Stocks to watch on the Australian stock exchange:

BHP – BHP BILLITON

FMG – FORTESCUE METALS GROUP

RIO – RIO TINTO

The price of iron ore has soared, lifting $US2.59 to $US56.62.

ORG – ORIGIN ENERGY

STO – SANTOS

WPL – WOODSIDE PETROLEUM

Oil prices have rebounded, with WTI and Brent crude both back above $US40.