Market Updates

The ASX 200 shrugged off early losses to close 54 points higher at 8948 (0.6%), with the banks proving resilient yet again. CBA rose 1.5% and NAB gained 0.7%, taking the Big Bank Basket to $295.23 (+1.3%) Other financials also had a better day, with HUB up 1.8% and ASX rising 1.5%.REITs also performed well, with GMG up 0.2% and SGP gaining 2.7%. Industrials were firm, led by a rebound in the tech sector, with XRO up 3.7%, WTC up 8.1% and TNE rising 3.3%. TLS had a good day, up 1.6%, while retailers also performed well, with JBH up 3.3% and WES gaining 2.1%. Healthcare was also in the pink, with CSL up 2.7% and RMD rising 3.4%.It was a different story in resources, with BHP down 1.2% and RIO falling 2.5%. Gold stocks gave back some of yesterday's gains, with GMD down 1.1% and EVN easing 1.8%. Lithium stocks remained under pressure, with PLS down 4.9% and MIN falling 2.9%.Oil and gas stocks enjoyed a better session, with WDS rallying 2.8% and STO up 1.2%, although coal stocks continued to drag. Uranium stocks were also back under pressure as part of the AI trade unwind, with PDN down 4.4% and DYL falling 2.2%.In corporate news, DRO fell 13.2% after warning that margins would come under pressure. WEB surged 17.1% following plans to buy back up to $90m of its shares and a stronger forecast for first-half earnings. ILU had a good day despite warning that Balranald production would be lower than previously expected, while WHC eased 4.6% after finishing the year at the top end of production guidance.In economic news, the ANZ-Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence Index fell 4.4 points last week to 71.2.Asian markets were weaker, Nikkei 225 down 4.4%, HK down 0.1% and China down 2.8% - Korea down 10.4%. US futures mixed Dow up 4 Nasdaq down 290Marcus 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.

US stock indices closed mixed on Monday as chipmakers extended their selloff ahead of this week's Fed decision and a busy slate of economic data and corporate earnings. The S&P 500 ended little changed, the Nasdaq 100 lost 0.3%, while the Dow gained 263 points. Nvidia fell 5% after announcing a $500 billion AI memory chip supply agreement with SK Hynix. Separately, the company guaranteed $250 billion for OpenAI to lease computing capacity from a major data center project, reviving concerns that circular AI financing deals could unravel if hyperscalers curb capital spending. Micron (-2.2%), AMD (-5.2%), Intel (-0.7%), and Sandisk (-11%) also declined. Meanwhile, easing concerns over tight financial conditions helped the Dow. The US and Iran paused strikes over the weekend, sending oil prices and Treasury yields lower, easing expectations of a Fed rate hike this week. Apple (+1.2%), Meta (-0.2%), Amazon (-0.3%), and Microsoft (+1.9%) traded mixed ahead of earnings releases.SPI down 20 - Oil off 9% - Gold pushes slightly higher - Quarterly results in focus.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.

The ASX 200 started the week on a strong note, up 122 points to 8,894 +1.4%), as most sectors of the market rallied hard, with the exception of oil and gas, as Trump's threat of a massive attack on Iran was wound back and US futures rallied. The banking sector was once again solid, with CBA up 1.2% and ANZ up 1.2%, with the Big Bank Basket at $291.58 (+1.2%). MQG also rallied again, and other financials were back in the green. Insurers also rose, led by QBE up 1.4%. The REIT sector was also good today, led by GMG up 3.2% and CHC up 2.8%. Industrials too had a significantly better day, with the tech sector firing for a change: XRO up 6.0% and WTC up 7.0%, with TNE rallying too, along with REA, CAR and SEK.  TLS had a good day. QAN brushed off the latest Alan Joyce novel and rose 3.6% on lower oil prices. Meanwhile, resources had a solid day: BHP up 2.1%, RIO up 2.2%, and the gold miners also doing well today. We had some corporate action with EVN bidding for CNB in a script bid. VAU also had a good day, together with CMM, on a resource upgrade. Even the lithium stocks chimed in today, with LTR up 3.4% and PLS up 2.7%. Meanwhile, oil and gas stocks WDS and STO fell around 3%, and uranium and coal stocks also a little bit easier.In corporate news, MYR fell 12.0% after it said a sharp slowdown in consumer spending late in the financial year weighed on margins. PPT had another bid from EQT of $22.50, and EVN bid for CNB. Nothing today on the economic front as we await the CPI on Wednesday.Asian markets were mixed, Nikkei 225 up 0.3%, HK up 0.8% and China 0.3% - Korea up 0.8%. US futures up 400 for Dow, 414 for Nasdaq.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.

Wall St ended mixed Friday, off best levels, capping a second straight week of declines. Dow Jones up 236 points. S&P 500 flat. Nasdaq down 0.64%. Russell 2000 down 0.35%. Breadth positive by more than 2:1, with equal-weight outperforming the cap-weighted index by ~80bp. VIX down 0.64%. It was Big Chips turn to face the selling pressure while the Mag7 were not able to bounce as a whole.ASX set to bounce on Monday. SPI futures up 48 points.US Futures up 0.5 - 1% ahead of Fed and big week of earnings.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.

The ASX 200 fell 67 points to 8,772, leaving the market down around 25 points for the week. Once again, we saw money flowing out of resources, industrials and the technology sector, and back into the relative safety of the banking sector. The Big Bank Basket rose to $288.03 (+1.2%). CBA rose 1.0% and NAB gained 1.5%, while insurers also benefited from higher bond yields, with QBE up 1.4%. MQG continued to push higher following the CEO retirement announcement, but other financials slipped, with HUB down 3.1% and IFT falling 1.2%. REITs were mixed, with GMG down 2.7% while SGP edged slightly higher.Industrials were well and truly on the nose yet again, with WES down 1.0%. Retail stocks generally drifted lower, with most names down around X%. The technology sector was once again battered and bruised, with REA down 3.7%, XRO falling 4.5%, and WTC also hit hard.Healthcare was no refuge either, with CSL down 1.3% and RMD falling 0.4%.Resources were not spared, with BHP down 2.9% and RIO off 1.7%. Gold miners were once again under pressure as the bullion price looked to be testing US$4,000 an ounce yet again. NST fell 3.9% and EVN dropped 2.4% Lithium stocks were also depressed, with LTR falling hard and PLS down 2.1%. Rare earth and copper stocks were also in the doghouse, while uranium stocks continued to slide.Energy stocks were one of the brighter spots, with both WDS and STO firmer, while KAR enjoyed a good day following a broker upgrade.Corporate News, COH edged higher after confirming it would not be subject to the new US tariffs. ASX fell after announcing the retirement of its CFO. There was nothing of note on the local economic front. The US tariff saga continues, with Australia hit by 12.5% tariffs on products linked to alleged "forced labour" issues.Asian markets were weaker, Nikkei 225 down 2.9%, HK down 1.4% and China off 1.3% - Korea down 6.0%. US futures drifting.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.

US stocks closed lower on Thursday amid deteriorating macroeconomic backdrop and renewed doubts over AI spending. The S&P 500 dropped 1.2%, the Nasdaq 100 lost 1.9%, and the Dow Jones shed 507 points. Communication services and consumer discretionary were by far the worst performing sectors while tech was also under pressure. Despite solid earnings, Alphabet fell 6.9% after raising its capital spending forecast, while Tesla tumbled 14.5% as profit declined despite strong electric-vehicle deliveries. Other hyperscalers also weakened, with Nvidia (-1.6%), Microsoft (-2.2%), Meta (-3.4%), Amazon (-4.6%), Broadcom (-1.1%) and Oracle (-4.6%) posting losses. Treasury yields rose as tighter naval blockades in the Middle East raised energy supply concerns and initial jobless claims fell to a 57-year low. Goldman Sachs shed 2.1%, while Visa fell 0.5%. Comcast lost 6.8% after reporting a declined in profits, while RTX added 7.3% after beating expectations.SPI down 50 - Oil up above $100 - Gold down 2%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.

