In today’s market update, we’re diving into the latest inflation numbers for Australia, with underlying inflation falling to its lowest level in 3 years at 3.2%, exceeding expectations and bringing it closer to the RBA’s target range. While CPI for the 12-months to December rose by 2.4%, we saw some sectors, like housing and transport, offsetting price increases in areas like recreation and alcohol. This decline in inflation raises hopes for a rate cut from the RBA, though challenges like rising energy costs and sticky services inflation could complicate the outlook. Plus, a strong labour market and recent unemployment data are key factors influencing the RBA's decisions. With markets now pricing in an 84% chance of a rate cut, the tech sector is leading the charge on the ASX today, fueled by investor optimism and a strong overnight performance in the Nasdaq. Stay tuned as we unpack the latest moves and what it means for your investments!

Dive into the latest commodity trends with our Market Analyst Grady Wulff’s quarterly chat featuring Lion Selection Group (ASX:LSX) CEO, Hedley Widdup.

Gold’s 2024 Performance – What’s Next?
Gold dazzled in 2024, reaching record highs of US$2,697/oz. Can this momentum continue with Trump back in office? Hedley sees strong tailwinds ahead, fuelled by:

• inflation concerns and geopolitical uncertainty
• robust demand from China and promising production from Northern Star Resources (ASX:NST) and Newmont Corporation (ASX:NEM).

Silver & Copper: Bright Spots in 2025

• silver surged 37% YoY, driven by its pivotal role in green energy technologies like solar panels and EVs
• copper continues to rise, with 5.4% annual growth powered by the energy transition, digitalisation, and Asia-Pacific demand leadership.

Our Market Analyst, Grady Wulff, sits down over the next 6 minutes with 6 executives who are exploring all parts of the world from uranium to a gold and silver deposit discovered in Chile recently.

Watch Grady catch up with the following executives:

• (0:42) Neil McDonald, Managing Director - Gold Hydrogen
• (1:45) Rowan Johnston, Executive Chair - Kin Mining
• (2:28) Chris Byrne, Managing Director - Legacy Minerals
• (3:37) Siobhan Lancaster, Managing Director & CEO - 92 Energy
• (4:16) Andrew Munckton, Managing Director - Talisman Mining
• (4:59) Ray Shorrocks, Executive Director - Mitre Mining Corporation

These exclusive interviews are provided to experienced clients trading with Bell Direct.