End of Day Report – Monday 12 May: ASX 200 up a mere 2 points | US Futures in demand

ASX 200 kicks higher, just up 2 points to 8234 (+0.0%) after losing momentum as the day wore on. US futures are up strongly on hoped-for details on US/China trade negotiations. Dow futures up 1.1%, Nasdaq futures up 2.1%. Gold fell, miners under pressure with GMD down 5.7% and EVN off 3.7%. Base metals and lithium stocks are better, MIN up 8.3% and LTR roaring ahead, up 12.6%. S32 is also having a good day on CEO retirement. The stars were for iron ore stocks on China hopes, BHP up 2.3% and RIO up 2.1%, with FMG only managing half that rise. Oil and gas stocks were also better, with WDS up 2.0% and KAR up 5.1%. Uranium stocks also firmed again. Banks were flat as NAB went Ex-dividend. Down 2.3% and the other three mixed. The Big Bank Basket is down to $263.16 (-0.2%). MQG rose 2.1% as its run continued, GQG had a great day up 8.0%, and REITs were a little underwhelming. GMG rose 1.6% on a broker upgrade. Industrials mixed, WOW fell 1.5% after announcing price cuts. Drug companies fell on news that Trump was going to cut drug prices in the US.In corporate news, DNL rose 2.0% as it sold the fertiliser distribution business to RIC. Nothing on the economic front. Asian markets were firm again. Japan up 0.3%, HK up 1.4%. 10-year yields rose to 4.37%.Want to invest with Marcus Today? The Managed Strategy Portfolio is designed for investors seeking exposure to our strategy while we do the hard work for you. If you’re looking for personal financial advice, our friends at Clime Investment Management can help. Their team of licensed advisers operates across most states, offering tailored financial planning services.  Why not sign up for a free trial? Gain access to expert insights, research, and analysis to become a better investor.