News

Global Outlook 2019

As we step into 2019, the global economic landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for industries across the board — from real estate and construction to energy and technology. With shifting trade dynamics, evolving financial regulations, and an increased focus on sustainable development, the year promises to redefine how the world builds, invests, and grows. For Momentum Melbourne Global Developments & Construction, understanding these trends is key to delivering projects that are resilient, energy-efficient, and aligned with long-term market demands. This outlook explores the major factors influencing global growth and their potential impact on Australia’s property and construction sectors. 1. Global Economic Performance: Moderate but Stable Growth According to global financial institutions, 2019 was projected to see steady yet slower economic growth, with global GDP hovering around 3%. While advanced economies like the U.S. and Europe continued to stabilize, emerging markets in Asia — particularly China and India — remained

ASIC Update on Implementation of Royal Commission Recommendations

In the wake of the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC)’s latest progress report, this article takes a deep dive into how Australia’s financial-services regulator is actively implementing the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry. We’ll explore the key reforms, the enforcement shifts, and the implications for clients, investors and consumers — with a perspective on what this means for developers, property professionals and finance-linked industries. Introduction The Royal Commission’s final report sent a clear signal: misconduct in the financial sector will no longer be tolerated. To restore trust and strengthen oversight, ASIC has outlined a detailed action plan — including establishing a standalone Office of Enforcement, enhancing accountability frameworks and cooperating more closely with the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA). ASIC Download+2ASIC Download+2For professionals in the property and construction space — like developers, contractors or investors — these reforms matter

Poll wrap: Labor gains in Newspoll after weak economic report; Labor barely ahead in NSW

About two months from the expected May election date, this week’s Newspoll , conducted March 7-10 from a sample of 1,610, gave Labor a 54-46 lead, a one-point gain for Labor since last fortnight. Primary votes were 39% Labor (steady), 36% Coalition (down one), 9% Greens (steady) and 7% One Nation (up two). This Newspoll is the Coalition’s 50th successive Newspoll loss. The closest they have come to breaking that losing streak was a run of four consecutive 51-49 results from July to early August 2018 before Malcolm Turnbull was dumped. This Newspoll reverses the gains the Coalition had made to close the gap to 53-47 from 55-45 in November and December. Despite the Coalition’s woes on voting intentions, Scott Morrison remains relatively popular. 43% were satisfied with his performance (up one), and 45% were dissatisfied (down three), for a net approval of -2. Bill Shorten’s net approval was up three points