The ASX 200 rose 16 points to 8,839 (+0.2%) after a strong start was derailed by better-than-expected jobs data.Banks were firm, with CBA climbing 0.4% and the Big Bank Basket up to $284.71 Elsewhere, financials eased back following the news from MQG that CEO Shemara Wikramanayake will step down in November to be replaced by Greg Ward. The stock fell 0.5% on the news. We also saw losses in the insurance sector, with QBE down 1.1% and SUN falling 1.9%. Once again, it was the industrials that came under pressure, with the tech space falling hard as US software stocks weakened. XRO dropped 5.0%, WTC fell 7.0%, and TNE also suffered. The All-Tech Index fell 2.9%, with 360 down 5.5% too. Industrials eased back, with TLS down 0.6%, while REA, CAR and SEK also fell. Retail stocks were weaker, led lower by WES. Utilities firmed, with ORG up 0.8%.Resources were stronger again today, with BHP up 1.5% and FMG rising 1.0%. S32 had another good day, and we saw a bounce in lithium stocks, with LTR up 3.6% and PLS rising 1.9%. Gold miners were also slightly firmer as bullion managed to hold on to recent gains. Coal stocks were better, along with uranium names, with PDN the standout following broker upgrades, up 11.6%.In corporate news, GDG had a cracker of a day, rising 37.1% after updating its funds under management. STO narrowed its production guidance to 99m to 105m barrels of oil equivalent. Elsewhere, SFR had a good day after reporting record quarterly revenue.In economic news, the latest jobs data pointed to a resilient economy, with the unemployment rate holding at 4.4%, although most of the employment growth came from part-time jobs. The result is likely to keep pressure on the RBA to raise interest rates.Asian markets were better, Nikkei 225 up 0.9, HK up 1.4% and China up 0.1% - Korea up 4.3%. US futures drifting lower - Dow down 44 and Nasdaq down 100. Oil firms. European futures off slightly. 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.

US stocks closed lower on Wednesday ahead of the start of earnings season for mega-cap technology companies. The S&P 500 shed 0.1%, the Nasdaq 100 lost 0.5%, and the Dow Jones inched down. Software stocks came under pressure before Alphabet's (-1.5%) results, with Microsoft down 1.9% and Meta retreating 2.6%. The technology sector remained volatile as investors reassessed whether AI hyperscalers will continue expanding hardware spending. Tesla dropped % ahead of its earnings release. Most chipmakers rebounded from earlier losses, with Nvidia up 2.3%, Broadcom rising 2.7%, and AMD adding 1.4%. Meanwhile, tensions between the US and Iran escalated after Iranian drone attacks targeted CIA facilities in the Gulf. Oil prices extended gains, fueling inflation concerns and pushing yields higher. Financials traded mixed, with Visa down 0.7% while JPMorgan gained 0.9%. AT&T rose 3.5% after beating earnings estimates, lifting telecom stocks.SPI up 72! Gold up - Oil up - MQG CEO to retire.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.

The ASX 200 closed up 30 points to 8823 (0.3%), with resources back in favour and the gold sector shining. It seemed as though defensive stocks were sold to fund buying in the likes of BHP, which rose 2.5%, and RIO, up 2.5%. The gold miners had a good day, with NST rallying 3.5% and EVN up 4.3%, alongside solid gains across the sector. We also saw gains in the oil and gas space as crude prices headed higher, with WDS and STO both up more than 1%. Coal stocks also performed well, with YAL enjoying a strong session, as did NHC. Uranium stocks were in the green too, with PDN up 6.7% following its quarterly report on its Namibian operations.Lithium stocks gained a little ground, but LYC fell 3.6% after a disappointing quarterly result highlighted higher costs. Meanwhile, industrials sold off, with the tech sector once again under pressure. XRO fell 2.6%, TNE dropped 2.3%, and NXT gave back some of yesterday's gains. REA, CAR, and SEK also fell, while the healthcare sector was led lower by CSL, down 2.8%. Industrials slipped, with WES down 2.1%, JBH off 1.5%, and BXB easing slightly.The banking stocks were mostly unchanged, with insurers slipping slightly and the Big Bank Basket closing relatively flat at $283.03 (+0.4%). HUB rallied 4.9% following yesterday's upgrade. REITs also weakened, with GMG down 2.0%, CHC off 1.7%, and SGP falling 1.9%.In corporate news, WES pulled the trigger on the expansion of its lithium project. RRL announced that a string of encouraging drill results would lead to further exploration, while LYC flagged increased costs associated with its expansion project in Malaysia.There was nothing of note in local economic news.Asian markets were weaker, Nikkei 225 up 0.1%, HK down 1.0% and China unchanged - Korea up 2.6%, well off highs.US futures weaker - Dow down 40 and Nasdaq down 165. Oil firms. European markets set to fall 0.3%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.

US stock indices closed higher on Tuesday as a rally in chipmakers lifted the broader market. The S&P 500 added 0.9%, the Nasdaq 100 advanced 1.9%, and the Dow Jones gained 385 points. Semiconductor stocks extended their rebound from last week's rout after strong export data from Taiwan and South Korea reinforced optimism for the sector. Nvidia gained 2% after saying its latest chip designs are reaching customers, while Intel climbed 8.6% on plans for job cuts. Micron (+12.2%), Sandisk (+14.3%), and AMD (+8.1%) surged. The sector rallied ahead of Alphabet's (-1.4%) earnings on Wednesday, which are expected to provide fresh signals on AI infrastructure demand from hyperscalers. Meanwhile, other sectors stabilized despite further escalation between the US and Iran and the resulting rise in oil prices. Treasury yields remained elevated, limiting gains in financial stocks. Elsewhere, GM rose 4.9 % after reporting earnings, while Charles Schwab fell 2.5% after missing estimates.SPI up 21 - Quarterlies continue - Oil up - Gold up - Commodities up.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.

The ASX 200 closed up 2 points at 8,793 after staging a decent rally off the lows as Asian markets turned positive and US futures also moved into positive territory.Banking stocks eased back, with CBA down 0.4% and NAB, ANZ, and WBC also falling around 1.2%. The Big Bank Basket fell to $281.77 (-0.7%). MQG also took a breather, as did other wealth managers, with HUB down 4.2% despite stronger FUA results.The industrial space was mixed, with the likes of WES down 1.2%, but ALL up 0.4%, and TLS slipping to finish down 1.8%. Healthcare stocks were also weaker today, with CSL down 1.0% and RMD down 0.9%.Money shifted into the technology space, with REA up again, XRO rising 2.1%, and WTC up 0.9%. NXT had a good day after revising up its order book, rising 7.7% and dragging up others on the data centre side of things.In resources, we saw a mixed picture. Lithium stocks continued to struggle as lithium carbonate prices in China fell, with PLS down 1.7% and LTR down 5.1%. BHP managed a 1.3% rise, and gold miners were also firm as gold bounced again off the US$4,000 level, with NST up 3.3% and EVN up 5.6%. Oil and gas stocks were mixed, as were coal stocks, while the uranium sector finished slightly firmer.In corporate news, TLX climbed 1.4% after second-quarter revenue came in better than expected. Europe's biggest fintech, Revolut, was also granted a banking licence in Australia.In economic news, the ANZ-Roy Morgan consumer confidence reading rose slightly.Asian markets were weaker, Nikkei 225 up 2.3%, HK down 0.2% and China up 1.7% - Korea up 3%US futures better - Dow up165 and Nasdaq up 280. Oil above $90. European markets set to fall 0.3%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.

