, the recent softening in trend employment growth bears close watching.

The Forward View – Australia: October 2016
Markets Today: From zero to hero

Markets Today: From zero to hero

16 September 2016

During the US dollar’s recent revival associated with deteriorating global risk sentiment and steepening yield curves, the commodity currencies – in particular the AUD and NZD – have been the hardest hit.

Markets Today: From zero to hero
The forward view – Australia: September 2016

The forward view – Australia: September 2016

15 September 2016

How one assesses Australia’s economic performance at present depends in large part on which industry / geography one looks at and whether the benchmark is in real or nominal terms.

The forward view – Australia: September 2016
Markets Today: Calm waters

Markets Today: Calm waters

15 September 2016

Mental preparations for another onslaught of selling bonds and equities offshore were put on the backburner with markets becalmed overnight.

Markets Today: Calm waters
NAB Monthly Business Survey: August 2016

NAB Monthly Business Survey: August 2016

13 September 2016

The results from this month’s survey remain broadly consistent with our prior view of the economy and the near-term outlook. It points to a patchy, but sustained, improvement in the non-mining economy, with the major services sectors and construction leading the way.

NAB Monthly Business Survey: August 2016
Australian Markets Weekly: 5 September 2016

Australian Markets Weekly: 5 September 2016

5 September 2016

This week, we thought we would focus on three themes: (i) Friday night’s US labour market data; (ii) this week’s upcoming Australian Q2 GDP data; and (iii) some thoughts on apartment settlements.

Australian Markets Weekly: 5 September 2016
US Economic Update: September 2016

US Economic Update: September 2016

5 September 2016

Despite inflation remaining stubbornly below the Fed’s 2% goal, lower unemployment can still be expected to generate price pressures.

US Economic Update: September 2016
Markets Today: Poundcake

Markets Today: Poundcake

24 August 2016

It’s been a rather uneventful night for most of the major currencies, with the possible exception of Sterling.

Markets Today: Poundcake
Markets Today: Pulback

Markets Today: Pulback

23 August 2016

The rise in the USD and short dated UST yields on the back of Fed vice-chair Fisher's comments over the weekend have been partly unwound in the overnight session.

Markets Today: Pulback
Markets Today: John, I’m only dancing

Markets Today: John, I’m only dancing

22 August 2016

Friday looks to have shown FX traders to be the smartest guys in the room. Traditionally referred to as the ‘last market to clear’ (and so giving FX analysts such as this scribe a career) the dollar had put on a strong showing during the APAC session.

Markets Today: John, I’m only dancing
Markets Today: An American Trilogy

Markets Today: An American Trilogy

16 August 2016

Europe had a quiet day with many continental countries observing Assumption day. The Stoxx 600 index ended the day flat and the FTSE100 climbed 0.36% aided by another move lower in Sterling.

Markets Today: An American Trilogy
Australian Markets Weekly: 15 August 2016

Australian Markets Weekly: 15 August 2016

15 August 2016

Spare capacity in the labour market seems to have been an important part of the RBA’s recent decision to lower the cash rate further. The linkage is low wages growth – which reflects this spare capacity – and which, as a key determinant of prices, impacts on the RBA’s outlook for inflation.

Australian Markets Weekly: 15 August 2016
Markets Today: Two Steps Forwards, One Step Back

Markets Today: Two Steps Forwards, One Step Back

15 August 2016

The previous Friday’s strong US payrolls report has become a somewhat hazy memory after a much softer than expected retail sales report on Friday that challenged prevailing confidence that the US consumer has entered Q3 in rude health.

Markets Today: Two Steps Forwards, One Step Back
Markets Today: 1999

Markets Today: 1999

12 August 2016

Almost 24 hours after yesterday’s decision by the RBNZ to lower the OCR by 25bps and the NZD USD is almost exactly where it was before the rate announcement.

Markets Today: 1999
Markets Today: Is that all you’ve got, Graeme?

Markets Today: Is that all you’ve got, Graeme?

11 August 2016

In delivering only 25bps cut to the OCR and which was more than 100% discounted ahead of time and the RBNZ’s latest 90-day bill track only implying one more cut, the NZD has predictably bounced sharply. It up just over 1% as we go to press.

Markets Today: Is that all you’ve got, Graeme?
NAB Monthly Business Survey:  July 2016

NAB Monthly Business Survey: July 2016

9 August 2016

Business sentiment has shown great resilience to external shocks in the July NAB Monthly Business Survey, with firms choosing to remain focussed on the positive trends within their own business.

NAB Monthly Business Survey:  July 2016
Doing business on the side

Doing business on the side

25 July 2016

Attitudes to work are changing, with increasing demands for more flexibility in the way we work and what we do fuelling a rise in personal entrepreneurialism

Doing business on the side
NAB Monthly Business Survey: May 2016

NAB Monthly Business Survey: May 2016

14 June 2016

This month’s NAB Business Survey remains true to theme of ongoing recovery in the non-mining economy, building on the already solid growth seen in the recent National Accounts.

NAB Monthly Business Survey: May 2016
From chef to jillaroo to entrepreneur

From chef to jillaroo to entrepreneur

1 June 2016

Rachel Brindley is the former Melbourne-based chef turned jillaroo behind Outback Careers, where tree changers can search jobs and access information about life on the land.

From chef to jillaroo to entrepreneur
Markets Today: Spooky Fed talk

Markets Today: Spooky Fed talk

18 May 2016

US equities fell overnight and the US Treasury curve flattened to its lowest level since 2007 after solid data and hawkish Fed talk increased market’s expectations of US rate hikes.

Markets Today: Spooky Fed talk
Australian Markets Weekly – 16 May 2016

Australian Markets Weekly – 16 May 2016

16 May 2016

It was a quieter week for Australian markets after the previous week’s very large moves. The Australian dollar still ended the week lower, as markets continued to speculate that the RBA will follow up with another interest rate cut in the months ahead and as Chinese economic data disappointed.

Australian Markets Weekly – 16 May 2016
Markets Today: Kiwi

Markets Today: Kiwi

11 May 2016

The US Energy Information Agency revised up its forecasts for oil prices for this year and next, lifting its forecast for WTI for this year by nearly $6/bbl to $40.32 from $34.37.

Markets Today: Kiwi
RBA view change: low CPI to see a 25bps cut in May

RBA view change: low CPI to see a 25bps cut in May

27 April 2016

Today’s CPI produced the lowest quarterly and annual rates of core inflation recorded since the RBA commenced inflation targeting - and rates that are starting to diverge below the lower end of the Bank’s target band.

