The ASX200 pipped the magic 6,000 level again and added 1.64% for the month.

Best sectors were REITs +5%, Energy +4%, and Consumer Staples +3.2%. The Banks were largely weaker, but that was to do with dividends being declared and paid. The Reserve Bank left interest rates on hold, despite Business confidence hitting record highs.

The Aussie consumer is not as confident, laden with household debts of 190%, low wage growth, and underemployed. Iron ore strengthened $10 to $68.50/t.

Global bourses faired better with the Nikkei adding around 3%. Japanese equities were well bid by foreign investors, causing the Nikkei to tip its highest level in 25 years. 

The US blustered forward a solid 3%, lifting the S&P500 to new highs. Solid economic data as well as a better than expected earnings season helped, as did Trump’s Tax cuts gaining traction. Short to medium term interest rates rose, and longer term bond yields fell slightly – causing the yield curve to flatten.

Eurozone equities faltered despite logging solid economic growth.Germany's Anglea Merkel is still trying to form government after a less than convincing German Election.