Global markets ended the week on a softer note as disappointing US jobs data and geopolitical tensions weighed on sentiment. In the US, job growth slowed in July with 73,000 new jobs added compared to expectations of 100,000, while the unemployment rate nudged up to 4.2%. That’s led markets to believe the Federal Reserve is now more likely to cut rates in September. Volatility also picked up, reminding investors that markets don’t always move in straight lines.
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Raiz users have spoken, and we’ve listened. Thanks to our stock and ETF voting portal, you can directly influence what ETFs are made available in our Plus portfolios. The Raiz community has helped shape the future of our investment options, requesting ETFs designed to match diverse investing goals and strategies.
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Global markets had another strong week, supported by improving trade sentiment and resilient economic data. The big news came from the US and Japan striking a trade deal, while the EU is expected to finalise its own agreement with the US soon. In the US, the S&P 500 finished at another all-time high after advancing every day this week, boosted by a solid earnings season and signs of economic resilience. Greater China markets also rallied, with the Hang Seng and Shanghai Composite reaching levels last seen in early 2022 as infrastructure and materials stocks climbed following the announcement of a major hydropower project, while tech names surged after Beijing pledged to curb excessive competition.
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Global share markets pushed higher this week as investors largely looked past ongoing tariff headlines. In Australia, the ASX 200 saw its strongest weekly gain since May, closing 2.1% higher after notching a third record close. The rally was underpinned by robust economic data out of China and improving US-China relations. Locally, unemployment rose slightly to 4.3%, which has markets increasing their bets on a potential RBA rate cut next month. All major sectors closed in the green, particularly those sensitive to interest rate moves. Looking ahead, investors will be tuning in to the RBA’s meeting minutes and Governor Bullock’s speech for further signals.
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Tax time is here again, and even for the financially savvy amongst us, tax time can still be daunting and a bit of a chore. However, with a little help it doesn’t have to be so stressful.
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Australian shares slipped slightly this week with the ASX 200 down 0.3%, despite a strong NAB business survey and gains across five of the eleven major sectors, led by Utilities. The focus was firmly on the RBA, which surprised markets by holding the cash rate at 3.85%. This came despite a 90% expectation of a rate cut. The Board noted it’s more a question of timing than direction, signaling a wait for further confirmation that inflation is moving sustainably back toward target.
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You’ve found someone you love, and they replace the toilet paper roll without being asked. Congratulations, you’re moving in together.
It’s an exciting step, and it’s also one of the biggest financial changes you’ll make as a couple. While splitting the rent may feel straightforward, everything else (from joint bills to future goals) can quickly get messy if you’re not on the same page. One person’s idea of “treating themselves” might be another’s regular Tuesday spending.
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Disclaimer: this guide does not take into account your personal circumstances and does not constitute tax advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for tax advice. We recommend you seek your own independent tax advice to address your personal circumstances.
Tax time comes around every year, and let’s face it, most of us smile and nod while secretly feeling lost whenever certain tax terms come up. You’re not alone—tax jargon can be confusing! This guide simplifies some common Australian tax terms so you can feel more confident next time tax season arrives.
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Markets ticked higher this week, with the ASX 200 up 1.0% as eight of the eleven sectors closed in the green. Healthcare and Real Estate led gains, and while trading was relatively steady, attention now shifts to the RBA’s decision later today. With inflation easing and growth moderating, markets are almost fully pricing in a 25bps cut, which would take the cash rate to 3.6%.
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Global markets found some much-needed breathing room this week, rallying on news of easing geopolitical tensions and improving trade relations. A ceasefire between Israel and Iran helped calm oil markets and investor nerves, while the US made positive progress with both the EU and China on the trade front. This shift in sentiment helped push most major share markets into the green.
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