Episode Details

 The ASX 200 fell 31 points to 8671 (0.4%), as once again we saw selling in the banking sector weigh on the market. The Big Bank Basket fell to $280.74 (1.6%), with CBA down 1.4%, ANZ falling 2.1%, and MQG also coming off the boil, down 2.2%. Other financials also eased back, NWL dropped 3.0% and XYZ down 3.1%. Once again, we also saw REITs under pressure, with SCG off 1.1% and CHC down 1.2%. Industrials were also weaker across the board, led lower by WES down 1.8%, with two supermarkets falling heavily and the tech sector under renewed pressure, with WTC falling 5.9% and XRO falling 3.5%. The All-Tech Index fell yet again by 2.8%. In the healthcare space, a continuation of the falls, as brokers downgraded CSL and it fell another 2.2%, with RMD also now heading much lower, down 3.4%. Retail stocks also suffering, with JBH off 2.1% and HVN falling 2.5%.

Resource stocks, though, had a good day, with BHP hitting record highs up 2.5%, with RIO leaping 3.1% and FMG also firming. Gold stocks were also doing well today on the back of a higher bullion price, with EVN up 2.8% and NEM also doing well, up 4.4%. S32 had a good day, and lithium stocks also powering ahead, with LTR roaring up 5.3%. Oil and gas stocks were slightly firmer, with coal and uranium stocks both under pressure, with PDN falling 3.9%.

On the corporate front, DRO fell heavily after ASIC announced an investigation into Director Selling. HLO rose slightly after Peter Costello was appointed a director. IAG firmed 1.9% after it unveiled its refreshed ‘Ambition 2030’ strategy.

In economic news, business credit demand flattened in the first quarter. Business conditions fell for the fourth straight month in April, according to the NAB monthly business survey, and we did see the ANZ Roy Morgan survey as well of consumer sentiment hitting lows again. It dropped 3.1% to 64.1%, the fourth lowest reading since the series started in 1973.

Asian markets saw losses today; Japan up 0.5% on the Nikkei, HK flat%, and China down 0.3%. Kospi fell 3.2%

US futures headed lower. Dow down 10, Nasdaq down 130. 10-year yields drifted to 4.99%. European markets are set to open lower. US CPI tonight.

Marcus Today – Daily Market Insights

Marcus Today provides clear, practical commentary for self-directed investors – covering markets, portfolios, education, and decision-making without the noise.

If you'd like to go further:

Start a free 14-day trial of Marcus Today
http://bit.ly/mt-trial-podcast

Join Marcus Today
Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off
http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer

MT20 – Managed ETF Portfolio
A professionally managed portfolio run by Marcus Padley and the team, using ASX-listed ETFs with active market timing.
http://bit.ly/mt20-podcast

Principles – How We Think About Investing
A short video series on timing, behaviour, and decision-making. No stock tips.
http://bit.ly/mt-principles-podcast

—

Disclaimer
This podcast is general information only and does not consider your personal circumstances. It is not personal financial advice.