Daily FNArena News - Australia

Australia’s trade deficit narrowed in December but economists don’t expect the trend to last and see the outcome as having no impact on the RBA with respect to interest rates.

Is Commonwealth Bank trying to hide something?

BIS Shrapnel’s latest report into construction activity in Australia suggests while a mild downturn is likely short-term new projects and the need to address under-investment means a solid long-term outlook.

The best thing about ERA’s result is it appears the sea-anchor of legacy contract pricing is slowly being hauled in.

The January reading for the TD Securities-Melbourne Institute Monthly Inflation Gauge will further pressure the RBA to lift interest rates.

Friday’s surprise announcement by Chinalco and Alcoa is not the only arrow on the Chinese government’s bow, UK newspapers reported over the weekend.

ANZ economists are not predicting a deep US recession, nor do they see any major problems for Australia.

Analysts have slashed Alumina’s earnings in the wake of its FY07 result, but six out of ten retain a Buy.

Emeco Holdings has yet again downgraded earnings guidance and while some analysts see oversold conditions at least one has walked away in frustration.

Uranium play Paladin is attracting attention globally as Canadian broker Raymond James has initiated coverage with an Outperform rating.