The ASX 200 started slowly with early losses, but after a benign and better-than-expected CPI read, the bulls were back. The ASX 200 closed up 60 points at 8718 (0.7%). Banks fought back from bigger early losses, with CBA up modestly and WBC down 0.6X%. The Big Bank Basket unchanged at $275.52, whilst other financials improved, with MQG up 1.0%. IFT was having a good day on some broker upgrades, up 5.8%, and HUB was doing well too, up 2.0%. A horror run continued for ASX as it fell another 9.7% on the news yesterday of a further capex blowout and broker commentary today. The industrial space was mainly better, with WES gaining 1.4%, ALL up 3.2%, and GMG also having a good day after the results yesterday. Healthcare perked up slightly, with a good run from CSL up 2.4% and FPH also having another good day, up 4.1%. The tech space was mixed, with TLS down 1.0%, WTC up 1.4%, and TNE up as well. The All -Tech Index rose 2% today. In resources, it was a mixed session, with lithium stocks a little under pressure. PLS fell 1.9%, and MIN also down slightly, but BHP up 1.5% and FMG also doing well. Gold miners were mixed, with a bias to the upside, as NEM rose 1.3%, and coal stocks again were firm, with YAL up 2.1% and WHC up 2.2%. Uranium stocks were also slightly firmer, with PDN up 2.4%. In corporate news today, WEB rose slightly following results, with guidance maintained. EDV fell 4.9% after it flagged a major restructure of its wine operations. SXL was up strongly after Gina Rinehart emerged as a major shareholder. KMD was also doing well on a strategic review, up 17.3%. NUF also had a good day, up 13.7%, as profits jumped on higher margins. In economic news, the monthly consumer price index showed inflation slowed slightly to 4.2%, below the 4.4% forecast. The dollar slid slightly on this news and hopes that the RBA is on hold firmed. Asian markets were once again gripped by chip fever in South Korea and Taiwan. Records and new trillion-dollar valuations. Japan up 0.4%, HK down 1.1% and China off 0.6%. Kopsi up 3.6%. Taiwan up 2.4%. US futures slightly better. Brent crude down 1.6% No news on peace deal. US Cabinet meeting 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.
