Morning Wrap: ASX 200 Set to Climb, S&P 500 and Nasdaq Hit Record Peaks + Earnings from CBA, Computershare, and IAG

by admin

Market Overview: ASX and Global Market Summary

ASX 200 futures are showing a mild increase of 14 points (+0.15%) as of 8:30 AM AEST.

Key Highlights:

  • The S&P 500 and Nasdaq achieved new record highs after recent US inflation data bolstered the expectation for a Federal Reserve rate cut in September.
  • The likelihood of a rate cut in September has risen to approximately 93% following the latest inflation results.
  • A wave of earnings reports is expected today, including announcements from CBA, IAG, and Computershare.

Overnight Summary

Date: Wednesday, 13 August 2025, 8:20 AM (AEST)

Major Indices Performance

Index Value % Change
S&P 500 6,446 +1.13%
Dow Jones 44,459 +1.10%
NASDAQ Comp 21,682 +1.39%
Russell 2000 2,283 +2.99%

Global Indices Data

Country Value % Change
Canada 27,921 +0.53%
China 3,666 +0.50%
Germany 24,025 -0.23%
Hong Kong 24,970 +0.25%
India 80,236 -0.46%
Japan 42,718 +2.15%
United Kingdom 9,148 +0.20%

Commodities (USD)

Commodity Value % Change
Gold 3,351.22 +0.25%
Copper 4.4973 +1.33%
WTI Oil 63.08 -1.42%

Currency Highlights

Currency Pair Value % Change
AUD/USD 0.653 +0.04%

Cryptocurrency Update

Cryptocurrency Value % Change
Bitcoin (USD) 119,788 +0.96%
Ethereum (AUD) 7,004 +8.59%

US Sectors Performance

SECTOR % Change
Communication Services +1.79%
Information Technology +1.41%
Financials +1.23%
Materials +1.14%
Industrials +1.09%
Consumer Discretionary +0.87%
Health Care +0.74%
Energy +0.49%
Utilities +0.44%
Real Estate +0.22%
Consumer Staples +0.17%

Key Events and Developments

US Markets:

  • The major US indices closed significantly higher, with the S&P 500 reaching its first record high since July 28. This surge is primarily attributed to inflation data that aligned well with investor expectations for a rate cut.
  • The Fed’s probability for a September rate cut has risen, increasing confidence among investors.

Earnings Reports:

  • CBA revealed a cash NPAT increase to $10.25 billion, with dividends reflecting market forecasts.
  • Computershare’s management EPS was $1.35, in line with guidance, while IAG’s cash earnings fell slightly below expectations.

Central Bank Actions:

  • The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has cut the cash rate as anticipated, with further rate reductions likely on the horizon.

Inflation Insights:

  • July’s core inflation rate increased by 0.3% month-on-month, consistent with expectations, leading to predictions of sustained economic growth.

What to Watch Today

Market Expectations:

  • Positive momentum is anticipated as investors digest strong US performances.
  • Earnings releases from Australian companies seem stable, maintaining alignment with prior market estimates.

Broker Updates:

  • Capricorn Metals downgraded to Neutral, target steady.
  • Corporate Travel revised down despite a target increase.

Key Corporate Actions:

  • Several Australian companies to report earnings today without significant new dividend announcements.

Conclusion

As the markets react to both domestic and international developments, investors remain optimistic amid a flurry of earnings reports and a supportive inflation outlook. The ASX is poised for a potentially positive day following strong global cues. Keep an eye on upcoming earnings and macroeconomic indicators for further direction.

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