Published 2026-03-11
Summary: Economists at several of Australia’s major banks anticipate the Reserve Bank of Australia will raise rates again next week, with a 25 basis point move commonly cited among analysts from Westpac, National Australia Bank and Deutsche Bank.
What We Know
- A growing number of economists expect the Reserve Bank of Australia to raise interest rates next week.
- Westpac, National Australia Bank and Deutsche Bank are among those tipping a rate hike.
- Some reports indicate a 25 basis point rate increase is anticipated.
- The prevailing view is that inflation remains persistently strong, contributing to the expected move.
- Multiple media outlets are reporting that a second consecutive rate hike is anticipated in the near term.
What’s Still Unclear
- The exact timing of the rate decision within the week is not confirmed by a single official source.
- There is no universal consensus on the magnitude beyond 25 basis points across all economists.
- Whether all economists predict a hike or only a subset is not definitively clear from the available information.
- Any accompanying commentary from the RBA or its guidance for future policy is not detailed here.
Context
The Reserve Bank of Australia sets monetary policy for the country, balancing inflation, employment, and economic growth. In recent cycles, market expectations have been shaped by inflation pressures and the central bank’s communications about future policy paths. This article reports on sentiment among prominent lenders and does not constitute a policy decision.
Why It Matters
A rate increase affects borrowing costs for households and businesses, influences consumer and business sentiment, and can impact markets and macroeconomic conditions in Australia.
What to Watch Next
- Policy communications from the RBA ahead of the meeting.
- Responses from other major banks and economists to the central bank’s anticipated move.
- Market reactions to any rate decision and accompanying guidance on future policy.
FAQ
Q: What is the likely action by the RBA next week?
A: Several economists anticipate a rate hike, with 25 basis points commonly cited, but official confirmation is pending.
Q: Which institutions are speculating about a hike?
A: Economists from Westpac, National Australia Bank and Deutsche Bank are among those indicating a hike is likely.
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Source Transparency
- This article is based on a short preliminary brief and may not reflect the full details available in ongoing reporting.
- Source links are provided in the Sources section where available.
- A limited open-web check was used to clarify key details when possible; unclear items remain clearly marked.
Original brief: Economists at three of Australia’s “Big Four” lenders expect the Reserve Bank to deliver a second consecutive rate hike next week as it grapples with persistently strong inflation…
Sources
- Three of Australia's Top Banks See RBA Hiking Key Rate in March
- More economists expect RBA to raise rates next week | Reuters
- Market now tips RBA interest rate hike next week, ASX up
- Traders, major banks point to rate rise next week on Iran oil shock
- 'Get on with it': Demand of the RBA ahead of next week's rates call