How do dividend adjustments work on my Index CFD position?
Lachlan Meakin
20/9/2021
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Cash stock indices such as the Dow 30, FTSE 100 and ASX 200 are made up of constituent stocks which is where their price is derived from. These constituent stocks of an index will periodically pay dividends to shareholders, causing a drop in that stocks price and impacting the overall value of the index. With GO Markets this index adjustment will be made at the open of the index on the ex-dividend date of the underlying stock(s).
This price drop in the index will affect the PnL on an open index CFD trade, to compensate this, there will be credit or debit that will be included in the swap that is made around 00:00 server time. If you have a long index position you PnL will be negatively affected so you will receive a credit in the same amount as the dividend adjustment. If you have a short index position you PnL will be positively affected so you will receive a debit in the same amount as the dividend adjustment.
It’s an important point to remember that index traders do not profit or loss from these adjustments. It is a zero sum situation where any PnL change has a corresponding debit or credit to compensate. Example 1: You have a buy position on the ASX200 contract of 10 lots at 00:00 server time.
The next trading day multiple companies go ex-dividend resulting in a 20 point drop in the ASX200 at the open. The swap on this position will be credited $200 AUD (20 points * $10 per point exposure). The ASX200 will open 20 points lower than it would have without the adjustment.
As a result, the PnL on the buy position is $200 worse off, which was compensated for by the swap credit you received. Example 2: You have a sell position on the FTSE100 contract of 10 lots at 00:00 server time. The next trading day multiple companies go ex-dividend resulting in a 15 point drop in the FTSE100 at the next open.
The swap on this position will be debited £150 GBP (15 points * £10 per point exposure). The FTSE100 will open 15 points lower than it would have without the adjustment. As a result, the PnL on the sell position is £150 better off, which was compensated for by the swap debit you received. (Please note, as dividends are combined with normal financing adjustments, the swap will not be exactly the same as the dividend only) You can view the trading hours and upcoming swap/dividend adjustments in the specifications of an instrument.
Example of ASX200 before a 20 point adjustment below:
By
Lachlan Meakin
Head of Research, GO Markets Australia.
The information provided is of general nature only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situations or needs. Before acting on any information provided, you should consider whether the information is suitable for you and your personal circumstances and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. All opinions, conclusions, forecasts or recommendations are reasonably held at the time of compilation but are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not an indication of future performance. Go Markets Pty Ltd, ABN 85 081 864 039, AFSL 254963 is a CFD issuer, and trading carries significant risks and is not suitable for everyone. You do not own or have any interest in the rights to the underlying assets. You should consider the appropriateness by reviewing our TMD, FSG, PDS and other CFD legal documents to ensure you understand the risks before you invest in CFDs. These documents are available here.
In 2025, the S&P 500 traded around 6,835 and was up approximately 16% year to date (YTD). Market direction remained most sensitive to Federal Reserve expectations, inflation data and the earnings outlook, with returns also shaped by mega-cap tech leadership and the broader AI narrative. The index pulled back from earlier December highs, but it has so far held above key major moving averages (MA).
Key 2025 drivers included:
Fed expectations and inflation: Inflation cooled through the year but remained sticky around 2.5% to 3%. A Fed easing bias likely supported price to earnings (P/E) multiples and “risk-on” positioning. More recently, markets appeared increasingly rate-sensitive, with the decreased likelihood of an additional rate cut until March 2026.
Earnings and guidance: Corporate earnings remained strong quarter on quarter. Recent Q3 results reportedly saw over 80% of the S&P 500 beat earnings per share (EPS) expectations. For Q4, the estimated year-over-year earnings growth rate is 8.1%, despite ongoing concerns around import tariffs and potential margin pressure.
Index leadership and breadth: Returns were heavily influenced by mega-cap tech and AI beneficiaries, even as broader market breadth appeared less consistent at points through the year.
Policy headlines and volatility: Trade and tariff headlines drove sharp moves, particularly earlier in the year. Some investors pointed to the “TACO” trade, with rapid recoveries after policy proposals were softened. Over time, similar shocks appeared to have less impact as the market became somewhat desensitised.
Valuations and sensitivity: The forward 12-month P/E ratio for the S&P 500 is 22, above the 5-year average (20.0) and above the 10-year average (18.7). That gap kept valuation sensitivity, especially in AI-linked names, firmly in focus.
