Day traders' weekend lounge December 15 - 17

Thanks afternoon crew.

End-of-day summary:

The share market wrapped up its best week in five months with a sixth straight gain as investors looked past mixed Chinese economic data to the prospect of rate cuts next year.

Strength in resource stocks helped the ASX 200 rally 65 points or 0.88% this afternoon. Gains in metals and crude oil lifted the materials sector 1.94% and energy 1.86%. Banks, industrials and consumer stocks also advanced.

The market showed little reaction to news that Chinese factory output expanded more than expected last month, while retail sales growth fell short of forecast.

Today's rally stretched the index's tally for the week to 248 points or 3.4%, its biggest rise in points terms since the second week of July. A global rebound that started in November accelerated this week after the US Federal Reserve indicated it was likely done with raising rates and anticipated up to three cuts next year.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average continued to lead overnight, rising 0.43% to a new all-time closing high. The broader S&P 500 advanced 0.26% to within 2% of its own previous peak.