Consumer staples was the worst performing sector today with Wesfarmers and Woolworths both slipping. And the miners also weighed on the market with BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto both giving up more than 1 per cent while Fortescue Metals was down more than 3 per cent.
The S&P/ASX 200 index is 26 points down at 5,343. On the futures market the SPI is 25 points lower.
Company news
BHP Billiton Limited’s (ASX:BHP) Chairman Jac Nasser has discussed slowing growth in China and the company’s demerger plans as part of its AGM today.
E-health company Pro Medicus Limited (ASX:PME) has signed an $8 million deal with WellSpan Health in the US which will see it utilise its diagnoses and imaging services.
Best and worst performers
The best performing sector is real estate investment trusts, gaining 0.5 per cent to 1,146. Shares in Scentre Group Limited (ASX:SCG) have risen 1.46 per cent and trading at $3.47. Shares in Goodman Group (ASX:GMG) and Novion Property Group (ASX:NVN) are also stronger.
The worst performing sector is consumer staples, falling 1.8 per cent to 9,356. Shares in Woolworths Limited (ASX:WOW), have fallen 3.25 per cent, trading at $31.21. Shares in Asaleo Care Limited (ASX:AHY) and Wesfarmers Limited (ASX:WES) are also lower.