Current state
The S&P 500 is about 1% below record highs hit earlier in December. That could indicate the broader uptrend remains in place, with a move back toward the recent highs one possible scenario if momentum improves. Despite the recent retracement, the index remains above all key major moving averages (MA). The latest bounce followed lower than expected CPI numbers earlier this week, alongside continued, and to some, surprising optimism about what may come next.
What to watch in January
Q4 earnings from mid-January: Results and guidance may help clarify whether valuations are being supported by forward expectations.
AI narrative and positioning: With AI-linked mega-caps carrying a large share of market capitalisation, changes in sentiment or expectations could have an outsized impact on index performance.
US jobs and CPI data: The latest US jobs report reportedly points to the highest headline unemployment rate since 2021. Cooling inflation this week may keep markets alert to shifts in rate cut timing, particularly around the March decision.
S&P 500 daily chart
Source: TradingView
Major FX pairs
Source: Adobe Images
AUD/USD
AUD/USD has been choppy in 2025. Since the “redemption day” drop in April, the move has looked more like a steady grind higher than a clean upside trend.
Key levels Recent peaks in early September and mid-December highlight resistance near 0.6625. Support has been evident around 0.6425, where price bounced over the last month.
What is supporting the bounce That support test coincided with stronger than expected jobs and inflation data, lifting expectations that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) may raise rates during 2026 rather than cut again. The latest pullback looks contained so far, with buying interest already visible and price still above key longer-term moving averages.
What could drive a breakout The pair remains range-bound, but the tilt is still constructive. If Chinese data stays firm, metals prices hold up, and the central bank outlook remains relatively hawkish, a break above resistance could gain more traction.
AUD/USD daily chart
EUR/USD
After early 2025 euro strength, EUR/USD has mostly consolidated since June in a roughly 270 pip range. This month tested 1.18 resistance, reaching highs not seen since September.
What price is doing now The recent pullback still lacks strong downside conviction. Some technical analysts refer to the 1.17 area as a near-term reference level.
What could come next If price holds 1.17 and buyers step back in, another push toward 1.18 is possible. One view is that the European Central Bank (ECB) could be less inclined to ease in 2026, which could be consistent with a firmer EUR/USD scenario. Broader analyst commentary also suggests the euro may stall rather than collapse against the US dollar, although outcomes remain data and policy dependent.
EUR/USD daily chart
USD/JPY
Year-to-date picture USD/JPY is close to flat overall for the year. After US dollar weakness in Q1, the pair reversed higher and now sits just below resistance near 158.
Rates remain the main driver Rate differentials still favour the US dollar. The Bank of Japan (BOJ) held steady for much of the period despite expectations it might act, and the recent rate increase was modest. Policy has only moved marginally away from zero.
What could shift the balance Rate differentials remain a key influence. Without a clearer shift in BOJ policy, the JPY may find it difficult to sustain a rebound. Some market commentators cite 154.20 as a chart reference level.
Ignoring corporate actions is a common pitfall many CFD traders fall into. Longing or shorting the underlying share is rooted in technical and fundamental analysis, and simple dividend payouts or buybacks feel unimportant to the trading strategy.However, even though you’re trading an instrument whose value is determined by the movement of an underlying asset, rather than the asset itself, these events can still impact your account balance.It is vital to stay informed of the corporate actions of the underlying share and have a plan for the way you position trades and the length of time you consider holding a position.
Company Dividends
A dividend is the distribution of a portion of a company’s profits to its shareholders. It’s one of the primary ways companies reward investors and signals that the company is in good financial health.
Why Companies Do It:
To share profits with investors
To signal stability or maturity
To attract dividend-focused shareholders
Example:
Woolworths declares a $1 dividend. If you’re long 100 CFDs, you get a $100 credit. If short, you lose $100 on the ex-div date.
CFD Implications:
Long Position: You receive a credit into your account on the ex-dividend date Short Position: Your account is debited the equivalent value.
Market Reaction:
Share prices typically drop by the dividend amount on the ex-div date on open.
Stock Splits and Reverse Splits
A stock split increases the number of shares and reduces the price per share, retaining the existing total market value e.g., your shares may become half the price but you will have double the holding. A reverse split (or consolidation) does the opposite so reducing the number of shares so increasing the price per share.
Why Companies Do It:
Stock splits make high-priced shares more affordable and attractive to retail investors and increase day-to-day interest.
Reverse splits are less common but may often be used to lift a stock’s price to improve the perceived positive image of the company.
