Sky News Business Reporter Edward Boyd says the ASX 200 finished up 0.26 per cent on Wednesday, with a spike at the end of the day.
The materials sector fell on Wednesday due to concerns over China’s economy not rebounding as quickly as had previously been hoped.
Tech companies, telcos and property stocks rose.
Building materials maker James Hardie was the top performer after reporting better than expected full year results.
The company increased its prices in Australia by 15 per cent during the year, and its shares rose 13.76 per cent.
Gold miner St Barbara fell 2.5 per cent, and diversified miner South32 dropped 4.31 per cent.
Other mining companies like Champion Iron, BHP and Rio Tinto also fell.
Telcos Telstra and TPG both rose, while Optus’ Singaporean owner Singtel fell more than four per cent.