The S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) is expected to open slightly higher on Monday morning, helping to reverse some of Friday's decline. The futures market is pointing to a 6-point gain at the open, representing a gain of around 0.1%.
Here's a quick recap:
- FTSE 100 (UK): up 0.66%
- DAX (Germany): up 0.47%
- CAC 40 (France): up 0.41%
- Dow Jones (USA): down 0.11%
- NASDAQ (USA): up 0.09%
The BHP Billiton Limited (ASX: BHP) share price will receive some attention today with the 'Big Australian' set to rebrand itself. It is being reported that the miner will change its name to 'BHP Limited', ditching the 'Billiton' in its name, while its logo is also set for a change. As reported by The Australian Financial Review, the move is intended to help it regain the trust of communities around the world.
Meanwhile, BHP's rivals Rio Tinto Limited (ASX: RIO) and Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) could also receive some attention after the iron ore price lifted 1.7% during the latest session. Oil prices rose marginally as well.
Gold also rose 0.3% and is now fetching around US$1,228 an ounce. The share prices of Newcrest Mining Limited (ASX: NCM) and Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) rose strongly on Friday, and could receive a further boost today.
On the other hand, the a2 Milk Company Ltd (Australia) (ASX: A2M) share price was hit hard on Friday, shedding 5%, so could be in focus today. That said, the shares are still sporting a gain of around 60% since the beginning of the year.
Before getting started on your day, be sure to check out these two articles:
