The Australian share market was flat at noon as strength in resources stocks helped the market claw back losses in early trading.
All Ordinaries had fallen 7.8 points, or 0.016 per cent, to 4,838.
Some analysts are saying "They are the standouts in performances here today and they have definitely influenced the market in its midday recovery. Commodities prices were all strong last night, oil included with the base metals strength as well,"
The HIA-CBA First Home Buyer Affordability Report showed that housing affordability slipped 3.3 per cent in the September quarter but was still at a level that is 35.7 per cent better than the same time a year ago.
Transport and logistics company Asciano Group (AIO) said in its September quarter operating report this morning that it has seen some encouraging signs within a number of its businesses, with volumes and trading conditions showing signs of stability or improvement in the quarter.
The sector with the biggest gain at midday is the Materials index which gained 61 points to 12,024 on higher metal prices overnight.
The sector with the biggest loss at midday is the Real Estate Investment Trust index, down 10 points at 944.
Gold is trading at US$1,061.45 US an ounce and the Aussie dollar is trading at 92.97 US cents.
(23 October)Friday Calendar
Australia import/export prices, Q3 EU new industrial orders, Aug UK GDP, Q3 US existing home sales, Sep US Fed chairman speaks
AHD Annual General Meeting (10:00 AM) AHL Annual General Meeting AIO Annual General Meeting (02:00 PM) ASB Annual General Meeting (03:00 PM) AVE Annual General Meeting (12:00 PM) BMI Annual General Meeting (11:00 AM) CKL Annual General Meeting (11:00 AM) HIL Annual General Meeting (02:00 PM) HTI Annual General Meeting (12:45 PM) IPL Annual General Meeting JET Annual General Meeting (10:00 AM) KZL Annual General Meeting (11:00 AM) MAP Syd Airport Q3 result NCK Annual General Meeting (11:30 AM) PMC Annual General Meeting (10:30 AM) PXS Annual General Meeting SAI Annual General Meeting (10:00 AM) WES Investor briefing WPL Sep-qtr production report WSA Annual General Meeting (03:30 PM)
