In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver discuss the Reserve Bank of Australia's cautious stance in response to persistent inflation, subdued growth prospects, and political shifts affecting the nation's journey towards net zero emissions.

The discussion also looks at the growing role of cryptocurrencies, considering whether they could hinder productivity by diverting capital away from productive assets, and if there are any potential risks if investment in the digital asset surges.

Listen as they explore:
• RBA as Australia faces inflation and sluggish productivity growth.
• What a resolution to the US government shutdown means going forward.
• Political uncertainty around net zero targets continuing to cloud the business investment climate.

In this episode of Relative Return, host Laura Dew speaks with Rachel White, head of financial adviser services at Vanguard about how advisers can help Australians to feel confident in retirement.

Listen as they discuss:

- The role of advisers in helping Australians feel confident in retirement.
- How advice can bring benefits for wellbeing and emotions
- The impact of the advice gap and how advisers can support both clients with complex needs and those who need simple guidance
- Vanguard's efforts to help advisers deliver advice more efficiently
- Closing the advice gap via the use of technology

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP deputy chief economist Diana Mousina take a look at the Reserve Bank's unanimous decision to leave rates on hold on Melbourne Cup Day and whether future cuts are still on the cards.

Following higher-than-expected inflation numbers last week, the RBA surprised no one as it left rates unchanged, however Mousina suggested the central bank might be overemphasising recent inflation data and not fully accounting for potential weakening in the labour market and consumer spending.

They also explore:
• The impact that Q3 reporting for AI and tech stocks has had on the US market.
• Continued volatility in cryptocurrency markets reflecting the speculative nature of digital assets.
• Whether the government shutdown in the US will start to impact the broader economy.