Rates on the Rise: Market Jitters Lead to ASX Plunge

2

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.

Amid the tumble, the broader All Ordinaries was not immune, with losses amounting to 1.3 percent, dragging it down to 7837.4, even as the Australian Dollar found a small edge, appreciating 0.3 percent against the US dollar.

Speculation among traders is ablaze following the latest Consumer Price Index data which exceeded expectations, leading to an upheaval in the 10-year Australian government bond yields which soared 19 basis points, landing at 4.59 percent. Adam Boyton, ANZ’s Chief Economist imparted a perspective of caution and patience in interpreting the cues from CPI regarding upcoming monetary policies.

The fresh statistical insights caused a rethink in money markets that previously were leaning towards a 70 percent likelihood of rate reduction. However, by the week's end, this perspective had shifted dramatically, with the probabilities now favoring an increase in the cash rate to 4.6 percent at the Reserve Bank's forthcoming August congregation.

Scrutiny shifted to sector performances as well, where industrials bore the brunt of the market's declining confidence, which saw companies such as Transurban fall behind by 3.6 percent. Banking giants were not shielded from the downturn, notably Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), National Australia Bank (NAB), Westpac, and ANZ all ending in negative territory.

In the materials sector, despite gains from Fortescue and Rio Tinto, the overall index fell, influenced by a steep decline in BHP shares following its contentious $60 billion acquisition offer for Anglo American, which was outright rejected as being opportunistic and ill-valued by the latter.

Notable individual stock performances saw Newmont riding high on better-than-expected quarterly results, while Resmed reported substantial profitability, achieving a 29 percent increase in net income. However, Super Retail Group's shares dipped following an announcement that the company would contest allegations by two employees seeking considerable damages.

The acquisitions landscape saw movement with MetCash experiencing a minor stumble, even as the green light was given by the competition watchdog for its proposed takeover of wholesale food distributor Superior Food Services.

Published:Monday, 29th Apr 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

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

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

Westpac Concludes Auto Loan Commission Lawsuit with $81 Million Settlement

29 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant development within Australia's banking sector, Westpac Banking Corporation has agreed to a settlement of A$130 million (approximately $81.84 million) to resolve a class action lawsuit concerning its auto finance practices. This settlement, pending court approval, addresses allegations that between March 1, 2013, and October 31, 2018, Westpac and its subsidiary, St George Finance, permitted car dealers to increase interest rates on car loans to earn higher commissions. - read more

Isuzu Australia Introduces Dedicated Financial Services for Truck Buyers

29 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has unveiled plans to establish Isuzu Financial Services Australia (IFSA), a finance and leasing company set to commence operations in the third quarter of 2026. This initiative marks the first time the Isuzu Group has founded a leasing company outside Japan, reflecting a significant commitment to the Australian market. - read more

LMG's Asset Finance Exchange Hits $80 Million in First-Year Settlements

29 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

Loan Market Group's Asset Finance Exchange (AFX) has reported approximately $80 million in settlements within its inaugural year, reflecting the burgeoning momentum in Australia's asset finance sector. This platform connects mortgage brokers with asset finance specialists, facilitating a seamless referral process that has resonated strongly within the industry. - read more

EU's Strategic Investment in Australian Critical Minerals

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

The European Union (EU) is set to make direct investments in Australian critical minerals projects, aiming to secure essential resources vital for industries such as artificial intelligence (AI) and defence. This strategic move follows discussions between EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic and Australian Resources Minister Madeleine King, highlighting the EU's commitment to diversifying its supply chains and reducing reliance on unstable external sources. - read more

Strengthening Pacific Ties: The Nakamal Agreement

27 Nov 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to bolster regional partnerships, Australia and Vanuatu have signed the Nakamal Agreement, a $325 million bilateral treaty aimed at enhancing economic, security, and cultural cooperation. Named after Vanuatu's traditional communal meeting place, the 'nakamal,' this agreement underscores the deepening ties between the two nations. - read more

Click for more Finance News