Australia’s Q4 wage price index rises 0.5%, missing expectations

The WPI has risen 0.5% coming in weaker than expected, validating the RBA’s recent tone on a possible rate cut.

The estimated print was 0.6%, leaving the annualised figure at 2.3%, as expected.

What does a weaker WPI mean?

A weaker than expected WPI validates growing concerns over the reserve bank of Australia’s next rate cut. Investors will be factoring in a rate cut with the weaker than expected WPI figures, putting added pressure on AUD/USD.

It comes after the Australian central bank put rate cuts back on the table in their minute meeting earlier in the week, putting markets in volatility.

IG market analyst, Kyle Rodda says, ultimately the RBA's next move is on focus.

‘The prospect of a more hawkish RBA hinges on the tightening labour market’s ability to deliver a pay-rise to Australian workers. Fundamentally: it’s this key ingredient touted as the offset to the consumption-sapping impacts of mounting private debt levels, weak retail demand, and the oft-cited “reverse-wealth-effect” brought about falling property prices the country’s major capitals.’ Mr. Rodda said.

Australian dollar price

The Aussie reported marginal losses against the greenback, at $0.7160, hitting a session low of $0.7152 after the release.

Australian shares lower

Australian shares were also affected on Wednesday, falling off the back of weakness in the consumer and property sectors. The S&P/ASX 200 index fell up to 0.3 % , after the index closed 0.3% higher on Tuesday.

It comes as Australia's biggest supermarket chain Woolworths Group fell 6.5% to its lowest in about two months after it warned of a prolonged slump in consumer sentiment. Woolworths also posted a lower-than-expected first-half profit.