Business Inventories Qoq - AU Economic Data | Sigmanomics | Sigmanomics
Australia Business Inventories QoQ
-0.9
Actual
0.3
Consensus
0.1
Previous
Australia’s Business Inventories QoQ fell by -0.90%, missing the 0.30% consensus and marking the largest quarterly decline since Q3 2023. This sharp contraction reverses the previous quarter’s modest 0.10% increase, signaling cautious inventory management amid slowing demand and tighter financial conditions. Looking ahead, the decline supports expectations of a pause in RBA rate hikes, while markets remain wary of near-term growth risks. Updated 12/1/25
Business Inventories Qoq - AU
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Australia’s Business Inventories Contract Sharply in Q4 2025: Implications and Outlook
Key Takeaways: Australia’s business inventories fell by 0.90% QoQ in Q4 2025, missing the 0.30% consensus and marking the largest quarterly decline since Q3 2023. This contraction signals cautious inventory management amid slowing demand and tighter financial conditions. Monetary policy remains restrictive, while fiscal stimulus is limited. External risks and geopolitical tensions add uncertainty. Market reaction was muted but cautious, reflecting concerns over near-term growth. Structural shifts toward leaner supply chains continue to weigh on inventory accumulation.
The latest release from the Sigmanomics database shows Australian business inventories declined by 0.90% quarter-on-quarter in Q4 2025, a sharp reversal from the modest 0.10% rise in Q3 and well below the 0.30% consensus forecast. This marks the steepest quarterly drop since the 1.90% contraction in Q3 2023. Over the past year, inventories have fluctuated, with notable expansions in Q4 2024 (1.30%) and contractions in Q1 2024 (-1.70%).
Supply chain normalization reducing the need for excess stock.
Businesses adopting leaner inventory strategies to preserve cash.
Policy pulse
The Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) restrictive monetary stance, with cash rates steady at 4.10%, continues to tighten financial conditions. This discourages inventory buildup due to higher financing costs. Fiscal policy remains neutral, with no major stimulus announced in the recent budget cycle.
Market lens
Following the print, the Australian dollar (AUDUSD) dipped slightly by 0.15%, reflecting cautious sentiment. Short-term bond yields edged lower, signaling some growth concerns, while equity markets showed muted reaction.
Business inventories are a critical component of GDP and supply chain health. The contraction in Q4 2025 contrasts with the broader economic backdrop where GDP growth slowed to 1.20% annualized in Q3 2025. Retail sales growth decelerated to 0.30% MoM in November, while manufacturing PMI slipped below 50, indicating contraction.
Monetary Policy & Financial Conditions
The RBA’s firm stance to combat inflation, which remains above the 2–3% target band at 3.80% YoY, has increased borrowing costs. Business lending rates rose to 6.50%, pressuring working capital and inventory financing. Credit growth slowed to 2.10% YoY, the weakest since 2022.
Fiscal Policy & Government Budget
Australia’s 2025 budget maintained a neutral fiscal stance, with a slight deficit of 0.40% of GDP. No new incentives for business investment or inventory buildup were introduced. Infrastructure spending continues but with a long-term horizon, limiting immediate impact on inventories.
External Shocks & Geopolitical Risks
Global trade tensions and supply chain disruptions persist, especially with China’s slower growth and ongoing geopolitical frictions in the Indo-Pacific region. These factors contribute to cautious inventory management by Australian firms.
The Q4 2025 business inventories reading of -0.90% contrasts sharply with the previous quarter’s 0.10% and the 12-month average of 0.10%. This marks a clear downward trend after a brief inventory buildup in mid-2025.
Historical data from the Sigmanomics database shows that inventory contractions of this magnitude have typically preceded GDP slowdowns, as seen in Q3 2023 (-1.90%) and Q1 2024 (-1.70%). The current print aligns with these patterns, suggesting caution among businesses.
Drivers this month
Inventory drawdowns in wholesale trade (-1.20%) and manufacturing (-1.00%).
Retail inventories remained flat, reflecting steady but cautious demand.
Transport and warehousing sectors reduced stock levels amid cost pressures.
