Pre-Market Report – Wednesday 1 October: US markets push higher ahead of shutdown | BHP in focus

Wall Street recorded another positive session despite markets preparing for a US government shutdown and delays to key economic data releases such as the jobs report on Friday. S&P 500 up 0.4%, Nasdaq rose 0.3%. Dow was choppy from open but found strength in the last hour. Closed near high, up 82 points. Broadly positive sector performance. Healthcare the best performer, boosted by Pfizer rising 6.8% after Trump said he’d cut all prices in Medicaid for lowest-income Americans and expected other pharmaceutical companies to follow suit. Industrials and Materials also contributed positively to gains.  Energy followed oil down as +OPEC plans a supply hike, while Financials and Cyclicals rounded out the negative performers.ASX to open flat. SPI futures down 5 points (-0.06%).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.