Thanks @shovel40, @Fiji1, @uncleBuck and morning crew. Half-time...

Thanks @shovel40, @Fiji1, @uncleBuck and morning crew.

Half-time wrap:

The share market fell for a second day as gains in mining stocks were outweighed by declines across the broader market after November household spending was weaker than expected.

The ASX 200 declined 48 points or 0.58% by mid-session.

Basic materials was the only sector to thrive following overnight strength in iron ore, copper and gold. Risers included Rio Tinto, BHP and Sandfire Resources. Banks and healthcare providers were the biggest drags.

Consumer stocks fell after the ABS reported household spending increased a tepid 0.4% month-on-month in November despite the lure of Black Friday bargains. Economists were looking for growth of 0.7%.

Wall Street closed overnight for a national day of mourning for former President Jimmy Carter. Mining stocks helped lift Europe's Stoxx 600 index 0.42% towards a four-week high.


Personal trading: Caught a few pips from swings in CAT and APX. Also took SLC on retrace. Caught the low in SPN but gave up on it too quickly.