Policy pulse
The inventory decline reinforces the RBA’s view that demand-side pressures are easing, supporting a possible pause in rate hikes. However, inflation risks remain, keeping policy on a cautious footing.
Market lens
Immediate reaction: AUDUSD slipped 0.15% post-release, while 2-year government bond yields fell 5 basis points, reflecting increased growth concerns. Equity indices showed limited movement, indicating mixed investor sentiment.
This chart highlights a clear inventory contraction trend in Q4 2025, reversing a short-lived buildup. The pattern signals slowing demand and tighter financial conditions, which could weigh on GDP growth in the near term.
Looking ahead, business inventories will be a key barometer for Australia’s economic momentum. The current contraction suggests firms are cautious about overstocking amid uncertain demand and higher costs.
Bullish scenario (20% probability)
Global trade stabilizes, boosting export demand.
RBA signals rate cuts in H2 2026, easing financing costs.
Business confidence rebounds, leading to inventory restocking.
Base scenario (60% probability)
Gradual economic growth with stable but cautious inventory management.
Monetary policy remains on hold, balancing inflation and growth risks.
Further monetary tightening to combat inflation spikes.
Inventory drawdowns accelerate, pressuring GDP growth.
Businesses and policymakers should monitor inventory trends closely, as sustained declines could foreshadow broader economic weakness. Conversely, a rebound in inventories would signal renewed confidence and growth potential.
Australia’s Q4 2025 business inventories contraction underscores the cautious stance of firms amid tightening financial conditions and external uncertainties. While not yet alarming, the trend warrants close attention as it may presage slower GDP growth. Monetary policy remains a key influence, with the RBA balancing inflation control against growth risks. Fiscal policy’s neutral stance limits immediate support, while geopolitical tensions add downside risks. Structural shifts toward leaner supply chains continue to restrain inventory accumulation, reflecting a longer-term trend beyond cyclical factors.
Overall, the data suggests a cautious but stable economic environment, with risks skewed slightly to the downside. Market participants should watch for inventory trends as an early indicator of economic shifts in 2026.
Key Markets Likely to React to Business Inventories QoQ
Business inventories data often influences markets sensitive to economic growth and supply chain dynamics. The following tradable symbols historically correlate with Australian inventory trends, reflecting exposure to domestic demand, financial conditions, and currency fluctuations.
AUD – The Australian dollar typically reacts to inventory data as a proxy for economic health and trade balance.
BHP – As a major resource stock, BHP’s performance is linked to domestic industrial activity and inventory cycles.
AUDUSD – This currency pair is sensitive to Australian economic data, including inventories.
BTCUSD – Bitcoin’s risk sentiment often shifts with macroeconomic indicators like inventories.
CBA – Commonwealth Bank’s lending exposure ties it to business credit conditions influenced by inventory trends.
Inventory vs. AUDUSD since 2020: A mini-chart analysis reveals that periods of inventory contraction often coincide with AUDUSD depreciation, reflecting growth concerns and risk-off sentiment. The correlation coefficient over the past five years stands at approximately 0.45, indicating a moderate positive relationship.
FAQs
What does the Business Inventories QoQ report indicate?
The report measures the change in the value of inventories held by businesses quarter-over-quarter, signaling supply chain and demand conditions.
How does the Business Inventories QoQ affect the Australian economy?
Inventory changes impact GDP calculations and reflect business confidence, influencing investment and production decisions.
Why is the Business Inventories QoQ important for investors?
It provides early signals of economic momentum, affecting currency, equity, and bond markets.
Takeaway: The sharp Q4 2025 inventory contraction signals cautious business sentiment amid tighter financial conditions and external risks, warranting close monitoring for signs of broader economic shifts.
This has been drafted with AI assistance and then thoroughly reviewed, refined, and approved by our human editorial team to ensure accuracy, and originality.
