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The management of the cost-of-living “crisis” by politicians will largely determine the looming federal election, says Alinta Energy boss Jeff Dimery, with the electricity giant warning that the eventual closure of coal plants will trigger a hike in power prices.

Meanwhile, BlueScope stands to benefit from US president Donald Trump's tariffs on steel imports regardless of whether Australia succeeds in winning an exemption, but CEO Mark Vassella fears for the domestic industry if tough anti-dumping measures are not taken against China. 

And the Reserve Bank will almost certainly cut interest rates after its February board meeting concludes today, but don’t expect much guidance on where they are heading next given the long list of global uncertainties such as Chinese stimulus measures and US tariffs.