CommSec Market Update
Stay across key moves in the Australian and global share markets with the CommSec Market Update. Brought to you by CommSec’s expert team, join us for two, 10-minute episodes every weekday to keep your finger on the pulse. Start your morning at 7am with James Gruber and Gillian Bowen for a comprehensive analysis of overnight international moves and a look at what to expect for the day ahead. Then, once the ASX closes, join Steve Daghlian and Laura Besarati for a thorough wrap-up of the day’s trade.
Episodes
What’s behind Wall Street’s sharp slide? | AM 06 Nov 26
Wall Street plunged overnight as fears of tighter AI regulations following the Democratic sweep of the US midterm elections sparked a sharp sell-off in chip stocks. The losses are set to weigh on the ASX, which is poised for a weaker open after yesterday's strong rally, while renewed concerns about the conflict in Iran pushed oil prices higher. **This episode was recorded with two hours of trading
Best day since April 2025 | PM 05 Nov 26
The Australian share market delivered its strongest session since April 2025 as global sentiment shifted dramatically. US markets led the way overnight, supported by election clarity and falling oil prices. Tech stocks were the standout performer, while miners recovered on commodity tailwinds. Banking sector faced headwinds following NAB's results and rising bad debt provisions. Key catalysts ahea
Wall Street surges after Democrats sweep midterms | AM 05 Nov 26
Wall Street surged overnight following a Democratic sweep of the US midterm elections, while oil prices plummeted after JD Vance linked the Republican defeat to the war in Iran. The rally is set to flow through to the ASX, which is poised for a strong open after yesterday's losses. Plus, why investors' optimism over the election result could prove premature. *This episode was recorded with two hou
US Elections rattle markets | PM 04 Nov 26
The Australian share market staged a late recovery after tracking towards its worst day in five weeks, as US midterm election results spooked investors and dragged down tech and mining stocks. Concerns about potential AI regulation and data center scrutiny weighed heavily, with Asian chipmakers also hit hard. City Chic rallied on better trading momentum, while household spending data surprised to
RBA hikes and America votes | AM 04 Nov 26
Wall Street climbed overnight as chip stocks rebounded and oil prices continued to fall, with investors awaiting the results of the US midterm elections. Back home, the ASX is poised for a slightly weaker open following yesterday's RBA rate hike, but could the central bank's latest decision signal an end to further increases? Plus, what the upcoming release of Grand Theft Auto 6 reveals about AI's
5th RBA rate hike as oil takes a spill | PM 03 Nov 26
The Australian share market rose Tuesday following the RBA's fifth rate hike of the year, with markets responding positively to three board members voting to hold rates steady. Governor Michelle Bullock's statement removed hawkish language about further increases, easing investor concerns. Property trusts and consumer discretionary stocks led gains, while energy stocks fell sharply on slumping oil
Will the RBA lift rates again today? | AM 03 Nov 26
The ASX is poised for a stronger open ahead of today's highly anticipated RBA interest rate decision, but will the central bank deliver another hike? Meanwhile, Wall Street was mixed as investors looked ahead to the US midterm elections, while oil prices plunged on renewed hopes of peace talks between the US and Iran. Plus, how soaring mortgage repayments have outpaced wage growth over the past fo
Rates, Apples & Elections | PM 02 Nov 26
The Australian share market fell slightly on Monday as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of the Reserve Bank decision and Melbourne Cup Day. While industrials and consumer discretionary stocks gained ground, miners and banks dragged the index lower. Key corporate updates from Westpac and other major firms dominated trading activity ahead of a pivotal week of economic decisions. Steve Daghl
Tech rout hammers stocks | AM 02 Nov 26
The Australian share market is poised for a steady open ahead of the Reserve Bank's highly anticipated interest rate decision on Tuesday. A 25 basis point hike is widely expected, which would mark the fifth increase this year. The session comes after Wall Street suffered significant losses on Friday, with technology stocks hammered by disappointing earnings from major names. Key local releases inc
Market spooked by seven-week high? | PM 30 Oct 26
The ASX 200 gained modestly on Friday after an eventful week and month. Rising inflation raised RBA rate hike prospects for next Tuesday, while US tech giants including Alphabet faced significant declines. Retailers staged a recovery following Thursday's weakness, though materials and technology lagged. Next week brings RBA decisions, major bank earnings, and US midterms.Steve Daghlian and Laura B
Alphabet tumbles. Can the ASX shake it off? | AM 30 Oct 26
