In morning trade on Friday, two of the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) stocks are racing ahead of the 0.5% losses posted by the benchmark index at the time of writing, while one is trailing those losses.

Here's what's catching ASX investor interest.

Zip shares rocket on record quarterly earnings

Zip shares are racing higher today, up 11.7% and trading for $2.29 apiece.

This strong performance follows the release of the ASX 200 buy now, pay later (BNPL) stock's third-quarter (Q3 FY 2026) results.

Highlights for the three months included a 22.4% year-on-year increase in total transaction volume (TTV) to $4 billion. And total income was up 20.2% from Q3 FY 2025 to $335.2 million.

Zip shares are also getting a boost with the company reporting record quarterly earnings. Earning before tax, depreciation and amortisation surged 41.5% year on year to $65.1 million.

This led management to upgrade Zip's full-year FY 2026 cash EBTDA guidance to no less than $260 million.

Which brings us to…

Paladin Energy shares lift on production upgrade

Paladin Energy shares are also making news and enjoying a strong run today. Though not quite as strong as Zip shares.

Shares in the ASX 200 uranium stock are changing hands for $14.54 at the time of writing, up 2.7%.

Investors are bidding up Paladin Energy shares after the company released a positive operations and guidance update for its Langer Heinrich Mine (LHM).

Following an efficient ramp-up of LHM to full mining, and with 3.6 million pounds of uranium oxide produced so far in FY 2026, management increased full-year uranium production guidance to between 4.5 million and 4.8 million pounds. That's up from previous guidance of 4.0 million to 4.4 million pounds.

Also likely helping boost Paladin Energy shares today, the company reduced its full-year capital and exploration expenditure guidance.

And finally…

Alcoa shares slide on revenue dip

Joining Paladin and Zip shares in the headlines today, but heading in the other direction, is Alcoa, which produces and sells bauxite, alumina, and aluminium products.

Alcoa shares are down 2.9% at the time of writing, swapping hands for $97.14 apiece.

Investors have been pressuring the ASX 200 stock following the release of its quarterly update.

While adjusted EBITDA, excluding special items, increased 13% quarter on quarter to US$595 million, alumina production fell 5%, impacted in part by Cyclone Narelle.

This led to a 7% quarter-on-quarter decline in revenue to US$3.2 billion.

The post Why Paladin Energy, Alcoa and Zip shares are making headlines on Friday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Alcoa report?

• Revenue of US$3.2 billion for Q1 2026, down 7% from Q4 2025
• Net income attributable to Alcoa: US$425 million (US$1.60 per share), up from US$213 million
• Adjusted net income: US$373 million (US$1.40 per share)
• Adjusted EBITDA excluding special items: US$595 million, up from US$527 million
• Cash balance at quarter end: US$1.4 billion
• No dividend announced for the quarter

What else do investors need to know?

Alcoa reported that alumina production fell 5% sequentially, mainly due to maintenance at Australian refineries, while aluminium output was steady compared to the previous quarter. The company faced shipping delays and lower third-party alumina sales, in part due to Middle East unrest and Cyclone Narelle.

On the capital management front, Alcoa issued a notice to redeem the remaining US$219 million of its 6.125% senior notes due 2028, aiming to strengthen its balance sheet with available cash. The company also safely completed the restart of its San Ciprián smelter in Spain during April 2026, highlighting its operational resilience.

What did Alcoa management say?

Alcoa President and CEO William F. Oplinger said:

Our experienced team performed very well managing the impacts from the Middle East conflict and Cyclone Narelle. We delivered a solid quarter excluding shipment timing impacts, which we expect to realize in the second quarter of 2026.

What's next for Alcoa?

Looking ahead, Alcoa expects full-year 2026 production and shipments in both its Alumina and Aluminium segments to remain in line with previous forecasts. The company's focus is on operational stability, especially after the San Ciprián smelter restart, and on optimising costs in the face of variable energy prices and geopolitical uncertainty.

Management flagged shipment timing impacts that are anticipated to benefit results in the second quarter, with higher aluminium prices and product premiums also expected to help earnings. Alcoa maintains an active approach to capital allocation, continuing debt reduction and investments to support long-term growth.

Alcoa share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Alcoa shares have risen 163%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 15% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Alcoa posts Q1 2026 result appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Trump's declaration that the war with Iran would go on for another "two to three weeks" was enough to start the selling. By the time the markets closed up for the Easter break, the ASX 200 had slumped by a nasty 1.06%. That fall leaves the index at 8,579.5 points as we head into the long weekend.

