Market Close 17 Feb 26: ASX edges higher as BHP hits record high

The Aussie market pushed higher for a second day, though gains were modest as investors navigated a quiet global lead with US and Chinese markets closed. The Materials sector did the heavy lifting, propelled by BHP which surged to a fresh all-time high. The company's half-year results stunned the market, as copper earnings surpassed iron ore for the first time, driven by a global push for electrification and AI infrastructure. Reporting season drama provided the day's biggest swings elsewhere. Baby Bunting soared after a 25% sales jump, while A2 Milk and JB Hi-Fi extended yesterday's post-earnings rallies. However, it wasn't all one-way traffic; Reliance Worldwide tumbled as US tariffs and weak housing demand dented profits, and Seek fell despite an adjusted profit beat as investors fretted over a massive write-down of its Chinese investment, Zhaopin. The content in this podcast is prepared, approved and distributed in Australia by Commonwealth Securities Limited ABN 60 067 254 399 AFSL 238814. The information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the appropriateness of the information before acting and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.