Morning Report 14 Apr 25: Wall Street ends withering week with gains

Despite ongoing volatility, U.S. markets closed the week with notable gains, with the NASDAQ posting its best weekly performance since November 2022. Bank stocks moved higher as earnings season kicked off, buoyed by better-than-expected results from JP Morgan, which helped lift investor confidence. After the closing bell, the Trump administration announced a major trade concession, exempting smartphones, computers, and other consumer electronics from reciprocal tariffs. In commodities, gold surged to fresh record highs, while oil prices rebounded on Friday but still ended lower for the week. Looking ahead, futures suggest a strong start for the ASX 200 when trading resumes on Monday. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice.