Morning Report 20 Feb 25: S&P 500 hits fresh record highs

The S&P 500 reached new record highs despite a mixed market performance. President Trump has announced plans to impose tariffs on autos, pharmaceuticals, and chips, raising concerns among Fed officials about inflation. European shares saw their biggest daily drop of 2025 on tariff fears, while UK inflation jumped to a higher-than-expected 3% in January. In corporate news, Apple unveiled a low-cost iPhone with AI capabilities, and Microsoft shares climbed after introducing its first quantum computing chip. Meanwhile, oil prices rose on supply concerns, and gold hit a fresh record high. Looking ahead, Aussie shares are set to dip after Rio Tinto reported its smallest profit in five years, and jobs data will be in focus as the Aussie dollar weakens. 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.