Wall Street saw consolidation as investors awaited key inflation data while geopolitical and corporate developments drove market dynamics. Chipmaker Nvidia faced scrutiny amid a China probe, highlighting the escalating global tech war. In corporate news, Hershey's shares surged on speculation of a potential takeover by Mondelez. Across the Atlantic, European markets closed at a six-week high, buoyed by optimism surrounding anticipated Chinese economic stimulus. This sentiment also supported commodity prices, which firmed on the prospect of improved Chinese growth. Meanwhile, oil prices climbed sharply following news of the ousting of Syria's President Assad. Looking ahead, Aussie shares are expected to lift on Tuesday as markets gear up for the final Reserve Bank of Australia board meeting of 2024. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aussie stocks started the week cautiously, with markets still hovering near record highs. Key drivers include US job data fuelling speculation of a fourth consecutive rate cut, and upcoming US inflation figures that could shift expectations. Locally, all eyes are on the RBA’s decision, with economists unanimously predicting rates will remain unchanged. Commodity sectors struggled, while property stocks rebounded, led by Goodman Group. Meanwhile, Life360 was the worst performer, shedding 8%, despite strong year-to-date gains. Globally, trade data from China, jobs figures in Australia, and rate decisions in Canada and Europe are set to round out a pivotal week for investors. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wall Street experienced mixed outcomes as November jobs data has given the Federal Reserve room to consider cutting interest rates. The S&P 500 notched its 57th record high of the year, while the Dow Jones lagged, with investors showing a preference for technology stocks. In company news, Lululemon shares soared following upgraded forecasts. Meanwhile, European markets advanced despite ongoing political uncertainty. Closer to home, Australian futures pointed to a lower open for the ASX 200, weighed down by a drop in iron ore prices and the RBA has kicked off its two-day policy meeting ahead of Tuesday’s interest rate decision. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian share market experienced a challenging week, with most sectors in the red and the ASX 200 down nearly two-thirds of a percent. Key factors include investor caution ahead of U.S. jobs data, which could influence interest rate decisions, and a postponed OPEC+ production increase due to weaker demand. Notable company movements included Iluka's 10% drop following cost blowouts, Collins Foods' ex-dividend dip, and a broker downgrade for Domino’s Pizza. On the brighter side, utilities showed resilience, APA Group gained on favorable regulatory news, and gold stocks rallied on merger announcements. The RBA's meeting next week and U.S. job figures remain pivotal for market direction. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bitcoin has surged to a new record high, buoyed by news of Trump’s appointment, while U.S. jobless claims climbed to a one-month high during Thanksgiving week. In corporate news, Disney announced an increase in dividends, yet its stock price declined. Conversely, Brown-Forman, the maker of Jack Daniels, saw its shares soar on a stronger-than-expected forecast. However, Synopsys faced a downturn as its sales outlook fell short of estimates. Across the Atlantic, European stocks reached a one-month high, with Germany's DAX index setting another record. Meanwhile, oil prices held steady as investors weighed the impact of a delayed OPEC output hike. Looking ahead, the ASX200 is expected to dip as markets await potential stimulus measures from China. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Aussie market saw a modest uptick today, gaining 10 points as it recovered a third of Wednesday's losses. Bitcoin made headlines, surpassing $100,000 USD amid hopes for lighter regulation, rising 40% since early November. Meanwhile, the U.S. markets hit new records across all major indices, fuelled by strong economic confidence. Locally, energy and mining stocks struggled, with lithium miners like Liontown down sharply due to weaker prices, while gold stocks outperformed thanks to rising prices. Attention also turned to the upcoming OPEC+ meetings and upcoming U.S. job data, both poised to shape market movements in the days ahead. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wall Street is reaching new record highs, fueled by a surge in technology stocks, as optimism grows about the economy. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell expressed confidence in the strength of the U.S. economy, adding to the positive sentiment. In company news, Salesforce shares soared following an earnings report that exceeded revenue expectations, while Foot Locker shares plunged due to a bleak holiday outlook. Across the Atlantic, Germany's DAX index closed above the 20,000-point mark, highlighting resilience in European markets despite political challenges. Meanwhile, iron ore prices rose on hopes of Chinese stimulus, contrasting with a decline in oil prices as markets anticipate the upcoming OPEC decision. Looking ahead, Aussie markets are expected to open flat. The Aussie dollar, however, has fallen to a four-month low after weaker-than-expected economic data. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The market has dropped back slightly today following another record high yesterday. Laura and Stevie reflect on this performance comparative to US markets and look at the international news which impacted overseas markets. Rate cuts are back in conversation after expectations have been moved forward following economic data around household consumption, energy, mining, and tech were the only sectors that saw gains, and real estate has seen some losses due to Goodman Group. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Korean Won has depreciated sharply following South Korea’s president's declaration of martial law, adding to political uncertainty that has weighed on major companies like Samsung and Hyundai. Meanwhile, the S&P 500’s $11 trillion rally is beginning to show signs of fatigue. In Australia, public spending continues to support economic growth, though local shares are expected to slip after recently reaching a record high of 8,500 points. Commodity markets remain dynamic, with iron ore nearing a two-month high on hopes of Chinese stimulus, and oil prices climbing amid concerns over the situation in Lebanon. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The market has improved for a second straight day today with Stevie assuming that Santa has come early as he reflects on the recent local performance. Laura addresses the state of the local sectors, and they unpack the stocks that caught attention with Star Entertainment being the top performer following their recent less than impressive performance. They look at what to expect overnight ahead of economic growth figures tomorrow and the data coming out of China and the US. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Technology stocks are back in favour, driving Wall Street higher on the first trading day of the new month. Apple reached a fresh record high, while Super Micro Computers led gains in the Semiconductor Index. Meanwhile, Cyber Monday and robust online sales have provided a boost to the US retail sector. In Europe, political uncertainty, particularly in France, weighs on investor sentiment. Commodities were a key focus on the ASX, with a stronger US dollar and encouraging Chinese factory data supporting iron ore prices. Looking ahead, futures indicate a solid start for Australian shares, with the ASX200 poised to challenge record highs. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