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.

The ASX 200 drifted around to close down 5 points at 8,791, as the banks paused after last week's rise and resources came back into focus. US futures sliding lower sapped early enthusiasm.The Big Bank Basket was flat at $283.68 (-0.7%) with MQG falling 0.8% and NWL down 2.2%. Insurers were slightly firmer, with QBE up 1.8% and MPL rising 0.6%, although REITs eased, with SGP down 1.0% and GMG off 0.9%. Industrials were mixed again, with defensives such as the supermarkets slightly firmer, along with TLS and REA, which continued to find some friends. Retail was also mixed, with WES up 0.2%, while others failed to keep pace.In the tech space, selling continued, with XRO down 2.1% and WTC off 3.6%, although there were buyers in MAQ.Resources were mixed. BHP steadied, RIO slipped 1.9%, lithium stocks remained depressed, and the gold sector bounced back from earlier losses, with WGX up 2.1% and WAF rising 2.6%. S32 had a good day, up 4.6%, after beating quarterly guidance.Oil and gas stocks were firmer as crude prices continued to push higher, with WDS up 1.4% alongside STO. Coal stocks also edged higher, with WHC up 2.7%, while uranium stocks posted modest gains.It was a relatively quiet day on the corporate front. PPT rejected the latest proposal from EQT, while CEH surged 15.2% on plans to develop its Queensland site. We also saw interim chairman of WJL spend $1 million buying shares, lifting his stake to around 5%, or approximately 24.5 million shares. EQR rallied 34.1% after Andrew Forrest's Tattarang disclosed a 16.8% stake.It was a quiet day on the economic front.Asian markets were weaker, Nikkei 225 down 4%, HK up 1.8% and China up 0.5% - Korea down 4.5%US futures mixed - Dow down 50 and Nasdaq up 8. Oil above $91. European markets set to fall 0.3%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.

Wall St fell Friday as a Chinese AI breakthrough rattled semis and oil rose after holding ground for the previous three sessions on further US-Iran escalation. Dow Jones down 407 points. S&P 500 down 1.01%, closing below its 50-day moving average. Nasdaq down 1.40%. Slightly better than futures yesterday were indicating. Russell 2000 down 0.42%. Mag7 down 1.78%. SOX down 1.63%, recovering from a 5.5% opening drop. VIX up 12.19%.ASX set for a good session today although escalation in the Middle East will not help.. SPI futures up 54 points or 0.62%.US futures flat currently - Korea to reopen - Japan closed.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.

The ASX 200 closed down 44 pts at 8,797 as US futures weakened and Asian technology stocks were hit hard. Down 10pts for the week. Our market saw both the banks and resources come under pressure. The banks gave up ground, with CBA down 0.8% and WBC falling 0.2%. The Big Bank Basket fell to $284.25 (-0.5%) with a late rally helping. Insurers, however, held their ground, while other financials also performed reasonably well, with AMP rising for the second day in a row.Elsewhere, defensives in the industrial sector held firm, with TLS up 2.7% despite CEO Vicki Brady facing lawmakers in Canberra. WES also gained 0.9%, while in healthcare CSL edged higher and RMD rose 1.5%.Technology stocks were mixed. XRO gained 0.9% and WTC was little changed, but the data centre sector remained under pressure, with NXT falling another X%. MP1 had another horrible session, down 8.5%, while AI-related stocks were sold heavily. EIQ fell 5.7% and WBT tumbled nearly 10.5%. In fact, anything with a Vegas AI connection was under pressure today. Resources were once again the weak link. BHP continued to slide following its quarterly result, falling 2.7%. RIO also eased 2.4%, while FMG held up, but only just. Lithium stocks were once again under pressure, with PLS down 3.1% and MIN falling 2.6%. Gold miners also suffered despite bullion prices rising in Asian trade, with NST and EVN both down over 4%. Oil and gas stocks bucked the trend, with WDS up 3.3% and STO gaining 1.9%, although coal stocks failed to fire.There was little of note on the corporate front. ZIP fell 5.1% after announcing it would exit its New Zealand business. PRU delivered a stronger-than-expected quarterly update. SKC climbed after announcing the sale of investment properties in Auckland. COL walked away from its proposed acquisition of Greencross from TPG Capital, while RRL fell 8.4% after issuing a softer FY27 outlook.In economic news, Westpac Chief Economist Luci Ellis warned that the current AI boom could face a correction if commercial returns fail to justify the lofty valuations.Asian markets were slammed, Nikkei 225 down 4.6%, HK down 2.3% and China down 3.9% - Korea closed for a holiday.US futures down - Dow down 403 and Nasdaq down 465. Oil up 0.9%. European markets set to fall 1%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.

Stocks fell on Thursday as a sell-off in technology stocks overshadowed a raft of solid earnings reports.The S&P 500 lost 0.51% and ended at 7,533.77, while the Nasdaq Composite declined 1.47% to 25,881.95. The tech-heavy major averages struggled with weakness in semiconductors. The Dow Jones Industrial Average shed 105.67 points, or 0.20%, and closed at 52,552.97.Chip stocks slid after Taiwan Semiconductor posted an increase in its spending forecast, which overshadowed a better-than-expected second-quarter report. The company expects capital expenditures to clock in between $60 billion and $64 billion for the year, up from a prior guidance in the range of $52 billion to $56 billion. The stock lost more than 2%. The VanEck Semiconductor ETF (SMH) slid almost 4%, led by a more than 5% drop in Arm Holdings. Shares of Micron Technology and Advanced Micro Devices were also lower by more than 5% each. Broadcom was off 5%. The U.S.-listed shares of SK Hynix slid more than 13%.SPI down 15 - Gold drops - Oil flatMarcus 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.

The ASX 200 closed unchanged on futures expiry day at 8841, after an afternoon rally in the banks gathered pace, with CBA up 1.8% and NAB gaining 1.3%. The Big Bank Basket continued its recent run higher to $285.73. Financials were generally firmer, with SOL up 3.3% and GQG gaining 1.1%. REITs also pushed higher, led by SCG up 0.5% and SGP rising 2.0%. Industrials and technology stocks found buyers, with WES up 1.2% and ALL gaining 0.3%, while retailers edged higher as JBH rose 1.8%. Healthcare stocks also regained some poise, with CSL and RMD both moving higher. In the technology sector, buying returned to XRO and WTC, while REA had a strong session, up 6.6%, after reporting growth in listings. That helped lift CAR and SEK as well.Resources, however, were once again out of favour. BHP's quarterly failed to excite the bulls, with the stock down 2.3%. RIO also slipped, while FMG fell 1.1%. Lithium stocks remained under pressure, with PLS falling sharply and LTR following suit. Gold miners were mixed, with NST down 0.1% while GMD gained 1.5%. Oil and gas stocks eased as crude prices slipped, with WDS down 1.5%, while coal and uranium stocks also drifted lower.In corporate news, NWL reported record funds under administration (FUA). PPT announced it had received an improved takeover proposal from EQT, TNE maintained its FY26 guidance, and OBM warned of lower gold production in FY27 alongside higher all-in sustaining costs (AISC). On the economic front, Korean stocks were volatile again after the BoK raised rates.Asian markets were weaker, Japan down 3%, HK up 2.1% and China flat Kospi down 6%.US futures mixed - Dow up 45 and Nasdaq up 1. Oil off 0.5%. European markets set to rise a little.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.

