With the Federal Election's conclusion after a six-week spotlight, business owners now shift focus to significant upcoming dates: the forthcoming RBA Board meeting discussing interest rates and the financial year's end. These dates hold implications for business operators. Those planning new truck purchases with financing should take swift action, especially in light of potential RBA rate hikes. Our guide outlines the urgency, the influence of rate increases on truck loan interest rates, and strategies for business owners to counter rate rise effects. This includes securing cost-effective truck loans and structuring financing for optimal alignment with their goals.
RBA Rate Decisions
In the communication following the May meeting of the RBA Board, Governor Philip Lowe strongly indicated the likelihood of forthcoming cash rate hikes. He emphasized that a further increase in rates is imperative in the foreseeable future to steer inflation back towards the target level.
The RBA's triggers for adjusting interest rates are centered around inflation and unemployment. Notably, the April unemployment data recorded a continued decline to 3.9%, positioning it within the target range. The impact of the May rate increase on inflation moderation is still pending confirmation through official figures.
Recently unveiled, the minutes from the RBA's May Board meeting hold substantial significance in shaping an understanding of the RBA's trajectory. These minutes offer more comprehensive insights compared to the accompanying meeting statement.
Although there's a spectrum of perspectives among economists and analysts, a prevailing sentiment points toward substantial RBA rate hikes in the upcoming months. Some forecasts even project a noteworthy 0.4% rise by August, following the 0.25% increase in May.
Marking the rhythm of monetary policy discussions, the RBA Board convenes on the first Tuesday of each month, excluding January. With the next meeting only weeks away, anticipation is building for the insights that will emerge from this crucial rendezvous.
Lender Response
The cash rate as set by the RBA is not the lending rate in markets such as truck, equipment and heavy vehicle finance. But it does form a base from which the lending markets – banks and non-bank lenders, set their lending rates.
Lenders will make individual decisions in response to RBA rate decisions. But after the May meeting, we saw the CBA the first to lift their home lending rates by the full 0.25%. Similar responses followed from other lenders and across other markets.
Lending markets can be extremely competitive and with our accreditation with over 40 lenders, Jade Truck Loans is ideally positioned to source the cheapest rates available from a vast lender base. Our non-bank lenders can tend to be more accommodative and flexible than some banks. For businesses that have always sourced truck loans from their bank, it may be time to consider the other alternatives which we can provide. Any small gain in a cheaper interest rate can be a significant gain in the overall cost of the loan and to cash flow.
Rate Variations - Loan Options
The Truck Finance & Leasing Interest Rates on the different types of truck loans does vary. This is consistent across the lending market and reflects the variations in the format and structure of the different finance facilities.
Chattel Mortgage and Commercial Hire Purchase stand out as options with the lowest rates, followed by Truck Leasing, while Rent to Buy commands a comparatively higher rate. Nevertheless, it's essential to look beyond the interest rate alone. Understanding How Chattel Truck Mortgage Loan Works is part of the equation. Beyond that, businesses should take into account the comprehensive package, delving into the finer details and assessing the benefits offered by each finance product. Such a thorough evaluation is key to determining which option aligns most effectively with the unique demands of their operations.
We strongly recommend our customers discuss the selection of truck loan product with their accountant in the context of their individual operation and financial goals.
Calculating the Difference
We have provided a Truck Loan Repayment Calculator which has a number of purposes, including calculating the difference a rate rise may make to truck loan repayments. By keeping the total loan amount, term and balloon/residual constant and changing the interest rate, it can be seen how the monthly repayment estimate changes.
The calculations may assist buyers to decide whether it is worth acting now and securing finance at current rates or whether, when other factors are considered, they can afford to wait.
Minimising Impact on Loan Repayments
In addition to securing the most cost-effective interest rate for a truck loan, prospective buyers can adopt several strategies to mitigate the impact of potential rate increases on their crucial monthly repayments.
Opting for a fixed interest rate is a crucial step in ensuring stability in repayments throughout the loan term. At Jade, we prioritize securing truck loans with fixed rates, guaranteeing that the interest rate remains constant over the span of up to 7 years.
Another effective approach is to consider a lower loan amount by refraining from choosing no deposit finance. When possible, buyers can choose to provide a deposit directly to the truck dealer. This strategic move reduces the overall loan sum required, subsequently easing the repayment burden and enhancing cash flow.
The balloon or residual amount can also be adjusted to align with a desired truck loan repayment. While lenders have guidelines and potential ATO regulations to consider, your dedicated Jade consultant will adeptly negotiate to attain the most appropriate and favourable outcome for your specific circumstances. Through these considerations and negotiations, we work towards structuring a truck loan that optimally addresses your financial needs and aspirations.
Fast Loan Approvals
If this reasoning for acting quickly on truck purchases resonates with your situation, we can assist with fast action in sourcing truck finance quotes at cheaper interest rates, handling approvals and paperwork and prompt settlement.
Contact Jade Truck Loans on 1300 000 003 to discuss quick action on securing truck finance ahead of any future RBA rate rises.
DISCLAIMER: THIS INFORMATION IS ISSUED PURELY FOR THE PURPOSE OF GENERAL INFORMATION PROVISION. IT IS NOT TO BE TAKEN AS THE ONLY SOURCE OF INFORMATION FOR BASING FINANCIAL DECISION-MAKING. THOSE REQUIRING FINANCIAL GUIDANCE AND ADVICE SHOULD CONSULT WITH THEIR FINANCIAL CONSULTANT OR ADVISOR. NO LIABILITY IS ACCEPTED FOR ANY MISREPRESENTATION OF POLICIES, DATA OR ERRORS IN THIS CONTENT.
