ASX 200 Closes Steady
The ASX 200 ended flat at 8,784 on Tuesday after two sessions of gains, as strength in energy minerals, consumer services, and financials was offset by weakness in tech, consumer non-durables, and industrials. Traders digested data showing business sentiment slipped to a four-month low in September, marking the seventh straight negative reading amid oil volatility and renewed Middle East tensions. Minutes from the RBA’s September meeting signaled further hikes remained possible, with several upside risks flagged in August materializing. Meanwhile, futures for the S&P 500 and Nasdaq were lower ahead of bank earnings, Fed remarks, and key inflation reports. The big four banks rallied 1.3%—2.3%, while AGL Energy jumped 4.1% and Ampol Ltd. gained 1.6%. On the downside, BHP fell 1.8%, along with Fortescue (-2.9%), South32 (-3.6%), and Pro Medicus (-1.6%). Qantas slid 2.9% after ending its domestic codeshare with Air New Zealand, with the partnership set to scale back from April 7, 2027.
The ASX 200 ended flat at 8,784 on Tuesday after two sessions of gains, as strength in energy minerals, consumer services, and financials was offset by weakness in tech, consumer non-durables, and industrials. Traders digested data showing business sentiment slipped to a four-month low in September, marking the seventh straight negative reading amid oil volatility and renewed Middle East tensions. Minutes from the RBA’s September meeting signaled further hikes remained possible, with several upside risks flagged in August materializing. Meanwhile, futures for the S&P 500 and Nasdaq were lower ahead of bank earnings, Fed remarks, and key inflation reports.
1% and Ampol Ltd. 6%. 6%). 9% after ending its domestic codeshare with Air New Zealand, with the partnership set to scale back from April 7, 2027.