Daily FNArena News

The Japanese economy grew at a slower than expected pace in the June quarter, though economists suggest there were enough positives in the result to maintain a positive outlook.

Merrill Lynch is looking for a reversal in sentiment in steel and an easing of bearishness.

Experts are now expecting further interest rate increases in Japan before the end of the year, as there continue to be signs the economy is experiencing price pressures.

The news is all bad from KH Foods. ABN Amro is ceasing coverage.

The Australian dollar is forecast to rise against the US dollar in coming months, but ANZ Bank suggests this could provide a good chance to lock in profits before the currency weakens next year.

Weekly musings from your editor.

Today’s jobs data follow on from yesterday’s housing data as indicators that nothing is causing the economy to slow as yet. Another rate rise is looking more likely.

Now the correction appears to be behind us, National Bank expects base metal prices to remain firm for the near term, before peaking in the December quarter.

US rates may have peaked but with US growth looking set to slow further, the outlook for Asian equity markets remains mixed.

After a 40% fall in its share price yesterday, two brokers have upgraded their recommendations on Downer EDI.