RBA view change: low CPI to see a 25bps cut in May
Australian Markets Weekly – 26 April 2016

Australian Markets Weekly – 26 April 2016

26 April 2016

Tomorrow’s CPI will be another low print but unlikely to sway the RBA into easing monetary policy given the continued resilience in the non-mining economy. NAB’s forecast for the March quarter CPI is for Australia’s official inflation rate to be 1.6% y/y (after 1.7% in Q4), the sixth quarter below the 2-3% official RBA target range.

Australian Markets Weekly – 26 April 2016
How Johnson Partners grew by practising what it preaches

How Johnson Partners grew by practising what it preaches

12 April 2016

Hard work, patience, sound recruitment practices and good advice are behind the growth of Johnson Partners, according to Theo Rigopoulos. These attributes have helped the accountancy firm grow tenfold. Now employing 40 staff, it’s in demand with SMEs and high-net-worth individuals.

How Johnson Partners grew by practising what it preaches
Monthly Financial Markets Update – March 2016

Monthly Financial Markets Update – March 2016

22 March 2016

In our March update, Nick Ryder, NAB Private Wealth Investment Strategist, talks mixed messages with slumps in developed markets, India and China while the US posted slight improvements and Australia performed reasonably well. Meanwhile, Europe’s inflation entered negative territory.

Monthly Financial Markets Update – March 2016
NAB Wellbeing Report: Q4 2015

NAB Wellbeing Report: Q4 2015

7 March 2016

In this report, we take a look at longer term wellbeing trends, focussing on those groups that have historically reported the lowest wellbeing.

NAB Wellbeing Report: Q4 2015
Markets Today: An ugly start to the year

Markets Today: An ugly start to the year

5 January 2016

The first day of trading for many markets was a memorable one, with some big falls in equity markets. With the plunge in risk appetite, the Yen was the best performing currency

Markets Today: An ugly start to the year
Markets Today: Bring it on

Markets Today: Bring it on

4 January 2016

Investors ended 2015 in a defensive stance. Following the risk aversion tone seen in the previous day, equity markets were sold on Thursday while core global bonds benefited from a safe haven bid.

Markets Today: Bring it on
Markets Today: Back to Black

Markets Today: Back to Black

24 December 2015

Heading into Wednesday’s New York close, the S&P 500 is showing a gain of about 1.2% on the day, which equates to a rise of just 0.2% year to date.

Markets Today: Back to Black
NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Behaviour Survey: Q4 2015

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Behaviour Survey: Q4 2015

23 December 2015

The NAB Quarterly Australian Behaviour Survey (formerly NAB Consumer Anxiety Report) shows consumer anxiety falling again (and to its lowest level since Q4 2014), amid more signs of improvement in the labour market and non-mining segments of the economy.

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Behaviour Survey: Q4 2015
Markets Today: Sideways

Markets Today: Sideways

23 December 2015

Moves in oil prices remain the main driver for markets amid a decline in trading volumes ahead of the Christmas holiday break.

Markets Today: Sideways
Market’s today: Freaky Friday

Market’s today: Freaky Friday

21 December 2015

Friday was one of the four ‘triple witching’ occasions of 2015 (expiration of stock index futures, index options and individual share options) –sometimes known as freaky Friday.

Market’s today: Freaky Friday
Markets Today: Squeezed

Markets Today: Squeezed

10 December 2015

As we are about to press the send bottom, the RBNZ has cut its key rate to 2.50% from 2.75%. In the statement the RBNZ has noted that it expects to reach its inflation goal at current policy settings and that the rise in the exchange rate is unhelpful and further depreciation would be appropriate.

Markets Today: Squeezed
Monthly Business Survey – November 2015

Monthly Business Survey – November 2015

8 December 2015

Consistently above average business conditions are an encouraging sign that the apparent non-mining sector recovery continues to gain traction, despite relatively muted levels of business confidence.

Monthly Business Survey – November 2015
Australian Markets Weekly: A cyclical turn in unemployment?

Australian Markets Weekly: A cyclical turn in unemployment?

16 November 2015

We review last week’s stunning Australian labour market data. While we don’t believe the large moves in either the employment or unemployment rate, we believe the signals - that employment is strengthening (driven by NSW and importantly an improving trend for QLD)

Australian Markets Weekly: A cyclical turn in unemployment?
Markets Today: Put It All On ‘Scope’

Markets Today: Put It All On ‘Scope’

4 November 2015

A rising commodities tide lifted all boats overnight, with an improved tone in risk evident in equities, bonds, and currencies. The AUD outperformed after the RBA stood pat yesterday. It is a very busy day ahead.

Markets Today: Put It All On ‘Scope’
NAB Wellbeing Report: Q3 2015

NAB Wellbeing Report: Q3 2015

30 October 2015

Australia’s wellbeing has risen to its highest level since mid-2013, with levels of happiness, life satisfaction, life worth and anxiety all improving, the latest NAB Wellbeing Index has found.

NAB Wellbeing Report: Q3 2015
Markets Today: Mission Accomplished or still Mission Impossible?

Markets Today: Mission Accomplished or still Mission Impossible?

29 October 2015

Global concerns and the potential negative feedback loop to the US economy and inflation have been dialled down. At the same, concerns about the strength of the labour market have been somewhat dialled up, the Fed noting that “the pace of job gains slowed and the unemployment rate held steady”.

Markets Today: Mission Accomplished or still Mission Impossible?
Markets Today: Easy

Markets Today: Easy

23 October 2015

ECB President Draghi stepped up to the plate last night, setting equity markets alight and scuttling the EUR. Draghi effectively preannounced further easing in policy at its 3 December meeting.

Markets Today: Easy
Markets Today: Comme Ci Comme Ça

Markets Today: Comme Ci Comme Ça

2 October 2015

At the start of a new quarter, markets are struggling for a clear frame of reference, not yet sure whether bad economic news is good news for risk if it keeps the Fed at bay for longer, or is bad news because it serves to amplify concerns about the overall health of the global economy.

Markets Today: Comme Ci Comme Ça
Markets Today: Uneasy calm

Markets Today: Uneasy calm

30 September 2015

A quieter night overnight, with no large moves, but no strong reversals either. US equities eeked out fractional gains, while Europe was still weak. Yields were a little lower and currencies in G10 for the most part flat. Oil did rise and Glencore, yesterday’s prophet of doom, bounced 17%.