Wall Street fell overnight as a sharp sell-off in Alphabet reignited concerns about the cost of AI investment, but can the ASX shake off the weakness and extend its recent gains? Meanwhile, a major leadership change is on the horizon at the European Central Bank. Plus, why Australia's banks and miners remain just as dominant in the share market as they were a century ago. Join James Gruber, Equity
Can the ASX keep climbing? | PM 29 Oct 26
The Australian share market gained on Thursday as financials and property trusts led, but consumer discretionary stocks dragged, with retailers posting one of their worst weeks of the year amid softer spending and potential rate hike concerns ahead of key trading periods. Steve Daghlian and Laura Besarati are Market Analysts at CommSec. Each episode, they break down the day's market movements and
The US Fed holds, but for how long? | AM 29 Oct 26
Wall Street was little changed overnight after the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady, but with further hikes still on the cards, how long will the pause last? Here at home, hotter-than-expected inflation has strengthened expectations of another RBA rate hike, while the ASX is poised for a slightly stronger open. Plus, how today's gradual interest rate increases compare with the much sharp
Rate hike locked in? | PM 28 Oct 26
The Australian share market surged early but reversed sharply after inflation data exceeded expectations, wiping out gains and fueling expectations of another RBA rate rise next week. Key earnings updates from Woolworths, SiteMinder, and Data3 provided bright spots amid rate-sensitive sector weakness. Global central bank decisions loom. Steve Daghlian and Laura Besarati are Market Analysts at Comm
Big tech, the Fed and a crucial inflation test | AM 28 Oct 26
Wall Street pushed higher overnight as AI stocks extended their rally, with investors turning their attention to major tech earnings and the Federal Reserve's upcoming interest rate decision. Closer to home, the ASX is poised for a slightly stronger open ahead of today's crucial inflation figures, which could influence the RBA's next rate move. Plus, why stubborn US inflation is raising questions
Last piece of the puzzle | PM 27 Oct 26
The Australian share market recovered from early losses to finish in positive territory as investors bought the dip. Key themes included renewed excitement around artificial intelligence following Anthropic's IPO announcement, which boosted data centre and copper-related stocks. With major central bank decisions and crucial Australian inflation data looming this week, markets showed typical cautio
Anthropic’s mega IPO plans send US markets higher | AM 27 Oct 26
Wall Street climbed overnight as news of Anthropic's plans for a potentially record-breaking IPO boosted AI stocks, while oil prices eased but remained near six-month highs. With the ASX poised for a flat open after yesterday's modest gains, what could the latest developments mean for local trading today? Plus, why Bunnings' dominant market position gives it an edge over other major retailers. Joi
Markets brace for key earnings and data | PM 26 Oct 26
The Australian share market recovered from an early selloff to finish Monday in positive territory as investors braced for a blockbuster earnings week. Materials and energy stocks led the recovery after a brutal week, while tech shares also bounced. With US earnings reports, central bank decisions, and local inflation data on the agenda, markets remain cautious heading into what promises to be one
Will inflation data cement a rate hike? | AM 26 Oct 26
Oil prices have climbed to a near six-month high, adding to inflation concerns ahead of Wednesday's crucial Australian CPI figures. But will the latest data cement expectations of another RBA rate hike? The ASX is poised for a weaker open after Wall Street finished lower on Friday, with US interest rates and big tech earnings also in focus this week. Plus, how many of Australia's biggest companies
PM 23 Oct 26: Buckle up for a blockbuster week
The Australian share market closed essentially flat on Friday after a choppy week, snapping three straight weekly gains. Materials and energy stocks bore the brunt of selling pressure, with commodities including copper and lithium sliding amid concerns about AI infrastructure demand. Financials recovered ground, while retail showed mixed signals. Next week looms as one of the busiest of the year,
AM 23 Oct 26: What a difference a day makes
Wall Street tumbled overnight as disappointing reactions to Meta and Tesla's earnings reignited concerns about AI spending, while oil prices climbed to a five-month high amid renewed supply fears in the Middle East. The sell-off is set to weigh on the ASX, which is poised for a softer open after yesterday's decline. Plus, why slowing growth in AI token spending is raising fresh questions about dem
PM 22 Oct 26: Cost-of-living crunch hits retailers
The Australian share market declined slightly as materials and energy stocks pressured the broader index. Nick Scarly plunged after cutting profit guidance amid weak furniture sales, while NEXTDC rebounded sharply following yesterday's steep losses. Upcoming earnings from major US tech firms and local mining updates will drive sentiment in coming sessions. Steve Daghlian and Laura Besarati are Mar
AM 22 Oct 26: Can SpaceX keep the AI rally going?
