The ASX 200 closed little changed at 8,724 on Thursday after trading lower in early deals, with gains in consumer services, healthcare, and financials countered by losses in retail trade, logistics, and energy minerals. Traders assessed Australia trade data in May, which unexpectedly posted a trade deficit amid a drop in exports and a pickup in imports. Markets also pared back expectations for further rate hikes in Australia as easing inflation risks followed the de-escalation of Middle East tensions and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, U.S. stock futures were mainly lower after a weak lead from Wall Street Wednesday, ahead of the key nonfarm payrolls release. Northern Star Resources jumped 5.3% after naming a new CEO and posting preliminary annual gold sales that met revised guidance. Meanwhile, the four big banks rose between 0.4% and 3.5%. On the downside, laggards included SGH Ltd. (-4.6%), Westfarmers Ltd. (-4.4%), Reece Ltd. (-3.3%), and Coles (-1.8%).