Season 7, Episode 4 – CPI Surprise and the RBA Rate Call
Welcome to Season 7, Episode 4 of the Expat Mortgage Podcast: CPI Surprise and the RBA Rate Call. In this episode, Atlas Wealth Group’s Mortgages Director, Jeremy Harper and APAC Director, James Ridley unpack the latest data and what it means for Australian expats managing mortgages from abroad.
Firstly, James and Jeremy break down the December quarter CPI data. They discuss what it signals for interest rates, borrowing capacity, and lending conditions moving into early 2026. Also, they explore why inflation remains above the RBA’s target range, the impact of rising electricity and housing costs, and how “sticky” inflation may force the RBA’s hand at the upcoming February meeting. Furthermore, they review how higher rates could affect first home buyers, renters, and investors differently, and why parts of the economy continue to show strong discretionary spending despite cost-of-living pressures.
Additionally, the episode covers how borrowing capacity is influenced by rate rises, living expense benchmarks, credit cards, and car loans. Also, James and Jeremy discuss refinancing strategies and insights for borrowers under pressure. Finally, the discussion wraps with a Q&A focused on cash buffer expectations, risk management, and how expats can position themselves in a potentially tightening lending environment.
About the Podcast:
The Expat Mortgage Podcast is all about helping Australian expats successfully secure and maintain a Australian mortgage whilst they’re living and working overseas.
Meanwhile, Atlas Mortgages specialises in helping Australian expats in over 30 countries secure the right home loan. In fact, we regularly consult with more than 30 Australian mortgage lenders and review over 500 loan products to ensure you not only qualify as an expat borrower, but also get a mortgage tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.
Related links:
- The Expat’s Handbook available for pre-order
- Upcoming Seminars & Webinars
- Facebook Group – Don’t forget to join our Australian Expat Financial Forum Facebook Group
- Ask Atlas – Click here to have your questions answered on the podcast
Beyond Expat Mortgage, you can discover more content from Atlas Wealth Group through our other podcasts and YouTube series:
- Expat Chat Podcast
- Weekly Recap Podcast
- Alpine Aussies – This series showcases the journeys of Australian expats living and working in Switzerland.
If you enjoy the content, make sure you let us know by hitting the thumbs up and subscribing. Additionally, feel free to provide some feedback in the comments below.
About Atlas Wealth Group:
Atlas Wealth Group was established to meet the growing demand from Australian expats for professional guidance. In particular, we are specialists in providing tax, financial planning, wealth management and mortgage services to every Australian expat. Furthermore, whether you are based in Asia, the Middle East, Europe or the Americas, we have the experience to provide essential financial services to the expatriate community.
To learn more, visit www.atlaswealth.com. Alternatively, to get tailored advice about your personal situation or to learn more about CPI Surprise and the RBA Rate Call, please contact us.
Connect with us:
Facebook – @atlaswealthmgmt
LinkedIn – Atlas Wealth Management
X (Twitter) – @atlaswealthmgmt
Instagram – @atlaswealthgroup
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