Wall Street climbed overnight as strong earnings from SpaceX reignited enthusiasm for AI stocks, with investors now turning their attention to Meta's upcoming results. Despite the gains in the US, the ASX is poised for a slightly weaker open after yesterday's modest rise. Plus, why smaller companies in Australia and Europe could be attracting interest from investors as money continues to pour into
PM 21 Oct 26: Another RBA rate hike on the table?
The Australian share market finished modestly higher as investors await major US tech earnings from Meta and Tesla tonight. RBA Deputy Governor Andrew Hauser's warning of hotter inflation pushed rate hike expectations sharply higher, though volatility remains as markets await next week's inflation data. NextDC was the day's worst performer after slashing profit guidance due to power supply delays
AM 21 Oct 26: What’s driving Wall Street’s latest gains?
Wall Street climbed for a second straight session, led by gains in healthcare stocks as falling oil prices and US 10-year Treasury yields helped lift investor confidence. The positive momentum could carry through to the ASX, which is poised for a stronger open after yesterday's decline. Plus, why a wave of mergers and acquisitions is contributing to the shrinking number of companies listed on the
PM 20 Oct 26: Copper slump hits BHP
The Australian share market recovered from a rough start on Tuesday, falling to session lows before staging a comeback. While US markets rose overnight, local stocks struggled amid broader uncertainty around geopolitical tensions, rising bond yields, and elevated oil prices. Mining heavyweights like BHP faced headwinds from production challenges, while banks including NAB declined following restru
AM 20 Oct 26: Tech stocks rebound, sending Wall Street higher
Tech stocks rebounded overnight, lifting Wall Street as investors returned to AI-related companies following last week's sharp sell-off. The ASX is poised for a weaker open despite yesterday reaching a five-week high, but can the local market continue its recent winning streak? Plus, why picking winning stocks on the ASX has been particularly challenging for investors this year. Join James Gruber,
PM 19 Oct 26: ASX hits 5 week high
The Australian share market extended its winning streak on Monday, climbing nearly half a percent to its best level in over five weeks. Energy stocks led gains amid stronger oil prices, while takeover announcements boosted CleanAway and Challenger. Tech stocks faced headwinds following US weakness, but remain a smaller market influence locally. Earnings season takes centre stage this week with maj
AM 19 Oct 26: Wall Street tumbles as AI sell-off gathers pace
Wall Street tumbled on Friday as the AI sell-off gathered pace, with chip stocks extending their losing streak and surging oil prices adding to investor concerns. The ASX is poised for a flat open after its strongest session since August, but what could the latest developments mean for local trading today? Plus, why soaring sugar prices could soon put more pressure on household budgets. Join James
PM 16 Oct 26: Best day in 10 weeks for Aussie market
The Australian share market finished Friday with strong gains after a volatile week and month. Tech stocks led the rally, posting their best day in months, while materials also rebounded. With US earnings ramping up and local quarterly updates from mining giants ahead, next week promises significant market catalysts. Steve Daghlian and Laura Besarati are Market Analysts at CommSec. Each episode, t
AM 16 Oct 26: Can Wall Street shake its AI jitters?
