FEAR & GREED | Business News

After years of hype, ethical and green investing has cooled. But instead of going away, it's evolving.Sean Aylmer speaks with Dugald Higgins, Head of Responsible Investment and Real Assets at Zenith Investment Partners, about where sustainable investing now sits, why Australia has held steady while other markets pulled back, the difference between ESG and sustainability, and how new climate reporting rules could reshape investment decisions.This is general information only. Seek advice tailored to your circumstances before making investment decisions.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. Miners lift ASX Major defence land sell-off Airport delays as arrivals hit record WFH case could reshape rights Bill Gates on AI Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday 4 February 2026 The Reserve Bank lifts interest rates and hints that there could be more hikes later in the year.  The federal Coalition parties remain at odds over reuniting.  Cheaper, challenger brands are winning the mobile battle in Australia.  Elon Musk combines his two private companies as he pushes to develop data centres in space.  US owned TikTok changes terms and conditions, upsetting users. Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, seven signs you’re better with money than you think. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank has lifted interest rates for the first time in two years, and while the hike was widely expected by markets, not all economists thought the RBA would do it.AMP Deputy Chief Economist Diana Mousina explains why the unanimous vote raised eyebrows, and why she believes this may still be a one-off adjustment rather than the start of a tightening cycle.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. ASX closes up 1pc Nats on crossbenches Qantas selldown Corporate updates Clintons to testify Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday 3 February 2026 The federal Liberals and Nationals in talks to reform the Coalition just as parliament resumes for the year.  Competition in home lending heats up just as interest rates are set to rise  The boss of Corporate Travel Management resigns five months after the company said it can’t sign off its annual accounts.  The rest of the world pushes to follow Australia’s social media ban for kids Melania, the documentary, about the First Lady Melania Trump, fails to set the box office alight Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, inside the Frugal February challenge. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Roger Montgomery, founder and Chief Investment Officer at Montgomery Investment Management, looks back at the forces that drove markets in 2025 — from the AI boom to the “great broadening” beyond US megacaps.He talks to Sean Aylmer about the bull and bear cases for US equities in 2026, why the US dollar matters for Australian investors, and where diversification may make sense as volatility returns.For more information, visit www.montinvest.com or call 02 8046 5000.Follow Roger’s insights at www.rogermontgomery.comMontgomery Investment Management is a supporter of Fear + Greed. Seek professional advice tailored to your circumstances before making investment decisions.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. ASX loses 1pc as gold slides Bitcoin tumbles Littleproud survives challenge Economy airfare wars Grammy protests Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday 2 February 2026 The housing market starts the new year with a bang, with a pick-up in both prices and successful auctions. The RBA convenes today and tomorrow to deliberate on interest rates, and markets reckon there will be a rate hike tomorrow The crisis in the federal coalition gets worse with polling showing Pauline Hanson is now the country’s most popular politician  The prices of gold, silver and Bitcoin tumble after US President Donald Trump announces his pick for Fed chair.  The latest Epstein email releases capture leading business figures, including Bill Gates and Elon Musk. Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, inside the Frugal February challenge. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's all about the RBA this week, with interest rates tipped to rise. Michael Thompson is joined by economist Stephen Koukoulas to look at what to expect.Fear & Greed Q+A: Join Sean Aylmer & Michael Thompson and the team as they answer questions on business, investing, economics, politics and more. If you have your own question, get in touch via our website, LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook!Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week the Winter Olympics kick off in Italy. Sean Aylmer and Michael Thompson talk about the big sporting events they've covered in the media, from the Atlanta and London Olympics, to the US Open tennis.Fear & Greed Q+A: Join Sean Aylmer, Michael Thompson and Adam Lang as they answer questions on business, investing, economics, politics and more. If you have your own question, get in touch via our website, LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook.Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been a week of big numbers: inflation, the Aussie dollar, the price of gold, even the record temperature set in Victoria. There's also dual leadership spills in the Coalition, and talk of an Aussie in one of the world's top jobs.Sean Aylmer and Michael Thompson go head to head on the top business stories of the week, with Adam Lang picking a winner in a fierce debate.Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. ASX slumps 0.7pc on Fed speculation Hastie pulls out of Lib leadership race Nine Entertainment sells radio stations Nipa virus outbreak Apple’s record iPhone sales Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday 30 January 2026 Renewable energy provides the majority of electricity across the nation during the December quarter, for the first time.  Senior Liberals meet without Sussan Ley to discuss the party’s leadership Tesla to stop making Model S and Model X EVs as the company pushes into robotics A good day for uranium and a bad one for rare earths The EU and India do a mega trade deal Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, inside the Frugal February challenge. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are reshaping healthcare — and potentially the economy.Dr Zac Turner explains to Sean Aylmer how GLP-1 drugs work, what we’re still learning about their long-term effects, why the next generation matters, and how these medications may go far beyond weight loss.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. Iran fears send gold soaring Fed keeps rates on hold PM and states to meet on health Apple fixing Telstra issue 16,000 Amazon layoffs Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday 29 January 2026 The Reserve Bank is set to lift interest rates next week after inflation picks up.  The Aussie dollar pushes beyond US 70c.  Droneshield’s boss explains why he had to sell $50 million worth of shares.  Nationals leader David Littleproud to face a leadership spill next week.  Why oil is measured in barrels. Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, inside the Frugal February challenge. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A rate hike is now firmly back on the table next week after a sharp jump in inflation. Economist Warren Hogan, from EQ Economics and Judo Bank, talks to Sean Aylmer about where the RBA went wrong, why inflation is proving stubborn, and why the Reserve Bank should increase rates by 40 basis points next week.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. CPI jumps, AUD hits 3 yr high Grocery wars heat up Morrison’s controversial speech slammed  Rudd may run for UN job UPS to cut 30,000 jobs Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday 28 January 2026 BHP becomes the largest company on the ASX, overtaking the Commonwealth Bank.  Business confidence picks up, ahead of today’s all-important inflation data  Cotality forecasts the hottest property prices in 2026 Teal MP Monique Ryan’s take on naming heatwaves The Donald Trump memecoin tanks. Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, seven money habits that could change your year. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With house prices rising and the rental crisis deepening, build-to-rent is emerging as a serious alternative to Australia’s traditional rental model.Local: Residential founder and co-CEO Matt Berg talks to Sean Aylmer about how institutionally owned housing works, why long-term leases matter, and why investors are backing the model as both a solution and an opportunity.To find out more, visit localresidential.com.auLocal: Residential is a supporter of Fear & Greed.This podcast contains general information only.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. ASX hits three month high Victoria heatwave sets record QLD Premier condemns flag burning DroneShield pipeline worries NRA turns on Trump over Minneapolis shooting Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday 27 January 2026 Local investors are hoping for a benign inflation reading this week, amid all the global turmoil. But if they don’t get one, then a rate hike next week is likely.  Australia’s largest steel company, Bluescope, shops itself around  The push to replace Liberal leader Sussan Ley intensifies  Protests mar Australia Day across the nation The story of a former flight attendant who conned his way onto hundreds of free flights by posing as a pilot Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, seven money habits that could change your year. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s miners are entering a new phase of consolidation, with a potential mega merger between Rio Tinto and Glencore putting copper, scale and growth firmly in focus.Sean Aylmer speaks to Brian Szeto from Morningstar DBRS in Canada about why the biggest miners are doing deals now, why copper has become the most strategic commodity of all, and why standing still may be the biggest risk.This is general information only. You should seek advice tailored to your circumstances before making investment decisions.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday 26 January 2026 Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appoints a long-time bureaucrat to the plum, but difficult, job of Ambassador to the US.  Australians are increasingly concerned about their long-term financial prospects.  Delivery wars are heating up with Guzman doing a deal with Uber Eats.  China’s Xi Jinping fires his head of military, consolidating his own power.  Elon Musk ponders buying Ryanair. Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, seven money habits that could change your year. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a very big week for the economy: the December quarter inflation data is out on Wednesday, and Michael Thompson is joined by economist Stephen Koukoulas to look at what to expect, and what the number will need to be in order to avoid an interest rate hike when the RBA board meets next week.Fear & Greed Q+A: Join Sean Aylmer & Michael Thompson and the team as they answer questions on business, investing, economics, politics and more. If you have your own question, get in touch via our website, LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook!Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After this long weekend, business in Australia returns to normal - the summer holiday period is officially over. Sean and Michael share the best and worst aspects of returning to work.Fear & Greed Q+A: Join Sean Aylmer, Michael Thompson and Adam Lang as they answer questions on business, investing, economics, politics and more. If you have your own question, get in touch via our website, LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook.Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump's quest for Greenland vs the implosion of the Coalition, plus good news for super funds, homeowners and more. Sean Aylmer and Michael Thompson go head to head on the top business stories of the week, with Adam Lang picking a winner in a fierce debate.Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. ASX flat Libs come out fighting Aussie dollar hits high Gunman search Tik Tok US deal Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday 23 January 2026 A surprise fall in the unemployment rate increases the odds of a rate hike in a fortnight’s time.  Opposition leader Sussan Ley is under pressure to keep her job after the National Party walks away from the federal Coalition Donald Trump backs down on taking Greenland by force, and on imposing extra tariffs on European countries The IPO outlook in Australia improves Scientists discover 68,000-year-old cave paintings Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, seven money habits that could change your year. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s housing market has now recorded 12 straight quarters of price growth - the longest run in more than a decade. Michael Thompson talks to Dr Nicola Powell, Chief of Research and Economics at Domain, about why Melbourne's recovery has accelerated, how Perth has become a million-dollar city, and what happens this year if interest rates increase.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. ASX jumps 0.8pc National Day of Mourning Gold investment surges Fortescue output surge NZ landslide rescue Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday 22 January 2026 The sell-America trade gathers momentum as the US and Europe snipe over Greenland.  The federal coalition is in disarray after Nationals leader David Littleproud and 10 senior MPs quit their positions on the frontbench  House and unit prices finish 2025 at record highs A bunch of Aussie cricketers invest in a European T20 competition The battle for the owner of Game of Thrones, Harry Potter and DC Comics heats up Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, seven money habits that could change your year. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When equities, bonds and the US dollar all fall at once, where do investors turn? Sean Aylmer speaks to Gemma Dale from nabtrade about the rise in anti-US sentiment, the concentration risk hiding in global portfolios, and why some investors are choosing cash over bonds while reassessing their exposure to US markets.This is general information only. Seek professional advice tailored to your circumstances before making investment decisions.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. ASX down 0.4pc Nationals frontbenchers quit Boost for Aussie space industry Warning over bus ‘kill switch’ Air Force One turns back from Davos Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday 21 January 2026 The federal government’s hate speech and gun buyback legislation passes parliament, but splits the Coalition.  The country’s largest coal-fired power station to operate for an extra two years A fashion legend dies Superannuation delivers another strong year for savers Nike steps into the world of pickleball Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, seven money habits that could change your year. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian economy enters 2026 as uncertain as ever. There is geopolitical risk and uncertainty over the independence of the world’s most important central bank, the US Federal Reserve. Locally, it's unclear what will happen to interest rates in Australia, while the economy is expanding at what is best described as a modest clip.But at the same time, Australia has an abundance of growth opportunities. Paul Bloxham, Chief Economist at HSBC Australia, talks to Sean Aylmer about how we can unlock this potential.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. ASX falls Hate speech debate Shark attacks Corporate news A different kind of MAGA Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday 20 January 2026 Investors seek safe haven assets like gold and silver as the US-Europe trade war spooks markets.  The federal government and opposition work together to find a compromise on hate speech legislation Even the airlines think airfares are too high The number of Australian billionaires hits 48 The hardest luck story at the Australian Open Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, your money bounceback plan. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One year into Donald Trump’s second presidency, has he delivered or damaged America’s global standing? Dr Charles Miller, Senior Lecturer at the ANU School of Politics and International Relations, joins Sean Aylmer to assess Trump’s record so far — from markets and Gaza to tariffs, Venezuela and the risks to global security.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the Fear and Greed Afternoon Report - everything you need to know about what happened in the markets, economy and world of business today, in just a few minutes. ASX down, gold hits high One Nation support surges Govt’s housing target cost blowout UK poised to follow social media ban ChatGPT to start showing ads Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday 19 January 2026 The World Economic Forum kicks off tonight in Davos, 48 hours after US President Donald Trump slapped tariffs on European Allies, which will remain until they agree to sell him Greenland.  Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shelves half his racial vilification legislation as parliament sits for a two day summer session The remarkable improvement in cancer recovery rates Holiday makers into Australia surge The Australian Tennis Open kicks off Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, your money bounceback plan. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This first Week Ahead episode of 2026 highlights a patchwork economy. Michael Thompson is joined by economist Stephen Koukoulas to look at why inflation data is still noisy, why Black Friday distortions matter, how consumer spending is improving, and what businesses should focus on as confidence and activity become the key drivers of growth.Fear & Greed Q+A: Join Sean Aylmer & Michael Thompson and the team as they answer questions on business, investing, economics, politics and more. If you have your own question, get in touch via our website, LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook!Join our free daily newsletter here.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luxury travel is evolving - it’s no longer just about five-star hotels, but about experiences, space, food and service. Michael Thompson chats with Dylan O'Brien from Luxury Escapes about what luxury travel looks like in 2026, where Australians are heading, and how travellers are redefining what “luxury” really means. This episode is brought to you by Luxury Escapes. Fear & Greed's summer series - all-new short episodes every day, with regular news back from January 12.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the four-day work week realistic, or just wishful thinking? Sean Aylmer talks to Simon Kuestenmacher from The Demographics Group about why Gen X is obsessed with work-life balance, and what global trials really show. Simon explains why productivity hasn’t collapsed in some experiments - and why labour shortages, not lifestyle trends, may ultimately decide where it works and where it doesn’t. This is Fear & Greed's summer series - all-new short episodes every day, with regular news back from January 12.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian investors love dividends, and franking credits only add to the appeal. But picking dividend stocks isn’t as simple as buying whatever yielded the most last year. Sean Aylmer talks to Morningstar strategist Lachlan Halloway about what actually makes a dividend sustainable, why ASX yields are lower than the long-run average, and how Morningstar goes about identifying higher-yield opportunities. This is Fear & Greed's summer series - all-new short episodes every day, with regular business news back from January 12. All information is general in nature. If you want to invest, we recommend you visit a financial advisor who can tailor investments to your needs.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday 16 January 2026 The federal Opposition and Greens indicate they won’t support the government hate speech legislation next week.  A shortage of air traffic controllers causes chaos across the country Households up their spending NASA performs its first ever medical evacuation Hollywood star Zoe Saldana becomes the highest grossing actor of all time Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, your money bounceback plan. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Global markets have faced renewed volatility following the election of Donald Trump, but how much does it really matter for Australia? Sean Aylmer is joined by Westpac Chief Economist Luci Ellis to discuss the US, China and the forces shaping the global outlook in 2026. Luci also highlights a fast-growing but under-appreciated success story. This episode is brought to you by Westpac. Fear & Greed's summer series - all-new short episodes every day, with regular news back from January 12.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday 15 January 2026 Alphabet, the parent company of Google, hits a $US4 trillion valuation, making it the second largest stock on Wall Street.  The federal opposition baulks at supporting Labor’s anti-vilification laws  A record year for ETFs in Australia House and unit rents are set to stabilise after years of growth China’s trade surplus hits a record $US1.2 trillion, as Donald Trump’s tariffs re-order trade flows Join our free daily newsletter here. And don’t miss the latest episode of How Do They Afford That? - this week, your money bounceback plan. Get the episode from APPLE, SPOTIFY, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.Find out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wesfarmers is one of the most remarkable success stories on the ASX - a diversified conglomerate thriving in a world where many have failed. Sean Aylmer speaks with Gaurav Sodhi, Deputy Head of Research at Intelligent Investor, about what makes Wesfarmers different. From the extraordinary rise of Kmart’s Anko brand, to Bunnings’ near-monopoly power, and the company’s unique approach to capital allocation and management culture, Gaurav explains why Wesfarmers has delivered such strong long-term returns. This is Fear & Greed's summer series - all-new short episodes every day, with regular news back from January 12. All information is general in nature. If you want to invest, we recommend you visit a financial advisor who can tailor investments to your needsFind out more: https://fearandgreed.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.