15 July 2025

NamePriceChange% Chg
Dow44,023.29-436.36-0.98%
S&P 5006,243.76-24.8-0.40%
Nasdaq20,677.8037.470.18%
VIX17.380.181.05%
Gold3,337.400.70.02%
Oil66.880.360.54%

OVERVIEW OF THE US MARKET

US stocks showed mixed performance on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, as investors digested President Donald Trump’s renewed 30% tariff threats on goods from the European Union and Mexico, set to take effect August 1, alongside the latest US CPI data released yesterday. Treasury yields rose, while the dollar held steady.

The S&P 500 slipped 0.40% to 6,243.76, while the Nasdaq Composite edged up 0.18% to 20,677.80, reflecting divergent sector moves amid tariff uncertainty. Information Technology surged 1.27%, buoyed by Nvidia’s 4.04% gain to $170.70 on massive 230.4 million share volume, driven by resumed AI chip sales to China. However, other sectors struggled, with Materials down 2.11% and Health Care off 1.88%. Longevity Health Holdings (XAGE) soared 115.50% to $5.70 on 104.2 million shares, likely fueled by sector-specific news, though details remain unclear.

Yesterday’s CPI report shows a 2.7% year-over-year increase—the highest since February—hinting at tariff-induced inflation pressures. This has tempered expectations for near-term rate cuts, with markets now leaning toward a September move over July. The risks remain elevated, but equities have held firm, with the S&P 500 near its highs despite recent volatility.

OVERVIEW OF THE AUSTRALIAN MARKET

S&P/ASX 200

The ASX 200 closed at an all-time high of 8,630.3 on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, up 0.70%, as investors brushed off Trump’s latest tariff threats and welcomed positive Chinese economic data, bolstered by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s ongoing visit to China. The Australian dollar strengthened 0.15% to 0.6554, reflecting optimism, while US futures pointed higher.

Tech stocks led the rally, with the sector up 2.16%, sparked by Nvidia’s China sales resumption. Life360 jumped 8%, WiseTech rose 1.8%, and Xero gained 1.2%. The healthcare sector also shone, up 2.04%, with CSL up 3.8% and Pro Medicus up 2.4%. However, materials lagged, down 0.28%, as iron ore miners faltered with Chinese home prices falling for the 24th month—BHP dropped 0.9%, Rio Tinto 1.3%, and Fortescue 0.7%. Financials edged up 0.75%, with all big four banks gaining amid risk-on sentiment, though rate uncertainty lingers.

Albanese’s China visit, focusing on trade talks amid tariff tensions, has lifted hopes for stronger bilateral ties, supporting the market’s resilience. The payment sector took a hit, with Tyro Payments down 2.7% after the RBA’s surcharge ban proposal, though its CEO endorsed the move. Markets now eye today’s global reaction to the US CPI data and ongoing trade developments.