Business
The economy
Opinion
Productivity
The pandemic pumped up productivity. Then the bubble burst
Here’s how we’re tracking now, and why putting in more work isn’t the answer.
- by Millie Muroi
Latest
Opinion
IMF
US and China’s mounting debts could hurt us all
Rising government debt and deficits in the world’s two largest economies could have spillover effects on the rest of the global economy.
- by Stephen Bartholomeusz
Opinion
Trade
‘New Competition’? It’s protectionism with an industry policy veneer
Australia is about to join the protectionist wave sweeping through major economies with its “Future Made in Australia” scheme. History suggests we shouldn’t.
- by Stephen Bartholomeusz
Opinion
University
Unpaid internships are one thing, but paying to work? That’s absurd
The most recent school term has been educational for me and exhausting for my flatmate … and not because we have kids.
- by Millie Muroi
Opinion
Retirement living
A comfortable retirement? Not on these numbers
As a recent retiree, I finally have more free time on my hands. I confess, I use a chunk of that free time wondering how long I can afford to enjoy all that free time.
- by Paul McShane
Opinion
Australian economy
Coping with higher prices on smaller portions and chicken nuggets
The past few years have been tough financially for many of us, and it’s potentially changing our eating habits.
- by Rachel Clun
Opinion
Competition
Why the crackdown on ‘killer’ deals is no silver bullet
Changes aimed at stopping oligopolies becoming more entrenched through mergers make sense. Just don’t hold your breath for lower prices as a result.
- by Clancy Yeates
Opinion
Trade wars
China has spooked the West in the war that may never end
The West is splashing out hundreds of billions of dollars to maintain its edge in the fight over the world’s most critical technology. But China is playing the long game.
- by Stephen Bartholomeusz
Opinion
Childcare
Costly childcare’s a slippery slope. So why haven’t we learnt?
The faults in Australia’s childcare model have been obvious for years. It’s time for a sweeping overhaul.
- by Matt Wade
Opinion
Public transport
As much as I’d love it, free public transport is a bad idea
Public transport should never be a money train. But asking for a full fare-free system would be driving a hard bargain.
- by Millie Muroi
Opinion
Inside China
The Chinese giants that have set off alarm bells in the US
A flood of small packages driven by companies like Shein and Temu is causing Washington big headaches.
- by Stephen Bartholomeusz