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Australian investors are in for another torrid day of selling after share prices were slaughtered in overnight trading. European markets dropped around 5%, and US markets outstripped even those drops at their opening, before rallying back to 3-4% falls.
By · 25 Aug 2015
By ·
25 Aug 2015
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Australian investors are in for another torrid day of selling after share prices were slaughtered in overnight trading. European markets dropped around 5%, and US markets outstripped even those drops at their opening, before rallying back to 3-4% falls.

Futures markets are pointing to carnage at the open, with falls in oil, gold and copper likely to add weight. Circuit breakers are available, but won’t halt the initial bloodbath.

The drivers of the selling are not simple. Some analysts are pointing to a stronger USD threatening fragile emerging market economies, others point to weaker China manufacturing data and a 36% fall in the Shanghai composite index. The nebulous nature of the selling makes predicting a target point for markets very difficult. The continuing falls in copper and oil point to a souring of global industrial sentiment.

Reporting season continues, and any company disappointing investors today could experience severe share price punishment. For this reason, Pacific Brands and Senex Energy shareholders may be on alert. Other major reports today include BHP, Oilsearch, Village Roadshow and Spotless Group, although top down selling may overwhelm any good corporate news.

For further comment from Michael McCarthy at CMC Markets please call 02 8221 2135.

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Frequently Asked Questions about this Article…

Australian share prices are experiencing a significant drop due to a combination of factors, including a stronger USD impacting emerging markets, weaker manufacturing data from China, and a substantial fall in the Shanghai composite index. These elements contribute to a challenging environment for investors.

Global markets are having a considerable impact on Australian investments. European markets have dropped around 5%, and US markets have seen similar declines. These international trends are influencing Australian market sentiment and contributing to the current sell-off.

Commodities such as oil, gold, and copper are playing a significant role in the current market situation. Their falling prices are adding pressure to the markets, reflecting a broader souring of global industrial sentiment, which is affecting investor confidence.

Circuit breakers are mechanisms designed to temporarily halt trading on stock exchanges to prevent panic-selling and excessive volatility. While they can provide a pause during extreme market movements, they won't stop the initial downturn in prices.

Predicting a target point for the markets is challenging due to the complex and nebulous nature of the current selling. Multiple factors, including currency fluctuations and economic data from major economies like China, are contributing to the uncertainty.

During the reporting season, companies that disappoint investors with their financial results may face severe share price declines. This is particularly true in the current volatile market environment, where negative news can exacerbate selling pressure.

Investors should pay attention to companies like Pacific Brands and Senex Energy, as well as major firms such as BHP, Oilsearch, Village Roadshow, and Spotless Group. These companies are reporting their results, and any negative surprises could lead to significant share price movements.

Investors can stay informed by following market commentary from experts like Michael McCarthy at CMC Markets. Keeping up with the latest news and analysis can help investors make more informed decisions during volatile times.