This volatile session for Australian investors follows a far more optimistic morning up on the American markets (let's see what happens tomorrow over there).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) had a comfortable time of it, rising by 0.48%.

Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was even more enthusiastic, gaining 1.16%.

But let's return to the local markets now and check out how the various ASX sectors dealt with today's whipsawing trading conditions.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After starting deep in red territory this morning, the ASX 200 dropped as low as 8,379 points during intra-day trading before wrapping up at a flat 8,461 points. That puts the index down 0.65% for the session today.

This rather bleak Monday for ASX investors came after an even more turbulent end to the American trading week on Saturday morning (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was hit hard, dropping by a nasty 1.73%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared even worse, falling by a horrid 2.15%.

But let's get back to this week and our local markets, and check out the damage to the different ASX sectors inflicted by today's market drop.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Major producers targeted

Aluminium Bahrain, which operates one of the world's largest smelters, said on Sunday it was assessing damage to its facility after Iranian attacks over the weekend.

The company said further:

The safety and security of Alba's people remain its top priority and the Company confirms that 2 of Alba's employees sustained minor injuries. Alba is assessing the extent of the damage to its facilities and remains focused on maintaining its operational resilience and the safety of its employees. The Company will provide further updates, as required, in due course.

Meanwhile, there was reported to be significant damage at Emirates Global Aluminium's site after attacks from missiles and drones.

Shares in Australian aluminium producers jumped as a result, with Alcoa Corporation (ASX: AAI) leading the pack with its shares trading 9.2% higher at $93.84.

Shares in South 32 Ltd (ASX: S32) were 6.3% higher in early trade, while Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares were 2.9% higher at $157.64.

The Reuters report on the attacks said the aluminium suppliers in the Persian Gulf region had already been unable to ship to world markets due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.  

Aluminium Bahrain had already shut down lines one, two, and three at its site, "which together represent 19% of Alba's total production capacity of 1,623,000 metric tonnes per annum, as an operational measure to preserve business continuity amid ongoing supply and transit disruptions affecting the Strait of Hormuz''.

The company said further:

This targeted, line-specific action is designed to optimise the utilisation of Alba's existing raw materials inventory and prioritise operational stability across Reduction Lines 4, 5 and 6. By concentrating strategic raw materials' inputs on the most sustainable operating configuration, Alba aims to maintain production resilience, manage working capital prudently, and develop alternatives to reduce exposure to near-term supply volatility. Alba continues to monitor and respond to the situation and will provide updates to the market as appropriate. The Company is also working closely with suppliers and customers to manage commitments and mitigate disruption.

Emirates Global Aluminium claims to be the number one premium aluminium producer in the world, accounting for 4% of global production and 2.83 million tonnes of metal cast in 2025.

Local operators on the ropes

Australia's aluminium industry has been struggling to survive without government support in recent years, with Rio just last week securing a $2 billion taxpayer handout to keep Queensland's Boyne smelter operating until at least 2040.

The post Why are Australian aluminium shares charging higher today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX mining shares have been the worst hit by the war in Iran, with the materials sector losing 15.3% of its value since the conflict began.

Some investors took profits this month after a strong run for ASX 200 mining shares, amid fears that higher diesel prices and potential shortages could hurt earnings and production for 2H FY26.

ASX 200 mining shares have also declined alongside metals prices, with gold down 17%, silver down 22%, lithium carbonate down 8%, and copper down 7% over the month. Iron ore has demonstrated resilience, rising 7% over the period to US$106 per tonne on Friday.

With the US and Iran still negotiating a 15-point plan for peace, it is hoped this war and the ensuing global oil shock will be over soon.

This may have motivated some investors to take up new or enhanced positions in ASX 200 mining shares last week, given the bright long-term outlook for the sector and the opportunity to buy the dip.

Reflecting the miners' fightback last week, the S&P/ASX 300 Metal & Mining Index (ASX: XMM) rose 4.4% while the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) gained 1% to finish at 8,516.3 points.

Seven of the 11 market sectors finished in the green last week.

Let's recap.

ASX 200 mining shares fight back

The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price increased 6.1% to close at $50.37 on Friday.

BHP shares reached a record $59.39 on 3 March before the war prompted investors to take profits.

Despite last week's rebound, the ASX 200's largest mining stock remains 13.8% lower over 30 days.

Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares lifted 4.3% to $153.23 last week, while Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) gained 6.5% to $20.19.

The Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) share price soared 9.7% to $56.69.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) shares increased 1.3% to $4.03 per share.

