August 2025 Market Update

This month’s update covers key economic developments across Australia and the US, including inflation trends, interest rate decisions, currency movements, and market performance. We also highlight growing consumer optimism and the impact of global tariffs and AI investment on equity markets.

Interest rates and tariffs continue to influence markets globally. 

In Australia, soft inflation data has paved the way for a possible rate cut. CPI slowed more than expected to an annual rate of 2.1% from 2.4% and core inflation – the RBA’s preferred measure – fell to 2.7% from 2.9%.
US interest rates were kept steady in July despite pressure from President Trump. The greenback eased in response, providing a small boost to the Australian dollar, which has been on a rollercoaster ride in recent times. 

The US S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 continue to record all-time highs as tariffs begin to be locked in and AI investment takes off. 

Meanwhile, the S&P ASX 200 experienced another volatile month, but the trend continued upwards and included an all-time high. 

There are also signs of consumer optimism. The July Westpac–Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Index found consumers buoyed by the chance of interest rate cuts this year.