Australia’s ASX 200 fell 88 points, or 1.0%, to 8,978 on Wednesday, marking its third consecutive loss and lowest close in one month. Sentiment weakened after Wall Street extended its declines for a third session on Tuesday amid renewed conflict in the Middle East, which pushed oil prices higher and intensified inflation concerns and expectations for interest-rate increases. Domestic traders also remained concerned about potential supply disruptions and inflation, with markets pricing in nearly a 60% chance of an RBA (Reserve Bank of Australia) rate hike later this month. Investors were also preparing for July trade data due Thursday, following strong exports and subdued imports in June. Losses were limited by stronger-than-expected second-quarter GDP (economic output) data, supported by private demand and mining exports. Weakness was widespread across sectors, led by non-energy minerals, commercial services and consumer companies. BHP Group fell 3.6% and Rio Tinto declined 1.9%, while weaker bullion prices pushed Northern Star Resources down 5.0% and Evolution Mining 1.9%. Woodside Energy gained 1.2%, and the four major banks rose between 0.2% and 0.5%.