AUS
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UAE
Highlights:
Australian shares opened slightly higher, led by energy and materials sectors
BHP advanced after maintaining production guidance despite mixed output
Wall Street closed lower due to tariff warnings and a tech sector impairment
The Australian sharemarket edged higher in early trade, with movements in energy and materials sectors contributing to the broader market performance. The benchmark index rose slightly, showing resilience amid ongoing global trade tensions and a cautious tone ahead of the Easter long weekend.
BHP maintains guidance despite production variations
In the resources sector, BHP (ASX:BHP) advanced following confirmation that its full-year production guidance remains unchanged. This came despite reporting a mixed set of third-quarter output figures. The response reflected market attention on stable operational performance over short-term production variances. Rio Tinto also recorded gains, while Fortescue Metals Group moved lower in early trading.
Energy stocks benefit from company updates
Energy companies showed strength in the initial session. Both Woodside and Santos traded higher following updates that appeared supportive for each firm. The sector’s performance helped counterbalance weakness in other areas of the market, with energy shares often influenced by broader commodity movements and operational developments.
Financials and healthcare under pressure
Financial stocks opened mixed, with only half of the major banks trading in positive territory. The financial sector faced selling pressure as broader sentiment remained subdued. Healthcare stocks also declined during early trading, contributing to a partial offset against sectoral gains elsewhere.
Technology segment drifts lower
Technology stocks were weaker in the early session, aligning with movements in global tech markets. Overnight developments, including an impairment update from a major US semiconductor firm, weighed on sentiment and contributed to losses across the sector. The technology space remains closely linked to international market trends, which often influence investor behaviour during uncertain global conditions.
Wall Street declines influence market sentiment
Earlier developments in US markets added a cautious tone to the domestic open. Major US indices closed lower after a key technology company reported an impairment charge. In addition, commentary from the Federal Reserve Chair raised concerns about the wider economic effects of ongoing tariff policies. These updates led to broad declines across global equity markets, impacting sentiment in the Australian session.
Investors cautious ahead of Easter period
Trading volumes remained subdued as many participants appeared to adopt a wait-and-see approach before the Easter holiday break. The upcoming long weekend and persistent global trade discussions continued to shape sentiment across sectors, with defensive trading activity visible in parts of the market. Despite global uncertainty, specific sectors displayed resilience, led by energy and mining-related names.
