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Economics

Australia's business confidence falls

AAP  |  TUESDAY, 14 DEC 2004
Australia's business confidence fell sharply in November, but not enough to slow business growth, which remains close to ten-year highs, a survey found today.

Market wrap

AAP  |  TUESDAY, 14 DEC 2004
In Sydney today the sharemarket is expected to open firmer as a strong bid tone in the US and European stock markets, as well as a recovery in base and precious metal prices, should combine to drive the domestic bourse higher.

Global and local share outlook positive, bonds not so: AMP Capital Investors

AMP Capital Investors market report forecasts a rising global share market, sustainable levels in the Australian share market and low returns in the bond market.

Market wrap

AAP  |  MONDAY, 13 DEC 2004
In Sydney today the sharemarket is expected to open weaker as oil prices continue to fall and the US markets ended last week slightly lower.

Emerging markets mimic investment flows pattern of mid 90's

Asia continues to dominate cross-border equity with the region's currencies now outperforming according to State Street Global Market's research on emerging strategy.

Market wrap

AAP  |  FRIDAY, 10 DEC 2004
In Sydney today the sharemarket is expected to open slightly firmer as gains in the US markets and a moderation in the decline of commodity prices could help alleviate the recent slide in the domestic market.

Housing finance falling and consumer sentiment easing

Following the RBA's position on leaving the official rates unchanged, latest housing figures and a drop in consumer sentiment indicate a slowdown in the economy.

Market wrap

AAP  |  THURSDAY, 9 DEC 2004
In Sydney today the sharemarket is expected to open firmer as a strong lead from the US markets provides a bid tone for the local bourse.

RBA delivers Christmas cheer to homeowners

AAP  |  WEDNESDAY, 8 DEC 2004
The Reserve Bank of Australia today gave homeowners some relief going into the Christmas period by keeping official interest rates on hold.

Market wrap

AAP  |  WEDNESDAY, 8 DEC 2004
In Sydney today the sharemarket is expected to open slightly weaker as some local profit taking weighs on the bourse, coupled with weaker oil prices impacting resources stocks.