ASX 200 copper share Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR) lifted 1.8% to $15.88, while Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC) edged 0.6% lower to $10.14.

ASX 200 lithium shares had a ripsnorter of a week, with PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) rocketing 21.8% to close at $5.15 on Friday.

The Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) share price soared 20.9% to $1.77, and Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) gained 11.9% to 24 cents.

Nickel and lithium producer IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) lifted 16.5% to $7.93 per share.

Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) shares closed the week 2.7% higher at $10.08 apiece.

Bauxite and alumina producer Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI) lifted 3.5% to $85.95 per share.

What about ASX gold shares?

The market's largest ASX 200 gold share, Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) rose 0.3% to close at $18.55 on Friday.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price lifted 0.4% to $12.46, and Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) rose 3.1% to $146.85.

Among the mid-caps, Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) shares lifted 2.1% to $3.96, and Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) rose 1.1% to $6.26.

Gold and copper miner, Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) fell 3.5% to $9.76.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

Here's how the 11 market sectors stacked up last week, according to CommSec data.

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 mining shares rebound after March sell-off creates opportunities appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After suffering some nasty drops this week, investors couldn't quite summon up the fortitude to end the week higher today. Although the ASX 200 did spend some time in green territory this session, it ended up closing 0.14% lower.

That leaves the index at 8,617.1 points as we head into the weekend.

This uninspiring end to the Australian trading week follows a far nastier morning on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was a car crash-like scene, enduring a 1.56% drop.

Things were even worse for the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC), which lost 1.78% of its value.

But let's get back to the local markets now and see how the various ASX sectors ended their trading weeks.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

By the time the markets closed today, the ASX 200 had dropped a nasty 1.31%, leaving the index at a flat 8,629 points.

This rather horrid day for Australian shares follows a more temperate morning up on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was punished, but by a relatively tamer 0.61%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared far better, recording a modest rise of 0.084%.

But let's return to the local markets now for an analysis of how the different ASX sectors fared amid today's tough trading conditions.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For you to be entitled to a stock's next dividend, you must own it before its ex-dividend date.

Here are some of the ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week

The post 32 ASX shares about to go ex-dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This horrendous day for the Australian markets follows a rough morning on Wall Street for American investors.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) ended its session 0.83% lower after tanking more than 2% at one point.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared even worse, losing 1.02% of its value after a near-3% loss during intra-day trading.

But let's grit our teeth and return to the local markets now for a checkup on how today's tough trading conditions affected the different ASX sectors.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Alcoa report?

• Quarterly dividend of US 10 cents per CDI, unfranked
• Dividend ex-date: 9 March 2026
• Record date for eligibility: 10 March 2026
• Payment date: 26 March 2026
• Payments default to Australian dollars but other currencies available on request
• Non-resident withholding tax of 30% applies unless eligible for a reduced treaty rate

What else do investors need to know?

Alcoa advises CDI holders to ensure their payment instructions are up to date to avoid potential delays. Holders in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, or US must provide direct credit details, otherwise dividend payments will be withheld until valid banking information is received.

For those residing outside these countries, payments will be made by cheque in Australian dollars unless alternative global wire instructions are received. Alcoa also reminds investors that non-resident withholding tax will be deducted according to US tax law, with the standard rate set at 30% unless a valid tax treaty certification is in place.

What's next for Alcoa?

Looking ahead, Alcoa CDI holders can update their currency preferences and banking details until 10 March 2026 to ensure smooth dividend reception. The AUD equivalent for this dividend will be announced by 20 March 2026.

Alcoa continues to emphasise its commitment to consistent shareholder returns by maintaining regular quarterly payments while supporting its operational and financial strategies.

Alcoa share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Acola shares have risen 68%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 11% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Alcoa announces March 2026 dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Australia's benchmark index is up approximately 2% already in January. 

This has been led by resources and materials sectors that have both risen by roughly 10%. 

Two strong performing individual ASX 200 stocks have been Alcoa Corp (ASX: AAI) and Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC). 

However, yesterday both companies endured a heavy sell-off, with share price drops of 9% and 5% respectively. 

The question investors might now be asking is if this is a buy the dip situation or if these stocks have already peaked.

Let's find out. 

Alcoa Corp (ASX: AAI)

Alcoa is a vertically integrated aluminum company whose operations include bauxite mining, alumina refining, and manufacturing primary aluminum. 

It is the world's largest bauxite miner and alumina refiner by production volume, and the eighth-largest aluminum producer. Profits are closely tied to prevailing commodity prices along the aluminum supply chain.

