Market update: 23 June 2026
Australian shares were little changed this week, with the ASX 200 edging up 0.3%. Investor attention remained firmly on the RBA, which left interest rates unchanged following three consecutive hikes. While rates were kept on hold, the RBA reiterated that inflation remains elevated and signalled it is prepared to tighten policy further if needed. This reinforced expectations that interest rates could remain higher for longer, despite signs that demand is beginning to soften.
US markets moved higher in a holiday-shortened week, with the Nasdaq leading gains, up 2.4%, followed by the S&P 500 up 0.9% and the Dow Jones up 0.7%. Sentiment improved after easing geopolitical tensions and progress towards reopening the Strait of Hormuz helped lower oil prices. However, markets remained volatile beneath the surface, with a midweek sell-off following a hawkish Federal Reserve update that pointed to the possibility of further rate hikes. Economic data was mixed, with retail sales proving resilient while housing activity continued to face pressure from affordability challenges.
European equities also finished the week higher, with the STOXX 600 gaining 0.4%. Markets were supported by improving geopolitical sentiment following a US-Iran agreement. Economic data painted a mixed picture, with softer inflation and improving confidence offset by a eurozone trade deficit.
Japanese equities were among the strongest performers globally, with the Nikkei surging 7.9% to fresh highs. The Bank of Japan raised interest rates to 1% and signalled further tightening ahead, continuing its gradual move away from ultra-loose monetary policy. Investors welcomed the confidence this signals in the domestic economy, helping support market gains.
Chinese markets delivered mixed results, with the Shanghai Composite rising 1.5% while the Hang Seng fell 3.2%. Investors weighed signs of stabilising growth against ongoing structural and policy challenges. While there were some modest improvements in economic conditions, concerns around the durability of demand and the broader policy outlook continued to keep sentiment cautious.
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This blog has been issued by Instreet Investment Limited (ACN 128 813 016 AFSL 434776) as Responsible Entity of the Raiz Invest Australia Fund (ARSN 607 533 022) and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on such information, you should
This blog has been issued by Instreet Investment Limited (ACN 128 813 016 AFSL 434776) as Responsible Entity of the Raiz Invest Australia Fund (ARSN 607 533 022).
Raiz Invest Australia Limited (ABN 26 604 402 815) (Corporate Authorised Representative of Instreet Investment Limited ABN 44 128 813 016, AFSL 434776) is the promoter of Raiz Invest Super, a Division of AMG Super. The Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), Member Guide and Target Market Determination (TMD) are issued by Equity Trustees Superannuation Limited (AFSL 229757, RSE Licence No L0001458) as Trustee of AMG Super.
The information has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on such information, you should conduct your own review or consult a financial advisor before making a decision to invest. Please read the relevant PDS and any associated reference documents before making an investment decision. In accordance with the Design and Distributions Obligations, we maintain TMDs for our Funds. All documents can be found on the Raiz website www.raizinvest.com.au, or calling the Customer Support team on 1300 754 748. Please note that past performance is not a reliable indicator or guarantee of future performance. Historical returns, forecasts, and market commentary are provided for general informational purposes only. All investment carries risk and may result in loss of capital.
