Market update: 7 April 2026
Australian markets delivered a steady and encouraging performance this week, with equities rising 0.7% as confidence in the domestic economy remained firm. A tightening labour market and a stronger trade balance supported the outlook, while strength in commodities, particularly gold exports, provided an additional boost. At the same time, moderating housing prices and slower credit growth helped ease concerns around further policy tightening. Corporate activity also remained constructive, with several capital raisings and a successful new listing highlighting continued investor appetite and support for growth initiatives across the market.
In the U.S., equity markets rebounded strongly over the shortened trading week, with all major indices posting solid gains. Improved investor sentiment was driven by signs of potential easing in Middle East tensions and softer commentary from the Federal Reserve, which helped calm inflation concerns. Bond yields edged lower, reinforcing a more supportive environment for equities, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq led gains as risk appetite picked up.
European markets also moved higher, buoyed by similar optimism around geopolitical developments. While rising energy prices pushed inflation slightly higher, investors remained focused on the broader improvement in sentiment and resilience in economic conditions. The overall tone across the region was positive, with markets responding well to signs that external risks may begin to stabilise.
Across Asia, performance was more mixed but still showed signs of underlying resilience. Japanese equities dipped slightly due to higher oil prices and expectations of potential rate hikes, while Chinese markets were split as stronger economic data was balanced against ongoing external uncertainties. Encouragingly, recent data pointed to stabilising momentum in both manufacturing and services, suggesting a gradual improvement in economic activity across the region.
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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 conduct your own review or consult a financial advisor before making a decision to invest. Please read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and any associated reference documents before making an investment decision. In accordance with the Design and Distributions Obligations, we maintain Target Market Determinations 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.