Example:
Tesla executed a 5-for-1 split in 2020. Holding 100 CFDs became 500 CFDs at 1/5th the original price.
CFD Implications:
Your CFD position is automatically adjusted to reflect the new ratio. Total value remains unchanged.
Market Reaction:
Splits can signal growth confidence and attract traders, often leading to short-term rallies. Reverse splits may be seen as a red flag and lead to selling pressure.
Rights Issue
A rights issue allows current shareholders to buy extra shares, usually at a discount to current share price to raise capital. Market response to a right issue will be dependent on the reason for this action and the overall perception as to whether it will benefit the company in the longer term.
Why Companies Do It:
To fund growth projects, reduce debt, or raise liquidity
A sign the company is facing financing pressure
Example:
Qantas may offer a 1-for-5 rights issue at a 20% discount to raise capital to enable the company to buy new aircraft. CFD holders do not get this entitlement.
CFD Implications:
You do not receive rights or participate in the offer. No direct adjustment is made to your CFD position.
Market Reaction:
May result in a price drop due to dilution. However, if the capital raise strengthens the company, prices may recover over time.
Share Buybacks
A company buys back its own shares from the market, reducing the total number in circulation.
Why Companies Do It:
To return value to shareholders
To improve metrics like earnings per share (EPS)
To signal that management believes the stock is undervalued
Example:
BHP announces a $2 billion buyback. As shares are repurchased, the price may gradually rise due to the reduced supply of shares available to trade on the market.
CFD Implications:
There is no action on any CFD holding in the relevant company, so there is no account adjustment.
Market Reaction:
Often seen as mildly bullish, especially for undervalued companies. However, buybacks funded by debt may raise concerns.
Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)
A merger or acquisition occurs when one company absorbs or combines with another. This may ultimately lead to a change in share structure or ticker symbol if it is approved by the shareholders of the company. There is often a situation where a proposal is presented to the company that results in an elevated share price even before any decision is made.
Why Companies Do It:
To expand market share, gain assets, or eliminate competition
Often part of a strategic growth plan
Example:
If Company A merges with Company B and issues 1 new share for every 2 held, your 200 CFDs in A would convert into 100 CFDs in the new entity.
CFD Implications:
Your existing CFD position is converted into the new merged entity (if applicable) using the agreed share ratio.
Market Reaction:
Target companies often rally when takeover bids emerge, while acquirers may see mixed reactions — depending on perceived value or cost of the deal.
Trading Halts
A pause in trading that is imposed by the exchange usually often due to a pending news release from the company about a new, unexpected corporate action or less commonly some regulatory concerns pending investigation.
Why Companies May Be Halted:
Awaiting a price-sensitive announcement
Pending merger, legal issue, or earnings release
Example:
If a US biotech stock CFD is halted for an FDA ruling, you’ll remain in your position until the underlying reopens.
CFD Implications:
If the stock is halted, your CFD is also paused. You cannot open or close positions until trading resumes (there will often be a second release informing when the stock is likely to reopen for trading).
Market Reaction:
Trading halts usually precede large price moves — often gaps and reopens — so significant gains or losses may be the result.
Summary
Just because you’re trading Share CFDs doesn’t mean you are insulated from corporate actions. In fact, understanding their timing (although many are unpredictable) and the possible impact of your holding is essential for planning trades and managing actual and potential account value adjustments.It is prudent to have access to an economic calendar as part of your routine and ensure you check out earnings and ex-dividend dates of any stock CFD you hold or are considering for an entry.Whether it’s a dividend or a major structural event like a merger, these changes can and will shift market sentiment towards the underlying stock. Make sure you stay aware of what is happening and what might happen next. The GO Market support team will always be there to assist with any questions you have before or after any corporate action.
We all know the market term ‘don't catch a falling knife’. And in the current market conditions why would you? But with indices, the likes of the magnificent 7, industrials and banks doing so well in 2024 people are asking where's the value?
And that is why people chase falling knives, because they perceive this value. They perceive that if others are doing so well these beaten up companies should surely catch up and therefore give them a big windfall. So we wanted to go through some of the 20 big stocks in the US that are down 20 plus percent or more in 2024.
You will know the majority of these names they show up in everyday life and across all sectors and industries. The interesting thing about them is that they are very diverse across pharmacies, industrials, streaming firms, financial firms and more and that's why there is a huge caveat to this list. Because the majority of these 20 plus losers have structural reasons as to why they have lost 20 plus percent.
