Daily FNArena News - Australia

While government stimuli still play a big part in economists’ expectations for the Australian economic outlook, it is becoming increasingly less so.

While it remains below long-term trend rates the Westpac-Melbourne Institute Leading Index improved further in July, supporting the bank’s view growth will strengthen in 2010.

The minutes of its September meeting indicate the RBA has many factors to juggle with regard to monetary policy.

Brokers were generally nonplussed by the Sigma Pharmaceuticals interim result as margins in the generic business remain a concern and an impediment to group earnings growth.

Primary Health Care is to refinance $1.2bn in debt and the move is seen as removing a perceived overhang.

Australia’s unemployment rate was unchanged at 5.8% in August but the details tell a different tale.

DAP prices are improving but has the market overpriced Incitec?

Weaker retail sales and housing finance numbers for July show the Australian economy is not yet fully in expansion mode.

The Westpac-Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Index rose again in September, likely adding weight to the argument for the RBA to lift rates in October.

With debt issues addressed and an improving outlook, brokers are rediscovering interest in Elders.