The big news this week is the US presidential election. Markets are reacting in real time as results come in - we look at the volatility and what it means for Australia. Closer to home, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) left interest rates unchanged for the eighth consecutive month. We examine the RBA's latest forecasts, which suggest a slightly softer economic outlook than previously predicted, with lower GDP growth, higher unemployment and slower inflation. But is this bad or good when it comes to taming inflation? Mark explains why this could actually be good news for those hoping for an interest rate cut. Also on the agenda: the role of government spending in keeping the economy afloat, and whether now is the time for businesses to start investing. Read more from Mark on the AICD website: https://www.aicd.com.au/news-media/economic-weekly.html   Send feedback to: [email protected]