The S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) is expected to trade flat today following mixed leads from international markets.
Here's a recap:
- Dow Jones (USA): down 0.1%
- NASDAQ (USA): down 0.36%
- FTSE 100 (UK): down 0.07%
- DAX (Germany): up 0.6%
- CAC 40 (France): up 0.2%
In Europe, banks and mining shares buoyed markets in the wake of growing prospects of further monetary easing from the Bank of Japan. FTSE-listed shares of BHP Billiton Limited (ASX: BHP) and Rio Tinto Limited (ASX: RIO) ended 2.33% and 1.31% higher, respectively.
US markets ended mostly flat as earnings season kicked off and markets pinned hopes on more stimulus measures in China.
Closer to home, the Sydney Futures Exchange is tipping a flat start for the S&P/ASX 200.
Telstra Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLS) shares will be in focus after the telecommunications behemoth announced this morning it appointed former AMP Limited (ASX: AMP) CEO and managing director, Craig Dunn, to its board as a non-executive director. Telstra said Mr Dunn is an experienced business leader with a background in financial services and pan-Asian business activities and has expertise in financial technology.
Orion Health Group Ltd (ASX: OHE) announced it has signed two new contracts that will "significantly extend its presence in the United Kingdom." The New Zealand-based technology business said it will provide a comprehensive technology solution for two leading hospitals in London, and implement a health and social care solution for NHS Fife in Scotland.
Finally, in broker news, UBS analysts cut their Newcrest Mining Limited (ASX: NCM) price target to $8.47 from $8.66 while Macquarie analysts lifted their ASX Ltd (ASX: ASX) price target to $40.30 from $39.20, according to Dow Jones Newswires.
