ASX 200 rises 1.03% as utilities and healthcare lead gains

The S&P/ASX 200 rose 1.03% for the week ending October 16, 2026, closing at 8,806.7 points. The benchmark index was supported by gains in the banking and defensive sectors, which helped offset declines in small-cap stocks and materials.

Utilities led the market with a 4.47% gain, followed by healthcare shares, which rose 3.88%. Notable performers included Origin Energy Ltd, which climbed 6.06%, and CSL Ltd, which saw a 4.55% increase. Conversely, the S&P/ASX Small Ordinaries fell 2.82%.

Market sentiment was influenced by economic indicators, including a rise in the unemployment rate to 4.7% in September and hawkish commentary from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Investors are currently pricing in a 16% chance of a cash rate increase to 4.85% in November.