The ASX200 powered ahead today, rising 99 points to 9,129 (1.1%). An 11-week high and within striking distance of the record close. All sectors were positive today, with the banks leading the charge: CBA up 1.2%, ANZ up 1.0%, and WBC also having a good day. The Big Bank Basket better at $284.84. The rest of the financials were also stronger, with CGF up 2.2% and NWL up 1.8%. We also saw good gains in the REITs, with SCG bouncing back 1.5% and GMG leading the pack higher on hopes that interest rates have peaked, especially given weakening consumer sentiment. Insurers were also better, with MPL up 2.7% and SUN up 1.7%. Meanwhile, industrials had a good day, with QAN rising 6.3% on falling oil prices and WES continuing to push higher. Some defensive sectors eased off, with WOW and COL falling. Healthcare stocks also were relatively flat, with RHC up 0.8%. In the tech space, it was a mixed picture, with WTC up 1.5% and XRO down 1.4%. We did see a continued bounce in NXT, and the All-Tech Index was up 0.6%. Resources didn't want to miss out today, and we saw a good rise again from BHP up 1.1% and FMG up 0.5%. Gold miners too pushed higher on the back of bullion rising above $4,100, with EVN putting on the ritz up 2.1% and GMD up 3.1%. Rare earth also had a rare day in the sun, with LYC up 4.2%, although lithium stocks still remain unloved, with PLS only up 0.7%. Oil and gas stocks eased off on crude falls, but uranium stocks once again glowing with PDN up 5.0%. In corporate news today we saw another bid for INA. 360 fell despite results in line with consensus. MND flagged strong operating conditions throughout the first 4 months of the year and flagged $1.7bn in half-year revenue. SSM confirmed a $400m raise for its acquisition of Programmed. In economic news today, we had weak consumer sentiment figures, pointing to potentially a peak in interest rates. Asian markets firmed, with the Nikkei 225 up 2%, Hang Seng up 0.3%, and China unchanged. 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.