Its share price is up roughly 50% in the last 12 months, and remains up 5% in 2026 even including yesterday's heavy fall. 

It has benefited from tailwinds over the last year including rising commodities, strategic decisions, and new capital flows into hard assets. 

There was no price sensitive news out of the company yesterday, however the stock price tumbled almost 9%. 

After hitting 52 week highs prior to releasing its full-year FY25 earnings, it appears this ASX 200 stock is now coming back down closer to fair value. 

So should investors buy the dip?

Analyst ratings via TradingView suggest fair value for Alcoa Corp shares is around $87.86. 

This is just 3% higher than yesterday's closing price. 

Based on this price target, it seems there is limited upside potential for this ASX 200 stock. 

Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC)

Lynas Rare Earths have been another mining stock that has enjoyed a bull run in the last 12 months. 

Its stock price is up almost 150% in the last 12 months, including 31% just in January 2026. 

However yesterday it appears investors were profit taking as the stock price fell 5%. 

The company is primarily involved in the exploration, development, and processing of rare earth minerals in Australia and Malaysia. It is one of few rare earth producers outside of China.

Expert ratings of this ASX 200 stock are mixed. 

Morgan Stanley is the most optimistic, with a price target of $19.45 suggesting an upside of 21.49%. 

However, Bell Potter believes that this ASX 200 stock has peaked. 

The broker has a price target of $11.15, which indicates a downside of 30%. 

The post Should you buy the dip on these red hot ASX 200 stocks? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

On Friday morning, Alcoa shares opened at $93.61 and have fallen 2% to $91.76 at the time of writing.

Alcoa produces and sells bauxite, alumina, and aluminium products in the United States, Australia, Spain, Canada, and elsewhere.

Here are the 4Q FY25 and full-year FY25 results.

Alcoa shares weaken despite strong signs in fourth quarter

The highlight of 4Q FY25 was a doubling in the earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) compared to 3Q.

Here are the numbers:

• Revenue increased to $3.4 billion, up 15% on 3Q FY25
• Net income of $226 million, down 2.6% on 3Q FY25
• Adjusted net income increased to $335 million vs. a loss of $6 million in 3Q FY25
• Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) excluding special items of $546 million, up 102% on 3Q FY25
• Generated $537 million in cash from operations, up $452 million on 3Q FY25
• Cash balance of $1.6 billion as of 31 December

Here are the details for full-year FY25:

• Revenue increased to $12.8 billion, up 8% on FY24, equating to $4.42 per share vs. 26 cents per share in FY24
• Adjusted net income increased to $1.2 billion, up from $60 million in FY24
• Adjusted EBITDA excluding special items increased to $2 billion, up 25%
• Generated $1.2 billion in cash from operations, up $563 million on FY24
• Reduced total debt to $2.4 billion and adjusted net debt to $1.5 billion

What else happened in FY25?

Alumina production dipped 4% in FY25 primarily due to the full curtailment of the Kwinana refinery in Western Australia in the year prior.

Aluminium production increased 5%, mainly due to the restart of the Alumar smelter in Brazil, San Ciprián in Spain, and Lista in Norway.

Alcoa said it set annual production records at five aluminium smelters and at one alumina refinery over the year.

Revenue increased primarily due to higher average realised prices for aluminium, and higher volumes and prices from bauxite offtake and supply agreements.

This was partially offset by lower average realised prices for alumina and lower aluminium shipments.

The company noted increased tariff costs on imports into the US after President Donald Trump introduced a 50% tariff last year.

The company completed several strategic initiatives in FY25, including the divestment of its stake in the Ma'aden joint venture in July.

It also formed a joint venture with IGNIS Equity Holdings to support the continued operations of its San Ciprián complex in Spain.

News on Australian operations

Alcoa announced the permanent closure of Kwinana in September and received a favourable decision in an Australian tax dispute.

In October, the US and Australian Governments announced a US$200 million concessional equity finance package to help fund a new gallium plant to be co-located at Alcoa's Wagerup alumina refinery in Western Australia.

Alcoa shares got a 7.5% boost on the day of the announcement.

The gallium plant is a joint venture between Alcoa and Japan's Sojitz Corporation, with backing from the Japanese Government.

Gallium, which is naturally present in bauxite and can be extracted during the refining process, is on the US Critical Minerals List.

It is an essential input for semiconductors and defence sector technologies.

The deal is part of a US-Australia commitment to get a US$8.5 billion pipeline of critical materials projects into production over time.