Markets Today: Uneasy calm
Australian Markets Weekly: Slower population growth

Australian Markets Weekly: Slower population growth

28 September 2015

In this weekly update we tease out some implications of slower population growth that’s been evident now for the past two years, with a further step down reported by the Australian Statistician last week.

Australian Markets Weekly: Slower population growth
Markets Today: Drum Roll Please…

Markets Today: Drum Roll Please…

17 September 2015

Another relatively calm and comfortable session heading into the FOMC meeting. With markets and economists split on the outcome, something will move if the Fed does, or it doesn’t. So enjoy the quiet day today, ahead of tomorrow.

Markets Today: Drum Roll Please…
Markets Today: Stiff upper lip

Markets Today: Stiff upper lip

11 September 2015

It was the makings of a risk-on mood for markets overnight and a night when the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) was hanging tough about the healthy outlook for the UK economy and still harbouring thoughts of a UK rate rise coming into focus in the first part of next year.

Markets Today: Stiff upper lip
Markets Today: Is the Fed now (i)Pencil dependent?

Markets Today: Is the Fed now (i)Pencil dependent?

10 September 2015

The RBNZ has just delivered a universally expected 25-point cut to the OCR (to 2.75%) and says both that some further easing seems likely and that further currency deprecation is appropriate. This takes a bite out of pre-RBNZ NZD strength.

Markets Today: Is the Fed now (i)Pencil dependent?
NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q3 2015

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q3 2015

9 September 2015

Australian's are feeling less anxious underpinned by lower stress associated with retirement funding, cost of living, job security and health. And for the first time, NAB’s Consumer Anxiety report sheds light on spending behaviours across states.

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q3 2015
Markets Today: Spring has sprung

Markets Today: Spring has sprung

9 September 2015

The global financial markets are breathing a sigh of relief and enjoying the advent of Spring here in the Southern Hemisphere. Happy days: the Fed may wait a little while before raising rates and China seems to have everything sorted.

Markets Today: Spring has sprung
Markets Today: Draining reserve pools

Markets Today: Draining reserve pools

8 September 2015

With the US out for Labour Day and not a lot of economic data elsewhere, it was a relatively quiet night. Market moves were somewhat restrained, awaiting guidance from the upcoming FOMC meeting (next week) and how China’s economy deals with the current uncertainty.

Markets Today: Draining reserve pools
Australian Markets Weekly: AUD’s Commodity Drivers

Australian Markets Weekly: AUD’s Commodity Drivers

7 September 2015

In this Weekly, we are enclosing a recent research piece from our Senior Currency Strategist Emma Lawson on the commodities that are (and which will be) important drivers of the Australian dollar, including the outlook. We also preview local data and RBA speeches for the week ahead.

Australian Markets Weekly: AUD’s Commodity Drivers
Markets Today: (Fed) fright night

Markets Today: (Fed) fright night

7 September 2015

In the wake Friday’s US employment report that overall could be judged to be consistent with the FOMC’s stated desire to see ‘some further improvement in the labor market’, risk markets took fresh fright.

Markets Today: (Fed) fright night
Australian Markets Weekly: Growth divide still a focus for the RBA

Australian Markets Weekly: Growth divide still a focus for the RBA

3 August 2015

Event risk aplenty this week with the RBA August Board meeting tomorrow, Friday’s RBA Statement on Monetary Policy (SoMP) and key economy reports. Among those data points, the most market sensitive is tomorrow’s retail sales along with a wider trade deficit.

Australian Markets Weekly: Growth divide still a focus for the RBA
NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index: Q2 2015

NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index: Q2 2015

17 July 2015

Family relationships and safe communities critical to Aussies’ wellbeing. In an effort to better understand why Australians feel the way they do, NAB has been tracking Australia’s wellbeing (as measured by anxiety, life-satisfaction, happiness, and life-worth) since early-2013.

NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index: Q2 2015
Australian Markets Weekly: Greece, still, Yellen, China and NAB Survey

Australian Markets Weekly: Greece, still, Yellen, China and NAB Survey

13 July 2015

After a drawn out sequence of EuroGroup, EU Leaders and side meetings through last week, the EU Leaders have been meeting overnight in another drawn out and, at times, acrimonious attempt to put together a deal that would result in a third bailout package and keep Greece in the Euro.

Australian Markets Weekly: Greece, still, Yellen, China and NAB Survey
Fifty years of pancakes and still going strong

Fifty years of pancakes and still going strong

1 July 2015

It’s half a century since the founders of The Pancake Parlour first wowed Aussie diners with fresh, delicious pancakes but age has not wearied the Melbourne dining institution whose charm and innovative strategies continue to drive its success.

Fifty years of pancakes and still going strong
NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q2 2015

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q2 2015

25 June 2015

Consumer anxiety rose despite falling concerns over government policy post the federal budget. More consumers are paying off debt and spending more on “essentials” however, fewer consumers cut back their spending on “non-essentials”.

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q2 2015
Continuous improvement is key to business success

Continuous improvement is key to business success

2 June 2015

Continuous improvement is fundamental to business success. Training and management consultant Derek Stockley explains how leading by example and creating the right culture can engage and motivate your employees as well as generate new ideas.

Continuous improvement is key to business success
Japanese Economic Update – May 2015

Japanese Economic Update – May 2015

26 May 2015

Japan's unemployment rate has fallen, it's weak currency benefited its Current account and led to a surge in the stock market and Japanese banks are stable, well-capitalised and moderately profitable.

Japanese Economic Update – May 2015
A flying financial start to your medical career

A flying financial start to your medical career

26 May 2015

After years of studying to be a medical practitioner you’re finally earning an income. Philip Mawkes, a Senior Relationship Manager at Medfin, explains why it’s important to make your financial future a priority and shares a five-point plan to help you get off to a flying start.

A flying financial start to your medical career
Australian States Handbook – April 2015

Australian States Handbook – April 2015

1 April 2015

The divergence between mining and non-mining state economies continues, although with mining investment now winding down it is the major non-mining economies that are starting to outperform. Budget positions improving but focus remains on reducing expenditure.

Australian States Handbook – April 2015
NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q1 2015

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q1 2015

1 April 2015

Consumer anxiety rises again in Q1’15 after a short-lived improvement in the previous quarter, as concern over government policy overtakes cost of living as the single biggest cause of consumer stress. With overall anxiety increasing, consumers are cutting back on many “non-essentials”.