Let's really have a look at some of those that are probably an interesting opportunity, take Nike for example. NIKE is down to 30.4% year to date and 41.1% from its 52-week high. Compare that to its main European competitor in Adidas up 23.7% year to date and only 9% off its 52-week high Year to date performance of NKE to ADS So should you catch the Nike falling knife?
Well first and foremost the issues hitting NIKE have been some external issues, but mainly internal ones. Sponsorship deals with Olympic teams have been higher than expected and have hit cost, while on the revenue sign uptake of Olympic branded apparel is below historical Olympic standard. Then there is the deal with the German National Football team, something now he thought was a coup having booted Adidas off what has been nearly a 6-decade partnership.
However this turned out to be something much less profitable than Nike thought explains its current conundrum and share price poor performance. The answer to the falling knife question with NIKE will probably be answered over the next three weeks as the Paris Olympics take off and apparel numbers come in. Therefore it is possible that now he could recuperate some of the losses had seen on its share price pretty rapidly but again we always caution catching a falling knife but it is one to watch.
Which brings me to the next falling off to really have a good look at paramount global. The content and streaming giant has had a really tough time in 2024. Down 23% year to date and 34.2% from its 52 week high the streaming giant is facing cost blowouts, content competition and legacy issues to its cable and freeway TV programming.
There's always been a discussion that the streaming wars would come to a head sometime early after COVID-19. With over 30 different streaming providers competition is so high and costs ballooning that sooner or later a consolidation will come. The question is will paramount the first major player to fall in what probably will be a house of cards scenario?
Let's have a look and compare it to some major players like Disney and Netflix. As this chart shows both Netflix and Disney are still up in 2024 how Disney has had some structural issues around its amusement parks Netflix on the other hand is on a tear. This chart clearly shows paramount's biggest problem.
It's not the biggest provider like it Once Upon a time was, it is coming up against really stiff competition in Netflix and outside of cable it doesn't really have a diversified revenue stream like Disney. What's more it's facing real legacy issues with its free to air and TV services in general. Whenever you see a firm ‘slimming to greatness’ by cutting costs and slashing services it is an immediate red flag and normally suggest that this further to fall before the knife actually finally hits the floor.
Paramount will still be Paramount it will still produce content people want to see but in the current environment and the competition it faces you will not be the Paramount of yesteryear. Finally let's have a look at some of the other major names that sit on this list: Lululemon Athletica is down 44.6% year to date and 45.3% from its 52-week high. Like all things in consumer discretionary apparel is one of the key areas facing the biggest headwinds and lululemon is not immune.
Online e-commerce player Etsy is also facing similar problems down 23.7% year to date and 39% from its 52-week high. Etsy is a small item provider with high turnover which means volume is the key. In a world where people are battling the cost-of-living, small items are easy to go by the wayside.
Finally we come to Walgreens Boots Alliance - the worst performing big cap player on the S&P 500. Down a whopping 57.4% year to date and 64.8% from its 52-week high WBA is in freefall. We need to go through why Walgreen Boots is getting absolutely towelled up.
First and foremost, you need to understand the shift in the US around health care services. Players like Walmart, Kroger and CVS have all expanded their health care services from in store and beyond. Walgreens certainly reacted to this shift and spent heavily in this area spending $8.9 billion to acquire Summit-Healthcare City to compete.
But the plan eventually failed and saw then CEO Roz Brewer fall on her sword. New CEO Tim Wentworth 's basically unwinding the health service position by trying to wind down the company’s investment in Village MD and divesting parts of the Summit-Healthcare City acquisition. But again like Paramount – slimming to greatness is not a strategy that has really worked longer term.
So what is Walgreens Boots Alliance going forward? If it's not trying to take on main competitors in healthcare services WBA is basically saying it's a retailer that just happens to be selling healthcare products. In Australia that certainly works for a player like Chemist Warehouse but in the US competition is much higher and thus margins smaller and overall revenue growth in the sector is anaemic 2% per annum.
This explains the share price fall that we've seen in WBA but the final humiliation came in the last month. WBA has now dropped below a market cap of US$10 billion and that means it can no longer be included in the NASDAQ 100. Being sold out of index funds has only ramped up further selling in this once large firm.
This normally signals the final shake out of a share price and the falling knife that is WBA is clearly coming towards the bottom, a bounce is probable. But with its current strategy it is unlikely to recuperate historic highs anytime soon.
