The S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO)(ASX: XJO) is expected to open lower on Friday.
Here's a quick recap of global markets:
- FTSE 100 (UK): flat
- DAX (Germany): down 0.4%
- CAC 40 (France): down 0.3%
- Dow Jones (USA): down 0.1%
- NASDAQ (USA): down 0.2%
In London, the FTSE moved sideways as the UK's central bank painted a bleaker growth outlook. FTSE-listed shares of BHP Billiton Limited (ASX: BHP) and Rio Tinto Limited (ASX: RIO) closed 0.6% higher.
Across the pond, US markets ended modestly lower with retailer Macy's Inc suffering a 17% selloff in its shares after a disappointing first quarter profit result.
Closer to home, Australia's ASX 200 is expected to open slightly lower.
Shares in focus will include Newcrest Mining Limited (ASX: NCM). This morning, the gold mining company announced that rehabilitation works at its Cadia East mine will cost around $25 million following the prohibition notice placed on the New South Wales mine in April.
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corp Ltd (ASX: FPH) announced that it has introduced a new nasal flow product for infants.
Monash IVF Group Ltd (ASX: MVF) announced that its Managing Director and CEO, James Thiedeman, has resigned to take up a role in an unlisted healthcare organisation. He will continue with Monash IVF until the end of the 2017 financial year.
Praemium Ltd (ASX: PPS) shares have been placed in a trading halt, with the results of a General Meeting to be released this morning. Investors will be closely watching any announcement regarding changes to the future management of the technology business.
Finally, Credit Suisse analysts have raised their Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH) share price target 6.6% to $129 and cut their Graincorp Ltd (ASX: GNC) share price target 3.5% to $9.48, according to Dow Jones Newswires.