AI stocks remained under pressure overnight as concerns around the sector weighed on confidence, although Wall Street recovered from earlier losses. US bond yields also fell sharply, but what's behind the drop? The ASX is poised for a stronger open after weaker-than-expected jobs data eased expectations of another near-term RBA rate hike. Plus, why new research suggests AI may struggle to outperfo
PM 15 Oct 26: November rate hike?
The Australian share market closed nearly flat Thursday after a volatile session marked by weak employment data. Mining stocks slumped while financials rallied, offsetting losses. Market focus shifted to interest rate expectations, with weaker-than-expected job numbers reducing bets on further RBA hikes this year. Upcoming inflation data and US earnings remain key catalysts for direction ahead. St
AM 15 Oct 26: Wall Street tumbles as US inflation climbs
Wall Street tumbled overnight as hotter-than-expected US inflation fuelled expectations of further Federal Reserve rate hikes, while heavyweight AI and chip stocks extended their losses. The ASX is also under pressure after yesterday's decline, but what could the latest developments on Wall Street mean for local trading today? Plus, why concerns are growing over the debt levels of companies financ
PM 14 Oct 26: Investors await US earnings and inflation data
The Australian share market fell for the first time this week as investors grappled with rising global bond yields, renewed interest rate concerns, and elevated oil prices. Financials and materials led declines, though energy stocks found support. Key catalysts ahead include tonight's US inflation data and tomorrow's local jobs report, both critical ahead of upcoming central bank decisions. Steve
AM 14 Oct 26: How will Wall Street respond to earnings season?
Wall Street wavered overnight as US earnings season got underway, with mixed results from major banks and another sell-off in chip stocks weighing on sentiment. The ASX is poised for a weaker open after a flat session yesterday, but how will the latest developments on Wall Street affect local trading? Plus, a closer look at which sectors have been driving the Australian share market this year and
PM 13 Oct 26: Tech trouble shakes the ASX
The Australian share market finished almost unchanged on Tuesday as investors rotated defensively away from technology into financials and utilities. A sharp selloff in Asian chipmakers weighed on local tech stocks, while materials weakened despite recent gains. The RBA's board minutes reiterated an inflation focus ahead of Thursday's crucial jobs data, with rate hike expectations still priced in
AM 13 Oct 26: Wall Street wavers as tech stocks falter
Wall Street struggled overnight as a sell-off in chipmakers weighed on tech stocks, while escalating tensions in the Middle East pushed oil prices to near two-week highs. But what could all this mean for the ASX today, following its strongest close in two weeks? Plus, why Australia's recent rebound in home construction still falls short of the government's housing targets. Join James Gruber, Equit
PM 12 Oct 26: Best day in over a week for ASX
The Australian share market rebounded on Monday with its best day in over a week, driven by strong gains in banking and mining stocks. Financials and materials each rose more than one and a half percent, offsetting weakness in telcos and real estate. A busy week ahead features US earnings season, RBA minutes, September jobs data, and US inflation figures. Steve Daghlian and Laura Besarati are Mark
AM 12 Oct 26: Will jobs, inflation and earnings move markets?
Wall Street finished higher on Friday as tech stocks rebounded and investors turned their attention to a big week of economic data and corporate earnings. The ASX is poised for a positive open after recording its second consecutive weekly gain, but could upcoming Australian jobs figures, US inflation data and the start of US earnings season shake up markets? Plus, why oil prices remain elevated de
PM 09 Oct 26: Key tests for market ahead
The Australian share market finished Friday with modest gains, pushing into positive territory for a second consecutive week. Tech and consumer discretionary stocks led the rally, while defensive sectors like utilities and property trusts also improved. Key upcoming catalysts include Australian jobs data, US inflation figures, and major corporate earnings reports next week. Steve Daghlian and Laur
AM 09 Oct 26: Oil soars. What’s behind the latest spike?