As geopolitical narratives continue to simmer, US and European markets move into the rest of the week with three dominant drivers: US inflation data, the start of US earnings season, and an unusual Fed-independence headline risk after the DOJ subpoenaed the Federal Reserve.
Quick facts:
US consumer price index (CPI) and producer price index (PPI) are the key macro releases and are likely to impact the US dollar (USD) and other asset classes if there is a significant move from expectations.
JPMorgan reports Tuesday, with other major US banks through the week, as the Q4 reporting season gets underway.
Reporting around DOJ action involving the Fed, and Chair Powell’s prior testimony, created early market volatility on Monday, with markets sensitive to anything that may be perceived as undermining Fed independence.
President Trump announced this morning that any country doing business with Iran will face a 25% tariff on all business with the US, effective immediately.
Europe’s production and growth updates, including Eurozone industrial production and UK monthly GDP and trade data, are later in the week.
United States: CPI, Fed path, DOJ and Fed headline risk, and banks leading earnings
What to watch:
The US is carrying the highest event density in global data releases this week. CPI and PPI will both be watched for moves away from expectations.
Any meaningful surprise can shift Fed policy expectations. Markets are currently pricing a lower likelihood of a March rate cut (under 30%) than this time last week, based on fed funds futures probabilities tracked by CME FedWatch.
Bank earnings may set the tone for the reporting season as a whole. Forward guidance is likely to be as important as Q4 performance, with valuations thought to be high after another record close in the S&P 500 overnight.
Key releases and events:
Tue 13 Jan (Wed am AEDT): CPI (Dec) (high sensitivity)
Tue 13 Jan (Wed am AEDT): JPMorgan earnings before market open (high sensitivity for banks and risk tone)
Wed to Thu: additional large-bank earnings cluster (high sensitivity for financials sentiment)
Wed 14 Jan (Thu am AEDT): US PPI
Thu 15 Jan (Fri am AEDT): US weekly unemployment
Throughout the week: Fed member speeches
How markets may respond:
S&P 500 and US risk tone: US indices are near record levels. The S&P 500 closed at 6,977.27 on Monday. Hotter-than-expected inflation can pressure growth and small-cap equities in particular, and weigh on the market broadly. Softer inflation can support further risk-on behaviour.
USD: Inflation data is the obvious driver this week for the greenback, but any continuation of DOJ and Fed developments, or geopolitical escalation, may introduce additional USD influences.
With the USD testing the highest levels seen in a month, followed by some light selling yesterday, some volatility looks likely. Gold has also been bid as a potential safety trade and hit fresh highs in the latest session, suggesting demand for defensive exposure remains present.
Earnings (banks): In a market already priced near highs, results can still create volatility if they are not accompanied by supportive earnings per share (EPS), revenue and forward guidance. Financials will likely see the first-order response, but any early pattern in results and guidance can influence the broader market beyond the first few days.
UK and Eurozone: growth data influence amid continuing equity strength
What to watch:
In a week where Europe may be driven primarily by events in the US and geopolitical narrative, the Eurozone industrial production print is still a noteworthy local release.
In the UK, monthly GDP and trade numbers on Thursday may influence both the FTSE 100 and the pound, particularly if there is any meaningful surprise.
Key releases and events:
Eurozone
Wed 14 Jan: Eurozone industrial production (Nov 2025) (medium sensitivity for cyclical sectors)
UK
Thu 15 Jan: GDP monthly estimate (Nov 2025) (high sensitivity for GBP and UK rate expectations)
Thu 15 Jan: UK trade (Nov 2025) (low to medium sensitivity)
How markets may respond:
EUR spillover from the US: Despite light Eurozone data, the US response is likely to matter most this week, with the US dollar index a major driver of broader G10 FX direction.
DAX (DE40): Germany’s index is also trading at or near record levels and closed at 25,405 on Monday. (2) If the index is extended, it may react more to global rate moves and shifts in perceived risk.
FTSE 100 and GBP: The FTSE hit a new high in the overnight session, driven particularly by materials and mining stocks. (5) Any GDP surprise can re-price GBP and UK equities quickly in an environment where growth concerns persist.
Wed 14 Jan: US CPI, US bank earnings kick-off (notably JPMorgan)
Wed 14 Jan: Eurozone industrial production (Nov 2025)
Thu 15 Jan: UK monthly GDP (Nov 2025) and UK trade (Nov 2025), US bank earnings continue
Fri 16 Jan: US weekly unemployment, US bank earnings continue
Bottom line
If US CPI surprises higher, markets may lean toward higher-for-longer interest rate pricing, which can pressure equity multiples and lift rates volatility.
