End of Day Report – Tuesday 14 July: ASX 200 closes unchanged on resource rally - Asia holding firm - Gold and oil bounce

The ASX 200 finished unchanged at 8809, fighting back from earlier losses as resources found a footing. US futures helped, as did steady markets across Asia. Banks eased back, with CBA down %, leaving the Big Bank Basket at $281.76 (-0.6%). Other financials also weakened, NWL fell 2.2% and SOL dropped 0.8%. REITs were easier too, with GMG down 2.7% and CHC falling 1.3%. WOW and COL slid 1% as defensives were sold down. Healthcare picked up a little, with CSL rising 1.3% and COH up 1.6%. Industrials generally eased, WES flat and TCL dropped 0.8%, with SGH off 1.4%. Tech stocks were mixed, XRO and WTC found buyers, TNE fell 1.3% and NXT was 3.2% easier. All-Tech Index fell 0.3%. Resources staged a good turnaround, with BHP up 0.6% and FMG up 1.3%, while the gold miners recovered after early losses. Bullion pushed back above US$4,000. EVN rose 3.2% and VAU gained 1.4%. S32 also had a better session, while lithium stocks posted small gains. Oil and gas stocks rose as crude pushed higher, with WDS up 3.0% and STO rallying %. Coal stocks were firm, WHC up %, while uranium stocks were whacked again. PDN fell 6.0% and NXG lost 3.2%.In corporate news, KKR joined the consortium bidding for SDF. LNW powered 8.0% higher on a guidance update. CTD remains suspended as it tries to negotiate terms with the UK Government to stave off a liquidation event. GMD and VAU agreed terms for their merger.On the economic front, the ANZ-Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence Index rose slightly. The Westpac-Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Index rose 4.1% to 83.9 in July from 80.6 in June.Asian markets were better, Japan up 0.5%, HK up 0.3% and China up 1.2%, Kospi up 1.2%.US futures slightly positive. Oil up 1.7%.Marcus Today – Daily Market InsightsMarcus 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-podcastJoin Marcus Today Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offerMT20 – 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-podcastPrinciples – 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.