Australian business confidence weakened in August 2026 as the NAB index fell to -8, while shares steadied near 8,910 after Tuesday’s fall to a six-week low. The U.S. NFIB Small Business Optimism Index also declined to 98.7, highlighting broader caution amid weaker sales, elevated uncertainty and inflation concerns. Mining, energy and technology stocks supported Australian equities, with traders awaiting China’s inflation data after oil prices surged and Middle East tensions pressured global sentiment.