Economy · May 2026

Zijin Mining's $4 billion acquisition of Allied Gold faces delays in China, marking the second time the deal has been held up by regulatory hurdles. Sydney and Melbourne property values fell in May as the housing market stalls, with both cities recording declines in median prices. Claims of 'blood money' have emerged over a Russian commodity used in thousands of Australian homes, raising ethical concerns about the supply chain. Tesla has dropped its threat to scrap a graphite supply deal with Australia's Syrah Resources, preserving a key materials agreement. A massive ship docked in Melbourne on Sunday carrying a cargo that could permanently change Australian motoring, though details of the shipment remain undisclosed.