The S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) is poised to slip today, following the lead set by international markets on Friday. The Sydney Futures Exchange is pointing to a 0.5% drop at the open.
Here's a quick recap:
- FTSE 100 (UK): down 0.03%
- DAX (Germany): down 0.44%
- CAC 40 (France): down 0.47%
- Dow Jones (USA): down 0.71%
- NASDAQ (USA): down 0.63%
In particular, pressure will likely be felt across the energy sector today after oil prices slipped almost 4% during the latest session. That could weigh on businesses such as BHP Billiton Limited (ASX: BHP) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO).
Liquefied Natural Gas Ltd (ASX: LNG) also experienced a sell-off on Friday, reversing some of the gains achieved earlier in the week. The shares could fall further today.
Gold, on the other hand, has remained mostly flat just below US$1,340 an ounce. The precious metal has run hard recently, although many investors remain sceptical that the gains will last. As such, it's worth keeping an eye on shares such as St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM) and Newcrest Mining Limited (ASX: NCM) this week.
Elsewhere in the market, takeover target SAI Global Limited (ASX: SAI) will recommend an offer from Baring Private Equity Asia, according to reports from The Australian Financial Review's Street Talk column. Baring has reportedly tabled a bid at a 30% premium to SAI Global's last closing price.
Telstra Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLS) and Woolworths Limited (ASX: WOW) both ended last week on a positive note, so investors will hope for further gains from them today.
The same can also be said for TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPM). After a tumultuous start to last week, the shares managed to regain some composure although they remain well below their recent high levels.
