In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford is joined by AMP chief economist Shane Oliver to unpack a tumultuous week for global markets, led by the US Supreme Court's decision to strike down Trump's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act for imposing tariffs.

Oliver explains how the administration has pivoted to Section 122 of the Trade Act to apply a temporary flat tariff of 15 per cent on all countries, what the implications are for Australia as it faces a higher rate, and the messy question of tariff refunds for businesses and whether any benefit ever flows back to US consumers.

Tune in to hear:

• Why January's CPI numbers have increased the chances of an RBA hike in May.
• Whether the government is likely to use the upcoming budget to announce major reform.
• The likelihood that volatility in markets will continue.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford is joined by AMP chief economist Shane Oliver to break down the latest Australian jobs and wages data, what a still‑tight labour market means for inflation and RBA rate hikes, and how households are really faring in the cost‑of‑living squeeze.

They also look at why the ASX is hitting new highs despite valuation risks, and scan key geopolitical flashpoints – from Iran and oil prices to possible US tariff changes – that could rattle markets in the months ahead.

Tune in to hear:

• Why steady unemployment, strong full‑time job growth, and a slightly lower participation rate are keeping conditions a little tight.
• How real wages in the negative but broader earnings measures and strong employment suggest households overall are OK, not fantastic.
• What is driving the ASX to record highs, and where potential geopolitical flashpoints could impact markets.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford speaks with AMP chief economist Shane Oliver about the ASX brushing record highs amid a robust profit reporting season and whether a bullish view on AI is actually a case to exit US tech stocks.

Oliver broke down how strong results from miners and banks has driven the Australian market to a new high despite cost‑of‑living pressures, inflation worries and global geopolitical risks.

Tune in to hear:

• Why AI's long‑term winners may be outside big US tech.
• Whether AI will be truly transformative or if it will fall below expectations.
• How public spending is adding to demand and inflation pressures, but the inflation spike should be partly temporary.