ASX Market Open: Piddling tick-down not enough to peel ASX away from flat start to Week 43

Market Overview - Australian shares are expected to see a slight decline of three points as futures indicate a -0.03% change, reflecting a pause after recent volatility in the U.S. market [2][3] - The Australian dollar is currently trading at 64.9 U.S. cents, while commodities show mixed results with iron ore down -0.9% to $103.95 per tonne and Brent crude down -0.4% at $61.29 per barrel [6] Key Events and Company Updates - The Reserve Bank of Australia's assistant governor is scheduled to speak, which may provide insights into potential rate cuts in November [3] - Gold miners are under close watch as gold prices have seen their largest weekly gain in five years, potentially benefiting silver-exposed explorers as well [4] - Infratil has acquired a 4.92% stake in Contact Energy for $437.7 million, increasing its control to 14% of the New Zealand energy provider [4] - Tabcorp shareholders are contesting a controversial $18 million bonus for CEO Gillon McLachlan, labeling it as "outlandish" and unearned [5] - Several new ASX floats are anticipated this week, including Desert Minerals and PC Gold on Tuesday and Temas Resource Corp on Thursday [5] Commodity Insights - Gold prices are currently at $4,262 per ounce, indicating strong performance in the precious metals market [6] - U.S. natural gas futures have increased by +2.8% to $3 per gigajoule, reflecting a positive trend in energy commodities [6]