** Australian mining sub-index .AXMM falls as much as 4.3%, hitting its lowest level since February 18
** Sub-index set for worst weekly decline since early September, 2022, and on track to log fourth straight session of declines
** Sub-index tracks lower copper prices as dollar firmed and market awaited further news from smelters in the war-hit Middle East MET/L
** Major miner Rio Tinto RIO.AX down as much as 5.3% to its lowest since February 3, larger peer BHP BHP.AX down as much as 4.8%, set for its worst trading session since April 7, 2025
** Sub-index has already lost 7.9% in the month so far
** YTD, sub-index up 10.5%, including session's move
(Reporting by Shivangi Lahiri in Bengaluru)
((shivangi.lahiri@thomsonreuters.com))
Comments