The S&P 500 rose on Wednesday, with major technology stocks advancing, as traders digested more data showing inflation is cooling.The broad market index finished up 0.38% at 7,572.40, while the Nasdaq Composite climbed 0.62% to settle at 26,269.23. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 150.37 points, or 0.29%, to end at 52,658.64.Investors appeared to be paring exposure to key semiconductor stocks and moving into shares of certain Big Tech names. Notably, Amazon and Alphabet moved up around 3%, while Microsoft was higher by nearly 3%. Apple gained 4%, hitting a new all-time high.SPI up 15 - BHP quarterly - Gold eases - Oil steadyMarcus 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.

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.

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.

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.

US stock indices closed lower on Monday amid weakness in chipmakers and a deteriorating macroeconomic backdrop. The S&P 500 fell 0.8%, the Nasdaq 100 lost 1.9%, and the Dow dropped 138 points. Chipmakers sank on persistent concerns that AI hyperscalers will be forced to scale back spending on AI infrastructure. SK Hynix ADRs fell 8.6% after surging 13% in their debut on Friday, as a Korean brokerage warned the company could miss its next earnings expectations. Nvidia shed 3.5%, Broadcom was down 4%, AMD retreated 4.2%, and Intel fell 6.1%, while memory producers Sandisk and Micron lost 12.6% and 4.3%, respectively. Stocks in other sectors also declined alongside US Treasuries after President Trump said the US would reinstate the blockade of Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating the conflict and raising the risk of energy-driven inflation. Major banks fell ahead of this week's earnings, with JPMorgan down 0.6%, Bank of America falling 0.3%, and Goldman Sachs losing 0.9%.SPI down 8 - Resources under pressure.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.

The ASX 200 recovered from early losses to close up just 3 points at 8,809, despite weakness across the region, particularly in Korea. Once again, the banks held firm, with the Big Bank Basket rising to $283.41 (up 0.8%). ANZ was the best of the bunch, gaining 1.1%. Insurers also rallied, with IAG rising 2.0% and SUN adding 0.9%.Other financials eased, with BVS falling 5.5% on profit-taking after a strong week. Industrials were generally soggy. CSL fell 1.3%, RMD dropped 4.9%, and technology stocks remained unloved. XRO fell 4.3% following CEO share sales, WTC drifted another 2.0% lower, and WBT crashed back to earth, falling 10.6%.TLS recovered 1.6% after its week from hell. REITs were surprisingly firm, with SCG up 0.3% and GPT gaining 0.2%. The supermarkets were not so super, with WOW down 0.8% and COL falling 1.9%.In resources, it was once again heavy going as Treasury yields rose and the gold price came under pressure. Iron ore stocks held firm, but the gold miners succumbed. NST fell 2.8%, while GMD gained 3.7% as RRL pulled out.In corporate news, RRL threw in the towel on its bid for VAU. OML extended due diligence for the three interested parties, while CCX soared following a positive trading update. There was nothing of note on the local economic front.Asian markets were mixed with the Nikkei 225 down 2.6%, the Hang Seng down 0.2%, and the CSI index down 1.7%. Kopsi crashed 9.0% as SK Hynix fell hard.US futures were weaker with the Dow down 208 and the Nasdaq down 388. European market expected to open 0.6% weaker.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.

Wall St rose Friday, closing out a second straight week of gains in a quiet session. Dow Jones up 150 points. S&P 500 up 0.42%, closing in on record highs. Nasdaq up 0.29%. Russell 2000 down 0.49%. VIX down 5.11%. Mag7 up 1.4%. SOX flat. SaaS down 0.8%.SPI futures up 43 points or 0.49%. RRL pulls out of VAU race - OML extends bid deadline.For the week, the S&P 500 rose 1.23% and the Nasdaq added 1.74%. Mag7 up 3.96%. The SOX up 2.70% after a volatile week, though still well below its June 22 record. The KOSPI meanwhile fell 7.57% and Chinese markets dropped 4.20%, while the Dow slipped 0.78% and the ASX 200 eased 0.43% (weighed down by resources, gold especially). European markets broadly weaker - the DAX down 2.76%, CAC down 1.99%, STOXX 600 down 1.91%.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.

The ASX 200 rose 44 points to 8,806, up 0.5%, after a slow start, with the banks finding their feet. For the week, the ASX 200 fell 38 pts. CBA rose 0.5% and ANZ gained 0.8%. The Big Bank Basket rose to $281.06 (0.6%). Other financials also firmed, with MQG up 0.9% and NWL rising 2.2%. ZIP rallied 2.0%. REITs were better, with GMG up 0.2% and CHC rising 2.2%. In the industrials, we saw some profit-taking, with TLS under pressure now that Vicki Brady is back on board from her holiday. WOW and COL were also in profit-taking mode after defensive buying earlier this week. Elsewhere, the healthcare sector pulled back after a strong week, with CSL down 2.1% and RMD falling 0.9%. Technology stocks were under pressure, unable to capitalise on the improved outlook for US software companies, with XRO down 1.3% and WTC falling another 1.8%. The All-Tech Index fell 0.6%.Resource stocks were the heroes today, as the iron ore miners pushed higher. BHP bounced 2.5%, RIO also recovered after yesterday's heavy falls, rising 3.8%, while FMG edged up 2.0%. Gold miners were back in the green after this week's weakness, with EVN up 3.4% and NST gaining 1.7%. Lithium stocks remained under a little pressure, with PLS up 0.4%. Oil and gas stocks eased, with WDS and STO both lower. Uranium stocks were stronger, with PDN up 4.1%, while SLX was one of the standout performers, soaring 9.4%.In corporate news, INA responded to media reports of an approach from PPC. BVS jumped after it upgraded its FY26 earnings. WTC fell despite reassuring the market on DSV relations. SFR up strongly on an increase in its Black Butte mine life. There was nothing of note on the local economic front.Asian markets were mixed with the Nikkei 225 up 1.7%, the Hang Seng up 1.3%, and the CSI index down 1.0%. Kopsi up 4.2% ahead of SK Hynix debut. European futures were narrowly mixed.US futures were weaker with the Dow up 12 and the Nasdaq down 153. 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.

US stocks gained traction on Thursday amid gains for chip producers and an improvement in credit conditions. The S&P 500 rose 0.5% and the Nasdaq 100 gained 1.3%, while the Dow rose 200 points. Memory chip producers were sharply higher as markets reconsidered the speculative outlook of AI infrastructure manufacturers. These were magnified by the introduction of SK Hynix ADRs tomorrow, the world's largest memory producer, with reports stating the receipts are seven times oversubscribed. Micron and Sandisk were 7% up. Meanwhile, oil prices and bond yields eased amid evidence that laden tankers continued to cross the Strait of Hormuz despite fresh attacks between the US and Iran. This supported the financial sector with Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, and American Express, adding around 3% each. Meanwhile, Meta rebounded from early losses to a 2% gain after announcing it will target production of its own AI chip by September.SPI down 2 - Gold up - Oil down - BVS upgradeMarcus 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.