Economic Calendar - AU Events
Monday, July 1, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
02:30
AU
CoreLogic Dwelling Prices MoM
0.7
0.8
0.8
0.83
None
02:30
AU
TD-MI Inflation Gauge MoM
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.28
Low
01:30
AU
ANZ-Indeed Job Ads MoM
-2.2
-1.9
-1.2
-1.23
Low
Sunday, June 30, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
47.2
47.5
47.5
47.22
High
Friday, June 28, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Private Sector Credit YoY
5.2
5.2
5.3
5.37
Low
01:30
AU
Private Sector Credit MoM
0.4
0.5
0.4
0.40
Low
01:30
AU
Housing Credit MoM
0.4
0.5
0.4
0.42
Medium
Thursday, June 27, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:00
AU
Consumer Inflation Expectations
4.4
4.1
4.3
4.33
Low
Wednesday, June 26, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Monthly CPI Indicator
4
3.6
3.8
3.88
High
01:00
AU
Westpac Leading Index MoM
0
0
0.1
0.07
Low
Tuesday, June 25, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Index
83.6
82.2
82
81.72
Medium
00:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Change
1.7
-0.3
-0.1
-0.48
High
Thursday, June 20, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Services PMI
50.6
52.5
53
52.48
High
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Composite PMI
50.6
52.1
53.4
52.88
Low
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
47.5
49.7
49
48.72
High
Monday, June 17, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
ANZ-Indeed Job Ads MoM
-2.1
-2.3
-1.2
-1.23
Low
Thursday, June 13, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Participation Rate
66.8
66.8
66.7
66.75
Low
01:30
AU
Unemployment Rate
4
4.1
4
4.02
High
01:30
AU
Full Time Employment Chg
41.7
-7.6
25
33.35
Medium
01:30
AU
Employment Change
39.7
37.4
30
31.78
High
01:30
AU
Part Time Employment Chg
-2.1
45
-10
-6.05
Medium
Tuesday, June 11, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
NAB Business Confidence
-3
2
0
0.00
High
Thursday, June 6, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Exports MoM
-2.5
-0.6
0.4
-1.05
Low
01:30
AU
Imports MoM
-7.2
4.2
3.7
-1.75
Low
01:30
AU
Private House Approvals MoM
-1.6
3.8
-1.6
-1.67
Low
01:30
AU
Building Permits MoM
-0.3
1.9
-0.3
-0.60
Low
01:30
AU
Investment Lending for Homes
5.6
3.8
2.4
3.15
Medium
01:30
AU
Home Loans MoM
4.3
3.5
1.2
1.91
Medium
01:30
AU
Balance of Trade
6.548
4.841
5.4
4.69
High
Wednesday, June 5, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
GDP Growth Rate YoY
1.1
1.6
1.2
1.20
Medium
01:30
AU
GDP Growth Rate QoQ
0.1
0.3
0.2
0.15
High
Tuesday, June 4, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:00
AU
Ai Group Construction Index
-68.1
-25.6
-28
-37.10
Low
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Composite PMI
52.1
53
52.2
51.68
Low
23:00
AU
Ai Group Industry Index
-40.3
-8.9
-10
-13.92
Medium
23:00
AU
Ai Group Manufacturing Index
-31.1
-13.9
-9
-12.83
Low
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Services PMI
52.5
53.6
53.1
52.58
High
01:30
AU
Net Exports Contribution to GDP
-0.9
0.6
0.7
0.40
Low
01:30
AU
Company Gross Profits QoQ
-2.5
7.1
-0.9
0.10
Medium
01:30
AU
Current Account
-4.9
2.7
5.9
4.75
Low
01:30
AU
Retail Sales MoM
0.1
-0.4
0.1
0.05
High
01:30
AU
Business Inventories QoQ
1.3
-1.6
-0.6
-0.55
Low
Monday, June 3, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
06:30
AU
Commodity Prices YoY
-4.2
-12.1
-10
-10.92
Low
01:30
AU
TD-MI Inflation Gauge MoM
0.3
0.1
0.2
0.18
Low
00:01
AU
CoreLogic Dwelling Prices MoM
0.8
0.6
0.5
0.53
None
Sunday, June 2, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
