Australian shares are poised for a higher open, following gains in U.S. markets as investors reviewed the latest earnings reports. The major indices recorded their sixth consecutive week of gains.
ASX futures rose 0.52%, or 44 points, by 8:00 a.m. on Monday, indicating a positive start for the local market.
Netflix shares surged 10.9% after posting its most profitable quarter ever, though other blue-chip earnings were less impressive. American Express shares fell 3.1% after the company’s revenue missed expectations.
So far, a small portion of the S&P 500 has released third-quarter earnings, with about 80% of those companies beating analysts’ estimates—consistent with previous quarters. Notably, strong earnings from major banks have fuelled optimism for a soft economic landing.
Technology stocks boosted both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite, which gained 0.4% and 0.6%, respectively. The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged up 0.1% to a new record high.
In the commodities market, Brent crude oil fell 1.9% to US$73.06 per barrel, while gold rose 1.1% to US$2,721.46.
The Australian dollar traded at 67.07 US cents.