End of Day Report – Monday 18 August: ASX 200 up 21 points to new record | Results in focus

The ASX 200 hit a new record high at 8959 (+0.2%) as banks gathered strength. NAB results were in line, with the CEO sounding a little contrite — unlike QAN, which was hit with a record fine for “not being sorry enough.” QAN fell % while NAB rose 2.7%. The Big Bank Basket climbed to $280.06 (%).Insurers were firmer, with IAG up 0.8%. Other financials were less enthusiastic. REITs gained ground with MGR up 3.5% and GPT up 1.9%, while DGT fell sharply after missing expectations. Down 14.1%.Industrials firmed, with SGH up 2.6% on bargain hunting. REA rallied 4.5% on news of a new CEO, while CAR lost its CEO. Tech was flat, while retail was mixed: WES rose 1.1%, CTD did well rallying 3.9%, TPW continued to crater, down another 5.3%, and KGN fell 2.5% on write-offs at Mighty Ape.Resources were mixed. Gold miners slipped on fading hopes of a US rate cut, with EVN down 1.5% and CMM off 1.6%. Iron ore miners also weakened, with BHP down 1.2% ahead of results tomorrow. Lithium and rare earths were in demand, with PLS up 3.2% and LTR gaining 6.5%, while ARU raised capital at 19c. Oil and gas edged lower, as did uranium and coal stocks.In corporate news, A2M rose 3.1% on better results, ADB crashed 20.8% after lifting capex guidance by 25%, BSL fell 3.1% on US write-offs, while LLC climbed 6.7% on stronger-than-expected results.Nothing notable on the economic front.Asian markets mixed, Japan up 0.9%, HK up 0.6% and China up 1.3%10-year yields steady at 4.27%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.