Ceasefire Relief but Energy Crisis Remains
Paper Mandate Market & Portfolio Commentary | 8 April 2026
Fund Status:
Bal Start: $979,981.73
Bought: C79
Sold: None
Bal End: $1,015,078
Cash: $439,501.81
Market Commentary
S&P500 and Nasdaq ended the US session slightly up but might as well be flat. This was a positive sign after Pakistan proposed a deal b/w Trump and Iran. Oil still remains above $100 per barrel. The VIX increased to 25.78 meaning we are in slight fear territory. “Normal” is seen as 15-25. Gold rose to 4707 (1.3%). The market still feels cautiously rising. ASX futures up this morning premarket.
Trump announced a two week cease fire to finalise the Iran deal. Oil dropped 9% on the back of that news. Equities jumped as a result. The ASX Tech Index was the largest gainer (+7.31%) while Energy was the laggard (-7.15%). Pleasingly, gold rallied back with names like Bellevue Gold jumping nearly +19%. GYG was also a strong contender after some good results, the stock jumped 12%, coming off its 52 week lows. For some bad news (or good news depending on your perspective), Drone Shield’s CEO is stepping down. This was likely since they sold most of their company stock a while back.
Portfolio Commentary
All but two stocks in the portfolio were up. Woodside and Coles were the only two negatives (-10.4% and -1.3% respectively). While it is disappointing that I will likely sell WDS at a loss, it was only 2% of the portfolio. So no major loss. But the rest of the portfolio is up. ZIP, OBM, LOV, and 360 all posting double digits gains today.
I unfortunately was busy today and didn’t get a chance to action any other positions. The Strait opening up does give relief to the market, but WDS will still be a longer term beneficiary. Remember Qatar Energy announced force majeure on its LNG contracts for 5 years or so. Infrastructure has been destroyed. I doubt we have seen the last of the energy crisis.
Investment Rationale
Disclaimer: This is a simulated portfolio. Content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research.