The ASX 200 fell 23 points as, once again, resources came under pressure. BHP fell 1.1%, RIO was hit hard following a broker downgrade, down 3.3%, and FMG also lost ground. Gold miners were weaker despite gold holding relatively steady. NST fell 0.9%, while EVN down 1.7%. Elsewhere, lithium and rare earth stocks also drifted lower, with S32 down 3.5%.Meanwhile, in the oil and gas sector, both WDS and STO rose, along with uranium stocks, following the deal with India announced by the Prime Minister. Banks drifted lower, with NAB the weakest of the Big Four, taking the Big Bank Basket down to $279.35 -0.1%). Insurers were mixed, as were financials, with ZIP falling 1.0%. The REIT sector also drifted lower, led by GMG down 0.9% and SGP off 3.7%, following yesterday's strong gains.Industrials and healthcare were slightly firmer. TLS recovered 1.2% after the outage issue, while both WOW and COL gained as investors sought out defensive names. Healthcare was also better, with CSL up 1.0%, although RMD slipped 2.8%.In the tech sector, XRO edged higher, although WTC eased slightly. Retail stocks also had a good session, with JBH up 0.3% and APE also rising 2.2%. Travel stocks eased as renewed US strikes in Iran pushed the oil price up 1.2%.In corporate news, SDF rose slightly as discussions continued on the takeover bid. FDC rocketed 12.3% higher after raising $400m in the largest IPO of the year, while LTR fell after securing gold price protection through forward selling to manage volatility.There was nothing of note on the local economic front, although we did see Chinese CPI and PPI data released today.Asian markets were mixed with the Nikkei 225 up 1.2%, the Hang Seng down 1%, and the CSI index up 0.6% European futures were  firmer.US futures were also better with the Dow up 50 and the Nasdaq up 162Marcus 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.

The ASX 200 fell another 19 points to 8785 (0.2%) as resources were once again under pressure. Well off the lows though of around 120 pts down. BHP fell 2.3% on potential strike action, RIO dropped 2.6% and FMG held up relatively well. Lithium plays remained depressed, with PLS down 3.3% and LTR falling 4.3%. Gold miners were also under pressure, although well off their lows, with NST down 1.7%, EVN crashing 4.2% and GMD also in trouble. LYC managed a small gain, as did BSL. Oil and gas stocks were a bright spot as crude prices rose, with WDS up 3.2% and STO rising 5.8%. Coal stocks also fared better, with WHC up 2.1% and YAL rising 4.0%. Uranium stocks were mixed.The banks were once again a safe haven, with the Big Bank Basket rising to $279.89  (0.98%) as CBA added 0.9% and ANZ jumped 1.2%. MQG slid 0.5%, while other financials were also under the pump, with NWL dropping 3.9%. Insurers were firmer on higher bond yields. REITs also pushed ahead, with SGP up 5.1% and SCG rising 0.8%. Healthcare took a breather today, with RMD dropping 0.8% and SIG falling 0.7%. The tech space was once again unloved, with WTC giving back recent gains, falling 7.3%, and XRO dropping another 1.2%. NXT fell 1.0%, while TLS eased % as a serious outage damaged the brand. The All-Tech Index down 1.4%. Retailers firmed, with WES up 0.5% and JBH gaining 1.9%.In corporate news, RMD sold a software business, GGP appointed a new COO, and ADH warned of a $43m loss driven by impairments.On the economic front, the RBNZ raised rates for the first time in three years. Locally, dwelling commencements fell 11.2%.Asian markets were weaker. The Nikkei 225 fell 1.2%, Hong Kong up 2.9%, China dropped 0.2%, while the Kospi fell 5.5% following Samsung's results. European futures were slightly weaker.US futures were also softer, with the Dow down 99 points and the Nasdaq off 42 points.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.

US stock indices closed mixed on Wednesday as higher oil prices worsened the macroeconomic backdrop while chipmakers rebounded. The S&P 500 fell 0.3%, the Dow lost 577 points, while the Nasdaq 100 gained 0.3%. Treasury yields rose after President Trump said the ceasefire with Iran was "over" following renewed strikes, fueling concerns over energy-driven inflation. Those fears were reinforced by minutes from the Fed's June meeting, which showed some policymakers saw a case for further rate hikes if inflation remains elevated. Credit-sensitive sectors weakened, with JPMorgan losing 2.5% and Visa down 1.3%. Most AI hyperscalers lost amid concerns over heavy spending on data center infrastructure, with Alphabet (-1.4%), Amazon (-1%), and Microsoft (-1.4%) down. Chipmakers lifted the Nasdaq. Broadcom gained 4.8% after expanding its agreement with Apple (+0.9%) on US-made components, while Nvidia rose 3.6% on reports that Chinese firms plan to increase purchases of H200 chips.SPI down 49 - Gold steady - Resources to be pressured again.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.

US stock indices closed lower on Tuesday amid a selloff in chipmakers. The S&P 500 fell 0.4%, the Nasdaq 100 dropped 1.8%, and the Dow Jones lost 131 points, pulling back from a record high. Semiconductor stocks came under pressure as investors questioned whether AI hyperscalers can justify elevated infrastructure spending. Samsung's 19-fold surge in quarterly profit failed to support market sentiment, which came under renewed pressure following reports that China's DeepSeek is developing its own AI chip. Broadcom fell 0.8%, Micron lost 4.7%, AMD retreated 6.5%, and Intel slumped 9.7%. Nvidia on the other hand, added 0.7%. Higher bond yields weighed on broader markets after attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz renewed concerns over energy-driven inflation. Visa fell 1.4%, while Caterpillar lost 3.1%.SPI down 39 - US launches strikes against Iran - Gold down - Oil up - Quarterlies continue - RMD sells software business.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.

The ASX 200 fell 27 points to 8,804 (0.3%) as resources came under significant pressure following renewed kinetic action in the Gulf. Gold miners eased and the broader resources sector was weak.The big miners struggled, with BHP down1.9% and RIO falling 1.8%. Lithium stocks were well and truly under pressure, with PLS down 5.5%, MIN off 5.6% and even LYC slipping 6.4%. Gold miners also lost ground as the bullion price eased back, with NST down 5.1% and EVN falling 5.3%. The nascent gold rally appears to have been snuffed out before it really got going. Elsewhere in resources, oil and gas stocks weakened, with WDS down 0.5% and STO off 1.5%, while coal stocks also drifted lower. Uranium names were under pressure too, with PDN down 4.1% and DYL off 6.9%.The banking sector was firmer, with CBA up 1.2%, while NAB and the other major banks also edged higher. The Big Bank Basket rose to $277.49 (1.4%) Financials generally performed well, with MQG up 1.0%, and insurers back in the green. REITs, however, lost ground, with SGP down 2.8% and GMG falling 0.7%.Healthcare continued to outperform, with SHL up 1.5% and RMD extending its recent rally. Technology was the standout sector today after WTC announced board changes, sending the shares up 5.7%. XRO followed suit, while REA and CAR also posted gains. The All-Tech Index rose 1.2%.In corporate news, NEC signed a new NRL contract. NWL enjoyed a strong session after upgrading forecasts for funds under administration, while LYC announced a $50minvestment in a Malaysian permanent magnet facility.On the economic front, ANZ Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence numbers fell again by 1.2pts to 74.7pts.Across Asia, all eyes were on Samsung after the shares fell heavily despite reporting a strong set of numbers. Although profits surged nineteen-fold, the result only narrowly beat analyst expectations.Asian markets were weaker. The Nikkei 225 fell 1.8%, Hong Kong fell 0.5%, China fell 0.8%, while the Kospi dropped 6.0% on Samsung results. European futures slightly negative.US futures were mixed, with the Dow up 28 and Nasdaq down 246. SpaceX joins the Nasdaq today. Oil up 1.2%.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.