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q1 2015
The 2014 Australia-China Trade Report

The 2014 Australia-China Trade Report

25 March 2015

Julie Bishop launched the 2014 Australia-China Trade Report. Commissioned by the Australia China Business Council (ACBC), one of Australia’s most respected China engagement forums and sponsored by NAB, the report examines bilateral trade between the two countries.

The 2014 Australia-China Trade Report
The changing landscape of community pharmacy

The changing landscape of community pharmacy

12 March 2015

How can pharmacies evolve with changing times? NAB research has identified three important metrics for community pharmacies to keep an eye on to improve productivity. They include Stock turnover, dispensary to sales ratio and wage costs for sales ratio.

The changing landscape of community pharmacy
Inspiring our future

Inspiring our future

16 February 2015

Work experience programs can often do little to stimulate and prepare Australian students for the workforce. But Work Inspiration aims to change that by ensuring a young person’s first contact with the working world is meaningful and inspiring. See how businesses are getting involved.

Inspiring our future
Monthly Business Survey – January 2015

Monthly Business Survey – January 2015

10 February 2015

The latest survey shows that business confidence edged up a little, but it's still below long run averages. Confidence remains very weak in mining, consistent with lower commodity prices, but multi-year lows for the AUD likely contributed to a considerable improvement from last month.

Monthly Business Survey – January 2015
RBA: “On balance” cuts 25bps to 2.25%

RBA: “On balance” cuts 25bps to 2.25%

4 February 2015

The RBA’s Board has made the decision to reduce rates earlier than NAB expected, but for similar reasons we expected a modest rate reduction in March. It suggests growth will be below trend for somewhat longer – and the unemployment rate will peak a little higher – than earlier expected.

RBA: “On balance” cuts 25bps to 2.25%
Biggest Issues Facing Australia Today: Special Report

Biggest Issues Facing Australia Today: Special Report

29 January 2015

NAB has released its first annual pulse check on the big issues facing Australia today. Important concerns include cost of living, access to healthcare, employment, the economy and terrorism/security concerns, while indigenous issues, infrastructure and transport and taxation are lowest.

Biggest Issues Facing Australia Today: Special Report
NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index – Q4 2014

NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index – Q4 2014

29 January 2015

The NAB Australian Wellbeing Index fell slightly to 63 points in Q4 2014 (63.8 in Q3). Wellbeing was rated lower for all questions, especially “not anxious yesterday” which fell to its lowest level since the survey started. Wellbeing rated highest in Queensland and lowest in Victoria.

NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index – Q4 2014
Monthly Business Survey – December 2014

Monthly Business Survey – December 2014

27 January 2015

The survey again shows a patchwork economy with little-to-no momentum building. In December, conditions eased for the second successive month after October’s surprisingly strong result so they're now a touch below the long run average.

Monthly Business Survey – December 2014
US dollar regains its mojo

US dollar regains its mojo

21 January 2015

There’s a clear trend developing in global equity markets where expectations for monetary stimulus in Europe (ex-Switzerland of course!) are driving stocks higher whilst the prospect, or possibility, of Fed tightening combined with worries over corporate earnings are depressing

US dollar regains its mojo
Commodity market volatility the order of the day

Commodity market volatility the order of the day

15 January 2015

There’s been some more significant price action in commodities to report from the past 24 hours. At lunchtime yesterday Asian LME metals prices went into free-fall on the back of no apparent news other than playing catch up to what we’ve seen on oil and maybe even the AUD.

Commodity market volatility the order of the day
Soft Wage Growth Rules The Day

Soft Wage Growth Rules The Day

12 January 2015

As we headed into the US employment reports, equities, bond yields, and the US Dollar were all modestly drifting lower. On the release, the positive headlines of strong payrolls growth and lower initially saw those shoot higher, before more than fully retracing those moves.

Soft Wage Growth Rules The Day
NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q4 2014

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q4 2014

5 January 2015

The Index fell for the second straight quarter, with lower levels of concern reported across all categories. According to NAB Chief Economist Alan Oster, the cost of living and government policy continue to be the single biggest causes of anxiety for Australians.

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q4 2014
Twenty Big Figures In One Session

Twenty Big Figures In One Session

17 December 2014

Another wild night in markets, and it is slightly to surprising to see equities post some decent gains. The Euro Stoxx 50 closed 2.3% higher with energy stocks leading the way, with some investors likely on the hunt for bargains in the still-negative risk environment.

Twenty Big Figures In One Session
Monthly Business Survey – November 2014

Monthly Business Survey – November 2014

9 December 2014

Last months spike in business conditions was again short-lived, pulling back towards long run average levels in November. Despite the drop, the overall trend is still looking much better than 12-18 months prior, while levels of capacity utilisation have continued to improve.

Monthly Business Survey – November 2014
How Generation Y can benefit your business

How Generation Y can benefit your business

2 December 2014

While many are divided over Generation Y, these young people can bring unique benefits to your business. Futurist, demographer and social commentator Mark McCrindle explains how, and shares his tips on how to make them valuable members of your team.

How Generation Y can benefit your business
The vision to make a difference

The vision to make a difference

1 December 2014

With a skilled workforce of blind and vision-impaired employees, the Royal Society for the Blind Industrial Services in South Australia has carved out a reputation for providing efficient, cost effective and high quality packaging and assembly services to a range of businesses.

The vision to make a difference
Happiness in business

Happiness in business

10 November 2014

Given the link between workplace satisfaction and productivity, and between consumption and wellbeing, creating a happy workplace should be a key focus for any business. We share some intriguing data to help businesses considering how to improve staff engagement and customer satisfaction.

Happiness in business
Monthly Business Survey – September 2014

Monthly Business Survey – September 2014

14 October 2014

Business confidence lost ground in September –lowest level since pre election - in the face of a persistently soft operating environment for many firms. Forward orders remained soft, prompting de-stocking and competitive pricing which appears to have weighed on profitability.

Monthly Business Survey – September 2014
Turning staff loyalty into a competitive advantage

Turning staff loyalty into a competitive advantage

10 October 2014

BRW named brand promotion business, Zinc, one of the top 10 ‘great places to work’. Believing the commitment and loyalty of his team has been fundamental to Zinc's success, Peter Cleary shares his secrets for keeping good people by creating great workplace culture.

Turning staff loyalty into a competitive advantage
NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index – Q3 2014

NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index – Q3 2014

2 October 2014

The NAB Australian Wellbeing Index rose to 63.8 points in Q3 2014 (61.7 in Q2 2014). Wellbeing was rated higher for all measures, with the biggest improvements related to life satisfaction, worthwhile life and happiness.

NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index – Q3 2014
Australia – Asia Business Engagement Index (Q2)

Australia – Asia Business Engagement Index (Q2)

29 September 2014

“The index shows that Australia’s engagement with Asia is dominated by product imports and not surprisingly, our engagement is clearly strongest with China across all sizes of business. But, it is higher for SMEs than the ASX 300” said Alan Oster.

Australia – Asia Business Engagement Index (Q2)
NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q3 2014

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q3 2014

18 September 2014

Consumer anxiety moderates after the post budget jump, but some concerns remain elevated. The NAB Consumer Anxiety Index fell to 62.3 points in Q3 (64.5 points in Q2), led by a notable reduction in concern over the ability to fund retirement, cost of living and job security.

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q3 2014
Australian Markets Weekly

Australian Markets Weekly

15 September 2014

Business confidence near multi-year highs yet consumer confidence near multi-year lows. Firms profitability being driven by productivity and constrained labour costs. Household income growth near zero over past two years – near recessionary levels.

Australian Markets Weekly
Monthly Business Survey – August 2014

Monthly Business Survey – August 2014

9 September 2014

Business confidence remains resilient despite easing a little in August, supported by positive forward orders, subdued cost pressures and more stable consumer confidence. Positive business conditions are also helping despite falling back in the month.

Monthly Business Survey – August 2014
Volunteers enhancing healthcare

Volunteers enhancing healthcare

8 September 2014

Barwon Health’s Volunteers Services Director sees volunteers as community advocates who enhance the healthcare experience of consumers. Recognised at the 2014 NAB Women’s Agenda Leadership Awards, Zoe Waters is now taking her message to a wider audience.

Volunteers enhancing healthcare
Australian Business Diversity Index – Q2 2014

Australian Business Diversity Index – Q2 2014

29 August 2014

The inaugural NAB Australian Business Diversity Index is a new addition to NAB’s Quarterly Business Survey, and it aims to help Australian industries and businesses better understand diversity performance, in an effort to drive change.

Australian Business Diversity Index – Q2 2014
Australian States Handbook 2014

Australian States Handbook 2014

22 August 2014

Australia’s Federal system of Government makes State Governments a critical part of the overall fiscal and economic performance of Australia. This handbook is intended to provide a comprehensive update and reference tool on both the economies and fiscal finances for each State.

Australian States Handbook 2014
Australia & the World on two pages – August 2014

Australia & the World on two pages – August 2014

13 August 2014

Weak retail trade and net exports point to soft GDP growth in Q2. Headwinds remain, but business conditions jumped to four year high, while, business confidence, orders and capacity utilisation all looking better. We have trimmed our global forecasts.

Australia & the World on two pages – August 2014
NAB Monthly Business Survey – July 2014

NAB Monthly Business Survey – July 2014

12 August 2014

Business confidence again surprised on the upside, supported by better business conditions (largely reflecting sales and profits) and a surge in retailer confidence. Firms still unfazed about the Budget (for now). Conditions jumped to a four year high

NAB Monthly Business Survey – July 2014
NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index – Q2 2014

NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index – Q2 2014

18 July 2014

Australian wellbeing falls to its lowest level since the survey began. Anxiety is still the biggest detractor of overall wellbeing. A “wellbeing gap” has emerged between the highest and lowest income earners.

NAB Quarterly Australian Wellbeing Index – Q2 2014
NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q2 2014

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q2 2014

16 July 2014

Consumer anxiety spikes post the Federal Government’s budget, with low income earners clearly most concerned. The NAB Consumer Anxiety Index rose to 64.5 points in Q2 (61.7 points in Q1) - its highest level since the survey began in Q1’13.

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q2 2014
Monthly Business Survey – June 2014

Monthly Business Survey – June 2014

8 July 2014

Business confidence recorded an unexpected increase in the month, with firms apparently shrugging off the sharp deterioration in consumer confidence that followed May’s Federal budget. Firms are sticking to their expectation for stronger activity despite business conditions remaining

Monthly Business Survey – June 2014
Poor performance: prevention is better than cure

Poor performance: prevention is better than cure

7 July 2014

If your employees underperform there may be a good reason. Jon Pratlett, creator of the seminar ‘Leading with the brain in mind’, suggests some simple ways to understand employee behaviour, become a ‘brain friendly’ leader and nip poor performance in the bud.

Poor performance: prevention is better than cure
Monthly Business Survey – May 2014

Monthly Business Survey – May 2014

10 June 2014

Business confidence survived the government’s ‘tough budget’ intact, but business conditions eased again (reflecting sales). Employment and profits were steady at soft levels. Conditions are mixed across industries, but are generally negative outside of services

Monthly Business Survey – May 2014
Industry perspective: the Federal Budget and business funding

Industry perspective: the Federal Budget and business funding

14 May 2014

While some saw this as ‘the Budget we had to have’, the grants news is good. Overall funding for businesses is set to increase under measures proposed in the 2014 Federal Budget. GrantReady summarises what the Budget means for grants and funding programs.

Industry perspective: the Federal Budget and business funding
Alan Oster’s snapshot – Federal Budget 2014

Alan Oster’s snapshot – Federal Budget 2014

14 May 2014

NAB’s Group Chief Economist Alan Oster provides his overall summary of Joe Hockey’s 2014 Federal Budget, including his initial thoughts, how it could impact small and large business, and the wider economic implications for the Australian economy.

Alan Oster’s snapshot – Federal Budget 2014
2014 Federal Budget – all the insights and expert analysis

2014 Federal Budget – all the insights and expert analysis

13 May 2014

There’s a lot of change in this year’s budget, so understanding how the Federal Budget impacts you and your business can be challenging. That’s why our team of economists and industry experts have been working around the clock to break it down.

2014 Federal Budget – all the insights and expert analysis
Monthly Business Survey – April 2014

Monthly Business Survey – April 2014

12 May 2014

Business conditions more subdued in April but confidence up marginally – shrugging off ‘tough budget’ rhetoric. Sales eased slightly, employment slightly better but still soft, profits weaker. Conditions remain volatile and mixed across industries…

Monthly Business Survey – April 2014
2014 Federal Budget preview

2014 Federal Budget preview

9 May 2014

NAB Group Chief Economist Alan Oster provides a pre-budget overview of what he thinks we can expect to hear from Treasurer Joe Hockey’s first Federal Budget announcement next week.

