Good Afternoon, The XJO closed up 13 points at 5,969 points, as energy and mining stocks climb in line with firmer commodity prices, helping offset weakness...

Good Afternoon, The XJO closed up 13 points at 5,969 points, as energy and mining stocks climb in line with firmer commodity prices, helping offset weakness in the major banks. A further fall in the US dollar overnight injected some life into the prices of commodities such, which in turn has given investors an excuse to get back in the sector. Interestingly, Copper is starting to move higher..... and this shows some strength in investors' perception relating to future growth... Copper Chart attached Newcrest (NCM) is up 2.6%, while oil and gas producer Santos (STO) has put on 1.4%. BHP has gained 0.7%, Fortescue (FMG) is up 1.5%, while Rio down 1.4%. The financial sector is mostly softer, consolidating recent gains that have driven three of the big four banks to record highs. KMD has slumped 12.4% after the outdoor clothing and equipment maker reported a net loss in the first half... Kathmandu has reported a 2% fall in same-store sales in the first seven weeks of the new half, after swinging to a first-half loss on disappointing sales, particular in Australia.