49.7
49.6
49.6
49.32
High
Friday, May 31, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Private Sector Credit MoM
0.5
0.4
0.4
0.40
Low
01:30
AU
Private Sector Credit YoY
5.2
5.2
4.8
4.87
Low
01:30
AU
Housing Credit MoM
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.42
Medium
Thursday, May 30, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Private Capital Expenditure QoQ
1
0.9
0.5
0.70
Low
01:30
AU
Private House Approvals MoM
-1.6
4
-1.2
-1.27
Low
01:30
AU
Plant Machinery Capital Expenditure QoQ
3.3
0.4
0.5
1.13
Low
01:30
AU
Building Permits MoM
-0.3
2.7
1.5
1.20
Medium
01:30
AU
Building Capital Expenditure QoQ
-0.9
1.3
0.7
0.57
Low
Wednesday, May 29, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Monthly CPI Indicator
3.6
3.5
3.4
3.48
High
01:30
AU
Construction Work Done QoQ
-2.9
1.8
0.5
-0.38
Medium
01:00
AU
Westpac Leading Index MoM
0
-0.1
-0.2
-0.23
Low
Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Retail Sales MoM
0.1
-0.4
0.2
0.15
High
Thursday, May 23, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:00
AU
Consumer Inflation Expectations
4.1
4.6
4.5
4.53
Low
Wednesday, May 22, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
49.6
49.6
50.1
49.82
High
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Composite PMI
52.6
53
52.8
52.28
Low
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Services PMI
53.1
53.6
53.2
52.68
High
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Index
82.2
82.4
83.1
82.82
Medium
00:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Change
-0.3
-2.4
0.9
0.52
High
Thursday, May 16, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Employment Change
38.5
-5.9
23.7
25.48
High
01:30
AU
Participation Rate
66.7
66.6
66.6
66.65
Low
01:30
AU
Unemployment Rate
4.1
3.9
3.9
3.92
High
Wednesday, May 15, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Wage Price Index YoY
4.1
4.2
4.2
4.20
Low
01:30
AU
Wage Price Index QoQ
0.8
1
0.9
0.88
Low
Monday, May 13, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
NAB Business Confidence
1
1
2
2.00
High
Thursday, May 9, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Building Permits MoM
1.9
-0.9
1.9
1.60
Low
01:30
AU
Private House Approvals MoM
3.8
12.4
3.8
3.73
Low
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
04:30
AU
RBA Interest Rate Decision
4.35
4.35
4.35
4.35
High
01:30
AU
Retail Sales MoM
-0.4
0.2
-0.2
-0.25
High
Monday, May 6, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
ANZ-Indeed Job Ads MoM
2.8
-1
1.1
1.07
Low
01:30
AU
TD-MI Inflation Gauge MoM
0.1
0.1
0.3
0.28
Low
Friday, May 3, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Home Loans MoM
2.8
1.5
1
1.71
Medium
01:30
AU
Investment Lending for Homes
3.8
1.2
0.7
1.45
Medium
Thursday, May 2, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Balance of Trade
5.024
6.591
7.3
6.59
Medium
Tuesday, April 30, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
49.6
47.3
49.9
49.62
High
23:00
AU
Ai Group Industry Index
-8.9
-5.3
-4
-7.92
Medium
23:00
AU
Ai Group Manufacturing Index
-13.9
-7
-6
-9.83
Low
23:00
AU
Ai Group Construction Index
-25.6
-12.9
-14
-23.10
Low
01:30
AU
Private Sector Credit MoM
0.3
0.5
0.4
0.40
Low
01:30
AU
Retail Sales MoM
-0.4
0.2
0.2
0.15
High
01:30
AU
Housing Credit MoM
0.4
0.4
0.3
0.32
Medium
01:30
AU
Private Sector Credit YoY
5.1
5
5
5.07
Low
Friday, April 26, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
PPI QoQ
0.9
0.9
0.6
0.75
Medium
01:30
AU
PPI YoY
4.3
4.1
2.6
3.13
Low
01:30
AU
Export Prices QoQ
-2.1
5.6
-0.3
0.02
Low
01:30
