Summary: A top down look at the year ahead, Saul Eslake

Here's a quick summary of the following ASX Investor hour presentation.

Topic:  A top down look at the year ahead, Saul Eslake, Grattan Institute

Australian Economy:

• Linked to mining, which is linked to China.
• Australian is the only country to supply 3 main China commodities: Iron Ore, Coal, Gas.
• Strength to continue for a number of years.
• Low government debt compared to other "Advanced" economies.

Housing:

• Does not see much growth in 2011
• But does not think that a crash is likely
• Will see growth beyond 2011.

Inflation:

• Does not see inflation in the near future as a major problem. 

Interest Rates:

• Thinks they will remain constant for 6 months
• Maybe 1 or 2 rises later in 2011.