If bank earnings are solid but guidance is cautious, equities can still see two-way swings given index levels near records and high valuations.
If DOJ and Fed headlines escalate, they may override normal data reactions to some degree. That could increase demand for perceived safe havens such as gold and lift FX volatility.
For Europe, Eurozone production (Wed) and UK GDP and trade (Thu) are the key local data. The region is still likely to trade primarily off US outcomes and broader risk sentiment.
Asia-Pacific markets start the week with sentiment shaped by China’s mid-week trade data, USDJPY (USD/JPY) as Japan’s key volatility channel, and offshore reporting influencing Australian equities. With a light domestic data calendar, global events may do most of the work on risk appetite.
Quick facts:
China's mid-week trade data is the primary regional risk event, with imports monitored for signs of domestic demand stability.
USD/JPY remains the key volatility channel, which may influence Nikkei performance.
Australian equities lack major domestic catalysts, leaving the ASX and AUD direction sensitive to China outcomes, geopolitics and US bank earnings.
This week’s Asia-Pacific focus is less about local policy and more about the transmission channels that typically set the tone.
For China, trade data may shape the growth narrative.
For Japan, the USD/JPY direction may influence equity momentum.
For Australia, offshore earnings, commodities and geopolitics may dominate in the absence of major domestic catalysts.
China: Shanghai may be influenced by trade data
What to watch:
With mid-week Chinese trade data, markets may view the release as a gauge of whether policy support is translating into growth activity or slowing any downturn.
Shanghai Composite: Stronger trade data could support sentiment, though the quality and perceived longevity of any improvement may matter. Weak imports would likely be read as continued softness in domestic demand.
Australia (resources and AUD): China trade and credit tone can feed directly into bulk commodity expectations and regional risk appetite, with potential flow-through to ASX miners and AUDUSD (AUD/USD).
With no major policy decision scheduled, and the producer price index (PPI) the main data point, Japan’s influence this week may run primarily through USD/JPY moves after US data releases, and broader geopolitical headlines, particularly as markets reopen after Monday’s public holiday.
Key releases:
Wed 14 Jan: Preliminary machine tool orders, year on year (y/y) (low sensitivity)
Thu 15 Jan: PPI (medium sensitivity)
How markets may respond:
USD/JPY: The pair ended last week around 158, near recent highs. Moves can be volatile; markets will watch whether the pair holds recent strength or retraces, particularly around prior trading ranges.
Nikkei 225: The index hit a record high early last week before a modest two-day pullback, then closed higher on Friday. Equity momentum, often closely tied to FX stability, may be influenced by the strength or otherwise of USD/JPY.
Australia: offshore drivers dominate in a lighter data week
What to watch:
In the absence of significant domestic data releases, Australian markets may be more exposed to external influences. The main themes are China trade data, geopolitics, commodity prices and the start of the US earnings season, with banks in focus.
Thu 15 Jan: Melbourne Institute (MI) inflation expectations (low sensitivity)
How markets may respond:
ASX 200: The index has been consolidating around the 8,700–8,800 area (approx.). Local financial stocks may react to inferences made from US bank earnings. Stocks such as Macquarie Group are typically more sensitive to global market conditions and activity in investment markets, often drawing comparisons with US peers such as JPMorgan Chase (JPM).
AUDUSD (AUD/USD): AUD/USD has pulled back after last week’s gains and is trading near recent highs. Technical commentary is mixed, and price action can change quickly around major offshore events.
South Korea is expecting an interest rate decision on Thursday. Any deviation from market expectations for no change (currently 2.5% per Trading Economics) could create a minor FX ripple in regional currency pairs.
Asia-Pacific calendar:
Mon 12 Jan: Japan public holiday
Tue 13 Jan: Australia consumer sentiment
Wed 14 Jan: China trade balance, exports and imports
Thu 15 Jan: Bank of Korea rate decision; Japan PPI; Australia inflation expectations
Bottom line
If China trade and credit data stabilise, regional equities may move higher, with AUD and ASX resource stocks among the key sensitivity points.
If USD/JPY extends higher, the Nikkei may remain supported near highs, though FX volatility risk may increase.
If US bank earnings disappoint, ASX financials could face near-term pressure despite limited domestic data.
Information is accurate as at 23:00 AEDT on 11 January 2026. Economic calendar events, charts and market price data are sourced from TradingView.
