On Tuesday, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 index declined by 17 points (0.2%), closing at 8,680, marking its second day of losses. This drop follows the Reserve Bank of Australia's decision to raise interest rates for the third consecutive time to combat persistent inflation, which has been further impacted by rising fuel prices due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Investors are cautious as they await trade data for March, particularly after February's figures showed stronger exports but weaker imports. Despite the overall decline, consumer spending in Australia has seen its fastest growth in over two years, indicating a steady upward trend. However, most sectors, including industrials, healthcare, and consumer goods, ended lower, with major banks also experiencing declines. Stocks such as Sonic Healthcare, Lynas Rare Earths, and Northern Star Resources were among the biggest losers during this trading session.