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Australia shares end flat as financials offset gains in tech, energy stocks

Australian shares ended flat on Wednesday, as a bleak performance by heavyweight financials offset a jump in technology and energy stocks, while investors digested a weakerthanexpected inflation print for additional cues on the nation's rate trajectory.

The benchmark index S&P/ ASX 200 ended partially lower at 0.03% to 7,660.4 points, snapping its four-session winning run.

Australia's monthly customer rate index increased at an annual speed of 3.4% in January. The Reserve Bank of Australia's. ( RBA) inflation target range midpoint stands at 2% -3%.

The reserve bank stated on Feb. 20 it needed more time to be. If inflation was on the decrease before judgment, positive to examine. out another rate hike. The RBA had actually in February considered treking. rates by another quarter-point, but chose to hold stable.

The RBA and reserve banks in basic tend to underestimate. the lag result of financial policy, according to Brad Smoling,. handling director at Smoling Stockbrocking.

I do hope the RBA cuts rates. The damage has actually been done now. The genuine economy is stalling.

Investors now move their focus to U.S. inflation data due. later in the day.

In Sydney, banks led losses by slipping 0.5%, with. the Big Four banks ending in between 0.1% and 1% lower.

Top customer business likewise capped gains, with. Coles Group, Wesfarmers and Woolworths Group. ending in between 0.4% and 1.7% in the red.

Miners lost 0.1%, with Fortescue recording. a drop of 5.5%, its most affordable closing level considering that mid-December. 2023, due to its ex-dividend payout date.

Innovation stocks led the gains by advancing 2.9%,. tape-recording their highest closing given that December 2021. ASX-listed. shares of Block rose 5.6% while Xero acquired. 4.4%.

Energy stocks increased 0.8%, with Santos. advancing 1.4%.

The New Zealand criteria S&P/ NZX 50 index increased 0.6%. to 11,763.32 points.

New Zealand's reserve bank held the money rate consistent at. 5.5%, however stated policy needed to stay limiting.