2014 Federal Budget preview
Monthly Business Survey – March 2014

Monthly Business Survey – March 2014

8 April 2014

Business conditions lifted slightly in March, but remained at relatively subdued levels, weighing on business optimism. Confidence still positive but softened to its lowest post-election level to be below long-run trend.

Monthly Business Survey – March 2014
The talk of the town: NAB Business wrap

The talk of the town: NAB Business wrap

21 March 2014

There’s been a lot for Aussie businesses to talk about recently – from the impact of weather on global economic growth to retailers’ expansion plans. Here’s a selection of recent business insights to help you uncover the opportunities across all business sectors in 2014.

The talk of the town: NAB Business wrap
NAB Wellbeing Index – Q1 2014

NAB Wellbeing Index – Q1 2014

20 March 2014

National wellbeing improves after falling in the previous two quarters, but anxiety continues to rise with more than one-third of Australians currently “highly” anxious. The NAB Australian Wellbeing Index rose to 64.6 points in Q1 2014 (63.5 points in Q4 2013).

NAB Wellbeing Index – Q1 2014
Monthly Business Survey – February 2014

Monthly Business Survey – February 2014

11 March 2014

Recent recovery short lived? Business conditions back-pedalled sharply in February reversing around half post election gains. Confidence softened but still remains marginally above trend. Sales and employment fell markedly during the month, with the latter pointing to very weak labour

Monthly Business Survey – February 2014
Monthly Business Survey – January 2014

Monthly Business Survey – January 2014

11 February 2014

Business conditions maintained last months momentum and is approaching 3 year highs while confidence was up for the first time in 4 months – both near or above trend levels. Employment index much better, but still suggests soft labour market conditions.

Monthly Business Survey – January 2014
Monthly Business Survey – December 2013

Monthly Business Survey – December 2013

28 January 2014

Are we at a turning point? Business conditions jump to more than 2½ year high, while confidence broadly unchanged – both now near trend levels. Sales and profits up sharply – especially in wholesale, transport and services – reducing excess capacity slightly.

Monthly Business Survey – December 2013
Riding the change of seasons

Riding the change of seasons

24 January 2014

Running a seasonal business can be challenging, but strategic planning can help even out the ups and downs. Manly Surf School’s founder Matt Grainger discusses managing the swells and lulls of a surf school, and the importance of saving for a rainy day.

Riding the change of seasons
NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q4 2013

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q4 2013

15 January 2014

Consumer anxiety rises amid ongoing weakness in the domestic economy. Consumer anxiety rose to 61.5 points in Q4 (61.1 in Q3). With the labour market softening, anxiety over job security has started climbing although it still rates as the lowest concern overall.

NAB Quarterly Australian Consumer Anxiety Index – Q4 2013
NAB Wellbeing Index – Q4 2013

NAB Wellbeing Index – Q4 2013

10 January 2014

National wellbeing deteriorates for the second straight quarter. The NAB Australian Wellbeing Index fell to 63.5 points in Q4 (64.4 points in Q3), with all four survey questions - satisfied life, worthwhile life, happy yesterday and not anxious yesterday - rated lower.

NAB Wellbeing Index – Q4 2013
Online Retail Sales Index monthly update – November 2013

Online Retail Sales Index monthly update – November 2013

8 January 2014

Growth rates for online sales increased in November – with trends positive for most categories - strength in Media, Groceries and Liquor, Toys and Electronic Games and Department and Variety Stores. Online spending up to $14.6 billion in past year.

Online Retail Sales Index monthly update – November 2013
Below the surface

Below the surface

6 January 2014

As many SMEs might be a million miles away from the mining and resources sector, it’s easy to think it’s all completely irrelevant. That’s not the case. It’s important that you're aware of the general direction of the industry because it can affect your own business.

Below the surface
Business View Magazine – Summer 2013

Business View Magazine – Summer 2013

30 December 2013

The summer edition of Business View Magazine explores the ecosystem behind the business of sport, looking at how entrepreneurs working in and with the sports sector deal with changes in the business environment. Download the free iPad edition via our new publications app NAB Think.

Business View Magazine – Summer 2013
Monthly Business Survey – November 2013

Monthly Business Survey – November 2013

10 December 2013

Business conditions and confidence broadly unchanged - with confidence still much higher than conditions. While still weak, business conditions appear to be trending higher. Trading conditions up - especially mining and manufacturing - with capacity utilisation off its recent lows.

Monthly Business Survey – November 2013
Monthly Business Survey – October 2013

Monthly Business Survey – October 2013

12 November 2013

Firms reassess their confidence on the outlook as business conditions undershoot again. Capacity utilisation falls sharply - especially in manufacturing, construction, mining and retail - despite low interest rates and improved housing and equity markets.

Monthly Business Survey – October 2013
NAB Wellbeing Index & Consumer Anxiety Index – Q3 2013

NAB Wellbeing Index & Consumer Anxiety Index – Q3 2013

16 October 2013

The NAB Australian Wellbeing Index fell to 6.4 points in Q3, with a big increase in anxiety in WA a key contributor to lower national wellbeing. Consumer anxiety rose to 6.1 points in Q3, underpinned by rising concerns around cost of living, ability to fund retirement and health.

NAB Wellbeing Index & Consumer Anxiety Index – Q3 2013
Monthly Business Survey – September 2013

Monthly Business Survey – September 2013

8 October 2013

Animal spirits lift again. Confidence surges to its highest level in 3½ years. Business conditions, however, still subdued - with employment poor. Signs of better conditions in finance/ business/ property and construction.

Monthly Business Survey – September 2013
The numbers game

The numbers game

27 September 2013

Economic data can be baffling. Bombarded with numbers, headlines, warnings and opinions from all directions, it can be hard to know just what to focus on. So what do you really need to know? And what does it all mean? We explain.

The numbers game
Will retiring baby boomers leave gaps in healthcare?

Will retiring baby boomers leave gaps in healthcare?

18 September 2013

More than a third of Australia’s general practitioners, nurses and specialists are over the age of 50, so what will happen when they all retire? Dr Henry Cutler, Director, Head of Health Economics at KPMG, discusses possible skills shortages and ways to ameliorate any emerging problems.

Will retiring baby boomers leave gaps in healthcare?
State Economic Update – September 2013

State Economic Update – September 2013

16 September 2013

The NAB Quarterly Business Survey showed a marginal deterioration in overall business conditions in the June quarter, with the level remaining close to four year lows. All states experienced difficult conditions in the quarter.

