The ASX 200 rose 26 points to 8641 (0.3%) as confidence increased for an end to the war as oil prices fell slightly in Asia. A mixed session with the banks steady as CBA rose 0.6% with the Big Bank Basket steady at $302.98 (+0.1%). MQG jumped 0.9% on news of a Kuwait pipeline deal not proceeding. Other financials slightly firmer, MFG up 1.9% and GQG up 1.8%. Healthcare was slightly better with SIG up 0.8% and RMD gaining 0.8%. CSL still struggling down 2.2%. Tech mixed, XRO up 2.3% with WTC falling 1.3% and the All-Tech Index up 0.7%. Utilities were firm.

In resources, BHP rose 0.7% on its succession plan, rare earths stocks mixed, LYC up 1.9% and ARU up 1.9%. Lithium stocks slid, CXO announced a funding package to allow its project to reopen. Gold miners were mixed, BGL up 1.3% and NST gaining 1.4% with WGX falling 1.1%. Coal miners found some friends, NHC up 5.9% and uranium stocks pushing a little higher. PDN up 1.2% and BMN rising 2.2%.

In corporate news, SGM rallied 9.9% on a positive trading update, NVX fell 3.6% after a Nasdaq warning on closing price requirements. WDS has a new boss, same as the old boss.

Nothing on the economic front as banks, and other raised rates in unison today.

10-year yields lower at 4.89%.

Asian market better on oil prices, Japan up 2.6%, HK down 0.2% and China down 0.3%. Oil slightly lower in Asian trade.

US Futures: Dow up 225 Nasdaq up 130

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End of Day Report – Wednesday 18 March: ASX 200 up 26 points | Calm returns (for now)