The ASX 200 fell another 40 points to 8630 (0.5%) as the banks came under intense pressure following the budget last night. Adding to the bank woes was the update from CBA, which shocked the market as bad debts rose and growth was sadly lacking. CBA fell an astonishing 10.4%, with the other three banks also falling hard on changes to housing policy in the budget. The CBA fall accounted for around 85 index points. The Big Bank Basket fell hard to $260.67 (-7.1%) as the Big Resource Basket soared 2.2%, overtaking the banks. BHP led resource stocks higher, hitting another record high, up 2.9%, and claiming the mantle back from CBA as the 'big Australian'. RIO also had a good day on the back of near-record highs in copper, with FMG also putting on the ritz. Given the fall in CBA, the index elsewhere had a good day.

The gold miners were in demand, although bullion was relatively stable. EVN up 0.6%, and NST up 1.0%. Lithium stocks had a small break today, with PLS easing back 0.9%, as did LTR, but rare earth stocks were back in demand, with LYC up a further 2.0%. Energy stocks were mixed, with WDS up 0.4% and STO having a good day, up 1.6%, but uranium stocks eased back, with PDN falling hard on results. Coal stocks firmed.

Industrials generally rose post-budget, with the REITs doing well. GMG up 1.4%, WES finding a base, up 0.4%, and even retail stocks looking a little firmer, JBH up 2.0%. One of the big winners was in the gaming space, with ALL updating the market with some latest numbers and rallying strongly, up 13.3%. Technology stocks were also in demand today. XRO rose after announcing some AI integration progress, although WTC was still on the nose. Healthcare stocks were also slightly better today, with CSL up 0.2% and RMD having a good day for a change, up 2.0%. Financials ex the banking sector were also firm, with AMP up 1.7% and GQG having a very good day, up 4.8%.

In corporate news, CSL signed a flu vaccine deal in South America, PRN also doing well up 8.4%, after being awarded a mining contract, and TPW fell again after guidance was cut. In other news, WTC fell slightly after DSV confirmed it will transition away from cargo-wise and on to an in-house solution. ALL was a huge winner on a first half beat.

Asian markets better with Japan up 1.2%, China up 0.5% and HK down 0.2%; The Kospi back up 2.4%

US futures modestly higher, Dow futures down 2, Nasdaq up 149. European futures opening slightly higher. US PPI tonight.

—

Marcus Today – Daily Market Insights

Marcus Today provides clear, practical commentary for self-directed investors – covering markets, portfolios, education, and decision-making without the noise.

If you'd like to go further:

Start a free 14-day trial of Marcus Today
http://bit.ly/mt-trial-podcast

Join Marcus Today
Use code MTPODCAST for 10% off
http://bit.ly/mt-join-podcast-offer

MT20 – Managed ETF Portfolio
A professionally managed portfolio run by Marcus Padley and the team, using ASX-listed ETFs with active market timing.
http://bit.ly/mt20-podcast

Principles – How We Think About Investing
A short video series on timing, behaviour, and decision-making. No stock tips.
http://bit.ly/mt-principles-podcast

—

Disclaimer
This podcast is general information only and does not consider your personal circumstances. It is not personal financial advice.