** Shares of Australian energy stocks rise as much as 1% to hit their highest levels since Oct 23

** The sub-index on track to extend its gains to a ninth consecutive session

** Oil prices hovered at their highest levels since October as investors eyed the impact on global fuel demand from colder weather in the Northern Hemisphere and Beijing's economic stimulus measures

** Shares of Woodside Energy and Santos rise up to 1.2% and 0.7%, respectively

** Both Woodside and Santos hit their highest level since Nov 25

** AXEJ posted an 18.8% decline in 2024

(Reporting by John Biju in Bengaluru)

((John.Biju@thomsonreuters.com;))