The S&P/ASX 200 finished 0.5% higher at 8,862 on Thursday, hitting its highest level since November 3, as broad-based gains lifted the market, led by a surge in mining stocks amid rising base and precious metal prices. Heavyweight miners hit record closing highs for a third straight session, rising 1.1%, supported by strong Chinese demand for iron ore. The sub-index has climbed steadily since mid-2025, gaining 40% between July and December and nearly 8% so far this month. The world’s largest listed miner BHP closed at its highest in over two years, while iron ore miner Rio Tinto rose 0.4% to a one-week high. The two mining giants announced plans to jointly develop neighboring Pilbara operations in Western Australia to extract up to 200 million metric tons of iron ore. Additionally, financial stocks ended 0.5% higher, led by the ‘Big Four’ banks which gained 0.4%–2.6%. However, the banking sub-index is down over 1.5% this month amid policy shifts and high valuations.
Market Analysis & Disclaimer
The market information, analysis, commentary, forecasts and opinions contained in this publication are provided by Octalas Group Ltd on behalf of Today Markets and Currency Hedger using information and data obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, Octalas Group Ltd, Today Markets and Currency Hedger do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of the information presented and accept no responsibility for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon information contained herein, to the extent permitted by applicable law.
Market forecasts, expectations and opinions are based on analysis of available information and a number of assumptions regarding economic, financial, political and market conditions. Such assumptions may prove to be incorrect, and actual market developments may differ materially from those described or anticipated.
Nothing contained in this publication constitutes investment advice, financial advice, a personal recommendation, an offer, solicitation or invitation to buy, sell or otherwise transact in any financial instrument or investment product. The information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not take into account the investment objectives, financial situation, experience or particular circumstances of any individual reader.
Past performance is not indicative of future results. Financial markets, including foreign exchange, commodities, equities, derivatives and other financial instruments, involve risk and prices can move rapidly. Readers should conduct their own independent research and, where appropriate, obtain advice from an appropriately authorised financial professional before making any investment or trading decision.
Where this publication refers to Today Markets, it represents market news, research, analysis and commentary published for informational purposes. Where Currency Hedger is referenced, it represents commentary concerning foreign exchange, currency exposure, international payments and hedging-related topics. References to particular financial instruments, markets, companies, currencies or commodities should not be interpreted as a recommendation to transact in them.
Octalas Group Ltd, Today Markets and Currency Hedger may have commercial interests or relationships with businesses, financial-service providers, technology providers or other market participants mentioned in their publications. Where relevant, such relationships or interests may create potential conflicts of interest. Appropriate measures are intended to be taken to ensure that published analysis and commentary are presented objectively and that commercial considerations do not determine the substance of market analysis.
The views expressed in this publication are those of the author or contributors at the time of publication and may change without notice as market conditions develop. Readers should not assume that any information contained herein has been updated following publication.
© 2026 Octalas Group Ltd. All rights reserved.
Published on behalf of Today Markets and
Currency Hedger.





