The JSE reopened on an upbeat note after the Easter long weekend, following world markets higher in early trade.
By 9.16am the JSE all share index was up 0.47 percent, with resources up 0.60 percent, gold miners up 1.58 percent and platinum miners 1.45 percent better.
Banks were 1.58 percent stronger, financials were 0.91 percent better and the industrial index was up 0.10 percent.
The rand was bid at R7.23/$, from R7.25/$ at the JSE's close on Thursday. Gold was quoted at $1 126.47/oz from $1 125.51/oz at the JSE's last close.
Platinum was at $1 690/oz from $1 670/oz at the JSE's last close.
A local trader said sentiment was generally quite positive on international markets, with metals and oil prices strong.
"It does appear to show that foreign investors are coming into emerging markets in general, seeking higher yields. There are also signals that give a firm indication that the world economy is recovering," said a local trader.
He noted that Dow futures are slightly lower, but the US markets have enjoyed a strong run up of late.
Dow Jones Newswires reported European stock markets are likely to start Tuesday with a higher opening as bourses catch up with recent gains on Wall Street, in a week packed with major events and fresh economic data.
For Tuesday's opening, IG Markets is calling the FTSE up 47 at 5792, the DAX up 41 at 6277 and the CAC up 28 at 4062.
Wall Street futures are lower after US stocks climbed to fresh 18-month highs Monday, with American Express, Caterpillar and Chevron among the gainers.
Stocks rose on better-than-expected data on the services and housing sectors, in addition to Friday's report of the biggest job increase in three years.
The Dow Jones industrial average ended up 46.68 points at 10 973.55 points.
Meanwhile, Asian markets traded mostly higher with the Australian market reaching an 18-month high. Resources and oil plays were leading gains following a rally in crude prices.
However, shares in Japan were hurt by profit-taking after recent gains.
The Nikkei ended down 0.5 percent, while in Hong Kong, the Hang Seng was last up 0.65 percent. - I-Net Bridge
