Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! We are back again with our monthly 'Market Wrap' segment.

In this episode, we explore into a comprehensive market wrap covering July's economic movements and global financial trends. We discuss the S&P 500's slight dip despite reaching record highs, highlight that 88% of reporting companies exceeded expectations, and analyze the market's reaction—or lack thereof—due to preemptive pricing. We explore the stabilizing impact of key international trade deals, like those between the U.S. and the EU, Japan, and the Philippines, and assess the ongoing uncertainty in U.S. housing due to oversupply and affordability. We then shift focus to China's slowed GDP growth and persistent property issues, with hopes pinned on further government stimulus.

Closer to home, we examine the ASX 200's modest rise, the Reserve Bank of Australia's surprise rate hold, and the likelihood of an upcoming interest rate cut. We also note strengthening in the Victorian property market, supported by high clearance rates and spring demand, and touch on how resilient commodity demand from China is boosting Australia's mining sector and northern property markets.

Tune in to this episode for a sharp, engaging breakdown of global markets, interest rates, property trends, and what it all means for your money.

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This podcast contains information that is general in nature. It does not take into account the objectives, financial situation, or needs of any particular person. You need to consider your financial situation and needs before making any decisions based on this information. This information is provided by Billy Amiridis & Andrew Nicolaou of 360 Financial Strategists Pty Ltd, authorized representatives and credit representatives of Akumin Financial Planning – AFSL 232706

Episode Highlights

• S&P 500 hits all-time highs in July despite a slight monthly dip of 0.66%

• 88% of reporting U.S. companies beat market expectations—the strongest result since Q2 2021

• Trade deal clarity with the EU, Japan, and China helps stabilize global markets

• U.S. housing data shows softening trends amid rising supply and affordability concerns

• China's GDP growth slows to 5.2%, with ongoing property price declines and stimulus hopes

• ASX 200 rises 0.41% as the RBA surprises by holding rates steady in July

• Markets anticipate an August rate cut, with 50% odds priced in for a 50 basis point drop

• Victoria's property market shows strength with clearance rates around 70% amid spring demand

• Australian mining and northern property markets benefit from steady Chinese commodity demand

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