ASX 200 Up 0.3% at Finish
The ASX 200 added 24 points, or 0.3%, to close at 8,697 on Wednesday, reversing the prior session’s losses as strength in consumer durables, energy minerals, and non-energy minerals lifted sentiment. Firmer U.S. stock futures provided support ahead of the Fed’s policy decision, while traders monitored elevated oil prices and geopolitical tensions. Bargain hunting also emerged after local markets slipped to a near ten-week low amid sticky inflation and prospects of another Reserve Bank rate hike later this month. In China, Australia's top trading partner, August data showed mixed signals, fueling hopes of fresh stimulus from Beijing. Heavyweight BHP Group rose 1.3%, and Rio Tinto gained 0.8%. Energy names advanced, with Woodside Energy up 2.9%, Santos 2.3%, and Ampol 2.6%. The big four banks were mixed, with NAB and Commonwealth Bank lower, while Westpac and ANZ were little changed. Investors now await Governor Bullock’s testimony before Parliament on Friday for further policy cues.
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3%, to close at 8,697 on Wednesday, reversing the prior session’s losses as strength in consumer durables, energy minerals, and non-energy minerals lifted sentiment. S. stock futures provided support ahead of the Fed’s policy decision, while traders monitored elevated oil prices and geopolitical tensions. Bargain hunting also emerged after local markets slipped to a near ten-week low amid sticky inflation and prospects of another Reserve Bank rate hike later this month.
In China, Australia's top trading partner, August data showed mixed signals, fueling hopes of fresh stimulus from Beijing. 8%. 6%. The big four banks were mixed, with NAB and Commonwealth Bank lower, while Westpac and ANZ were little changed.
Investors now await Governor Bullock’s testimony before Parliament on Friday for further policy cues.