It's been a challenging start to the month for Aussie stocks, with the ASX 200 closing down after early morning volatility. Global influences weighed on the market, especially disappointing profit reports from major U.S. tech companies. Investors are also on edge ahead of the U.S. election and central bank interest rate decisions in Australia and the U.S., both potentially stirring up more market movement. Domestically, property prices in Sydney fell for the first time in nearly two years, reflecting affordability issues and high rates. Sectors like energy and mining made modest gains, while financials and healthcare took hits.

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