The ASX 200 finished almost flat at 8,765 on Wednesday as gains in consumer durables, industries and non-energy minerals largely offset declines in energy, technology and healthcare. Local markets surrendered early advances while traders prepared for Australia's labor market data due Thursday and absorbed a September flash PMI, a preliminary business activity survey, showing slower services growth and weaker factory output. U.S. stock futures edged higher after Wall Street closed near record levels Tuesday, helped by lower oil prices amid momentum toward ending the war in the Middle East. Investors also focused on Thursday's bilateral summit between President Trump and China's Xi Jinping, with hopes for trade progress increasing despite fragile ties. BHP gained 1.4% and Rio Tinto rose 0.8% as copper strengthened and China increased stockpiling ahead of holidays. Northern Star Resources climbed 4.0%, Evolution Mining advanced 2.2% and Goodman Group rose 3.0%, while Woodside Energy fell 2.0% and Santos declined 1.8%.