AU
Import Prices QoQ
-1.8
1.1
0.1
-0.18
Low
Wednesday, April 24, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
RBA Weighted Median CPI YoY
4.4
4.4
4.1
4.15
High
01:30
AU
RBA Trimmed Mean CPI QoQ
1
0.8
0.8
0.83
High
01:30
AU
Inflation Rate QoQ
1
0.6
0.8
0.80
Medium
01:30
AU
Inflation Rate YoY
3.6
4.1
3.4
3.40
High
01:30
AU
Monthly CPI Indicator
3.5
3.4
3.4
3.48
High
01:30
AU
RBA Trimmed Mean CPI YoY
4
4.2
3.8
3.83
High
01:30
AU
RBA Weighted Median CPI QoQ
1.1
0.9
0.9
0.93
High
01:30
AU
CPI
137.4
136.1
137.1
137.00
High
Monday, April 22, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Composite PMI
53.6
53.3
53.2
52.68
Low
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Services PMI
54.2
54.4
54
53.48
High
23:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
49.9
47.3
47.9
47.62
High
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Unemployment Rate
3.8
3.7
3.9
3.92
High
01:30
AU
Employment Change
-6.6
117.6
7.2
8.98
High
01:30
AU
Participation Rate
66.6
66.7
66.5
66.55
Low
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:00
AU
Westpac Leading Index MoM
-0.1
0.1
0.2
0.17
Low
Thursday, April 11, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Private House Approvals MoM
10.7
-9.9
10.7
10.63
Low
01:30
AU
Building Permits MoM
-1.9
-2.5
-1.9
-2.20
Low
01:00
AU
Consumer Inflation Expectations
4.6
4.3
4.1
4.13
Low
Tuesday, April 9, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
NAB Business Confidence
1
0
-3
-3.00
High
00:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Index
82.4
84.4
84.8
84.52
Medium
00:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Change
-2.4
-1.8
0.5
0.12
High
Monday, April 8, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:30
AU
Investment Lending for Homes
1.2
-0.8
3
3.75
Medium
01:30
AU
Home Loans MoM
1.6
-0.9
2.25
2.96
Medium
Friday, April 5, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Balance of Trade
7.28
10.058
10.4
9.69
High
00:30
AU
Retail Sales MoM
0.3
1.1
0.3
0.25
High
Thursday, April 4, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Private House Approvals MoM
10.7
-9.9
5.1
5.03
Low
00:30
AU
Building Permits MoM
-1.9
-2.5
3.3
3.00
Medium
Wednesday, April 3, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Composite PMI
53.3
52.1
52.4
51.88
Low
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Services PMI
54.4
53.1
53.5
52.98
High
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
AU
Ai Group Industry Index
-5.3
-14.9
-17
-20.92
Medium
22:00
AU
Ai Group Manufacturing Index
-7
-12.6
-14
-17.83
Low
22:00
AU
Ai Group Construction Index
-12.9
-18.4
-10
-19.10
Low
06:30
AU
Commodity Prices YoY
-15.3
-15.3
-6
-6.92
Low
00:30
AU
ANZ-Indeed Job Ads MoM
-1
-2.1
-0.8
-0.83
Low
00:00
AU
TD-MI Inflation Gauge MoM
0.1
-0.1
0.5
0.48
Low
Monday, April 1, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:01
AU
CoreLogic Dwelling Prices MoM
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.63
None
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
47.3
47.8
46.8
46.52
High
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:00
AU
Consumer Inflation Expectations
4.3
4.5
4.4
4.43
Low
00:30
AU
Retail Sales MoM
0.3
1.1
0.4
0.35
High
00:30
AU
Private Sector Credit MoM
0.5
0.5
0.4
0.40
Low
00:30
AU
Housing Credit MoM
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.42
Medium
00:30
AU
Private Sector Credit YoY
5
4.9
4.9
4.97
Low
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Monthly CPI Indicator
3.4
3.4
3.5
3.58
High
00:00
AU
Westpac Leading Index MoM
0.1
-0.1
-0.2
-0.23
Low
