The “productivity bubble” of the pandemic has worn off and a key economic body says investment and innovation are needed to keep living standards improving.

The competition regulator’s approval of the $18.7bn takeover bid for energy retailer Origin has thrown a spotlight on the bold promises of a $20bn-$30 bn renewable energy roll-out in Australia by Canadian investment giant Brookfield.

Ai Group has argued the Federal Government’s latest round of industrial relation reforms will stifle innovation and “undoubtedly discourage investment” in the Australian economy. 

Infant retailer Baby Bunting’s new boss warns of impact on spending of the company’s biggest consumers after the company finished below expectations last year.

Retailer Baby Bunting has warned the financial strains experienced by younger parents, especially millennials, whether they rent or have a mortgage is placing pressure on discretionary spending which includes the types of products its sells such as prams, toys, strollers and clothing.

The competition watchdog has approved the acquisition of Australia’s largest energy retailer by international funds giant Brookfield and its consortium partner MidOcean.

While wealth has been increasing, retail spending has trended flat for a year now. That’s despite prices rising, indicating we’re buying less overall, it’s just costing us more. 

Former supermarket boss Bill Wavish, who is seeking a seat on the board of Endeavour Group, has accused the pub and retail giant of a “complete absence of operating cost discipline,” excessive debt and “confusing branding.”

Major shareholder Solomon Lew is happy with the shakeup, as Qantas’ loyalty business boss Olivia Wirth and Ardent Leisure chairman Dr Gary Weiss look to land on the retailer’s board.