So why do Magnificent 7 (Mag 7) earnings matter for Australians? Because the US earnings season is a different sport from Australia, and this is where the scoreboard sits. These seven names do not just report results, they set the tone for the Nasdaq, the S&P 500, and risk appetite more broadly. They often influence index tone, but market moves are not guaranteed and can fade or reverse.
The Aussie edge: time zones, event windows, and what gets priced
For Aussie traders, the challenge is not just timing. It's overnight gaps, liquidity, and AUD/USD currency moves that can amplify or offset the share price reaction.
Most Mag 7 results land after the US close, so the initial move often hits Sydney morning liquidity. Markets may react first to the headline numbers, then again during the call as guidance, margins and capex are digested — but the sequence varies by quarter.
What this guide gives you, company by company
For each company, we map the US Eastern Time (ET) reporting window and the Sydney time window (AEDT), flag whether it is before or after the US close, and narrow the focus to the few drivers that tend to move price.
Source: Adobe Images
Apple Inc (NASDAQ: AAPL)
Apple is a “quality” print until it isn’t. The market doesn’t just ask if Apple beat. It asks whether demand and mix support the next leg.
Reporting window (confirmed)
US reporting time: Thu, 29 Jan 2026 at 5:00 pm ET (after close)
AU reporting time: Fri, 30 Jan 2026 at 9:00 am AEDT
Quarter snapshot (Q1)
Projected consensus earnings per share (EPS): US$2.65
Call focus: iPhone demand and mix, services trajectory, China and FX translation
Translation: Apple “beats” are common. The repricing comes from demand tone and margin language.
Earnings expectations and how the market will frame it
A “beat” means EPS and revenue come in above expectations, but it only really counts if demand still sounds healthy and the gross margin commentary stays straightforward.
A “meet” means results are basically in line, so attention shifts to the call. Investors will focus on iPhone product mix, how fast Services is growing, and whether any specific regions are weakening.
A “miss” often reacts more negatively if it is driven by weaker demand, because the market may treat it as the start of a trend, not a one time issue. You can also see a big price gap right after the report, before the call even starts.
Source: Adobe Images
Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ: META)
Meta is expected to report the December quarter, which effectively turns this into a Sydney morning catalyst for Aussie traders. The headline move hits first but the second leg often comes from the call, when guidance and capex ranges get priced.
Reporting window (expected)
US reporting time: Mon, 2 Feb 2026 at 4:05 pm ET (after close)
AU reporting time: Tue, 3 Feb 2026 at 8:05 am AEDT
Quarter snapshot (Q4)
Projected consensus EPS: US$8.29
Projected consensus revenue: US$58.27 bn
Call focus: AI infrastructure capex, Ads demand plus Reels monetisation and Reality Labs losses versus discipline
Translation: Meta can beat the print and still sell off if the Street hears “higher spend, longer payoff.”
Earnings expectations and how the market will frame it
A “beat” means EPS and revenue come in above consensus, but it only really counts if guidance stays intact and the 2026 capex and expense ranges do not get wider.
A “meet” is close enough that the stock trades the tone of the call: how broad ad demand looks, whether Reels monetisation is improving, and whether spending sounds capped or more open ended.
A “miss” can turn ugly quickly if it comes with weaker ad demand commentary or higher spend bands. With expectations already high, the initial gap can be sharp, and what happens next depends on whether guidance can steady the story.
Source: Adobe Images
Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ: GOOGL)
Alphabet is still an ads engine first, and a Cloud and AI story second. The market wants proof that Cloud profitability and AI spend can coexist without compressing the whole narrative.
Reporting window (confirmed)
US reporting time: Wed, 4 Feb 2026 at 4:00 pm ET (after close)
AU reporting time: Thu, 5 Feb 2026 at 8:00 am AEDT
Quarter snapshot (Q4)
Projected consensus EPS: US$2.59
Projected consensus revenue: TBC
Call focus: Search and YouTube ads pricing and volume, Cloud growth and profitability, AI capex and monetisation signals
Translation: The market forgives a lot if ads are strong and Cloud margins keep improving.
Earnings expectations and how the market will frame it
A “beat” means EPS and revenue come in above consensus, but it only really matters if ad demand sounds broad and Cloud profitability does not slip while AI spending ramps.
A “meet” puts the call in the driver’s seat, with investors listening for ad pricing trends, YouTube momentum, and whether capex is moving higher.
