S&P/ASX 200 set to open higher: 4 shares to watch

The S&P/ASX 200 (Index:^AXJO) (ASX:XJO) is expected to trade higher today following mostly positive leads from international markets. Shares in focus will include Rio Tinto Limited (ASX:RIO), Netcomm Wireless Ltd (ASX:NTC), Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX:FMG) and Alumina Ltd (ASX:AWC).

| More on:
a woman

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) is expected to trade higher today following positive leads from international markets.

Here's a recap:

  • Dow Jones (USA): up 0.1%
  • NASDAQ (USA): down 0.03%
  • FTSE 100 (UK): up 0.03%
  • DAX (Germany): up 0.67%
  • CAC 40 (France): up 0.47%

In London, the FTSE-100 or 'blue chip index' rose higher following promising economic news from China. FTSE-listed shares of BHP Billiton Limited (ASX: BHP) and Rio Tinto Limited (ASX: RIO) ended 2.4% higher and 0.4% lower, respectively.

US markets continued to roll into earnings season with banks and airlines lifting Wall Street. The healthcare and telecommunications sectors were the best performing overall.

Closer to home, the Sydney Futures Exchange is tipping a 14-point, or 0.2%, rise in the S&P/ASX 200.

Rio Tinto shares will be in focus on the market today. This morning, the global miner released a statement to the ASX announcing an extension to its Channar Mining Joint Venture with Sinosteel Corporation.

Netcomm Wireless Ltd (ASX: NTC) updated the market on its recent performance and 2016 financial year (FY) guidance. It said revenue is expected to be up 14.4% at $85 million while EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) will be down slightly on the FY15 result. However, it expects strong growth in FY17, underpinned by increased productivity and orders.

In broker news, Deutsche Bank analysts upped their Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) price target from $2.60 to $2.70, while CLSA analysts increased their Alumina Ltd (ASX: AWC) price target from $1.40 to $1.45.

Motley Fool Contributor Owen Raszkiewicz does not have a financial interest in any company mentioned. Owen welcomes -- and encourages -- your feedback on Google+, LinkedIn or you can follow him on Twitter @ASXinvest. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on ⏸️ Investing

Close up of baby looking puzzled
Retail Shares

What has happened to the Baby Bunting (ASX:BBN) share price this year?

It's been a volatile year so far for the Aussie nursery retailer. We take a closer look

Read more »

woman holds sign saying 'we need change' at climate change protest
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs that invest in companies fighting climate change

If you want to shift some of your investments into more ethical companies, exchange-traded funds can offer a good option

Read more »

a jewellery store attendant stands at a cabinet displaying opulent necklaces and earrings featuring diamonds and precious stones.
⏸️ Investing

The Michael Hill (ASX: MHJ) share price poised for growth

Investors will be keeping an eye on the Michael Hill International Limited (ASX: MHJ) share price today. The keen interest…

Read more »

ASX shares buy unstoppable asx share price represented by man in superman cape pointing skyward
⏸️ Investing

The Atomos (ASX:AMS) share price is up 15% in a week

The Atomos (ASX: AMS) share price has surged 15% this week. Let's look at what's ahead as the company build…

Read more »

Two people in suits arm wrestle on a black and white chess board.
Retail Shares

How does the Temple & Webster (ASX:TPW) share price stack up against Nick Scali (ASX:NCK)?

How does the Temple & Webster (ASX: TPW) share price stack up against rival furniture retailer Nick Scali Limited (ASX:…

Read more »

A medical researcher works on a bichip, indicating share price movement in ASX tech companies
Healthcare Shares

The Aroa (ASX:ARX) share price has surged 60% since its IPO

The Aroa (ASX:ARX) share price has surged 60% since the Polynovo (ASX: PNV) competitor listed on the ASX in July.…

Read more »

asx investor daydreaming about US shares
⏸️ How to Invest

How to buy US shares from Australia right now

If you have been wondering how to buy US shares from Australia to gain exposure from the highly topical market,…

Read more »

⏸️ Investing

Why Fox (NASDAQ:FOX) might hurt News Corp (ASX:NWS) shareholders

News Corporation (ASX: NWS) might be facing some existential threats from its American cousins over the riots on 6 January

Read more »