Market Update: 28 July 2026
Australian shares finished the week slightly lower, with the ASX 200 down 0.3%. While renewed geopolitical tensions weighed on global markets, Australian equities held up relatively well thanks to strength in the energy and resources sectors as oil prices climbed. Bond yields also moved higher on concerns that rising inflation could keep interest rates elevated for longer. Looking ahead, investor attention is turning to the August reporting season, with markets watching to see whether company earnings remain resilient despite higher interest rates and ongoing global uncertainty.
US markets ended the week lower as renewed tensions between the US and Iran overshadowed another strong earnings season. Nearly 90% of S&P 500 companies reporting results exceeded expectations, with profit growth tracking above 20%. Investors also remained focused on AI spending after Alphabet increased its capital expenditure guidance. At the same time, disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea pushed oil prices higher, increasing concerns about inflation and adding to market volatility.
European equities finished the week higher overall, although trading remained cautious as tensions in the Middle East escalated and the latest round of earnings from major US technology companies renewed debate around AI-related spending. Sentiment improved later in the week following reports that Pakistan is exploring a pathway to restart US-Iran talks. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank kept interest rates unchanged as it continues to assess whether energy-driven inflation will require further policy tightening.
Japanese markets experienced a volatile week. Early gains were driven by optimism around AI-related spending, resilient trade data and expectations that the Bank of Japan could raise interest rates sooner if inflation risks persist. However, sentiment weakened later in the week as technology stocks sold off across the region and geopolitical tensions reduced investors’ appetite for risk.
Chinese and Hong Kong markets delivered mixed results. Early gains were supported by state-backed buying and measures aimed at supporting technology companies, before investors rotated out of AI and semiconductor stocks. Markets finished the week on a softer note as higher oil prices, geopolitical uncertainty and caution ahead of the upcoming Politburo meeting weighed on sentiment.
Don’t have the Raiz App?
Download it for free in the App store or the Webapp below:
Important Information
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.