Oil prices surged overnight, but what’s behind the latest spike? Wall Street retreated as a sell-off in heavyweight tech and chip stocks added to the pressure from rising oil prices, while the ASX is poised for a slightly stronger open. Plus, why more Australians are making voluntary contributions to their superannuation. Join James Tao, Equity Market Commentator and Gillian Bowen, Head of M
PM 08 Oct 26: Banks and miners weigh on ASX
The Australian share market fell for a second consecutive session as materials and financial stocks led declines. The ASX 200 faced headwinds from weak iron ore sales negotiations with Chinese buyers and banking sector pressure. European debt concerns and US interest rate signals added to market caution. Energy stocks provided support on oil price gains amid geopolitical tensions. Key inflation da
AM 08 Oct 26: ASX under pressure as Wall Street retreats
Fresh details from the Federal Reserve have revealed what drove last month’s US interest rate hike, but what could they mean for rates from here? Wall Street’s record-breaking run came to an end as investors reassessed the outlook for interest rates and energy costs, with the ASX poised to follow with a weaker open. Plus, why one of the biggest media deals in recent history could resha
PM 07 Oct 26: ASX ends winning streak
The Australian share market ended Wednesday slightly lower after a mixed session, with banks and materials weighing on performance despite gains in healthcare and property. Key movers included uranium miners, tech stocks, and dividend payers, while offshore markets hit record highs. US earnings season approaches this week. Steve Daghlian and Laura Besarati are Market Analysts at CommSec. Each epis
AM 07 Oct 26: Another milestone beckons for Nvidia
Wall Street climbed to fresh record highs overnight, but which companies are driving the rally? Megacap and AI-related stocks were among the standouts as Treasury yields eased and investors looked ahead to the upcoming US earnings season, while the Aussie market is set to open flat. Plus, why Australian mortgage holders are proving resilient despite higher interest rates and falling property price
PM 06 Oct 26: ASX up, consumer confidence plummets
The Australian share market continues its upward trajectory for a third consecutive session, buoyed by strong US leads and solid performance from miners and banks. However, consumer confidence surveys reveal deepening concerns about employment prospects and rising living costs. Tech stocks remain under pressure locally, while property shares rebound. Key developments include a trading halt on Dick
AM 06 Oct 26: Wall Street breaks records again. Why?
Wall Street climbed to fresh record highs overnight, but what is driving the rally? Last week’s softer-than-expected US jobs report has eased expectations of another Federal Reserve rate hike this month, helping lift tech and AI-related stocks, while the ASX is poised to follow with a positive open. Plus, why Nike’s struggles are a reminder that even the world’s biggest brands ca
PM 05 Oct 26: ASX ekes out gain in light holiday trade
The Australian share market opened with modest gains on Monday but faded through the session, finishing nearly flat as a long weekend holiday dampened trading volumes. Healthcare stocks led the way with several notable corporate deals, while semiconductor stocks benefited from US strength. Investors remain cautious as they digest recent bond market volatility and higher interest rates across multi
AM 05 Oct 26: ASX set to follow Wall Street’s gains
Wall Street advanced on Friday after weaker-than-expected US jobs data eased expectations of another Federal Reserve rate hike this month. The ASX is poised to follow with a positive open as trading gets underway despite public holidays in some states, while oil prices eased after G7 countries agreed to release supplies from emergency reserves. Plus, why easing inflation doesn’t necessarily