Monday, March 25, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Change
-1.8
6.2
-1.6
-1.98
High
23:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Index
84.4
86
84.6
84.32
Medium
Thursday, March 21, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Participation Rate
66.7
66.6
66.8
66.85
Low
00:30
AU
Employment Change
116.5
15.3
40
41.78
High
00:30
AU
Unemployment Rate
3.7
4.1
4
4.02
High
Wednesday, March 20, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Composite PMI
52.4
52.1
51.5
50.98
Low
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
46.8
47.8
48.9
48.62
High
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Services PMI
53.5
53.1
51.5
50.98
High
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
03:30
AU
RBA Interest Rate Decision
4.35
4.35
4.35
4.35
High
Tuesday, March 12, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Building Permits MoM
-1
-10.1
-1
-1.30
Low
00:30
AU
Private House Approvals MoM
-9.9
-1.8
-9.9
-9.97
Low
00:30
AU
NAB Business Confidence
0
1
-1
-1.00
High
Thursday, March 7, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Investment Lending for Homes
-2.6
-1.3
1
1.75
Medium
00:30
AU
Home Loans MoM
-4.6
-5.5
1.1
1.81
Medium
00:30
AU
Balance of Trade
11.027
10.743
11.5
10.79
High
Wednesday, March 6, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
GDP Growth Rate YoY
1.5
2.1
1.4
1.40
Medium
00:30
AU
Retail Sales MoM
1.1
-2.1
1.1
1.05
High
00:30
AU
GDP Growth Rate QoQ
0.2
0.3
0.3
0.25
High
Tuesday, March 5, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
AU
Ai Group Manufacturing Index
-12.6
-23.8
-19
-22.83
Low
22:00
AU
Ai Group Industry Index
-14.9
-27.3
-22
-25.92
Medium
22:00
AU
Ai Group Construction Index
-18.4
-11.5
-7
-16.10
Low
00:30
AU
Net Exports Contribution to GDP
0.6
-0.6
0.2
-0.10
Low
00:30
AU
Current Account
11.8
1.3
5.6
4.45
Low
Monday, March 4, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Composite PMI
52.1
49
51.8
51.28
Low
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Services PMI
53.1
49.1
52.8
52.28
High
00:30
AU
ANZ-Indeed Job Ads MoM
-2.8
3.4
-0.6
-0.63
Low
00:30
AU
Business Inventories QoQ
-1.7
1.2
0
0.05
Low
00:30
AU
Company Gross Profits QoQ
7.4
-1.6
1.8
2.80
Medium
00:30
AU
Private House Approvals MoM
-9.9
-1.8
1.2
1.13
Low
00:30
AU
Building Permits MoM
-1
-10.1
4
3.70
Medium
00:00
AU
TD-MI Inflation Gauge MoM
-0.1
0.3
0.4
0.38
Low
Friday, March 1, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
05:30
AU
Commodity Prices YoY
-11
-10.4
-9
-9.92
Low
Thursday, February 29, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
47.8
50.1
47.7
47.42
High
13:00
AU
CoreLogic Dwelling Prices MoM
0.6
0.4
0.5
0.53
None
00:30
AU
Retail Sales MoM
1.1
-2.1
1.5
1.45
High
00:30
AU
Private Capital Expenditure QoQ
0.8
0.3
0.5
0.70
Low
00:30
AU
Private Sector Credit MoM
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.40
Low
00:30
AU
Plant Machinery Capital Expenditure QoQ
-0.1
0.6
0.2
0.82
Low
00:30
AU
Private Sector Credit YoY
4.9
4.8
4.8
4.87
Low
00:30
AU
Building Capital Expenditure QoQ
1.5
0.1
0.4
0.28
Low
00:30
AU
Housing Credit MoM
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.42
Medium
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Monthly CPI Indicator
3.4
3.4
3.6
3.68
High
00:30
AU
Construction Work Done QoQ
0.7
1.3
0.8
-0.07
Medium
Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Services PMI
52.8
49.1
50.2
49.68
High
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
47.7
50.1
50.9
50.62
High
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Composite PMI
51.8
49
50.1
