Stocks to watch on the Australian stock exchange on Friday:

BHP – BHP BILLITON

FMG – FORTESCUE METALS GROUP

RIO – RIO TINTO

Mining company shares will continue to be in focus with the price of iron ore still faltering.

ORG – ORIGIN ENERGY

OSH – OILSEARCH

STO – SANTOS

WPL – WOODSIDE PETROLEUM

Energy companies could have an easier day for once after oil prices rose around five per cent in the overnight session.

RMD – RESMED

Resmed is slated to post first half results.

STO – SANTOS

Santos is expected to release its fourth quarter production report.