Truck Loans Australia :: News

Share this news item!

Market Tumult as Trade Tensions Escalate: ASX Closes Lower

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The Australian stock market experienced volatility on Tuesday, closing at a lower point after news broke that trade negotiations between the United States and China had failed, leading both countries to impose new tariffs.

The benchmark ASX200 index shed 5.4 points, ending the session at 8,374 points. In contrast, the All Ordinaries Index managed a minor gain, closing at 8,633.40 points. Despite a positive trend during most of the day, the market turned sour as trading closed in reaction to the deteriorating trade relations between the two economic giants.

In a tense development, China responded to U.S. tariff measures by enforcing its own, with some tariffs reaching as high as 15% on select American imports. This move came after U.S. President Donald Trump announced tariffs that include a 10% levy on Chinese goods. Notably, China targets American coal, LNG with a 15% tariff, while crude oil, farm equipment, and certain autos face a 10% tariff, effective from February 10.

Market analysis drew attention to the ASX's initial resilience. Analyst Tony Sycamore noted, "The ASX200 had managed to stay steady earlier after an agreement by US President Trump to delay tariffs on Mexico and Canada." The reprieve was attributed to both North American nations' commitments to stricter border security measures, leading to a temporary tariff freeze.

CommSec's Laura Besarati commented on the day's trading atmosphere, highlighting investors' anxiety over the potential onset of a trade war. “While today was better compared to a significant 1.8% plunge seen recently, investors remain on edge,” Besarati explained. “Breaking news just before close spurred a sell-off, with the market declining by the day’s end.”

The market sell-offs were widespread, with most sectors reeling under pressure. The energy sector, for instance, felt the brunt of lower oil prices, compounded by the US tariff delay on its major foreign oil suppliers. Leading the decline in stocks were Audinate Group and Lynas Rare Earths, falling 4.51% and 3.81% respectively.

Despite the overall downtrend, there were some bright spots. The healthcare sector, notably, witnessed impressive performances; Pro Medicus soared to a record high, climbing 5.18% following a substantial seven-year, $53 million contract win. Additionally, Nufarm rose 3.37%, and Appen made a significant leap of 9.77%.

In currency markets, the Australian dollar also faced pressures, dropping 0.67% to 61.84 US cents by the close of trade.

This coverage is based on reports originally published by NewsWire and others. The evolving dynamics of the global trade situation continue to have profound effects on financial markets around the world.

Published:Wednesday, 5th Feb 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Australian Home Prices Hit Record Highs Following Rate Reduction

11 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

In March 2025, Australia's housing market experienced a significant milestone, with national home prices reaching a new peak. This surge was largely influenced by the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) decision to cut interest rates in February, which reignited buyer demand across the country. - read more

CommBank Expands Green Loan Options for Sustainable Homes

10 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CommBank) has strengthened its commitment to environmental sustainability by expanding its Green Home Offer through a renewed partnership with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC). This collaboration introduces enhanced financial incentives for homeowners aiming to improve their property's energy efficiency. - read more

ASIC Cracks Down on Unlicensed Financial Influencers

10 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has intensified its efforts to regulate financial content on social media by issuing warning notices to 18 'finfluencers'-individuals who use social media platforms to discuss financial products and investments. These actions are part of a coordinated international initiative targeting unlicensed promotion of high-risk financial products. - read more

Virgin Australia Launches In-Cabin Flights for Pets

10 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Virgin Australia has unveiled its 'Pets in Cabin' service, a pioneering initiative that allows passengers to travel with their pets in the aircraft cabin on select domestic routes. This service caters to Australia's substantial pet-owning population, offering a more comfortable and convenient travel option for both pets and their owners. - read more

Honda Leads Australian Motorcycle Sales with 21,901 Units in 2025

10 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

Honda Australia has emerged as the leading motorcycle brand in 2025, achieving a remarkable 10% increase in sales over the previous year. The company sold a total of 21,901 motorcycles, solidifying its position at the forefront of the Australian market. - read more

Click for more Finance News

Truck Loans Articles

Why a Pre-Approval Can Give You an Advantage When Buying a Truck

When purchasing a truck, whether for personal use or business, navigating the financial landscape can be daunting. This is where pre-approval comes into play. But what exactly does pre-approval mean in the context of buying a truck? - read more

The Most Important Factors to Consider When Buying a Truck

Buying a truck is a major investment, whether it's for personal use or business purposes. With the plethora of options available in the Australian market, it's important to consider various factors before making a purchase. Your specific needs, budget, lifestyle, and work requirements should be taken into account before making a decision to ensure the truck you buy fits your needs. - read more

Understanding Credit Scores and Their Impact on Your Commercial Vehicle Loan Terms

Finding the right financing for a commercial vehicle in Australia can be a critical step for businesses and individuals alike. Whether it's for a single van or an entire fleet of trucks, understanding the intricacies of commercial vehicle loans is key to securing a deal that aligns with your financial goals. One factor that stands out in determining your loan terms is the credit score—a numerical representation of your creditworthiness. - read more

Interest Rates, Terms, and Fees: What to Look for in Commercial Vehicle Loans

Choosing the right commercial vehicle loan is a pivotal decision for any business aspiring to expand its transportation capabilities. For many, commercial vehicles are integral to daily operations, and securing the best financial arrangement to acquire these assets can significantly impact the bottom line. - read more

The Pros and Cons of Leasing vs. Buying a Truck for Your Business

Small businesses that require regular transportation of goods may find it essential to purchase a truck. However, this acquisition can become a significant investment that requires careful consideration before making a decision. The two options available are buying or leasing a truck. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed choice. - read more

Start Here

Get a free truck loan eligibility assessment and compare truck finance and leasing options without accessing your credit file!!

Knowledgebase

Certificate of Deposit (CD):
A savings certificate with a fixed maturity date and specified interest rate, typically higher than a standard savings account.