The S&P 500 gained 0.72% to end at 7,537.43, while the Nasdaq Composite advanced 1.12% to 26,121.16 as markets started a new trading week following Friday’s U.S. Independence Day holiday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 155.84 points, or 0.29%, for a record close of 53,055.91. The 30-stock index also posted an intraday record in the session.Tech stocks rose broadly. The State Street Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLK) added almost 2%, led by a 7% climb in Western Digital and a 2.8% jump in Teradyne. Marvell Technology rose more than 1%, and Oracle gained 2.5%.SPI up 3 - Gold steady - Oil steady - US v BelgiumMarcus 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.

The ASX 200 closed down 13 points at 8,831 (0.2%) after drifting from positive to negative throughout the day. The banks were a little sloppy, with WBC down 1.1% and the Big Bank Basket falling to $273.60 (-0.3%). The insurance sector also eased, while the rest of the financials were mixed.REITs also had a mixed session, with CHC down 0.7%, while GMG edged slightly higher. Industrials lacked direction. Healthcare was the standout sector, with CSL up 2.0%, RMD rising 1.3% and SIG adding 1.1%. Technology stocks also found support, with solid gains in WTC and XRO, both up 7.3% and 1.8% respectively, while REA and CAR also finished higher.Resources were mixed, with BHP down 0.8%, while FMG rebounded 0.9% from Friday's losses. The gold sector was in focus after GMD launched a rival bid for VAU, joining RRL in the takeover battle. Despite the M&A activity, NST fell 1.8% and EVN eased 1.6%. Lithium stocks were also slightly weaker, with PLS down 1.7% and LTR falling 2.9%.In the oil and gas sector, despite little movement in crude oil futures, positive broker commentary helped WDS rise 0.8% and STO gain 1.4%. Coal stocks drifted lower, while uranium stocks were little changed.In corporate news, it was all about the new VAU bid from GMD. We also saw a solid quarterly from GGP, while WOR firmed 0.2% after securing a new consultancy agreement. In the tech space, IFT edged 1.4% higher following an independent valuation of its holding in CDC.There was nothing of note on the economic front today.Asian markets mixed, Nikkei 225 down 0.5%, HK up 1%, China up 0.2%. Kospi down 1.5%.US futures: Dow up 8 pts, Nasdaq up 223.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.

US Markets closed Friday - Gold steady - SPI down 35 - GMD bids for VAU - Quarterlies continue.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.

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.

US equity indices closed mixed on Thursday, as tech volatility gripped trading ahead of the holiday, despite easing concerns over rate hikes. The S&P 500 was flat and the Nasdaq 100 fell 0.8%. Chipmaker stocks fell for a second day as investors questioned whether AI optimism had pushed valuations beyond reasonable levels. Fresh developments included reports that OpenAI was in talks to sell a 5% stake to the US government, while Meta (-4.9%) said it may monetize its excess compute capacity. Micron Technology sank 7%, Applied Materials slipped 7.4%, and Advanced Micro Devices dropped 4.3%. SanDisk (-14%) and Marvell (-9.8%) tanked. Tesla fell 7.5% despite a strong deliveries report. Still, the Dow climbed 595 points to a new record high amid strength in traditional sectors, as a softer-than-expected June jobs report pushed back expectations of an imminent Fed hike. Apple gained 4.8%, while Visa and Walmart both rose around 3%. For the week, the index added about 1.8%.SPI up 52 - Gold recovers Marcus Today – Daily Market Insights Marcus 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-podcast Join Marcus Today Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer MT20 – 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-podcast Principles – 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. 

The ASX 200 rose just 2 points to 8725 after an early swoon. NAB jumped 3.8% on a broker upgrade, WBC followed, up 2.2%, and the Big Bank Basket rallied to close at $269.80 (+1.1%)Financials were mixed, although insurers fared better, with QBE up 0.5% and SUN rising 0.8%. REITs continued to flounder, with GMG down 0.3% and SCG off 0.8%. Industrials also showed weakness, with WES falling 4.0% as brokers trimmed forecasts. SGH slipped 5.0%, while retailers came under pressure, with JBH down 1.7%, LOV falling 2.1% and HVN off 3.3%.Tech stocks were mixed again. WTC fell 1.6%, while XRO was slightly firmer following its AI deal with Microsoft. NXT dropped 5.9% and MP1 fell hard as cloud providers had a rethink. The All-Tech Index slipped 0.5%.Resources enjoyed a solid bounce in the gold sector as Kevin Warsh played a straight bat in Portugal. NST rose 5.5% and NEM gained 2.6%. Lithium stocks remained under pressure, with PLS up 0.4% and LTR slipping 3.2%. There was little to write home about in the rare earths sector. Oil and gas stocks eased as crude fell again, with WDS down 1.3% and STO off 1.4%. Uranium stocks were modestly higher.In corporate news, EOS gained 2.5% after securing another order from the Middle East. PPT rose 3.5% following a non-binding indicative offer from EQT, while IPX fell 3.0% after completing an acquisition. BHP announced it will spend $2.2 billion to reopen its mothballed Cerro Colorado copper mine.On the economic front, Balance of Payments numbers were released today.Asian markets were weaker, with the Nikkei 225 down 1.4%, the Kospi off 1.2%, Hong Kong up 0.9% and Shanghai down 1.9%. US futures were drifting higher, with the Dow up 27 points and the Nasdaq ahead by 53 points. Fair value is slightly negative, pointing to a modest start tonight. US markets are closed on Friday for the Independence Day holiday.Marcus Today – Daily Market Insights Marcus 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-podcast Join Marcus Today Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer MT20 – 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-podcast Principles – 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. 

Marcus Today – Daily Market Insights Marcus 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-podcast Join Marcus Today Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer MT20 – 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-podcast Principles – 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. 

The ASX 200 dropped 56 points today to close at 8,723 (0.6%), with the banks suffering steep losses. CBA dropped 2.4%, and ANZ fell 2.5%, with the Big Bank Basket declining to $266.89 (-2.3%). Other financials were mixed, with MQG falling 1.2%, although HUB had a good day, rising 5.4%. REITs were again a little on the nose as distributions and higher bond yields continued to weigh on the sector. SCG fell 0.3%, and CHC dropped 2.7%. Industrials painted another mixed picture, with ALL falling 2.1%. Retail was also mixed, with JBH down 2.8% and WOW falling 1.8%. COL was hit hard following reports it was interested in acquiring the Green Cross veterinary business. TLS fell 1.0%. Healthcare was again mixed, with CSL continuing to add to recent gains, rising 3.2%, while RMD fell 1.6%. In technology, XRO dropped 2.8%, while WTC fell 0.4%. The All-Tech Index slipping 1.0%, helped by another strong performance from CPU, which gained 1.0%.In resources, a mixed picture as S32 sold its aluminium business to AAI, jumping 9.7%. BHP up 0.9% and FMG managing a 0.5% gain. Gold miners continue to push lower, NST down 0.8% and NEM falling 1.9%. Lithium stocks improved, PLS up 1.8% and LTR roaring 2.4% ahead. Oil and gas flat, uranium stocks slightly better, PDN up 6.8%.In corporate news, IPX jumped 5.9% after it secured up to $US6.6m from the US DoD to expand domestic production. ORI rose 1.6% after it agreed to proceed with its Hunter Valley Hydrogen Hub in NSW, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026 and first production targeted for early 2029. ASX reached an agreement with the corporate regulator and the Reserve Bank to reset its risk review program. WDS has assumed the role of operator of the Gippsland Basin oil and gas venture from 50% partner ExxonMobil. PPT jumped 16.8% before a trading halt as EQT look to have made a NBIO.On the economic front, building approvals fell slightly.Nikkei 225 up 0.8%, Kospi down1.2% HK closed and Shanghai unchanged. US futures drifting DJ down 163, Nasdaq down 81. Marcus Today – Daily Market Insights Marcus 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-podcast Join Marcus Today Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer MT20 – 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-podcast Principles – 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. 

