This page provides a snapshot of key market indicators, including interest rates, commodities and currency movements, supported by Ledge Finance insights.
Market data is updated in real time, while commentary is reviewed and updated regularly to reflect broader trends and conditions. This approach is designed to provide a clear, high-level view of the market environment as it evolves.
A common theme emerging in client discussions at the moment is preparedness.
Businesses seeking new contracts or expansion opportunities should be reviewing working capital requirements and finance structures well before projects commence.
Having funding, equipment finance facilities and cash flow strategies in place early can help businesses mobilise quickly when opportunities arise.
We’re also continuing to see pressure from ATO collections activity and broader cash flow constraints across the market. Staying up to date with lodgements and tax obligations remains critical.
At the same time, with insolvency activity increasing in some sectors, businesses should ensure their PPSR registrations and security interests are properly maintained to help protect their position.
The businesses best positioned for the next 12 to 24 months will be those that remain proactive, protect their interests and prepare ahead of changing market conditions.
The Reserve Bank of Australia held the cash rate at 4.35% at its August meeting, following three increases earlier in 2026.
Annual headline inflation eased to 3.5% in July, down from 3.8% in June. However, underlying inflation remains persistent, with trimmed mean inflation unchanged at 3.6% over the year.
The monthly CPI rose 1.0% in July, stronger than market expectations, with fuel and travel costs among the contributors to the increase.
Minutes from the RBA’s August meeting also showed that the Board considered whether a further 0.25 percentage point increase was warranted before ultimately deciding to leave rates unchanged. Several members noted that additional tightening could still be required if upside inflation risks persist.
The latest figures reinforce the uncertainty around the interest rate outlook. While headline inflation has moderated, underlying price pressures remain above the RBA’s target range and the Board continues to assess how earlier rate increases are flowing through the economy.
For businesses and borrowers, this means current funding conditions are likely to remain an important consideration when reviewing cash flow, debt facilities, investment plans or refinancing options.
Perth buyers continue to have significantly more properties to choose from than they did a year ago.
REIWA reported 7,204 properties listed for sale in Perth in the week ending 23 August, up 129.1% compared with the same time last year. Sales activity remains more subdued, reinforcing the broader shift towards more balanced conditions.
Perth’s median house price is currently around $950,000, while the median unit price is approximately $682,000, based on sales for the 12 months ending July 2026.
Conditions still vary significantly across suburbs, property types and price points, and increased listings do not necessarily mean every part of the market has shifted in favour of buyers.
For buyers and investors, finance preparation remains important. Borrowing capacity can change as interest rates, lender policies, income, expenses and existing commitments change, meaning a pre-approval or borrowing estimate obtained several months ago may no longer reflect a borrower’s current position.
Understanding borrowing capacity, finance conditions and settlement requirements early can support more informed property decisions.
If you are considering buying, investing or reviewing an existing home loan, speak with the Ledge Home Loans team about your current position and available options.
Page last updated: 26 August 2026
Disclaimer: Please note the information provided on this page is general in nature and does not constitute financial, taxation or other professional advice. You should consider whether the information is appropriate for your needs and seek professional advice prior to making any decisions.
