How to Invest in the Australian Stock Exchange The Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) lists more than 2,200 companies and has a market capitalization of approximately $1.5 trillion, or $2.15 trillion in Australian dollars (AUD). Its size places it among the 10 largest global exchanges by market cap. The Sydney-based exchanges trades in a variety of asset classes including equities, fixed income, commodities and energy. The ASX lists share prices in Australian dollars. Each Australian dollar is valued at approximately $0.75 U.S. A financial advisor can help you understand and engage with securitites on the Australian Stock Exchange. In the early 1800s in Australia, a number of local exchanges were formed operated for various periods in cities including Melbourne, Bendigo and Ballarat. The history dates back to 1871 when the Sydney Stock Exchange began operations.