Weekly Market Insights (10 - 17 April 2026)

Apr 20
2 min read

Global Markets

Global markets advanced overall, supported by easing US–Iran tensions and sharply lower oil prices, which boosted risk appetite and reduced inflation concerns.

Equities:
- US markets surged, with the S&P 500 reaching new highs, led by technology stocks as falling oil prices and ceasefire optimism improved sentiment.
- European equities posted strong gains, supported by lower energy costs and broad‑based sector strength across financials, autos, and industrials.
- Asian markets rose, with solid gains in Japan and Hong Kong reflecting improved global growth expectations.
- Australian equities edged slightly lower, weighed down by softer domestic data and lingering concerns around China’s growth outlook.
Bonds:
- Bond yields eased in the US, UK, and China, as declining energy prices softened inflation expectations and supported expectations of future rate cuts.
- Australian bond yields ticked higher, reflecting persistent inflation risks and uncertainty around the Reserve Bank’s policy outlook.
Currencies:
- The US dollar weakened, as safe‑haven demand faded.
- The Australian dollar and euro strengthened, supported by improved risk sentiment and falling energy prices.
- The Chinese yuan edged lower, pressured by weaker export data despite steady economic growth.

Commodities

Commodity markets were mixed but volatile:

Oil prices fell sharply, as easing geopolitical risks reduced fears of supply disruptions, significantly lowering inflation pressure.
Gold prices rose, benefiting from improved defensive demand and lower energy‑driven inflation risks.
Copper and aluminium gained, supported by improved manufacturing outlooks and ongoing supply tightness.
Coffee prices jumped sharply, driven by tight global supply conditions and climate‑related production risks.

PNG Local Market

PNG market conditions remained subdued, with softer trading activity and limited price movement.

Stock Market:
- Trading turnover eased to around K2.2 million, with lower volumes reflecting cautious investor participation.
- STO recorded a modest gain, though on very light volume, while most other stocks were unchanged.
- KSL and BSP continued to dominate turnover, highlighting ongoing liquidity concentration in a small number of stocks.
Corporate & Market Updates:
- Kina Asset Management reported an NTA of K2.02 per share as at 31 March 2026.
- Santos Limited announced strong shareholder support at its AGM, with all resolutions approved.

Treasury Bills

Treasury bill issuance declined, with PGK157 million offered, reflecting reduced funding needs.
Issuance continued to favour longer‑dated bills, particularly the 364‑day tenor.
Interest rates eased slightly across all maturities, reinforcing stable and orderly market conditions.

Overall Takeaway

Falling oil prices and easing geopolitical tensions drove strong gains in global equities and metals, while reducing inflation pressures and bond yields. In contrast, PNG markets remained quiet and stable, characterised by subdued trading, flat prices, and steady interest rates, underscoring cautious but resilient local investor sentiment.

For a detailed breakdown of market performance, economic data, and treasury auction results, download the complete report.