Friday Market Wrap-Up
Market Overview:
As of 8:30 AM AEST, the ASX 200 futures have seen a slight increase of 8 points (+0.09%). Despite the S&P 500 reaching another record high, the overall market breadth remains weak.
Key Highlights:
- The S&P 500 has set a new record, but it’s essential to note the underlying weakness in market participation.
- July’s producer prices in the US have surged, marking the most significant gain since March 2022.
- Today will feature earnings reports from several companies, including Amcor, Baby Bunting, and Cochlear.
Overnight Market Summary: (15 August 2025)
| Major Indices | Value | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| S&P 500 | 6,469 | +0.03% |
| Dow Jones | 44,911 | -0.02% |
| NASDAQ Comp | 21,711 | -0.01% |
| Russell 2000 | 2,299 | -1.24% |
| Country Indices | Value | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | 27,916 | -0.28% |
| China | 3,666 | -0.46% |
| Germany | 24,378 | +0.79% |
| Hong Kong | 25,519 | -0.37% |
| India | 80,598 | +0.07% |
| Japan | 42,649 | -1.45% |
| United Kingdom | 9,177 | +0.13% |
Commodities (USD):
| Commodity | Value | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| Gold | 3,335.29 | -0.63% |
| Copper | 4.4723 | -0.39% |
| WTI Oil | 63.93 | +1.96% |
Currency:
| Currency | Value | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| AUD/USD | 0.65 | +0.07% |
Cryptocurrency:
| Cryptocurrency | Value (USD) | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| Bitcoin | 117,758 | -4.13% |
| Ethereum | 6,877 | -5.26% |
US Sectors Performance:
| Sector | % Change |
|---|---|
| Financials | +0.55% |
| Health Care | +0.50% |
| Consumer Discretionary | +0.45% |
| Communication Services | +0.42% |
| Information Technology | -0.03% |
| Energy | -0.17% |
| Utilities | -0.71% |
| Real Estate | -0.72% |
| Consumer Staples | -0.74% |
| Materials | -0.81% |
| Industrials | -0.88% |
Market Insights:
The S&P 500 managed to stay afloat, albeit with disappointing breadth as indicated by the equal-weighted index falling behind. Investors seem to be losing their risk appetite amid growing concerns over soaring valuations and uncertainties surrounding tariffs. Despite a hot Producer Price Index (PPI) report, markets appear resilient, holding fast to expectations of upcoming rate cuts by the Fed.
Noteworthy Stock Movements:
- John Deere anticipates a $600 million impact from tariffs this year.
- Airbnb will allow users to book stays without upfront payments.
- Cisco has issued revenue guidance in line with expectations and highlighted new AI infrastructure orders.
- Apple is reportedly planning an overhaul, focusing on AI and new devices.
Current Trends:
The question of tariffs continues to loom large, with discussions around Trump’s plans potentially altering the trade landscape significantly. Additionally, the Fed’s communications suggest a cautious outlook on rate cuts, while market sentiments move towards expecting sustained higher rates from the ECB.
ASX Outlook:
As we close the week, investors may face a mixed bag of earnings reports. Amcor has shown a downturn in stock performance, potentially affecting sentiment, whereas Cochlear’s results also fell short of expectations. The impact of today’s Chinese economic data on resource sectors will also be crucial to watch.
Broker Ratings:
- AGL Energy upgraded to Overweight.
- Ampol upgraded to Overweight with a new target price.
- Megaport downgraded to Neutral with a revised target.
Key Corporate Events:
- Dividends: Platinum Asia Investments, Bravura Solutions, QBE Insurance.
- Earnings Reports: Baby Bunting, Cochlear, Mirvac Group, etc.
Economic Calendar Highlights:
- GDP growth figures for Japan, followed by significant Chinese economic data releases, will be essential indicators for market movements today.
This summarised report encapsulates a broad overview of current market sentiments and expected trends ahead for investors in Australia and beyond.
