Each week, we distil the most important Australian business stories into a clear, time‑saving wrap. Expect concise headlines, context on policy and regulation, notable industry moves, technology shifts, and trends shaping operations and growth. Designed for owners, entrepreneurs and decision-makers, you’ll get what matters, why it matters, and practical takeaways to act with confidence. A trustworthy, industry‑specific summary you can rely on, delivered consistently and straight to the point.
This Week:
This week: markets brace for a possible RBA rate rise after a hotter inflation print; asset finance surges while working-capital demand softens; the ATOs new payday super checklist urges employers to prepare for 1 July 2026 cash‑flow changes; and ASBFEO highlights growing sole‑trader numbers and ongoing late‑payment pain. Takeaways: stress‑test repayments, align asset finance to equipment life, ready payroll systems and buffers for payday super, and consider flexible funding that matches your cash cycle. Clear, neutral guidance for Australian business owners.
EPISODE 1231 | Business Loans Australia Weekly News Briefing | Sun, 1st Feb 2026
3 Feb 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to the Business Loans Australia Weekly News Briefing, Im Paige Estritori, and its Sunday 1 February 2026. First up, inflation surprised on the upside in December and markets now see a real chance the Reserve Bank of Australia, the RBA, could lift the cash rate, with a decision due Tuesday 3 February. Higher borrowing costs would flow through to business loan pricing and equipment finance over coming months. If youre planning upgrades or refinancing, stress‑test repayments and compare secured and unsecured options so the facility fits your cash flow. Next up, equipment finance is hot while short‑term cash facilities cool. New data shows asset finance surged late last year as SMEs invested in vehicles, machinery and tech, but working‑capital enquiries softened. The signal is clear: lenders are sharp on asset‑backed deals, while day‑to‑day funding is more selective. If youve delayed capex, consider structured asset finance with terms aligned to the useful life of what youre buying. Meanwhile, the Australian Taxation Office, the ATO, has released a new payday super checklist ahead of 1 July 2026, when employers must pay super on payday and the ATOs free clearing house closes. That means money leaves the business more frequently, so payroll timing and bank cut‑offs matter. Review payroll software, confirm super fund details, and if needed, set up or adjust a line of credit to smooth the transition without missing obligations. And finally, the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, ASBFEO, says sole traders are growing fast but still face late‑payment headaches. Faster, reliable collections and clear terms will help, but many solos also benefit from simple, unsecured working‑capital options tied to their cash cycle. If you operate on irregular income, look for flexible repayments and transparent total cost, not just the sticker rate. Thats the wrap. For tailored loan solutions, flexible terms and expert support to keep your plans moving, visit business-loans.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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