iShares MSCI Australia ETF

EWA

Market cap $1.43B

China has unveiled a new carbon-peaking action plan that targets new energy vehicles (NEVs) accounting for 30% of the country's total vehicle fleet by 2030, marking a significant step in the electrification of the world's largest automobile market. The State Council on Thursday released the "15th Five-Year Plan" Carbon Peaking Action Plan, outlining the country's roadmap to peak carbon emissions before 2030.

Australian shares were little changed on Tuesday as losses in gold, mining and consumer stocks countered gains in banks and tech stocks, while software ​heavyweight WiseTech Global jumped to its highest in near three weeks ‌after naming a new chair.

Just a short stroll from Sydney's famous Bondi Beach, auctioneer Clarence White struggles to drum up bids for an airy three-storey home that boasts five bedrooms and an al fresco lounge - price tag, A$5.2 million ($3.64 million).

Australia will extend fuel excise relief for an additional month, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Sunday, as ​the country continues to grapple with higher fuel costs ‌during the Iran war.

Australian lawmakers on Friday suggested further regulation of the Big Four accounting firms ​could be necessary as they grilled KPMG executives over allegations of misconduct — the second big scandal ‌in the country's industry since 2023.

Chinese automakers are speeding into right-hand-drive markets from Australia to Southeast Asia and ​challenging long-dominant Japanese car companies with premium electric vehicles aimed at affluent consumers.

The Australian Securities Exchange will introduce ​major new changes that cap companies from ‌issuing more than 25% of their existing share capital to fund public takeovers without a shareholder vote, bowing to pressure from investors ​concerned about becoming diluted in corporate buyouts.

Sydney's new A$5.6 billion ($3.6 billion) airport will open to passengers in October after more than a decade of planning, adding red-eye flight options ​from Australia's largest city as the existing hub operates under night curfew ‌restrictions.

Australia's GDP expanded 2.5% in the first three months this year, missing expectations. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, Australia's GDP grew 0.3% compared with 0.5% forecast.

The UK's blue-chip index advanced on Tuesday, supported by gains in mining-related shares as base metal prices strengthened, while energy stocks came under pressure following a decline in crude oil. Broader sentiment was also influenced by geopolitical developments, including renewed expectations of progress in US–Iran talks.