The internet is often seen as an open forum for hyper-critical and nasty opinions, but it turns out that online critics are all bark and no bite: the average rating on sites like YouTube is 4.3 stars out of 5, and overly gushy appraisals abound.
Consumer sentiment
Can’t afford a $66K glass Artichoke lamp? Try $12 sheep’s milk soap instead
Hard hit luxury stores are getting creative, banking on people to continue being just a little self-indulgent — say, splurging on a fancy garden trowel instead of a chandelier.
Kohler: Soft landing or crash?
One way or another, the Australian economy is going to be crunched this year. Obviously all of those who are focused on bringing it about – the RBA, Treasury, the Prime Minister, the nation’s economists – want and expect a soft landing. Good luck, writes Business Spectator’s Alan Kohler.
Happy Christmas: Retail sales hold the key
Naughty Australian shoppers kept their wallets open in December and spent up big for the festive season, writes Glenn Dyer.