State Economic Update – September 2013
Monthly Business Survey – August 2013

Monthly Business Survey – August 2013

10 September 2013

Confidence rises everywhere and surges in mining, construction and finance/ business/ property. This appears to reflect expectations of political change & more certainty about future political frameworks. Against that, business conditions and capacity utilisation remained poor.

Monthly Business Survey – August 2013
Recruiting good people in a competitive environment

Recruiting good people in a competitive environment

10 September 2013

A successful business needs quality employees but in agriculture, skills are in short supply. Rimfire Resource's Nigel Crawley suggests ways to attract the right recruits and explains how the Career Harvest initiative could bring more young people into the industry.

Recruiting good people in a competitive environment
Monthly Business Survey – July 2013

Monthly Business Survey – July 2013

13 August 2013

Business conditions remain at 4 year lows while confidence slumps to 8 month low - despite a falling AUD and lower interest rates. Conditions very poor in manufacturing, construction, mining, retail and wholesale; WA now the weakest state.

Monthly Business Survey – July 2013
Government Downgrades Outlook: tightens policy – 2 August 2013

Government Downgrades Outlook: tightens policy – 2 August 2013

5 August 2013

The government’s economic forecasts now recognise the softness of the domestic economy and the weaker outlook for commodity prices and incomes. In the near term the Budget now looks to be slightly adding to growth (rather than detracting as at Budget time).

Government Downgrades Outlook: tightens policy – 2 August 2013
Harnessing the value of an ageing workforce

Harnessing the value of an ageing workforce

1 August 2013

As the war for talent intensifies, business owners with an eye on the future are nurturing older workers. Michael Hyatt, Director, Human Capital Advisory at Deloitte Australia, discusses the benefits of maturity and the importance of harnessing skills and experience.

Harnessing the value of an ageing workforce
Business View Magazine – Winter 2013

Business View Magazine – Winter 2013

23 July 2013

In this edition, we delve into the experiences of finance commentator turned business builder Alan Kohler, detail bringing an invention to life and explore running a business in an extreme climate. We also cover retaining staff, handling tax in your SMSF and negotiating contracts in China.

Business View Magazine – Winter 2013
Health care – Australia’s biggest employer

Health care – Australia’s biggest employer

19 July 2013

According to the 2011 Census, the Health Care and Social Assistance industry is now Australia’s biggest employer. The Australian Healthcare & Hospitals Association’s Andrew McAuliffe discusses increasing demand, unequal growth and opportunities for innovation.

Health care – Australia’s biggest employer
Monthly Business Survey – June 2013

Monthly Business Survey – June 2013

9 July 2013

Business conditions and capacity utilisation slump to a four year low. Confidence a little better but still below trend. Conditions very bad in retail, mining and manufacturing, despite low interest rates and falling AUD, though signs a little better for exports.

Monthly Business Survey – June 2013
We’re on the cusp of an agriculture career boom

We’re on the cusp of an agriculture career boom

2 July 2013

Agriculture in Australia has an exciting future. The changing landscape of Australian agriculture is creating a raft of opportunities across the sector and for the first time in years, agricultural student enrolments are up, and quite significantly.

We’re on the cusp of an agriculture career boom
NAB Wellbeing Index & Consumer Anxiety Index – Q2 2013

NAB Wellbeing Index & Consumer Anxiety Index – Q2 2013

1 July 2013

Australian wellbeing improved in the June quarter despite softening economic conditions. NAB's Australian Wellbeing Index measured 6.6 points, up from 6.2 points in the March quarter. Consumer anxiety fell in the quarter in line with moderating concerns about future spending/savings plans.

NAB Wellbeing Index & Consumer Anxiety Index – Q2 2013
Monthly Business Survey – May 2013

Monthly Business Survey – May 2013

11 June 2013

Business conditions remain at low levels (marginally higher) with unchanged mediocre confidence levels. Conditions better in wholesale, manufacturing and construction, but mining worsens. Any confidence gained from falling dollar and May rate cut have been undermined by domestic weakness

Monthly Business Survey – May 2013
EOFY tips for small business from the ATO

EOFY tips for small business from the ATO

6 June 2013

At the end of the financial year it’s important to make sure your tax affairs are in order. The Australian Tax Office has provided information about recent changes that might affect your business and a checklist of common mistakes you’ll want to avoid.

EOFY tips for small business from the ATO
What a difference a year makes! Alan Oster analyses the budget

What a difference a year makes! Alan Oster analyses the budget

15 May 2013

“What a difference a year makes”. NAB’s Group Chief Economist Alan Oster gives his detailed summary of this year’s Federal Budget. Who benefits from the Government’s proposed spending and who doesn’t, and what does it mean for the Australian Economy?

What a difference a year makes! Alan Oster analyses the budget
Monthly Business Survey – April 2013

Monthly Business Survey – April 2013

13 May 2013

Business conditions remain very difficult and confidence stumbles after showing signs of recovery earlier this year. Despite less negativity in retail & manufacturing, activity still very poor and labour market showing new signs of weakness.

Monthly Business Survey – April 2013
Giving young farmers the skills for success

Giving young farmers the skills for success

18 April 2013

Skills shortages and an ageing population are affecting rural communities across Australia, highlighting the need to attract more young people to agribusiness. So what traits must young people have to carve a successful career in farming or agricultural services?

Giving young farmers the skills for success
Monthly Business Survey – March 2013

Monthly Business Survey – March 2013

9 April 2013

Business conditions fall to weakest level in almost four years but confidence steady. Previous surge in activity in consumer sectors retail & manufacturing unwinds, with signs lower interest rates need more time to fully work through economy.

Monthly Business Survey – March 2013
State Economic Update – March 2013

State Economic Update – March 2013

20 March 2013

The disparity between business conditions that became increasingly pronounced following the GFC has narrowed over recent quarters; however, the convergence of conditions readings largely reflects a weakening in previously stronger performing industries and regions, suggesting…

State Economic Update – March 2013
Monthly Business Survey – February 2013

Monthly Business Survey – February 2013

12 March 2013

Business conditions & confidence both edge down in February. High AUD hurting manufacturing and lack of non-mining demand weighing on most sectors. Large falls in orders, poor capacity use, and weak capex plans (esp. mining) don’t augur well for near-term (weak) domestic demand.

