5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday

Here's what to expect on the ASX 200 on Friday.

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

On Thursday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) ran out of steam and edged into the red. The benchmark index fell slightly to 7,194.9 points.

Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Friday? Here are five things to watch:

Investor sitting in front of multiple screens watching share prices

Image source: Getty Images

ASX 200 expected to rise

The Australian share market looks set to end the week in a positive fashion following a reasonably solid night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open 11 points or 0.15% higher this morning. In the United States, the Dow Jones was up 0.8%, the S&P 500 rose 0.45%, and the NASDAQ was flat.

Medibank class action

Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL) shares will be on watch today after the health insurance company revealed that it has been hit with a class action. These proceedings have been brought on behalf of persons who acquired an interest in ordinary Medibank shares during the period 10 September 2020 and 25 October 2022. The claim relates to Medibank not disclosing the alleged deficiencies in its cyber security systems.

Oil prices rise

ASX 200 energy shares Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) could have a decent finish to the week after oil prices rose overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 0.3% to US$69.75 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 0.35% to US$74.28 a barrel. Traders were bidding oil higher amid tightening supplies.

Gold price falls

ASX 200 gold shares Newcrest Mining Ltd (ASX: NCM) and St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM) will be on watch after the gold price dropped overnight. According to CNBC, the spot gold price is down 0.3% to US$1,915.9 an ounce. Strong US economic data weighed on the precious metal.

Telix named as a buy

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) shares could be in the buy zone according to Bell Potter. This morning, the broker has retained its buy rating and $14.00 price target. It commented: "The US has under invested in the training of Nuclear Medicine Specialists for several decades and this follows an absence of innovation in this field until more recent times. It is now apparent that TLX's recent acquisition of Dedicaid (being AI for nuclear medicine) may place the company at the forefront of plugging this gap."

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Telix Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Share Market News

Coal miner standing in a coal mine.
Energy Shares

ASX 200 coal stock higher on US$2.4 billion deal

The company has agreed to pay up to US$2.4 billion for an 80% stake in a major coal mine.

Read more »

Two excited woman pointing out a bargain opportunity on a laptop.
Share Market News

Will these top-performing ASX stocks keep charging higher?

Can these shares keep going?

Read more »

I young woman takes a bite out of a burrito n the street outside a Mexican fast-food establishment.
Share Market News

3 discounted ASX 200 shares to buy before they rebound 

These three stocks appear to be undervalued right now.

Read more »

Young businessman lost in depression on stairs.
Share Fallers

What's going on with the DroneShield share price?

The drone operator's share price outperformed in March, but has now crashed again.

Read more »

A female ASX investor looks through a magnifying glass that enlarges her eye and holds her hand to her face with her mouth open as if looking at something of great interest or surprise.
Share Market News

These ASX shares look too good to ignore after the recent pullback

Have these shares been left in the bargain bin after recent weakness? Let's find out.

Read more »

A business person directs a pointed finger upwards on a rising arrow on a bar graph.
Broker Notes

Why this surging ASX All Ords gold stock is tipped to rocket another 79%

A leading broker forecasts more outsized gains from this fast-rising ASX gold stock. But why?

Read more »

Three happy office workers cheer as they read about good financial news on a laptop.
Share Market News

5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday

Another good session is expected for Aussie investors today.

Read more »

A group of people in suits and hard hats celebrate the rising share price with champagne.
Resources Shares

Up 67% in a year! The red-hot South32 share price is smashing BHP, Rio and Fortescue

Here's why I think the miner could outpace some of its peers in 2026.

Read more »