The ASX200 closed up by 0.2% at 8,209 points, finishing the week just shy of the all-time high of 8,246 set during intraday trading. Australian markets continue to reflect the positive sentiment from Wall Street, bolstered by growing investor confidence that the recent US Fed rate cut will create a favorable economic environment.
Sector Highlights
The performance across sectors varied this week. Consumer Discretionary stocks led the gains, rising more than 1.1%, while Utilities increased by half a percent. In contrast, the Real Estate sector experienced the largest decline, down 0.6%.
Stocks in Focus
Life360 (ASX:360) saw a remarkable increase, closing up more than 5%. The family tracking app's share price has surged 130% year to date. Optimism among analysts remains high, with Goldman Sachs setting a price target of $19.75 and Bell Potter forecasting a rise to $20.50. Life360 closed at $18.09.
Regis Healthcare (ASX:REG) jumped more than 1.7% following the announcement of its plans to acquire two aged care homes on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula for $35.5 million. This acquisition, which adds over 260 beds to its portfolio, aligns with the company’s expansion strategy. Regis Healthcare finished the day at $5.93.
Bapcor (ASX:BAP) closed up around 2.2% after announcing the sale of its diesel fuel injection business, MTQ Engine Systems. This decision is part of Bapcor's strategy to simplify operations, reset its cost base, and exit non-core businesses, closing at $5.13.
Underperformers
Arcadium Lithium (ASX:LTM), one of the largest lithium miners globally, ended the week down approximately 0.8%. The company expressed uncertainty about its future in Australia, indicating plans to shift focus to opportunities in South America and Canada. Arcadium Lithium closed at $3.69.
Inghams (ASX:ING) experienced a decline of 4.2% after going ex-dividend. The chicken producer is scheduled to hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Sydney on November 14th, closing at $2.92.
Latin Resources (ASX:LRS) closed down 2.5% following sell-offs by UBS and Deutsche Bank, finishing at 19.5 cents.
The ASX200 continues to reflect broader market trends and investor sentiments, with a mix of strong performers and some laggards. As sectors react to both domestic developments and international influences, the outlook for the coming weeks remains dynamic.