A “miss” hurts most if it is driven by weaker ads, because then the market starts debating the ad cycle, not just the company.
Source: Adobe Images
Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ: AMZN)
Amazon is two businesses stapled together in the tape. The market uses AWS to price growth and uses retail margins to price discipline.
Reporting window (expected)
US reporting time: Mon, 2 Feb 2026 at 4:00 pm ET (after close)
AU reporting time: Tue, 3 Feb 2026 at 8:00 am AEDT
Quarter snapshot (Q4)
Prijected consensus EPS: US$1.97
Projected consensus revenue: US$211.33 bn
Call focus: AWS growth and margins, retail profitability/fulfilment efficiency, advertising momentum, capex tone
Translation: AWS decides the direction. Retail decides the confidence.
Earnings expectations and how the market will frame it
A “beat” means EPS and revenue come in above consensus, but it only really matters if AWS holds steady or speeds up again and management does not worry the Street with spending plans.
A “meet” puts AWS and margin tone front and centre, and the call does most of the work.
A “miss” usually gets hit hardest when AWS growth slows or operating income guidance disappoints, because that is what can reset the whole valuation debate.
Source: Adobe Images
Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT)
Reporting window (confirmed)
US reporting time: Wed, 28 Jan 2026 at 4:00 pm ET (after close)
AU reporting time: Thu, 29 Jan 2026 at 8:00 am AEDT
Quarter snapshot (Q2)
Projected consensus earnings per share (EPS): US$3.86
Projected consensus revenue: US$80.09 bn
Call focus: Azure growth, AI monetisation (Copilot/attach), capex intensity, and margin trajectory
Translation: This is usually a cloud plus capex trade, not an EPS trade.
Earnings expectations and how the market will frame it
A “beat” means EPS and revenue come in above consensus, but it only really matters if Azure is holding up and capex does not sound unlimited. Beat plus steady cloud trends and stable margins is the upside script the tape usually rewards.
A “meet” puts the focus on the call, especially Azure growth, commercial bookings tone, and how quickly capex is stepping up.
A “miss” usually gets punished most when cloud growth slows or margins get shaky, because that is the key forward anchor the market leans on.
Source: Adobe Images
NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA)
Nvidia is the season’s last boss. Markets treat it like a read-through on AI capex itself. The print matters, but guidance and gross margin are the real price setters.
Reporting window (confirmed)
US reporting time: Wed, 25 Feb 2026 at 4:20 pm ET (after close)
AU reporting time: Thu, 26 Feb 2026 at 8:20 am AEDT
Quarter snapshot (Q4)
Projected consensus EPS: US$1.45
Projected consensus revenue: US$65.47 bn
Call focus: Data centre demand versus capacity, gross margin trajectory, supply/lead times, next-quarter guide
Translation: Guidance and gross margin commentary often drive the reaction, but outcomes vary.
Earnings expectations and how the market will frame it
A “beat” means EPS and revenue come in above consensus, but it only really matters if the next quarter outlook confirms demand is still strong and the gross margin message stays solid.
A “meet” means the call becomes the decider, and the stock trades the outlook, margins, and what management says about supply conditions.
A “miss” can gap down fast, especially if it comes with softer forward guidance, because the market may take it as a clue about the broader AI spending cycle.
Source: Adobe Images
Tesla Inc (NASDAQ: TSLA)
Tesla’s earnings are rarely just about the quarter. The print hits first, but the real repricing usually happens when the call clarifies margins, demand, and the autonomy timeline. For Aussie traders, it’s a Sydney morning catalyst.
Reporting window (confirmed)
US reporting time: Wed, 28 Jan 2026 at 4:05 pm ET (after close)
AU reporting time: Thu, 29 Jan 2026 at 8:05 am AEDT
Quarter snapshot (Q4)
Projected consensus EPS: US$0.44
Projected consensus revenue: US$25.15 bn
Call focus: Autonomy/robotaxi cadence, auto gross margin, pricing/demand and energy storage scale
Translation: Tesla can “beat” and still get sold if margins compress or the roadmap tone shifts.
Earnings expectations and how the market will frame it
A “beat” means EPS and revenue come in above consensus, but it only really matters if the margin story stays intact and management does not add fresh uncertainty around pricing or timing.
A “meet” is close enough that the stock trades the tone of the call, especially on demand, how durable margins look, and progress toward autonomy milestones.
A “miss” gets hit fastest when it comes with weaker margin language or softer demand comments, because the market will assume next quarter looks tougher, not easier.
