Weekly Market Insights (26 June - 03 July 2026)
- Jul 8
- 3 min read
Global Markets
Global markets finished the week on a positive note, supported by growing confidence that major central banks are approaching the end of their tightening cycles, which improved investor appetite for risk assets.
Equities:
US markets advanced, led by technology and semiconductor stocks as moderating labour market data reduced expectations of further Federal Reserve rate hikes.
European equities posted strong gains, with Germany’s DAX outperforming on strength in technology, utility, and mining sectors.
Asian markets moved higher, supported by improved global risk sentiment and gains across technology, financial, and consumer sectors.
Australian equities gained, supported by stronger commodity prices, easing geopolitical concerns, and broad-based sector strength.
Bonds:
Bond markets were mixed, with US, UK, and Australian yields moving modestly higher as investors assessed the future rate outlook.
Chinese yields declined, supported by policy measures and continued liquidity support from authorities.
Currencies:
The US dollar weakened, as softer labour market data reduced expectations of additional Fed tightening.
The Australian dollar and euro strengthened, benefiting from the weaker US dollar and improving market sentiment.
The Chinese yuan edged higher, supported by resilient economic indicators and anticipation of key economic data releases.
Commodities
Commodity markets delivered a mixed performance, driven by changing supply conditions and shifting interest-rate expectations.
Gold and copper rose, supported by a weaker US dollar and expectations of a more accommodative monetary environment.
Coffee surged strongly (+10.6%), driven by tightening inventories and slower harvest progress in Brazil.
Coal posted gains, supported by demand from major Asian markets.
Oil, natural gas, aluminium, and cocoa declined, reflecting improved supply conditions and easing concerns around global disruptions.
PNG Local Market
PNG’s market remained active and resilient, supported by strong trading volumes in a small number of stocks.
Stock Market:
Total market turnover reached approximately K14.65 million, with more than 6.36 million shares traded.
PLC and BSP dominated trading, accounting for the vast majority of market activity and turnover.
PLC was the week’s strongest performer, rising 2.07% to K1.48.
BSP slipped marginally by 0.18% to K27.90, while CPL and STO were unchanged.
Trading volumes were heavily concentrated in PLC, which accounted for more than 6.1 million shares traded during the week.
Corporate Updates:
Newmont Corporation announced it will release its Q2 2026 results on 23 July 2026.
Santos signed a 10-year Gas Sale Agreement with the South Australian Government, supporting future production growth and regional energy security.
Treasury Bills
The Treasury bill market remained stable and well-supported, with investor demand remaining strong despite higher issuance.
Total issuance amounted to K270 million, led by the 364-day tenor (K200 million).
Interest rates remained broadly stable:
182-day: 4.88% (+0.27%)
273-day: 4.97% (unchanged)
364-day: 5.00% (+0.02%)
Maturing securities totalled K152.59 million, below new issuance, indicating continued market capacity to absorb additional government securities.
Overall demand remained healthy, reflecting continued confidence in government debt instruments.
Overall Takeaway
Global markets benefited from improving confidence that central banks are nearing the end of their tightening cycles, supporting gains in equities and select commodities while weakening the US dollar. In PNG, market activity remained strong, with PLC and BSP driving turnover and Treasury bill auctions continuing to attract stable investor demand. Overall, conditions point to steady investor confidence both internationally and within PNG, despite ongoing uncertainty over the longer-term interest rate outlook.
For a detailed breakdown of market performance, economic data, and treasury auction results, download the complete report.