PM 02 OCT 26: ASX recovers from worst day in months
The Australian share market recovered on Friday, climbing back into positive territory for the week after Thursday's worst session in nearly seven months. Tech stocks surged while most sectors improved, though property continued to struggle amid rising bond yields. Investors digested mixed inflation data, ongoing geopolitical tensions, and the RBA's fourth rate hike of the year, with focus now tur
AM 02 Oct 26: ASX set to rise after rough start to the month
The ASX is poised to rebound after a rough start to October, which saw the market suffer its worst session in almost seven months amid a global bond sell-off. Wall Street was relatively steady overnight as easing US bond yields helped offset concerns around a sharp rise in oil prices, while most metals fell as the US dollar strengthened. Plus, why electric vehicle sales are surging in Australia. J
PM 01 OCT 26: Worst day in almost 7 months for ASX
The Australian share market fell sharply on Thursday, posting its worst day in nearly seven months as broad based losses swept across all eleven sectors. Persistent concerns about higher interest rates and global tensions weighed on investor sentiment, despite mixed overnight leads from Wall Street. Key economic data and central bank decisions loom ahead this month. Steve Daghlian and Laura Besara
AM 01 Oct 26: ASX set to fall on first day of new month
Wall Street was mostly lower overnight despite softer-than-expected US inflation data reducing expectations of another Federal Reserve rate hike this month, while longer-term bond yields continued to climb. The ASX is poised for a weaker open after yesterday posting its best session in eight weeks as cooler Australian inflation eased expectations of another near-term RBA hike. Plus, why Australia&
PM 30 SEP 26: ASX surges on cooler inflation data
The Australian share market rallied strongly on Wednesday after softer-than-expected inflation data eased concerns about future rate hikes. The ASX 200 enjoyed its best day in eight weeks, with property trusts and consumer discretionary stocks leading gains. Property giant Lendlease surged after announcing an asset sale, while defence and mining stocks showed mixed performance. Markets now pricing
AM 30 Sep 26: Wall Street steadies as focus turns to inflation
Wall Street was relatively steady overnight as gains in AI-related stocks helped offset pressure from rising long-term bond yields, while oil prices retreated on signs of improving Middle East supply. The ASX is poised to edge lower as attention turns to today’s Australian inflation figures and what they could mean for interest rates following yesterday’s RBA hike. Plus, why the upcomi
PM 29 Sep 26: RBA hikes, more ahead?
The Australian share market edged higher as the RBA raised the cash rate to its highest level in 15 years, with the decision unanimously backed by board members. The tech sector led gains, while property stocks struggled. Household spending data showed consumer caution, setting the stage for critical inflation figures due tomorrow. Steve Daghlian and Laura Besarati are Market Analysts at CommSec.
AM 29 Sep 26: RBA decision day
Wall Street fell overnight as rising oil prices fuelled inflation concerns and pushed US bond yields higher, after the US rejected a proposed peace plan from Iran. The ASX is poised for a modestly stronger open ahead of today’s RBA rate decision, with markets overwhelmingly expecting another rate hike. Plus, why many investors may be struggling to keep pace with the broader share market this
PM 28 Sep 26: Caution ahead of likely RBA rate hike?
