The S&P/ASX 200 breached the key 8,900 level for the first time, closing at a record high of 8,939 on Friday, primarily supported by heavyweight banking stocks. Westpac climbed 2.1% to its highest level since April 2015, buoyed by a solid earnings report and broader sector momentum. Additionally, ANZ gained 1.8%, reaching its highest level since June 2015, following a Q3 update that showed growth in both deposits and loans. NAB and CBA also added 0.8% and 0.6%, respectively, boosting overall banking sector strength. Meanwhile, retailer Baby Bunting soared 40.5% to its highest level since February 2023, after delivering upbeat earnings results fueled by robust demand for soft goods and improved pricing strategies. Investor focus is now shifting to key economic indicators due next week, including consumer inflation expectations, consumer confidence, and a series of PMI surveys. For the week, the benchmark index recorded its second consecutive weekly gain.