The local share market flew higher today, although it did pare back some of its gains late in the session
Here's a quick recap:
- S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) up 1% to 5168 points
- ALL ORDINARIES (Index: ^AXAO) (ASX: XAO) up 1% to 5226 points
- AUD/USD at US 75.90 cents
- Iron Ore at US$53.57 a tonne, according to the Metal Bulletin
- Gold at US$1,256.55 an ounce
- Brent oil at US$40.65 a barrel
The ASX climbed as much as 1.5% during today's session after the US Federal Reserve lowered its expectations regarding how many times it would hike interest rates in 2016. The Australian dollar soared as a result, hitting a high of US76.2 cents.
Again, it was the banks and miners producing plenty of energy today. Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) was the best of the big four, rising 1.8%, while Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) and BHP Billiton Limited (ASX: BHP) rose 9.1% and 2.4%.
Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) climbed 5% as well, and Sundance Energy Australia Ltd (ASX: SEA) lifted 6.8%.
Myer Holdings Ltd (ASX: MYR) and Mesoblast limited (ASX: MSB) were two of the market's best today, rising 12.7% and 15.7%. Slater & Gordon Limited (ASX: SGH), on the other hand, fell 5.2%.
Here are Thursday's top stories:
- Myer Holdings Ltd reports: Are the shares a bargain?
- BOOM! Why the OrotonGroup Limited share price soared 27% today
- Here's why your blue-chip dividend shares are in danger
- Is Primary Health Care Limited a takeover target?
- Blackmores Limited and Bega Cheese Ltd target more growth in China
- US Federal Reserve decision boosts Australian dollar
- 3 ASX shares for intelligent investors
