The ASX200 closed down 0.4% at 8,131 points.

The Reserve Bank Board has kept interest rates on hold at 4.35% in line with consensus expectations. RBA Governor Michelle Bullock says the bank wants to be more convinced inflation is going to be back in the target band.

All sectors lost ground and Utilities was the worst performer, down 0.7%, followed closely by Financials, down 0.6%, and Health Care and Staples, both down 0.55%.

In the Green

Peppermint Innovation (ASX:PIL) closed flat on a new funding agreement to bolster its digital growth strategy and financial inclusion efforts in the Philippines. The company secured up to $3 million through convertible notes from Obsidian Global.

Peppermint Innovation closed at point six of a cent $0.006.

Recce Pharmaceutical Ltd (ASX:RCE) closed up 4.49% after reaching a milestone in its Phase II clinical trial to test the efficacy of its topical gel for treatment of Acute Bacterial Skin and Skin Structure Infections.

Recce Pharmaceuticals closed at 46.5 cents.

Augustus Minerals (ASX:AUG) closed flat on news its acquiring a gold project in WA ripe for exploration and near several functioning mines.

Augustus Minerals closed at 4.5 cents

In the Red

Paladin Energy (ASX:PDN) closed down 3.05% despite there being no news today. However, the company’s now down 40% over the last six months.

Paladin Energy closed at $9.53.

Harvey Norman (ASX:HVN) closed down 0.22% after flagging it may appeal a Federal Court decision that favoured ASIC’s view the retailer owes penalties for breaching consumer laws.

Harvey Norman closed at $4.55.

PYC Therapeutics (ASX:PYC) closed flat on approvals to escalate doses of its drug candidate which treats Retinitis Pigmentosa.

PYC Therapeutics closed at 19 cents.