ASX 200, AUD fall on Israeli strike on Iran; bourse erases 2024 gains; gold and oil rise
Asian equity markets rattled by escalating Middle East tensions. AUD around US64c. Gold and oil rise. ASX 200 down 2.8 per cent this week. Star inquiry ends with allegations of 'misleading' regulators.
Welcome to the Trading Day blog for Friday, April 19. The ASX 200 index fell as much as 2 per cent after Israel's strike on Iran, but recovered half its losses to close down 1 per cent at 7567.30 points.
The Aussie dollar is near US64.02c, after falling about 1 per cent to US63.60c.
ASX sets record close despite pullback; HMC confirms Healthscope talks
David Di Pilla-led HMC eyes Brookfield-owned hospitals operator. Cochlear falls on trimmed guidance. Dividend disappointment weighs on AMP. GFG Alliance puts NSW coal mine on the block in debt plan. Mirvac soars on return to profit.
ASX steady as miners gain; CBA rises, IAG down
Sigma gains as $300m worth of shares change hands. Alliance Aviation's labour costs growing after first industrial action in two decades. IAG top loser as investors miss buyback. Temple & Webster top gainer. 'Cleaner result' sees ASX Ltd soar.