John Rolfe's questions to WESTPAC BANKING (WEBNF) leadership • Q1 2021
Question
John Rolfe of The Daily Telegraph asked about the sentiment CEO Peter King observed in regional NSW versus Sydney and for his view on the economic impact of the upcoming end of the JobKeeper program.
Answer
CEO Peter Francis King noted he was struck by the very positive sentiment in regional areas, which was stronger than in the cities where CBDs remain challenged. Regarding JobKeeper, he rejected the 'fiscal cliff' analogy, viewing the wind-down as manageable 'steps,' and expressed confidence in the economy's resilience due to low rates and a strong banking system.