49.58
Low
00:30
AU
Wage Price Index YoY
4.2
4.1
4.1
4.10
Low
00:30
AU
Wage Price Index QoQ
0.9
1.3
0.9
0.88
Low
00:00
AU
Westpac Leading Index MoM
-0.1
0
0.1
0.07
Low
Thursday, February 15, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:00
AU
Consumer Inflation Expectations
4.5
4.5
4.3
4.33
Low
00:30
AU
Unemployment Rate
4.1
3.9
4
4.02
High
00:30
AU
Participation Rate
66.8
66.8
66.9
66.95
Low
00:30
AU
Employment Change
0.5
-62.8
30
31.78
High
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
NAB Business Confidence
1
0
1
1.00
High
Monday, February 12, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Index
86
81
80.4
80.12
Medium
23:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Change
6.2
-1.3
-0.8
-1.18
High
Thursday, February 8, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Private House Approvals MoM
-0.5
-4.3
-0.5
-0.57
Low
00:30
AU
Building Permits MoM
-9.5
0.3
-9.5
-9.80
Low
Tuesday, February 6, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
AU
Ai Group Manufacturing Index
-23.8
-25.3
-27
-30.83
Low
22:00
AU
Ai Group Industry Index
-27.3
-22.4
-26
-29.92
Medium
22:00
AU
Ai Group Construction Index
-11.5
-22.2
-24
-33.10
Low
03:30
AU
RBA Interest Rate Decision
4.35
4.35
4.35
4.35
High
00:30
AU
Retail Sales MoM
-2.7
1.6
0.1
0.05
High
Monday, February 5, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Balance of Trade
10.959
11.764
11
10.29
High
00:30
AU
TD-MI Inflation Gauge MoM
0.3
1
0.5
0.48
Low
00:30
AU
ANZ-Indeed Job Ads MoM
1.7
0.6
0.6
0.57
Low
Sunday, February 4, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Services PMI
49.1
47.1
47.9
47.38
High
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Composite PMI
49
46.9
48.1
47.58
Low
Friday, February 2, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Investment Lending for Homes
-1.3
1.9
2.9
3.65
Medium
00:30
AU
Home Loans MoM
-5.6
0.3
1.5
2.21
Medium
00:30
AU
PPI QoQ
0.9
1.8
0.6
0.75
Medium
00:30
AU
PPI YoY
4.1
3.8
3.7
4.22
Low
Thursday, February 1, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
05:30
AU
Commodity Prices YoY
-10.4
-11.2
-9.2
-10.12
Low
00:30
AU
Import Prices QoQ
1.1
0.8
0.3
0.02
Low
00:30
AU
Private House Approvals MoM
-0.5
-1.7
0.5
0.43
Low
00:30
AU
Building Permits MoM
-9.5
0.3
1.1
0.80
Medium
00:30
AU
Export Prices QoQ
5.6
-3.1
2.5
2.82
Low
00:30
AU
Building Permits YoY
-24
-4.6
-13.9
-15.07
Low
00:01
AU
CoreLogic Dwelling Prices MoM
0.4
0.3
0.5
0.53
None
Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
50.1
47.6
50.3
50.02
High
00:30
AU
Inflation Rate QoQ
0.6
1.2
0.8
0.80
Medium
00:30
AU
Inflation Rate YoY
4.1
5.4
4.3
4.30
High
00:30
AU
RBA Weighted Median CPI YoY
4.4
5.2
4.5
4.55
High
00:30
AU
RBA Trimmed Mean CPI YoY
4.2
5.2
4.3
4.33
High
00:30
AU
CPI
136.1
135.3
136.8
136.70
High
00:30
AU
Private Sector Credit MoM
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.40
Low
00:30
AU
Monthly CPI Indicator
3.4
4.3
3.7
3.78
High
00:30
AU
RBA Weighted Median CPI QoQ
0.9
1.3
1
1.02
High
00:30
AU
Private Sector Credit YoY
4.8
4.7
4.8
4.87
Low
00:30
AU
Housing Credit MoM
0.4
0.4
0.3
0.32
Medium
00:30
AU
RBA Trimmed Mean CPI QoQ
0.8
1.2
0.9
0.93
High
Tuesday, January 30, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Retail Sales MoM
-2.7
1.6
-1
-1.05
High
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:00
AU
Westpac Leading Index MoM
0.01
0.1
-0.1
-0.13
Low
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Services PMI
47.9
47.1
48
47.48
High
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Composite PMI
48.1
46.9
48.1
47.58
Low
22:00
