The ASX All Ordinaries Index (XAO) is one of the most widely followed indicators of the Australian share market, tracking the overall performance of the nation’s equities. First introduced in January 1980 with a base level of 500 points, the index is composed of the 500 largest companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, ranked by market value. Investors often rely on the XAO as a reference point when assessing the strength of Australian shares and the broader economy.
Unlike narrower indices such as the ASX 200, the All Ordinaries provides broader exposure because it includes not only large, established corporations but also mid-sized and smaller businesses across multiple industries. This wide coverage gives a more complete picture of market activity, reflecting changes in investor confidence, economic trends, and company performance. For retail and institutional investors alike, the XAO remains a central measure of the health and direction of Australia’s stock market.


