Inflation stories
Higher build and rent costs are squeezing occupiers, with Sydney's industrial market now showing wider price gaps and slower dealmaking.
Memory shortages pushed handset prices higher, sending global smartphone shipments down 11% in the second quarter and hitting budget buyers hardest.
Industrial 3D printer revenue jumped 32% in the first quarter as defence, drone and electronics orders offset weakness in Europe.
Broader portfolios could help investors navigate US equity concentration, private credit stress and persistent inflationary pressures, MFS said.
Priced below many rivals, the wired pad targets Xbox and PC players seeking Hall-effect sticks and rear buttons without a premium tag.
Rising conflict risk is pushing energy prices and inflation back into boardroom talks, even as AI stayed in 53% of earnings calls.
Higher energy costs are squeezing household budgets, but digital commerce and brisk business investment are helping keep growth steady at 2.4% in 2026.
Households and firms face renewed pressure, as mixed survey data point to the Reserve Bank of Australia staying tight and possibly lifting rates again.
Interstate freight bills are squeezing supply chains, with TMX Transform data showing some routes now cost up to 14 times local delivery rates.
Construction costs eased as diesel prices fell, though plumbing and carpentry still rose and Middle East tensions could keep volatility in play.
Pay-later use for essentials is rising as Canadians face higher grocery bills and turn to discount chains to stretch budgets.
Rising living costs are pushing New Zealand shoppers to compare prices, reviews and product details across AI, social media and search.
Australia's net zero goal faces fresh strain as billions flow into data centres that could lift power demand, water use and emissions.
Australian shoppers facing tighter budgets are being drawn to Amazon's biggest annual discount event, which covers hundreds of thousands of items.
Cost-of-living pressures are pushing Australians to delay buys, with 80% waiting for major sales events and Prime Day shaping decisions.
Households may get relief from broadband bill rises as eligible Superloop users can fix plan prices and speeds for two years for AUD $25.
Rising living costs are pushing 71% of online shoppers to compare more options and cross-check purchases across more channels before buying.
The Florida optical shop lifted revenue by 16% after owner Lea Agramonte used free training to tighten budgets and adopt digital tools.
Rewards are now swaying 91% of US shoppers to buy again, with Amazon Prime, Walmart+ and Starbucks Rewards topping loyalty rankings.
Younger consumers are shaping retail deal days, with Gen Z and Millennials far more likely than Boomers to use AI tools and spend more.
