** Australian energy stocks .AXEJ rise as much as 1.3% to hit their highest levels since Oct 2, 2024
** The sub-index set to extend gains to a second day, if current trend holds
** Oil prices remained near four-month highs as Chinese and Indian buyers sought new suppliers in the wake of U.S. sanctions on Russian oil O/R
** Shares of Woodside Energy WDS.AX and Santos STO.AX rise as much as 1.2% and 1%, respectively
** Both Woodside and Santos touch their highest levels in around three months
** AXEJ lost over 18% in 2024
(Reporting by John Biju in Bengaluru)
((John.Biju@thomsonreuters.com;))