US stock indexes closed higher on Tuesday, supported by strength in the technology sector and easing inflation risks. The S&P 500 gained 0.8%, while the Nasdaq 100 rose 1.7%, and the Dow Jones added 136 points to close at a record high of 52,319. Chipmakers extended their rebound as investors looked past recent concerns over stretched AI-related valuations, encouraged by strong guidance from semiconductor producers despite elevated hyperscaler spending. Nvidia gained 2.6%, AMD rose 7.7%, and Intel advanced 6%. Meanwhile, oil prices remained near pre-conflict levels, easing concerns that the Federal Reserve could be forced into a hiking cycle. The softer inflation backdrop also supported traditional sectors, helping the Dow outperform broader benchmarks in June. Considering Q2, the S&P rose more than 14% and the Nasdaq surged about 20%, their strongest quarterly performances since Q2 2020. The Dow gained more than 12%, its best quarterly performance since Q4 2022.SPI up 8 - Gold holds above $4000 - S32 sells aluminium assets to Alcoa for US$5.8bnMarcus Today – Daily Market Insights Marcus 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-podcast Join Marcus Today Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer MT20 – 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-podcast Principles – 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. 

The ASX 200 finished the financial year on a lacklustre note, falling 45 points to 8779 (0.5%) as the banks gained and gold miners came under renewed pressure. The Big Bank Basket rose to $273.04 (0.4%) despite CBA holding firm. Other financials fared well too with ZIP up 3.5% and SUN rising 1.2%. REITs struggled as ex-dividend stocks weighed on the sector, with GMG down 3.0% and SCG off 1.5%. Industrials were mixed. TLS fell 1.6%, while tech eased, with XRO up only 0.1% and WTC falling 2.4%. The All - Tech Index gained 1.3% as CPU rallied hard, up 4.0%. Retail stocks drifted lower, while ALL rose 1.3%. Healthcare succumbed to sellers, with CSL down 0.6% and RMD falling 2.2%.Resources were a sea of red. Gold miners were whacked again as bullion slipped below US$4,000. NST fell 5.8% and EVN dropped 5.2%. Copper stocks were slightly firmer, with SFR up 1.0%, while lithium stocks enjoyed a better session, led by LTR, which ‘roared’ back, rising 1.5%. The big iron ore miners all fell, with BHP down 0.7%, FMG off 1.9% and BSL 3.8% weaker. Oil and gas stocks bucked the trend, with WDS up 0.9% and STO rising 0.8%. Uranium stocks drifted lower.In corporate news, CKF fell 2.5% after reporting slowing sales in Germany. ALX was unchanged as IFM increased its stake to 55%.On the economic front, RBA Minutes today. ANZ Consumer confidence picked up slightly. Nikkei 225 up 1.3%, Kospi up 1.2% HK down 1.4% and Shanghai up 0.7%. US futures firm DJ up 4, Nasdaq up 76. European futures slightly higher.Marcus Today – Daily Market Insights Marcus 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-podcast Join Marcus Today Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer MT20 – 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-podcast Principles – 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. 

US stocks closed sharply higher on Monday, with the S&P 500 rising 1.2%, the Nasdaq 100 surging 2.3%, and the Dow Jones gaining 307 points to finish at a fresh record high, as investors reassessed the AI trade following the recent selloff. Sentiment was also supported by easing tensions between the US and Iran over the weekend, with President Trump saying peace talks with Iran are set to resume on Tuesday. Communication services, consumer discretionary, and technology stocks led the advance. Alphabet jumped 5% on its first trading day as a Dow component replacing Verizon, while Nvidia gained 1.3%, Amazon climbed 3.2%, Meta advanced 2.2%, and Tesla soared 8.5%. Comcast also rallied 4.5% after announcing plans to spin off its media and technology businesses into two separately traded public companies. On the downside, materials was the weakest-performing sector. Apple fell 0.7%, Microsoft declined 1.2%, Walmart slipped 0.9%, and Verizon tumbled 5.2%.SPI up 3 - Gold slips - RBA Minutes today.—Marcus Today – Daily Market Insights Marcus 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-podcast Join Marcus Today Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer MT20 – 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-podcast Principles – 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. 

The ASX 200 rose 59 points today to close at 8823 (0.7%), with the banks solid. CBA rose 1.0% and NAB gained 1.0%, with the Big Bank Basket up to $271.94 (0.8%). Other financials also had a good session, with NWL rising 3.1% and ZIP enjoying a strong day, up 8.7%, along with XYZ, up 4.9%. Industrials were also firm, with the retail sector performing well. JBH rose 2.2% and ALL also pushed higher. Plenty of Ex Dividends today in REITs and utilities.Technology finally appears to be finding its feet, with WTC up 7.2%, XRO gaining 4.5%, and the old-school platforms REA, CAR, and SEK all rising around 4% or more. Utilities were weaker, with ORG down 1.0%, while APA traded ex-dividend and also drifted lower. Healthcare stocks were better across the board, with CSL up 0.5%, RMD gaining 2.0% and TLX rising 5.5%.Resources painted a mixed picture, with BHP up 1.4%, RIO up 0.3%, and FMG the best of the iron ore majors, up 2.4%. Gold miners were mixed as bullion drifted lower, with NST down 2.3% while GMD gained 1.9%. Lithium stocks were once again under early pressure but recovered to see PLS finish up 0.8%. In the oil and gas sector, WDS edged slightly higher, while some of the uranium stocks also posted modest gains.In corporate news, NEU had a stunning day following progress on European approval for Daybue. RMS rallied 2.3% after agreeing to sell its Edna May gold mine for $300m, while KAR rose 9.1% after restoring production at the SPS-92 well and announcing a new on-market share buyback.There was nothing of note on the economic front today.Nikkei 225 down 0.4%, South Korea up 1.1%, HK up 2% and Shanghai up 0.4%.US futures firm DJ up 191, Nasdaq up 215. European futures slightly higher.Marcus Today – Daily Market Insights Marcus 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-podcast Join Marcus Today Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer MT20 – 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-podcast Principles – 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. 

Wall St ended near flat Friday in another mixed session. Dow Jones down 45 points. S&P 500 down 0.05%. Nasdaq down 0.24% (much better than futures yesterday indicated). Russell 2000 flat. Breadth positive - eight of eleven sectors higher, led by healthcare and consumer stocks. Volume well above average. VIX down 2.54%. For the week, the S&P 500 fell 1.95% and the Nasdaq lost 4.60% - two losses greater than 4% in the last month, equalling the worst weeks since the tariff tumble. The SOX dropped 5.3% overnight (similar to the Kospi), down 7.9% for the week (worst since early April). Selling blamed on technicals, AI ROI, OpenAI IPO delay along with overleveraged Asian retail trade.SPI up 16 - Hostilities paused again - Gold up - Oil up - Quiet start.Marcus Today – Daily Market Insights Marcus 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-podcast Join Marcus Today Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer MT20 – 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-podcast Principles – 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. 