Monthly Business Survey – February 2013
CEO remunerations

CEO remunerations

7 March 2013

A new survey gives an insight into how much the majority of Australia’s CEOs are paid. Chairman and CEO of The CEO Institute Ken Gunn believes that the research, carried out in partnership with RMIT University, will help CEOs to benchmark their pay.

CEO remunerations
2013 Economic outlook for SMEs

2013 Economic outlook for SMEs

12 February 2013

SME confidence is expected to increase as financial markets show some improvement and consumers continue to spend strongly in certain sectors. While the dollar is expected to remain high, the cash rate could fall as low as 2.25 percent this year, reveals NAB’s Head of Australian Economics.

2013 Economic outlook for SMEs
Monthly Business Survey – January 2013

Monthly Business Survey – January 2013

12 February 2013

Business confidence hangs on to gains made last month on reduced global fears. Business conditions improve a touch, but still poor. Signs that previously stronger industries are being dragged down by weakness elsewhere. Capacity utilisation now lowest since 2001 and forward orders remain …

Monthly Business Survey – January 2013
Monthly Business Survey – December 2012

Monthly Business Survey – December 2012

29 January 2013

Business confidence posts a sharp jump in December, but not so activity and forward indicators, which remain poor - particularly wholesale, manufacturing, retail and construction. Better external sentiment (temporary avoidance of the US ‘fiscal cliff’), strengthening in Chinese data

Monthly Business Survey – December 2012
Monthly Business Survey – November 2012

Monthly Business Survey – November 2012

11 December 2012

The brakes have firmly tightened on activity in November; business conditions very weak in construction, retail, manufacturing and wholesale. Signs of trouble ahead with confidence slumping to lowest level since April 2009, with little hint of a pre-Christmas revival

Monthly Business Survey – November 2012
Women in farming

Women in farming

5 December 2012

The role of women in agriculture has changed dramatically over the years, and with more women pursuing a career in rural industries, the future looks bright. Agribusiness View talks to Growcom’s ‘Women in Horticulture’ coordinator, Jane Muller.

Women in farming
Post farm gate agribusiness survey – September 2012

Post farm gate agribusiness survey – September 2012

21 November 2012

The post farm gate agribusiness conditions index posted a decent turnaround following a very weak June quarter. Driving the result was an increase across the three key components that make up the index, with the sharpest turnaround being trading conditions.

Post farm gate agribusiness survey – September 2012
Monthly Business Survey – October 2012

Monthly Business Survey – October 2012

13 November 2012

Business conditions stumble to weakest level in more than three years, with wholesale and manufacturing conditions especially subdued. Confidence also edges lower. Activity forecasts unchanged but 25bp February rate cut on the cards, providing modest Q4 CPI.

Monthly Business Survey – October 2012
Quarterly Business Survey – September quarter 2012

Quarterly Business Survey – September quarter 2012

18 October 2012

Business conditions improve in the quarter but still soft. However, Monthly survey results suggest conditions weakened towards the end of the quarter. Forward indicators remain very weak. Confidence up a touch but still at downbeat levels – especially mining

Quarterly Business Survey – September quarter 2012
Monthly Business Survey – September 2012

Monthly Business Survey – September 2012

9 October 2012

Business confidence recovers modestly but still down beat – especially mining. Business conditions disappoint – with struggling retail and wholesale falling significantly. Forward orders noticeably weaker and capacity utilisation trending down - indicative of weakening demand.

Monthly Business Survey – September 2012
Global & Australian Forecasts – October 2012

Global & Australian Forecasts – October 2012

9 October 2012

Global economy slowing but recent advanced economy surveys show stabilisation. Broad-based slowing under way across emerging economies. Global forecasts a touch lower in 2013 but risks remain (US “fiscal cliff”). Australian economy softening to below trend amid restructuring stresses.

Global & Australian Forecasts – October 2012
Global & Australian Forecasts

Global & Australian Forecasts

11 September 2012

NAB’s Global and Australian Forecast provides a monthly snapshot of NAB’s global and domestic economic outlook. Global economy still slowing with softening across advanced and emerging economies. Growth set to pick-up in 2013 as worst economic risks averted. Australian economy still drifting through soft patch with falling commodity prices now weighing on mining. But investment […]

Global & Australian Forecasts
Monthly Business Survey – August 2012

Monthly Business Survey – August 2012

11 September 2012

Australia’s monthly survey of the current performance of the non-farm business sector, based on a survey of around 350 small to large sized companies. Includes a monthly update of the global and Australian economic outlook. Business conditions improve on the back of strengthening trading and profitability – especially in interest sensitive sectors. But confidence falls […]

Monthly Business Survey – August 2012
Working with family

Working with family

2 December 2011

Currently working with family, or considering it? KeepCup CEO, Abigail Forsyth, who’s in business with her brother Jamie (both pictured), gives the scoop on how to make it work.

Working with family
Solving the doctor shortage

Solving the doctor shortage

30 September 2011

Considering hiring GPs from overseas for your practice? Before you invest money and time, make sure you’ve done your homework.

Solving the doctor shortage
The Productivity Puzzle – September 2011

The Productivity Puzzle – September 2011

27 September 2011

Commentary on labour productivity growth. Labour productivity growth has slowed markedly in recent years, prompting calls for further economic reform. There is evidence that the mining and utilities industries may have been responsible for around half of this slowdown. This may reflect delays in high levels of new investment coming on stream and the strength […]

The Productivity Puzzle – September 2011
Workplace diversity

Workplace diversity

30 October 2010

With Australia’s constantly evolving population, cultural diversity should be firmly fixed on the radar of every business in this country, according to Lena Belin, founder of intercultural consultancy and training company, Cultura Franca.

Workplace diversity
Attract and retain staff

Attract and retain staff

30 September 2010

Passionate business owners know they have a lot to offer employees but how do they communicate that to job hunters and existing staff? There are some initiatives businesses can employ to attract and retain the right people.

Attract and retain staff
The quest for talent

The quest for talent

30 September 2010

Businesses need to differentiate themselves from competitors if they’re to be successful in the quest for talented staff. The quest for talent is set to heat up and as businesses compete for staff, there are strategies managers can use to ensure that their businesses attract and retain good people. Suzie Ward, senior consultant at specialist […]

The quest for talent
Creating a virtual office

Creating a virtual office

30 September 2009

With an increasing focus on work–life balance, an organisation has a lot to gain from allowing employees to work from home. Creating a virtual office environment can transform a business, save money and improve staff morale and work rates, according to John Maley, Director of Unisys HR. Speaking from direct experience. Unisys, an information service […]

Creating a virtual office