The S&P/ASX 200 fell 0.2% to 8,868 on Tuesday, marking its third consecutive session of losses and remaining at its lowest level in nearly two weeks, as notable declines in major banking stocks outweighed strong performances in the mining and gold sectors. Three of the "Big Four" banks led the downturn, with Commonwealth Bank shedding 1.6%, NAB falling 1.7%, and Westpac declining 1.2%, as investors grew cautious ahead of the RBA’s meeting minutes and unemployment data for clues on future monetary policy moves. In contrast, the mining sub-index hit a record high, supported by stronger iron ore prices and upbeat economic data, which helped offset renewed US-China trade tensions. Rio Tinto jumped 3.5%, BHP Group advanced 2.2%, and Fortescue Metals added 2.3%. Gold stocks also extended their rally as bullion prices surged past $4,100 per ounce for the first time amid safe-haven demand, with Northern Star Resources soaring 4.7% and Evolution Mining climbing 4.2%.