The Australian share market edged slightly higher Monday as investors await tomorrow's crucial RBA rate decision, with all economists expecting a fourth hike this year. Financials led gains while materials declined, offsetting broader momentum. Trade tensions eased slightly following US-China tariff cuts, though geopolitical risks persist. Key catalysts ahead include the RBA statement, inflation d
AM 28 Sep 26: Key week for rates, ASX to open flat
A key week for interest rates is underway with markets pricing in a more than 90% chance of an RBA rate hike tomorrow as investors also await fresh inflation figures. The ASX is poised for a flat open after four consecutive weeks of losses, while Wall Street ended last week higher as AI-related tech stocks rallied and oil prices eased. Plus, why the recent surge in Australian bond yields is attrac
PM 25 Sep 26: Markets brace for rate hike
The Australian share market declined for a second consecutive session Friday, ending a turbulent week as investors brace for the Reserve Bank's widely anticipated interest rate decision Tuesday. With inflation remaining elevated and geopolitical tensions simmering, the broader mood reflects caution ahead of the central bank announcement and key economic data releases expected next week. Steve Dagh
AM 25 Sep 26: ASX set to fall, oil prices back in focus
Oil prices surged overnight after a Houthi missile attack on Saudi Arabia revived concerns about supply disruptions, while rising US bond yields kept Wall Street subdued. The ASX is poised to open modestly lower as investors look ahead to next week’s RBA rate decision. Plus, why natural diamond prices have fallen to their lowest levels this century. Join James Gruber, Equity Market Strategis
PM 24 Sep 26: ASX reacts to higher unemployment
The Australian share market fell for the first time this week as unemployment unexpectedly rose to its highest level in five years. Mixed employment data sparked investor caution ahead of the Reserve Bank's rate decision next Tuesday. Energy stocks rallied on oil price gains, but materials and financials weighed on the index. Key upcoming catalysts include US jobless claims and dividend payouts fr
AM 24 Sep 26: Wall Street tumbles as bond yields surge
Wall Street tumbled overnight as surging US bond yields, stronger economic data and renewed inflation concerns weighed on investors. Oil also climbed back above US$100 a barrel after Iran’s President vowed not to surrender to US pressure, while the ASX is poised for a sharp fall at the open. Plus, why government bonds aren’t always the risk-free assets they’re often considered to
PM 23 Sep 26: Market holds breath ahead of jobs data
The Australian share market edged marginally higher on Wednesday as investors held their breath ahead of tomorrow's crucial jobs data. While copper prices hit record levels, supporting miners and dividends, most sectors struggled with bank weakness and mixed US leads offsetting gains. Key catalyst: Australia's employment figures tomorrow.Steve Daghlian and Laura Besarati are Market Analysts at Com
AM 23 Sep 26: Nasdaq hits fresh record as oil drops below $100
The Nasdaq hit a fresh record high overnight as chipmakers and other AI-related stocks rallied, while hopes of diplomatic progress between the US and Iran pushed oil below US$100 a barrel. The ASX is poised for a modestly stronger open, with tech stocks likely to benefit from Wall Street’s AI rally. Plus, why a wave of major AI listings could dwarf decades of tech IPOs. Join James Gruber, Eq
PM 22 Sep 26: Lithium surge steals market spotlight
The Australian share market finished Tuesday with modest gains as technology stocks led the way following overnight US strength. Energy stocks struggled amid falling oil prices, while select winners including a lithium miner surged on acquisition news. Upcoming economic data and RBA interest rate decisions remain key focal points for investors this week.Steve Daghlian is a Market Analyst at CommSe
AM 22 Sep 26: Wall Street rallies as oil prices plunge
Wall Street rallied to start the week as hopes of diplomatic progress in the Middle East sent oil prices tumbling and US bond yields eased from recent highs. The ASX is poised to follow with a stronger open, while investors look ahead to key Australian jobs data and next week’s RBA rate decision. Plus, why concerns around private credit are weighing on some Australian companies. Join James G
PM 21 Sep 26: ASX treads water as rate hike looms
The ASX 200 traded flat on Monday as cautious sentiment prevailed following three weeks of declines. Energy stocks recovered from early losses as oil prices stabilized, while financials and healthcare provided support. Ramelius led gainers on upgraded production forecasts, but Perpetual plunged after rejecting a takeover bid. The week ahead focuses on RBA rate decision, US China talks, and jobs da
AM 21 Sep 26: ASX set to fall ahead of jobs figures this week
The ASX is set for a weaker start to the week as investors look ahead to key Australian employment figures and what they could mean for next week’s RBA rate decision. Wall Street mostly gained on Friday as oil prices eased, although rising bond yields kept interest rate concerns in focus. Plus, CommSec welcomes a familiar face back to the team. Join James Gruber, Equity Market Strategist, an
