Market Update: 21 July 2026
Australian shares were relatively steady this week, with the ASX 200 slipping just 0.1% as investors balanced stronger performances from retail, banking, energy and telecommunications against weakness in mining and technology stocks. Markets continued to keep a close eye on inflation and rising oil prices, which may influence the Reserve Bank’s next move on interest rates. Despite the softer finish, corporate activity remained healthy, with Toubani Resources announcing a A$70 million capital raising to support the continued development of its Kobada Project.
In the United States, markets finished the week slightly lower as investors took profits in AI-related stocks ahead of the upcoming earnings season. However, there were still plenty of encouraging signs beneath the surface. Strong results from major banks, easing inflation, softer producer prices and resilient consumer spending all pointed to a healthy economy, while lower bond yields improved expectations that interest rates may remain stable. Rising oil prices, driven by tensions in the Middle East, also provided support for the energy sector.
European markets were broadly flat, with investors navigating a mix of earnings updates, geopolitical uncertainty and higher oil prices. Encouragingly, inflation across the eurozone continued to ease, reinforcing the view that price pressures are gradually coming under control. While some economic data remained mixed, markets have continued to show resilience as investors look ahead to further corporate earnings and economic developments.
Across Asia, Japan’s market experienced a sharp pullback as technology shares came under pressure and investors reassessed AI-related valuations. In Greater China, performance was mixed, with Hong Kong posting gains while mainland Chinese shares weakened. Despite the varied results, stronger exports and industrial production offered positive signs that parts of the region’s economy continue to recover, giving investors reasons to remain optimistic about longer-term growth.
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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.
