SBS News In Depth

Myanmar’s junta finally provides signs of life for its former leader Aung San Suu Kyi - but why now and what does it all mean for the ongoing civil war? Plus, Ceuta’s border crisis reignites immigration divisions in Europe. And, how a US hiker who got himself into – and out of – a sticky situation.

Ongoing hopes of a US-Iran deal to re-open the Strait of Hormuz have sent the ASX to a second consecutive closing high. The S&P/ASX 200 added 43.8 points, or 0.5%, for a close of 9271.6. Rena Sarumpaet spoke to Hugh Lam, Investment Strategist at Betashares, on a corporate reporting season just heating up, and broader market gains.

The government is under pressure to go further to limit gambling harms, after its legislation failed to find backing from the Coalition, crossbench or Greens. This week, a Senate inquiry heard bombshell claims that reignited debate on the issue ahead of parliament's return from the mid-winter break. Several key issues remain unresolved, including inducements offered to problem gamblers, and calls for a national regulator.

As climate change causes large parts of the northern hemisphere to experience high heat and raging wildfires, forecasters are warning it is a preview of what is to come for Australia. A very strong El Nino system is in play for the first time in a decade - and it's combining with other weather patterns to present a steamy forecast for spring and summer in the Asia Pacific.

Negotiations to reopen the Strait of Hormuz appear to be gaining momentum, with Iran saying talks with neighbouring Oman are nearing completion. But while diplomats discuss shipping routes, Israel and Iran remain deeply divided over Tehran's nuclear programme, and fighting in southern Lebanon continues despite ceasefire efforts.