Base Metals and Minerals

The S&P closed at a new high – just – in a day of thin volume and questionable conviction. Dow up 44.

The Dow was slightly higher last night but the S&P wasn’t, again failing to mark a new high.

As investors embrace the carry trade opportunities provided by the Fed and the G20, the Dow breaks into new territory, up 203. (Locked for subscribers until 10:00 AEDST)

US unemployment flew past 10%, but investors shrugged off the bad news seeing stocks post some minor gains. Dow up 17 points.

Wall Street surged last night on earnings, data, and a belated appreciation of the Fed. Dow up 203. (Locked for subscribers until 10:00 AEDST)

BIS Shrapnel suggests Australian mining investment will reach record levels in four years, driven by multi-billion dollar projects in a number of sectors.

Little change in the Fed’s monetary policy rhetoric yet a rally on Wall Street failed on the death. Dow up 30.

A recent visit to China leads Barclays Capital to suggest supply may be a short-term issue in that country’s metal markets.

Gold soared last night despite a stronger greenback following a big purchase from the Indian central bank. Dow down 17.

Rio Tinto has lifted the amount of capital expenditure it plans as the company looks to develop its growth options in coming years and brokers view the move as a positive.