Sector movers: Miners roar ahead as metals advance

8th Apr 2011 13:53

High commodity prices are sending stocks in both directions today.The mining sector has marched ahead as metals prices advance.Shares in Fresnillo, which mines for silver in Mexico, are the best performing in the FTSE 100. Silver hit $40 an ounce for the first time since 1980, while gold prices have hit record levels. More mainstream miners such as Anglo American and Xstrata are also posting good gains. High oil prices are hurting travel stocks. British Airways owner IAG and the crude-thirsty cruise operator Carnival among the heaviest fallers. Top performing sectors so far todayAutomobiles & Parts 4,795.37 +2.60%Mining 27,711.54 +2.55%Industrial Metals & Mining 8,577.49 +2.38%Forestry & Paper 6,554.37 +2.10%Life Insurance 4,646.86 +1.89%Bottom performing sectors so far todayTravel & Leisure 4,537.86 -0.41%Health Care Equipment & Services 3,922.80 -0.38%Personal Goods 19,854.69 -0.33%Industrial Transportation 2,578.72 -0.07%Alternative Energy null 0.00%RG