The local share market has rallied to close at its highest level ever after lacklustre retail sales data seemed to seal the deal for a domestic interest rate hike next week.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 saw its modest morning gains accelerate Wednesday afternoon to finish up 56.6 points, or 0.66 per cent, to 8,597.7, five points above its previous highest close, on June 11.
The ASX200's intraday record of 8,639.1, also set June 11 - right before Israel's attack against Iran sent markets into a tailspin - remains intact.
The broader All Ordinaries on Wednesday rose 56.7 points, or 0.65 per cent, to 8,828.7.
The Australian dollar was buying 65.77 US cents, from 65.75 US cents on Tuesday.