PM 18 Sep 26: Huge week ahead - $12.5B payday meets rate hike countdown
The Australian share market closed slightly lower on Friday as mining stocks and gold miners provided support amid broader weakness. With Middle East tensions persisting and inflation concerns elevated, markets are pricing in a potential rate hike at the Reserve Bank's late September meeting. Over twelve and a half billion dollars in dividends are set to be paid next week as investors digest upcom
AM 18 Sep 26: Wall Street rebounds as rates remain in focus
Wall Street rebounded overnight as easing oil prices and bond yields helped investors move beyond the Federal Reserve’s latest interest rate hike. The ASX is poised for a stronger open, while attention turns to RBA Governor Michele Bullock and other officials appearing before a parliamentary committee today. Plus, why expectations for Australian interest rates have shifted sharply in just a
PM 17 Sep 26: Bank gains keep ASX positive
The Australian share market edged higher on Thursday as gains from the big four banks offset weakness in mining and energy. US markets fell overnight following the Federal Reserve's first rate hike in years, with further increases flagged. Gold miners struggled while defence stocks surged. Key catalysts loom including the Bank of Japan decision and the Reserve Bank's September meeting. Steve Daghl
AM 17 Sep 26: The Federal Reserve raises rates by 25 bps
The US Federal Reserve raised interest rates by 25 basis points overnight, with signals of at least one more hike this year sending Wall Street mostly lower. The ASX is poised to follow with a sharp fall at the open, while oil prices retreated on easing concerns about Middle East supply disruptions. Plus, why some investors are starting to see better value in Australian bonds compared with shares.
PM 16 Sep 26: Markets brace for US rate decision
The Australian share market edged higher in afternoon trade, lifted by a surge in energy stocks as oil prices climbed to four-month highs amid supply concerns. Materials also bounced back after days of decline, though financials and consumer staples weighed on sentiment. Investors remain cautious ahead of tonight's critical US interest rate decision, with significant market catalysts expected in c
AM 16 Sep 26: US stocks slide as oil surges, bond yields jump
Oil prices surged again overnight as fresh disruptions to Middle East supplies fuelled inflation concerns and pushed US bond yields higher, sending Wall Street lower. The ASX is poised to buck the trend with a stronger open, with energy stocks likely to benefit from higher crude prices. Plus, why a key economic indicator suggests US bond yields could have further to rise. James Gruber, Equity Mark
PM 15 Sep 26: ASX slumps to 3-month low
The Australian share market fell sharply on Tuesday, tracking weakness across materials and financials as investors awaited major central bank decisions. China's soft domestic demand data pressured commodity stocks, while global bond yields reached multi-year highs. Key catalysts ahead include the US Federal Reserve decision and RBA rate call later this month. Laura Besarati is a Market Analy
AM 15 Sep 26: AI stocks send US share markets lower
AI stocks led Wall Street lower overnight after top industry executives raised safety concerns and called for a slowdown in the development of the technology. The ASX is poised to open slightly lower as oil prices remain elevated and most commodities retreat. Plus, why slowing AI development could spell trouble for the heavily indebted firms powering the boom. James Gruber, Equity Market Strategis
PM 14 Sep 26: Cautious start to a busy week
The Australian share market finished almost flat on Monday as investors held their breath ahead of a crucial US interest rate decision later this week. Oil prices surged again on Middle East tensions, intensifying inflation concerns and raising the prospect of rate hikes both domestically and abroad. Key RBA speakers and central bank meetings dominate the agenda. Laura Besarati is a Market Analyst
AM 14 Sep 26: ASX set to rise ahead of big week for central banks
A big week for central banks is underway, with markets increasingly expecting the US Federal Reserve to raise interest rates after the latest inflation figures. Wall Street still finished higher on Friday as oil prices retreated, while the ASX is poised for a slightly stronger open. Plus, a closer look at where Australian government spending increased over the past financial year. Join James Grube
PM 11 Sep 26: Second worst week of the year for ASX
The Australian share market endured its second worst week of the year, falling for four straight days as geopolitical tensions, surging oil prices, and rising bond yields weighed heavily on sentiment. Materials and energy stocks were particularly hard hit, while financials provided some offset. Key catalysts ahead include US inflation data tonight, Fed and RBA rate decisions next week, and major C
