
The ASX 200 defied the global downtrend last week, ending up 0.6%, one of the few major indices to close in the green. Investors took comfort in the 2025–26 Federal Budget, which was focused on cost-of-living relief ahead of the upcoming election. Measures included tax cuts, cheaper PBS medicines, and A$150 electricity rebates. Adding to the positive sentiment was a softer-than-expected inflation read, with February monthly CPI rising just 2.4% YoY—below consensus expectations. Financials and Energy led the local rally, up 2.5% and 2.0% respectively, with six of the eleven sectors finishing higher.
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