December has started on a high following the second-best month of the year. Laura and Stevie reflect on the performance of last month and dive into the performance of the US market which also has seen positive performances. Property prices are in discussion today as is retail spending data with Black Friday having provided a boost. They run through the stocks that saw the biggest movements today including De Grey Mining and look to the week ahead. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wall Street wrapped up a stellar November with strong gains, driven by optimism over lower bond yields, U.S. economic resilience, and expectations of a rate cut. The Dow rose 7.5%, marking its best month in a year, while the NASDAQ surged 6.2%, outpacing Australia's ASX 200, which gained 3.4%. Tesla led the charge in U.S. equities, climbing over 30% in November, while retailers were bolstered by robust Black Friday sales. Locally, Australian home prices slowed in November, reflecting affordability challenges, while the ASX eyes record highs, fuelled by bullish commodity prices and economic momentum from China. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Aussie market wrapped up November on a mixed note, dipping slightly by 0.1% but still securing its second-best month of the year with a 3.3% gain. Despite a sluggish day influenced by the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday, the materials sector led a late recovery, offsetting losses from other sectors. Highlights included Webjet's rollercoaster ride amid legal troubles, Star Entertainment's all-time low after years of decline, and Resolute Mining's struggles following a major settlement in Mali. With Black Friday sales kicking off, the holiday shopping season is expected to shape retail performance, while upcoming data from China and the U.S., along with an OPEC+ meeting, will provide critical market insights in the week ahead. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US futures are showing positive movement as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. In Europe, French bonds approached parity with Greek debt as the nation’s budget saga deepened, further straining French banks amid the ongoing fiscal crisis. Meanwhile, oil prices rose on escalating Middle East tensions, while gold retreated in thin holiday trading. Closer to home, the Aussie dollar climbed in subdued holiday trade. However, Australian shares are expected to ease from record highs after Reserve Bank Governor Michelle Bullock dampened hopes for an interest rate cut. The central bank reiterated that inflation remains too elevated to consider near-term rate reductions. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Aussie share market hit its second record high of the week, marking the 15th for the financial year, with gains driven by financials and healthcare stocks. Key standouts included Pro Medicus, surging 9% on a $330 million U.S. deal, and Sigma Healthcare, up 50% this month following a Chemist Warehouse merger. Meanwhile, Star Entertainment saw its shares tumble nearly 5% amid ongoing revenue challenges. Looking ahead, U.S. markets will be closed tomorrow for Thanksgiving, while a speech from RBA Governor Michelle Bullock and upcoming AGMs keep investors alert. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wall Street saw sellers take charge as investors prepare for the Thanksgiving break. The bond market brought some relief, with interest rates falling as inflation figures came in softer than expected. Technology stocks struggled to maintain momentum, with the recent rally halting due to downbeat quarterly forecasts from Dell and HP, which weighed heavily on the sector. On a brighter note, retailers like Urban Outfitters and Target shone, delivering better-than-expected earnings and boosting sentiment in the retail space. Meanwhile, oil prices dipped following a surprise build in U.S. gasoline stocks, adding pressure to the energy sector. Looking ahead, the ASX is poised for a positive start on Thursday, with investors closely watching RBA Governor Michelle Bullock's speech, where she is expected to provide insights into the latest inflation report. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The market has rebounded today following the slight declines of yesterday. Laura and Stevie reflect on the session yesterday which was the worst decline in two weeks and the performance that we saw today. Tariff concerns are in conversation today and they discuss how international and local markets have reacted. Inflation is back in focus as are conversations around rate cuts, they share the stocks that caught their eye including City Chic and GrainCorp, and look to the rest of the week. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wall Street has shrugged off concerns over Trump’s tariff talks as stocks climbed, while a US bond rally lost momentum following his tariff pledge. At the same time, European markets and global automakers were also impacted by the ongoing tariff discussions. Meanwhile, the release of US Federal Reserve minutes revealed easing inflation and a strong labor market, paving the way for potential further interest rate cuts. In corporate news, biotech firm Amgen weighed on the Dow Jones after disappointing results from its weight loss drug. Looking ahead, Aussie shares are expected to lift on Wednesday ahead of key monthly inflation data. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The market has pulled back slightly today following the record high of yesterday. A social media post from Donald Trump played into this performance with the energy sector and financials seeing losses. Laura and Stevie reflect on this session, look to the stocks that caught their eye including Bluescope and Webjet, and discuss the upcoming happenings that could move markets. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.