2317 GMT - Australian mining and metals companies on the whole reported solid earnings--their highest in five years, says RBC Capital Markets. Gold and lithium producers posted record profits while higher copper prices increased earnings for Sandfire and diversified miners BHP, Rio Tinto and South32, the broker says following the recent reporting season. It says dividends for the sector came in 13% above expectations, underpinned by dividend reinstatements. "However, the sting in the tail for the metals and mining sector is higher FY27 cost guidance particularly for the gold and iron ore producers," it says.