CommBank View: Economics & Markets

The Middle East conflict has entered its second month, but is a resolution any closer or are markets underestimating the risk of a prolonged war?
Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Senior Geo-Economics Analyst Dr Madison Cartwright about why a quick end to the conflict remains unlikely despite ongoing claims of progress. From the resilience of the Iranian regime to the lack of alignment between US, Israeli and Iranian objectives, they explore why the conflict risks becoming a drawn-out strategic stalemate.
Dr Cartwright explains how disruptions to key energy routes and infrastructure are already impacting oil, gas and broader commodity markets, and why further escalation remains a real risk. He also outlines why a diplomatic solution remains out of reach, what it would take to end the conflict, and why the global economy may continue to feel the impact.
Plus, CommBank’s Samara Hammoud shares the key focuses for markets in the week ahead.
Important Information
This podcast is approved and distributed by Global Economic & Markets Research (“GEMR”), a business division of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL 234945 (“the Bank”).
Before listening to this podcast, you are advised to read the full GEMR disclaimers, which can be found at www.commbankresearch.com.au.
No Reliance
This podcast is not investment research and nor does it purport to make any recommendations. Rather, this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be relied upon for any investment purposes.
This podcast does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It is not to be construed as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial products, or as a recommendation, and/or investment advice. You should not act on the information in this podcast.
The Bank believes that the information in this podcast is correct and any opinions, conclusions or recommendations made are reasonably held at the time given, and are based on the information available at the time of its compilation. No representation or warranty, either expressed or implied, is made or provided as to accuracy, reliability or completeness of any statement made.
Liability Disclaimer
The Bank does not accept any liability for any loss or damage arising out of any error or omission in or from the information provided or arising out of the use of all or part of the podcast.
Usage of Artificial Intelligence
To enhance efficiency, GEMR may use the Bank approved artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in preparing content for this podcast. These tools are used solely for drafting and structuring purposes and do not replace human judgment or oversight. All final content is reviewed and approved by GEMR analysts for accuracy and independence.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inflation has become one of the defining challenges for the Australian economy, but why did it take off and has Australia already hit its economic “speed limit”?
Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Head of Australian Economics Belinda Allen about how inflation re-accelerated and why the Reserve Bank of Australia had already begun tightening policy even before the latest escalation in the Middle East. From strong demand across households, government and business to constraints on supply, they explore what is driving inflation and how close Australia is to its limits on growth.
Belinda unpacks how different geopolitical scenarios, from a quick de-escalation to a prolonged disruption in energy markets, could shape the outlook for the Australian economy. She also explains the role of fiscal policy, and what it all means for the RBA’s next moves.
Plus, CommBank’s Lucinda Jerogin shares the key focuses for markets in the week ahead.
Important Information
This podcast is approved and distributed by Global Economic & Markets Research (“GEMR”), a business division of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL 234945 (“the Bank”).
Before listening to this podcast, you are advised to read the full GEMR disclaimers, which can be found at www.commbankresearch.com.au.
No Reliance
This podcast is not investment research and nor does it purport to make any recommendations. Rather, this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be relied upon for any investment purposes.
This podcast does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It is not to be construed as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial products, or as a recommendation, and/or investment advice. You should not act on the information in this podcast.
The Bank believes that the information in this podcast is correct and any opinions, conclusions or recommendations made are reasonably held at the time given, and are based on the information available at the time of its compilation. No representation or warranty, either expressed or implied, is made or provided as to accuracy, reliability or completeness of any statement made.
Liability Disclaimer
The Bank does not accept any liability for any loss or damage arising out of any error or omission in or from the information provided or arising out of the use of all or part of the podcast.
Usage of Artificial Intelligence
To enhance efficiency, GEMR may use the Bank approved artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in preparing content for this podcast. These tools are used solely for drafting and structuring purposes and do not replace human judgment or oversight. All final content is reviewed and approved by GEMR analysts for accuracy and independence.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The conflict in the Middle East is rattling global energy markets, but how big could the disruption really be?
Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Head of Commodities and Sustainable Economics Vivek Dhar about risks to global oil and gas supply as tensions escalate around the Strait of Hormuz.
Vivek explains how prolonged conflict could push oil and LNG prices sharply higher, forcing demand destruction across parts of the global economy and adding inflationary pressures. He also outlines implications for energy prices and risk management in Australia, particularly ahead of the winter season.
Plus, CommBank's Harry Ottley shares what we can expect to move markets in the week ahead.
Important Information
This podcast is approved and distributed by Global Economic & Markets Research (“GEMR”), a business division of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL 234945 (“the Bank”).
Before listening to this podcast, you are advised to read the full GEMR disclaimers, which can be found at www.commbankresearch.com.au.
No Reliance
This podcast is not investment research and nor does it purport to make any recommendations. Rather, this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be relied upon for any investment purposes.
This podcast does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It is not to be construed as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial products, or as a recommendation, and/or investment advice. You should not act on the information in this podcast.
The Bank believes that the information in this podcast is correct and any opinions, conclusions or recommendations made are reasonably held at the time given, and are based on the information available at the time of its compilation. No representation or warranty, either expressed or implied, is made or provided as to accuracy, reliability or completeness of any statement made.
Liability Disclaimer
The Bank does not accept any liability for any loss or damage arising out of any error or omission in or from the information provided or arising out of the use of all or part of the podcast.
Usage of Artificial Intelligence
To enhance efficiency, GEMR may use the Bank approved artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in preparing content for this podcast. These tools are used solely for drafting and structuring purposes and do not replace human judgment or oversight. All final content is reviewed and approved by GEMR analysts for accuracy and independence.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artificial intelligence is dominating headlines, but is it the next economic bubble or a breakthrough that could power global growth for decades?
In this episode of CommBank View: Economics & Markets, host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Chief Economist Luke Yeaman about the forces driving the AI boom. From huge investments in data centres to the US-China AI race, hear how AI could deliver a long-awaited productivity boost and reshape economies worldwide, including in Australia.
Luke explains why AI could help offset major global headwinds, from geopolitical tensions to ageing populations, and what it might mean for interest rates, investment, and the future of work.
Plus, CommBank's Carol Kong shares the three things set to move markets this week.
This podcast is not investment research and is for informational purposes only. Please visit www.commbankresearch.com.au for the full report and the full disclaimers.
Important Information
This podcast is approved and distributed by Global Economic & Markets Research (“GEMR”), a business division of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 AFSL 234945 (“the Bank”).
Before listening to this podcast, you are advised to read the full GEMR disclaimers, which can be found at www.commbankresearch.com.au.
No Reliance
This podcast is not investment research and nor does it purport to make any recommendations. Rather, this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be relied upon for any investment purposes.
This podcast does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It is not to be construed as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial products, or as a recommendation, and/or investment advice. You should not act on the information in this podcast.
The Bank believes that the information in this podcast is correct and any opinions, conclusions or recommendations made are reasonably held at the time given, and are based on the information available at the time of its compilation. No representation or warranty, either expressed or implied, is made or provided as to accuracy, reliability or completeness of any statement made.
Liability Disclaimer
The Bank does not accept any liability for any loss or damage arising out of any error or omission in or from the information provided or arising out of the use of all or part of the podcast.
Usage of Artificial Intelligence
To enhance efficiency, GEMR may use the Bank approved artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in preparing content for this podcast. These tools are used solely for drafting and structuring purposes and do not replace human judgment or oversight. All final content is reviewed and approved by GEMR analysts for accuracy and independence.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Global markets are moving quickly. Policy settings are shifting, and the economic outlook is becoming more complex.
Introducing “CommBank View: Economics and Markets”, a new podcast from the CommBank Global Economic and Markets Research team, hosted by Mandy Dury.
Each week, CommBank economists will provide in-depth analysis of the macroeconomic forces shaping Australian and global markets. Explore in-depth coverage across Australian Economics and Commodities, International Economics, Sustainable Economics, Market Strategy and Rates, and more.
This podcast is not investment research and is for informational purposes only.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.