0045 GMT - Patience should be rewarded for investors in Australian retail, suggests Jarden. Spending has so far been sluggish as cost-of-living pressures and geopolitical tensions weigh on the consumer. "There is, however, a strong case to be positive," says analyst Ben Gilbert. They include record savings, moderating inflation and growing disposable income driven by interest-rate cuts. History suggests the biggest lift in retail sales growth comes six months after the second rate cut, Jarden says. It found that pharma and beauty, household goods, fashion, and eating out were the categories that outperformed in the past. In contrast, department stores and food typically lagged. (david.winning@wsj.com; @dwinningWSJ)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

June 18, 2025 20:45 ET (00:45 GMT)

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