Australia shares edge higher as banks rise; oil extends losses
Australian shares rose 0.4% in early trade, led by gains in banks. Oil prices extended losses as Middle East supply disruption concerns eased.
Australian shares were higher on Thursday, with banks among the leaders as the broader market advanced, while oil prices kept falling as worries eased over possible Middle East supply disruptions. 7 as of 0007 GMT. 3% higher on Wednesday. Oil prices fell further.