Each week, Loan Finance Online delivers a concise, trustworthy roundup of Australia's key business and economic stories. We unpack major headlines, policy updates, market moves, and consumer trends, highlighting what mattered and why. Expect plain-English context, practical takeaways, and a calm, clutter-free recap you can trust. Perfect for busy Australians who want the essentials fast, so you stay informed and ready for the week ahead.
This Week:
Paige Estritori recaps the week: the RBA raised the cash rate to 4.35% on May 5, lifting loan repayments and nudging up deposit rates; the housing market is ‘levelling out as borrowing capacity falls; EV fringe benefits tax (FBT) concessions are set to be wound back from April 2027, affecting novated leases; and card spending hit a record in March amid cost pressures. Practical tips include reviewing loan rates, refreshing borrowing power, checking novated lease timing and costs, and considering consolidation if carrying high‑interest balances. Budget day is Tuesday 12 May, with more analysis next week.
Hello and welcome to Loan Finance Online Weekly News Wrap, Im Paige Estritori, and its Monday 11 May 2026.
First, on Tuesday 5 May the Reserve Bank of Australia lifted the cash rate by a quarter of a percentage point to 4.35 per cent. Lenders are moving, so repayments for home and business borrowers will edge higher, while some savings rates may improve. Take a moment to check your current rate, compare alternatives, and talk to your bank early if cash flow is tight. A quick, no‑obligation eligibility check can show what you might qualify for without harming your credit score.
Next up, the housing market looked to be levelling out by Saturday 9 May as higher rates trimmed borrowing capacity. Agents report more hesitation from buyers even though demand remains. If youre house‑hunting, refresh your borrowing power after the rate move, keep a buffer for valuation shifts, and consider flexible loan features rather than stretching the budget.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday 6 May, changes were flagged to electric vehicle tax perks. The current FBT — thats fringe benefits tax — exemption for many EVs is set to be wound back from April 2027, with higher‑priced models losing the full break and existing novated leases likely to be grandfathered. If a novated lease is on your radar, check timing, your employers policy, and total running costs. Dont rush purely for tax; compare lease and finance options side by side.
And on Thursday 7 May, new figures showed card spending hit a record in March, driven by higher living costs. That can leave more households carrying balances at high interest. If thats you, tighten repayments where you can and consider, if appropriate, a lower‑rate personal loan or debt consolidation. An obligation‑free assessment can clarify options fast.
Thats the wrap. The federal budget lands tomorrow, Tuesday 12 May, so keep an eye out for measures affecting small business, housing and cost‑of‑living; well unpack it next week. For tools, comparisons and a free eligibility check, visit loanfinanceonline.com.au.
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
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