5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday

Here's what to watch on the ASX 200 today…

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On Thursday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fought hard but ultimately fell short of recording another gain. The benchmark index dropped 0.3% to 7,384.5 points.

Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Friday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to fall

The Australian share market looks set to end the week in a subdued fashion. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 8 points or 0.1% lower this morning. This follows a poor night of trade on Wall Street, which late on sees the Dow Jones up 0.2%, but the S&P 500 down 0.2% and the Nasdaq down 1%.

ANZ rated as a buy

The Australia and New Zealand Banking GrpLtd (ASX: ANZ) share price remains in the buy zone according to the team at Bell Potter. In response to its $25 million civil penalty, the broker has retained its buy rating and $30.00 price target on the banking giant's shares. While another penalty is disappointing, it notes that the bank is well-provisioned for it. Outside this, Bell Potter likes ANZ due to its huge opportunity from funding the decarbonisation transition.

Oil prices fall

Energy producers including Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Petroleum Limited (ASX: WPL) could end the week in the red after oil prices dropped. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 1.6% to US$71.18 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 1.6% to US$74.60 a barrel. Oil prices fell due to concerns about Omicron restrictions in Europe and China.

Annual general meetings

Fund manager Pendal Group Ltd (ASX: PDL) and investment house Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd (ASX: SOL) will be on watch today when they hold their respective annual general meetings. Both companies could provide their shareholders with an update on their performances at their events.

Gold price falls

Gold miners Newcrest Mining Ltd (ASX: NCM) and St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM) could have a poor finish to the week after the gold price dropped. According to CNBC, the spot gold price is down 0.5% to US$1,775.10 an ounce. The gold price fell following some strong economic data out of the US.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns and has recommended Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

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