ASX200

19/03/2026

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Weekend report 21/03/2026

Weekend Q&A: Markets fear the Iranian conflict has no end in sight

The ASX200 ended a tough week down -2.2%, extending March’s retreat to -8.4% with more losses likely on Monday. Materials (-7.1%) and Tech stocks (-4.2%) continued to lead the decline, as fears around global growth and inflation escalated as the war dragged on with no end in sight, and oil prices looked increasingly comfortable above $US110. On Friday night, selling intensified into the U.S. afternoon session after Reuters reported Iraq had declared force majeure on oilfields operated by foreign companies, while President Trump said he was not seeking a ceasefire with Iran. Now entering its fourth week, roughly in line with Trump’s initial timeframe, the conflict is nonetheless unsettling Washington, as Iran’s ability to disrupt oil markets with relative ease continues to drive global angst.

Afternoon report 20/03/2026

The Match Out: ASX slips as gold unwinds and materials weigh to close out a tough week

The ASX 200 closed down in a session defined by continued selling across gold and materials, with the broader index unable to find meaningful support despite pockets of strength in healthcare, utilities and energy in particular.