Mid-Session 9 Jan 20: Local shares trade within sight of record highs on easing US/Iran tensions

The Australian sharemarket rose in early trade on Thursday driven by an easing of tensions in the Middle East. Most sectors are posting solid gains, led by Healthcare and the consumer facing sectors. Gold names have  fallen as demand for safe havens eased, while oil stocks have slumped, after oil prices fell by as much as 5% overnight. 

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