26/08/2026
📊 ASX INSIGHTS PRO | Daily Market Brief — 26 August 2026
🇦🇺 ASX Near Record Highs — But Two Major Events Could Drive the Next Move
The ASX 200 closed Tuesday 0.68% higher at 9,164.6, supported by healthcare and technology stocks.
But investors are now watching two major catalysts:
🇦🇺 1️⃣ Australian Inflation — Critical for the RBA
The RBA has kept the cash rate at 4.35%, but its August meeting minutes showed serious discussion around whether another rate increase may be needed.
If inflation comes in hotter than expected:
📉 REITs and growth stocks could face pressure
🏠 Housing and consumer spending could weaken
🏦 Banks may see mixed effects
📈 Expectations for another RBA hike could rise
A softer inflation reading, however, could provide relief for rate-sensitive and growth stocks.
🤖 2️⃣ Nvidia Earnings — A Major Test for the AI Rally
Nvidia’s result matters far beyond Nvidia shareholders.
Strong earnings + strong guidance → Potential renewed momentum across AI, semiconductor and technology stocks.
Weak guidance → Risk of a correction in highly valued AI stocks.
For Australian investors, this could also affect NDQ, IVV and VGS.
🛢️ Bonus Signal: Oil Prices Fall
Oil prices have fallen more than 3%, potentially easing global inflation pressure.
Possible ASX impact:
🔻 Woodside / Santos — lower oil prices could weigh on earnings expectations
🔺 Airlines / transport — lower fuel costs could provide some benefit
🔎 WHAT I’M WATCHING NEXT
• Australian CPI
• Nvidia earnings & guidance
• RBA rate expectations
• Iron ore & copper prices
• Brent crude
• ASX reporting-season guidance
💡 ASX Insights Pro View
With the ASX trading close to record levels, chasing momentum alone may carry more risk.
Earnings quality + valuation + interest-rate sensitivity are becoming increasingly important.
Educational content only — not financial advice.