The S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) appears set to rally this morning after a very positive session for international markets. The futures market is pointing to a 31-point rise at the open.
Here's a quick recap:
- FTSE 100 (UK): up 0.49%
- DAX (Germany): up 1.39%
- CAC 40 (France): up 1.24%
- Dow Jones (USA): up 1.19%
- NASDAQ (USA): up 1.13%
QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) announced that Group CEO John Neal will be stepping down after five years in the role. Neal will be replaced by Pat Regan who currently serves as CEO Australia and New Zealand operations, with a four-month leadership transition.
While the broader market looks set to rise this morning, it could be a different story for the resources sector.
The iron ore price plunged 5%, according to The Metal Bulletin, which could drag on companies such as BHP Billiton Limited (ASX: BHP) and Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG).
The gold price slipped 1.4% as well which could affect Newcrest Mining Limited (ASX: NCM) and other gold miners, while oil slipped 0.1%.
Elsewhere, the Retail Food Group Limited (ASX: RFG) share price could be in focus after a heavy decline on Monday.
The Brainchip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN) share price could also receive some attention after the company announced the release of its hardware acceleration board, BrainChip Accelerator. The Brainchip share price has fallen more than 37% year-to-date.