
Global equity markets delivered a mixed performance this week as investors grappled with ongoing trade tensions, central bank decisions, corporate earnings, and key economic data. Tariffs remain front and centre, with Trump’s administration pausing duties on Mexico and Canada while moving forward with a 10% tariff on China. This caused ripple effects across markets, while gold prices hit near all-time highs as investors sought safety.
In Australia, the ASX 200 finished 0.2% lower for the week. Tariff headlines triggered early volatility, but the index rebounded midweek amid optimism around commodity price gains and hopes of progress in U.S. trade negotiations. Mining stocks led the recovery, while tech and consumer companies kicked off the February earnings season. The Australian dollar rose 0.9% to US62.74c, bouncing back after a volatile few sessions.
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