The ASX 200 fell 1.2% for the week as weakness in Financials (-2.1%) and Materials (-2.4%) offset a strong rebound in technology stocks. The ASX Tech Sector surged 7.7%, led by Pro Medicus (+25%), Megaport (+23%) and WiseTech Global (+11%), as investor concerns around AI disruption eased.
Market sentiment remained cautious amid escalating US-Iran tensions, falling iron ore prices and ongoing softness in the Australian property market. Miners, banks and gold stocks were among the worst performers, while investors increasingly rotated towards defensive sectors.
A stronger-than-expected US jobs report late in the week pushed bond yields higher and reignited concerns that the Federal Reserve may need to keep interest rates elevated. The NASDAQ fell 4.8%, its sharpest decline since April 2025.
Looking ahead, US CPI data will be the key focus. A softer inflation reading could support growth and technology stocks, while a stronger result may pressure rate-sensitive sectors and reinforce expectations of further policy tightening.
SPI Futures currently suggest the ASX 200 could open around 1.3% lower when trading resumes.