Daily FNArena News - Australia

Short-term uranium prices continue to soften, but as the longer term outlook improves, so do the prospects for the main Aussie plays.

Stockbroker Intersuisse rates mining services group Industrea a Buy on the back of new contract wins in recent months.

Morgan Stanley sees Austar under the threat of competition as broadband services expand in Australia.

While government stimuli still play a big part in economists’ expectations for the Australian economic outlook, it is becoming increasingly less so.

While it remains below long-term trend rates the Westpac-Melbourne Institute Leading Index improved further in July, supporting the bank’s view growth will strengthen in 2010.

The minutes of its September meeting indicate the RBA has many factors to juggle with regard to monetary policy.

Brokers were generally nonplussed by the Sigma Pharmaceuticals interim result as margins in the generic business remain a concern and an impediment to group earnings growth.

Primary Health Care is to refinance $1.2bn in debt and the move is seen as removing a perceived overhang.

Australia’s unemployment rate was unchanged at 5.8% in August but the details tell a different tale.

DAP prices are improving but has the market overpriced Incitec?