Why is the ASX 200 expected to open lower today?

The ASX 200 futures point to a weaker open due to global market softness ahead of Jerome Powell’s upcoming speech.

Which companies showed strong performance in the last session?

Companies like Brambles (ASX:BXB), Super Retail Group (ASX:SUL), Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS), and Lynas Rare Earths (ASX:LYC) recorded notable gains.

What factors are currently influencing global market sentiment?

Expectations around US Federal Reserve policy, movement in commodity prices, and upcoming corporate earnings are shaping global sentiment.

Global Market Shifts as ASX 200 Awaits Powell’s Speech

3 min read | August 22, 2025 10:09 AM AEST | By Team Kalkine Media

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Global Market Shifts as ASX 200 Awaits Powell’s Speech — Image source: Shutterstock

Strong Sector Performance

In the latest session, strength was seen across industrials, consumer staples, and discretionary companies. Brambles (ASX:BXB) moved higher after updating its earnings guidance, while Super Retail Group (ASX:SUL) also recorded solid momentum. The session further saw renewed interest in battery metals and rare earths, with Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS) and Lynas Rare Earths (ASX:LYC) advancing on the back of improving sentiment in the resources space.

US Market Sentiment

Wall Street closed weaker as participants awaited Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s speech at the Jackson Hole gathering. The Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all edged lower, marking another session of cautious trade. Retail heavyweight Walmart (NYSE:WMT) slipped despite lifting its outlook, with concerns over costs tied to global tariffs pressuring the stock.

European Trade

European markets were subdued, reflecting the cautious mood ahead of Powell’s comments. The FTSE 100 in London managed slight gains, while the broader region traded flat. Autos faced headwinds despite progress on EU-US trade matters, whereas energy companies benefited from firmer oil prices.

Commodities Overview

Commodity markets saw a mixed tone. Brent and Nymex crude prices pushed higher on the back of supply expectations, while base metals such as copper and aluminium showed modest movement. Gold retreated, and iron ore remained steady, keeping the overall resources trade balanced.

Local Earnings Watch

Attention now turns to local companies reporting results, with Accent Group (ASX:AX1), Guzman y Gomez (ASX:GYG), and Ramelius Resources (ASX:RMS) among those set to release earnings updates. These results will play a key role in shaping near-term direction for the local market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the ASX 200 expected to open lower today?
The ASX 200 futures point to a weaker open due to global market softness ahead of Jerome Powell’s upcoming speech.
Which companies showed strong performance in the last session?
Companies like Brambles (ASX:BXB), Super Retail Group (ASX:SUL), Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS), and Lynas Rare Earths (ASX:LYC) recorded notable gains.
What factors are currently influencing global market sentiment?
Expectations around US Federal Reserve policy, movement in commodity prices, and upcoming corporate earnings are shaping global sentiment.

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