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Mixed earnings reports test ASX 200 strength

The ASX 200 holds steady against varied earnings reports and global market changes. Influences include shifting oil and gold prices, Aussie dollar volatility, and possible RBA rate cuts.

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Written by

Tony Sycamore

Tony Sycamore

Market Analyst

Article publication date:

    

(AI video summary)

This video was created on 20 August for IG audiences by ausbiz.

ASX 200 market resilience amid earnings season fluctuations

As we move through the earnings season's midpoint, recent results show both promise and concern for the Australia 200 (ASX 200). Initial enthusiasm has transitioned to caution, highlighted by announcements from major companies.

The proceedings saw a shift with CSL Limited's restructuring and lower guidance, impacting investor confidence and removing 65 points from the ASX 200. James Hardie Industries also reported disappointing results. Despite setbacks, the ASX 200 remains resilient, maintaining gains above key support levels.

Positive economic indicators provide support

Despite some earnings challenges, there are strengths at play. August's consumer confidence rose to 98.5, boosting prospects for consumer discretionary stocks and the Australian economy. Expectations for Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) interest rate cuts by year's end further enhance this outlook.

Global market movements and implications

Wall Street is experiencing a rotation, particularly in technology stocks. Concerns about valuations and export tax implications for companies like Nvidia andAdvanced Micro Devices (AMD) are prompting shifts towards the more stable Dow Jones.

Concurrently, geopolitical developments, such as potential negotiations to end the war in Ukraine, are influencing commodities like crude oil and gold, impacting their price stability.

Commodity fluctuations

Crude oil has settled back into familiar price ranges following optimistic geopolitical signs, while gold's movement is tempered by easing global tensions and a stronger US dollar. Both commodities remain pivotal indicators for market observers.

Currency and cryptocurrency trends

The Australian dollar has shown volatility, touching support near $0.6450, with potential for further movement. 

Similarly, in the cryptocurrency market, Bitcoin and Ether are experiencing corrections after hitting record highs, with market watchers noting key support levels at US $110,000 and US $4100, respectively.

   

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