Australia is attracting billions of dollars in data centre investment, but can the country deliver the infrastructure needed to support the AI boom?

Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Economist Lucinda Jerogin about Australia's rapidly expanding data centre pipeline, what is driving demand and why the sector is set to become the biggest contributor to business investment growth over the next two years. They discuss the scale of the proposed build-out, why the economic boost is smaller than the investment headline suggests, and the evidence that projects are already moving beyond announcements.

They also explore the challenges facing the sector, from electricity, water and skills shortages to community opposition, and whether Australia's data centre boom should ultimately be viewed as an AI opportunity or an infrastructure challenge.

Plus, CommBank International & Sustainable Economist John Oh 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 Middle East conflict has entered a new phase, but where could it go from here and what would it mean for the global economy?

Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Senior Geo-Economics Analyst Dr Madison Cartwright about why the Memorandum of Understanding collapsed, the three most likely paths for the conflict and why a diplomatic solution may become more likely over the coming months.

Mandy also speaks with CommBank Head of Commodities and Sustainable Economics Vivek Dhar about how markets are assessing the conflict, the outlook for oil prices and what higher energy costs could mean for Australian households, businesses and inflation.

Plus, CommBank Senior Associate, Market Strategy and Rates Research Michael Tang 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.

Australia is entering a major defence investment cycle, but what will it mean for the economy and which businesses and industries stand to benefit?

Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Senior Economist, Business & Industry Ryan Felsman about why the global peace dividend is over, Australia's growing defence investment, the role of AUKUS and the challenges of building Australia's sovereign defence capability.

They also explore the opportunities for shipbuilders, engineering firms, technology companies and SMEs, as well as the states likely to receive the greatest economic benefit from increased defence spending.

Plus, CommBank Economist and Currency Strategist 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.

The global economy is entering a new era, but what does that mean for interest rates, inflation and long-term growth?

Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Head of Market Strategy & Rates Research Adam Donaldson about the long-term forces reshaping interest rates. They discuss the rising neutral interest rate, the impact of AI investment, defence spending and the energy transition, and why central banks are facing a very different environment than they did over the past three decades.

Mandy also speaks with CommBank Senior Geoeconomics Analyst Dr Madison Cartwright about the changing global order. They explore the end of the globalisation era, why governments are prioritising security over efficiency, and what a more fragmented world could mean for inflation, investment and economic growth.

Plus, CommBank International & Sustainable Economist John Oh 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.

Australia’s economy is slowing, but what does the global outlook mean for the path ahead?

Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Head of Australian Economics Belinda Allen about why housing has become the key headwind for the Australian economy. They discuss weaker market momentum, consumer spending, the outlook for interest rates and whether AI investment can help offset softer domestic demand.

Mandy also speaks with CommBank Head of FX, International and Geoeconomics Joseph Capurso about the global forces shaping the economic outlook. They discuss lower oil prices, maritime trade risks, the US AI boom, China's two-speed economy and Europe's ongoing challenges.

Plus, CommBank’s Associate Economist 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.

Markets began the year expecting US interest rate cuts, so why are they now preparing for hikes instead?

Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Senior Economist & Currency Strategist Kristina Clifton about the changing outlook for US monetary policy and what it means for global markets. They discuss why expectations for the Federal Reserve have shifted so dramatically, how stronger US growth and AI investment are supporting the economy, and why CommBank continues to expect a Fed hiking cycle.

They also explore Kevin Warsh's first meeting as Fed Chair, the importance of central bank independence, the outlook for inflation and interest rates, and why developments in the US continue to shape financial markets around the world.

Plus, CommBank Senior Associate in Market Strategy & Rates Research Michael Tang 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.

Productivity growth has slowed across Australia and much of the developed world, but what will it take to turn the trend around?

CommBank Chief Economist Luke Yeaman sits down with Productivity Commission Chair Danielle Wood about the forces shaping productivity growth in Australia and globally. They discuss the causes of the productivity slowdown, the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence, and what Australia must do to improve business investment, innovation and technology adoption.

They also explore the role of tax reform, regulation, housing, migration and public sector productivity in supporting long-term economic growth, as well as why lifting productivity remains critical to improving living standards in the years ahead.

Plus, CommBank Economist & Currency Strategist Carol Kong 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.

With major changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax set to dampen the appeal of residential property for investors, where will capital flow to instead?

Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Director, Commercial Property Kevin Stanley about why commercial property may become a more attractive option for some investors as a result of the recent tax reforms. They discuss the outlook for rental housing supply, and how capital could shift between residential and commercial assets in the years ahead.

They also explore the outlook for office, retail and industrial property, why shopping centres continue to outperform expectations, and how emerging sectors such as data centres are creating new opportunities across the commercial property market.

Plus, CommBank Associate Director Australian Economist Harry Ottley outlines the series of central bank decisions expected this week and key themes markets are watching.

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.

Australia's housing market has remained remarkably resilient, but is the slowdown only just beginning?

Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank Senior Economist Trent Saunders about the latest trends in the housing market and why sentiment is starting to weaken. They discuss softer auction clearance rates, longer selling times and how higher interest rates and recent housing tax reforms are weighing on buyer and investor confidence.

They also explore why CommBank economists now expect house prices to remain broadly flat through 2026, what the changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax could mean for affordability and investment, and what could help stabilise the market as interest rates eventually begin to ease.

Plus, CommBank’s Associate Economist 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.

Have energy markets become too complacent about the risks of the Iran conflict?

Host Mandy Drury speaks with CommBank's Head of Commodities & Sustainability Research Vivek Dhar about why oil and fuel prices have eased despite ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. They discuss the role of global inventories, the risk of another energy price shock, and why the next few weeks could prove critical for oil markets.

They also explore what higher energy prices mean for Australian households and businesses, the outlook for petrol, gas and electricity prices, and how the crisis is reshaping the conversation around energy security, electrification and the transition to a lower-carbon economy.

Plus, CommBank’s Associate International Economist & Currency Strategist Samara Hammoud shares the key focuses for markets this week.

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.