Three rate hikes by the Reserve Bank of Australia have crushed the Small Ordinaries Index this year. But softer inflation print this week might presage a rally.

Not even the high-flying resources sector has been spared by brokers, who are now reducing profits forecasts for all corners of the Australian sharemarket.

Three rate hikes by the Reserve Bank of Australia have crushed the Small Ordinaries Index this year. But softer inflation print this week might presage a rally.