New ratings on 4 ASX 200 energy shares: experts

Leading brokers have recently updated their ratings and 12-month share price targets.

S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) shares are up 1.2% while the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 0.07% today.

ASX 200 energy shares have soared 16% since Israel and the United States attacked Iran on 28 February (US time).

The ensuing oil supply shock has sent the Brent Crude oil price 42% higher over 30 days to US$103.14 at the time of writing.

Gas prices are also substantially higher, with European gas up 64%, UK gas up 69%, and German gas up 60% over 30 days.

The thermal coal price is also 15% higher over 30 days as disrupted gas supplies force power plants to switch to coal.

The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively shut, choking off 20% of global oil and gas supplies, as Middle East producers curtail production.

The US and Iran are in discussions to end the war, but how long this will take is anyone's guess.

While we watch and wait, here are some recent recommendations from the experts on four ASX 200 energy shares.

An oil refinery worker stands in front of an oil rig with his arms crossed and a smile on his face.

Image source: Getty Images

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD)

Ampol shares are up 0.3% to $33.30 on Thursday.

Stock in the national service station network owner has rocketed 18% since the conflict in Iran began.

This week, Jefferies reiterated its buy rating on this ASX 200 energy share.

The broker also lifted its 12-month share price target on Ampol from $35 to $36.50.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

The Woodside share price is 1.4% higher at $34.09 on Thursday.

The market's biggest ASX 200 oil share has risen 20% since the war began.

This week, UBS put a hold rating on Woodside shares with a price target of $30.20.

New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC)

The New Hope Corporation share price is $5.49, down 1.1% on Thursday and up 17% since the war began.

Last week, Morgans maintained its hold rating on this ASX 200 coal share with a $5 target.

The broker said:

With an increasing production profile and material upside potential in coal prices, NHCs outlook remains positive.

Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC)

The Whitehaven share price is $8.74, down 1.5% on Thursday and up 12% since the war began.

UBS maintains a sell rating on this ASX 200 energy share.

However, the broker lifted its 12-month price target from $7.70 to $7.90 this month.

Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Jefferies Financial Group. 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.

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