The ASX 200 played out a nil-all draw today, closing up just 16 points at 8,764 in a session of highs and lows. Some EOFY shenanigans were evident in a handful of stocks. The banks held firm, recovering some of yesterday's losses, with ANZ up 0.5% and the Big Bank Basket steady at $269.71 Insurers eased as bond yields steadied, with QBE down 0.2% and SUN off 0.7%. Other financials also slipped, with NWL down 2.8% and HUB falling 4.8%. Industrials were patchy. WES continued higher and JBH found ongoing support. Healthcare stocks took a breather after recent gains, with CSL slipping 2.4% and RMD down 0.9%. Technology was mixed after early weakness, with XRO edging higher and WTC finding some friends, up 0.5%, almost the reverse of the last few trading sessions.Resources also attracted some buying, although it was hardly convincing. BHP rose 0.8% and RIO outperformed, up 2.2%. Gold miners returned to the green, but only just. Lithium stocks remained under heavy pressure after CATL talked up sodium-ion batteries. PLS fell 6.3% and LTR dropped 5.7%. Oil and gas stocks edged higher, with WDS up 0.8% and STO rallying 1.4%.In corporate news, DGT rose 5.8% after CEO Juniper departed. 4DX fell 9.0% despite receiving TGA approval, while NWH unchanged after announcing new contract wins. There was nothing of note on the economic front today.Nikkei 225 down 4.4%, South Korea down 8%, HK down 1.6% and Shanghai down 2.4%.US futures slide again, DJ down 112, Nasdaq down 397 .Marcus Today – Daily Market Insights Marcus 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-podcast Join Marcus Today Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer MT20 – 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-podcast Principles – 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. 

US equities finished mixed on Thursday, with the S&P 500 flat, the Nasdaq 100 falling 0.5%, and the Dow Jones up 0.1%. Investors reassessed their exposure to mega-cap tech stocks while also weighing encouraging economic data. Despite optimism surrounding semiconductors and AI demand, concerns over concentrated gains in a few hyperscale and software names weighed on broader indices. Micron rallied over 15% after stronger-than-expected earnings and a bullish revenue forecast for the August quarter, while Qualcomm rose nearly 4% after doubling its projection for non-handset revenue in the next three years. By contrast, Nvidia, Oracle, Amazon, Alphabet, and Microsoft saw losses up to 3.7%. Apple fell 6.1% after raising prices on MacBook and iPad products, citing higher component costs, including memory chips. Fresh data showed the US economy growing faster than previously estimated and inflation rising in line with expectations, prompting a slight reduction in Fed tightening bets.SPI up 9 - Gold up - Oil up - Karl gone! Go the Socceroos!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.

The ASX 200 fell another 60 points to 8,749, down 0.7%. Once again, it was resources that bore the brunt of the selling, with the gold price testing $4,000 and heading below it, and gold miners slipping. NST down 3.3%, EVN down 3.8%, with the iron ore miners also under pressure today. RIO off 2.3%, FMG down 1.6%. Lithium stocks also fell away, with PLS down 5.0% and LTR also falling 7.4%. Copper stocks were very much on the nose, following falls in resource and commodity prices overseas. SFR down 3.6%. Meanwhile, oil and gas stocks were also easier as the oil price slipped another 1.7% in Asian trade, with WDS down 2.9% and STO down 2.8%. Not much happened in the uranium sector, with PDN slightly firmer on some results from Canada.The banks also struggled today, with CBA holding up better than the other three, still down 1.3%, while NAB was the worst of the bunch, down 3.4% following JDO's results and the stock being hammered 40.4%. The theory is that NAB is the most exposed to the business sector. The Big Bank Basket fell 1.3%. Other financials were less affected, with the insurers once again pushing higher. QBE up 1.3% and MPL up 2.7%. Industrials were a bright spot today across the board, with WES pushing up 2.5%, ALL up 2.4%, and retail stocks performing better after the jobs numbers released today. This points to an improving economic backdrop. We also saw WOW and COL continue to receive buying as defensive plays. TLS rose 0.6%.The REIT sector also did well today, with GMG up 1.1% and CHC up 1.0%. Healthcare was a standout sector as CSL continued to power ahead, up 2.3% and RMD also had a good day out, up 4.6%, with SIG performing well too. Once again, though, we saw losses in the technology sector, with XRO down another 3.5% and WTC giving back some of its gains from yesterday, falling X%, with the All Tech Index unchanged at CPU rose 0.5%In corporate news, A2M rose after declaring a special $300 million dividend. TEA also upgraded its earnings growth forecast, and THL received a fresh offer from a mystery suitor valuing the company at between NZ$3.30 and NZ$3.40 a share. JDO 40.4% smashed on higher provisions and slowdown. WOR down 9.7% on a second profit warning. EIQ soared 30.2% on an investment from PME.On the economic front, the headline unemployment rate fell to 4.4% in May, with employment rising by 40,000 and the number of unemployed people falling by 18,000. Most of the jobs growth, however, came from part-time employment, with only 5,000 new full-time jobs created.Nikkei 225 up 4.5%, South Korea up 7.0%, HK down 1.3% and Shanghai up 1.7%.US futures mixed, Nasdaq up 600 plus – Dow Jones up 65Marcus 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.

US equities closed mixed on Wednesday amid losses for heavyweight tech companies. The S&P 500 inched down 0.1% and the Nasdaq 100 lost 0.4%. Micron dropped 0.4% ahead of its earnings report due after the close, with its guidance set as the latest bellwether for memory demand. The move followed a 13% plunge in the previous session amid growing concerns that capital expenditure by AI companies may have become excessive. Other semiconductor producers also fell with Qualcomm and Sandisk down 2.5% and 3.5%, respectively. AI-related fundraising remained elevated, with SK Hynix reportedly seeking to raise $29 billion through a US listing, shortly after SpaceX’s record IPO. Other sectors found support from lower Treasury yields as prospects of restored energy exports from the Middle East eased inflation concerns. The Dow Jones outperformed, rising 182 points, aided by its exposure to traditional sectors. The Dow's exposure to speculative tech will rise on Monday as Alphabet replaces Verizon.Micron flies after hours on results - SPI up 16 - Nasdaq futures up 545pts. Gold down - Oil down.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.

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.

US stock indices closed negative on Tuesday amid a selloff in heavyweight chip producers. The S&P 500 fell 1.4%, and the Nasdaq 100 lost 3.3% as AI infrastructure companies, including semiconductor and memory chip producers, tanked on increasing skepticism that AI spending by hyperscalers will not meet returns. Also, SK Hynix slowed production of advanced AI chips to boost commodity DRAM capacity, a sign that demand for compute could slow. Nvidia (-4.2%), Broadcom (-3.1%), Qualcomm (-8%), AMD (-5.8%), Micron (-13.2%), and Sandisk (-11.2%) posted losses. Tesla lost 5.8% and Oracle slipped 5.8%. Meanwhile, SpaceX added 1%, rebounding as it issued bonds only one week after its IPO, adding to caution on colossal capital expenditure. Treasury yields remained elevated despite the decline in energy prices following the hawkish dot plot last week, limiting any respite for traditional sectors of the economy. Gains for healthcare and consumer defensive companies aided the Dow to close near flat.SPI up 35 - Resources will struggle - AUD below 70c - Korea to be closely watched.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.