ASX market update: Property index falls as healthcare stocks show recovery potential

The ASX200 A-REIT Index declined by 1.92% during the week of August 28, 2026, driven by significant losses in several major property stocks. Ingenia Communities led the decline with a 13.6% drop, followed by Stockland, Mirvac, and Charter Hall Group. Conversely, HMC Capital was a notable performer, gaining 12.6%, while Acumentis and WOTSO also saw increases.

In the healthcare sector, analysts suggest potential growth opportunities despite recent headwinds such as rising interest rates and tighter capital markets. Sigma Healthcare, following its merger with Chemist Warehouse Group, reported a 15.5% increase in revenue and a 22% rise in normalised earnings per share. Bell Potter has issued a buy recommendation for Sigma Healthcare, citing improved efficiency and scale. Mesoblast Ltd is also identified as a company with significant potential upside.