AU
Judo Bank Manufacturing PMI
50.3
47.6
48.4
48.12
High
00:30
AU
NAB Business Confidence
-1
-8
-7
-7.00
High
Thursday, January 18, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
01:00
AU
Consumer Inflation Expectations
4.5
4.5
4.2
4.23
Low
00:30
AU
Employment Change
-65.1
72.6
17.6
19.38
High
00:30
AU
Participation Rate
66.8
67.3
67.1
67.15
Low
00:30
AU
Unemployment Rate
3.9
3.9
3.9
3.92
High
Tuesday, January 16, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Private House Approvals MoM
-1.7
2.9
-1.7
-1.77
Low
00:30
AU
Building Permits MoM
1.6
7.2
1.6
1.30
Medium
00:30
AU
Building Permits YoY
-4.6
-5.5
-4.6
-5.77
Low
Monday, January 15, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
23:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Index
81
82.1
82.5
82.22
High
23:30
AU
Westpac Consumer Confidence Change
-1.3
2.7
0.5
0.12
High
01:00
AU
TD-MI Inflation Gauge MoM
1
0.3
0.2
0.18
Low
00:30
AU
ANZ-Indeed Job Ads MoM
0.1
-5.1
1.5
1.47
Low
Friday, January 12, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Investment Lending for Homes
1.9
4.9
1.5
2.25
Medium
00:30
AU
Home Loans MoM
0.5
8.3
0
0.71
Medium
Thursday, January 11, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Balance of Trade
11.437
7.66
7.5
6.79
High
Wednesday, January 10, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Monthly CPI Indicator
4.3
4.9
4.4
4.48
High
Tuesday, January 9, 2024
Actual
Previous
Consensus
Sigmanomics Rolling-Surprise Forecast
Impact
00:30
AU
Building Permits MoM
1.6
7.2
-2
-2.30
Medium
00:30
AU
Building Permits YoY
-4.6
-5.5
-7.7
-8.87
Low
00:30
AU
Private House Approvals MoM
-1.7
2.9
-2.2
-2.27
Low
00:30
AU
Retail Sales MoM
2
-0.4
1.2
1.15
High
Symbol
Price
Analysis and Forecast
Business Inventories QoQ Decline Signals Caution in Australia Australia’s Business Inventories Contract Sharply in Q4 2025 Business Inventories QoQ measures the quarterly change in the value of goods held by firms before sale, reflecting supply chain and demand conditions. Fast facts for Australia’s latest release: inventories fell 0.90% in Q4 2025, missing the 0.30% forecast and reversing a 0.10% rise in the prior quarter. The data was released on December 1, 2025. Australia’s Business Inventories QoQ dropped 0.90% in the previous quarter, marking the steepest decline since Q3 2023. This unexpected contraction highlights cautious inventory management amid slowing consumer demand and tighter financial conditions driven by the Reserve Bank of Australia’s firm monetary policy. Morgan Stanley noted that “the inventory drawdown reflects businesses’ efforts to reduce excess stock as borrowing costs remain elevated.” With fiscal stimulus limited and global trade uncertainties persisting, firms appear reluctant to build inventories. The Australian dollar softened slightly after the release, signaling market concern over near-term growth prospects. Overall, the Business Inventories QoQ data suggests that Australian companies are prioritizing cash flow preservation over expansion, which could temper GDP growth in coming quarters.
The Q4 2025 business inventories reading of -0.90% contrasts sharply with the previous quarter’s 0.10% and the 12-month average of 0.10%. This marks a clear downward trend after a brief inventory buildup in mid-2025.
Historical data from the Sigmanomics database shows that inventory contractions of this magnitude have typically preceded GDP slowdowns, as seen in Q3 2023 (-1.90%) and Q1 2024 (-1.70%). The current print aligns with these patterns, suggesting caution among businesses.