FX.co ★ ASX 200 Down Slightly from 11-Week High at Finish

The ASX 200 slipped to close at 9,147 on Thursday, snapping a three-session winning streak as technology, non-energy minerals, and healthcare stocks declined. Sentiment deteriorated after futures for the S&P 500 and Nasdaq weakened on reports that Nvidia’s board was preparing to remove CEO Jensen Huang. The index pulled back from an 11-week high amid profit-taking and persistently elevated inflation expectations in Australia, despite five rate hikes since early 2026.

Policymakers have cautioned that inflation may prove more stubborn than expected, citing higher fuel costs and broader price pressures. However, losses on the day were partly contained after China’s central bank pledged stronger counter-cyclical support, measures to bolster domestic demand, and steps to improve supply conditions.

Among major names, miners BHP and Rio Tinto fell 1.2% and 2.1%, respectively, while gold stocks also retreated, led by Northern Star Resources (-2.2%) and Evolution Mining (-4.2%). Mineral Resources (-5.2%) and Lynas Rare Earths (-4.2%) were notable laggards. Within the big four banks, ANZ slipped 1.0%.