Market Close 14 Apr 26: BHP leads ASX bounce

The ASX snapped a two-day slide today, lifting 0.5% on renewed hopes for a US-Iran peace deal. While gains halved from morning peaks following the start of a US Navy blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, the market remained resilient. BHP surged 3.2% after reports that China is reopening doors to its iron ore, but the corporate "war toll" weighed elsewhere. Qantas flagged an $800 million fuel hit, Westpac fell 2.6%, and Cleanaway cut profit guidance. Meanwhile, consumer confidence plunged 12.5% to near-record lows. Steve Daghlian and Laura Besarati are Market Analysts at CommSec. Each episode, they break down the day's market movements and explain what the numbers really mean. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.