The S&P/ASX 200 (ASX: XJO) finished down 0.4% on Thursday in what some are calling a sell-off after news that the Federal Reserve may hike interest rates earlier than expected, in 2023.
Markets took this with a grain of salt, not selling off heavily, ending more focused on the positive economic data.
Only five of the eleven sectors managed a gain, led by IT and financials, which were 1.3% and 0.8% higher with investment platform Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) the strongest, up 5.2%.
Both energy and materials felt the brunt of the sell-off, down around 1.8% each as the trend continues to turn; BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) fell 1.4% but it was Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC), down 11.5% after downgrading production, that fell hardest.
Coles unveils the road ahead
Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) tanked 4.5% after the board flagged a significant increase in capital expenditure, increasing to $1.4 billion 2022.
Investors saw this negatively and potentially as a threat to the high dividend payout, with the company flagging further investment in automation and refurbishments as it seeks to keep up with Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) and Aldi, with the former only down 0.8%.
Challenger reaffirms guidance
After initially being reported as a downgrade, Challenger Ltd (ASX: CGF) actually reaffirmed guidance for FY21, citing its significant capital buffer and leading funds management business, called Fidante, as key drivers.
Earnings are expected to be between $390 and $440 million with expectations for 2022 showing 10% earnings growth to finish between $390 and $440 million. Challenger shares were down just 1.8%.
Seven West Media surges higher
Shares in Seven West Media Ltd (ASX: SWM) jumped 23.8%, tops for the market, after confirming earnings would be ahead of current consensus, landing between $250 and $255 million for the financial year.
Trading conditions have improved with advertising revenue on its TV network growing strongly, up 45% in the quarter, and audience share increasing year-onayear.
Similar to News Corp (ASX: NWS), the company has seen digital earnings double, growing 130%, to $60 million with another doubling expected in 2022.
Australian unemployment rate falls
It was revealed yesterday that the unemployment rate in May fell to February 2020 levels, hitting just 5.1%, down from 5.5% in the previous month, with 97,000 new jobs created.
Importantly, the participation rate also increased by 0.3%, offering an interesting insight into an economy where it seems businesses are seeking to cut costs or closing down as the public sector increases their headcount.
ASX 200 today
Looking ahead, the ASX 200 is set to open higher on Friday as US markets provide a positive lead. The Nasdaq was particularly strong, finishing 0.9% higher.