What did Alcoa management say?

Alcoa President and CEO William F. Oplinger said:

Reflecting on 2025, we maintained our pace of delivering on key operational, strategic, and capital allocation objectives, while
setting numerous production records.

We continue to build on our positive momentum through disciplined operational and financial execution, along with strategic initiatives to maximize value creation.

What's next for Alcoa?

Alcoa expects annual alumina production of between 9.7 and 9.9 million tonnes in FY26.

This would be higher than the FY25 production of 9.64 million tonnes due to productivity improvements.

In Australia, Alcoa is seeking regulatory approval to extend its Western Australia bauxite mining.

It wants to expand into the Myara North and Holyoake areas, and re‑enter the O'Neil region.

These would be new mining zones beyond its existing Huntly and Willowdale mines.

This month, the company provided its responses to a Western Australia Environmental Protection Authority (WA EPA) regarding the feedback gathered during a 12-week public comment period for Alcoa's mining activities in Australia.

These activities include the mine plan for Myara North and Holyoake and the rolling five-year plan for 2023 to 2027.

Alcoa said:

The Company is committed to continuing to work collaboratively with stakeholders to achieve Ministerial decisions by the end of 2026.

Alcoa CDI share price snapshot

The price of Alcoa CDI shares has risen by more than 90% over six months as aluminium prices have improved.

The post Alcoa shares dip despite 25% earnings boost in FY25 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This aluminium stock has had an outstanding run over the past six months.

As the chart below shows, Alcoa shares have streaked 93% higher over that short period.

Alcoa produces and sells bauxite, alumina, and aluminium products in the United States, Australia, Spain, Canada, and elsewhere.

The US-based company mines the bauxite, processes it into alumina, and then sells the alumina to smelters and industrial manufacturers.

The company also sells alloy ingot or value-add ingot to producers in the transport, construction, packaging, and wiring segments.

Alcoa also owns hydro power plants that generate electricity, which it sells in the wholesale market to traders, large industrial consumers, and others.

Tomorrow, Alcoa will release its full-year FY25 results.

Before we get a look at the books, let's consider what's driving this ASX 200 mining share higher.

What's powering this ASX 200 mining share's remarkable surge?

In an article on Forbes.com, investment data analysts at Trefis say Alcoa shares have ripped for three main reasons.

The first is the rising aluminium price.

Aluminium futures are currently trading at three-and-a-half-year highs.

Today, the aluminium price is US$3,119 per tonne, up 6% in a month and 18% year over year.

A number of factors are supporting aluminium futures, including strong demand for renewable energy infrastructure and electric vehicles; aluminium production caps in China, which is the world's largest producer; and a 50% tariff on imports into the US (with some exceptions).

Trefis commented:

Aluminum is omnipresent in the contemporary economy. It's an essential material in everything from lightweight automotive structures to aircraft components and green energy infrastructure.

The soaring demand from industries like electric vehicles and data centers — which require large quantities of aluminum for cooling systems and structural elements — has bestowed this metal with a newfound strategic significance not observed since the early 2000's.

Amid this higher demand, temporary suspensions at key smelters in Iceland, Mozambique, and Australia have lowered global supply.

This has also supported the aluminium price.

Remember Alumina shares?

Alcoa is listed on the New York Stock Exchange as Alcoa Corp (NYSE: AA).

Alcoa Corporation CDIs began trading on the ASX after Alcoa acquired the ASX-listed company, Alumina Limited, in August 2024.

Alumina was a 40% joint venture partner in Alcoa World Alumina and Chemicals (AWAC).

AWAC operates bauxite mines and alumina refineries in Australia and other countries.

As part of the deal, Alumina shareholders received Alcoa CDIs.

Trefis said the second reason this ASX 200 mining share has ripped is strategic company decisions, including buying out Alumina.

They said:

Alcoa is not merely benefiting from a commodity upturn — the company's financials have exhibited substantial progress.

In the third quarter of 2025, Alcoa disclosed revenues of nearly $3.0 billion and a net income of $232 million, more than double that of the same timeframe a year prior.

This strong performance was bolstered not only by increased aluminum realizations but also by strategic portfolio decisions.

Another strategic decision was Alcoa's divestment of its stake in the Ma'aden joint venture in July last year.

The analysts said this generated considerable capital gains and strengthened Alcoa's balance sheet.

These cash inflows have offered flexibility for debt repayment, investments in efficiency upgrades, and support for shareholder returns.

Capital flows out of high-tech and into hard assets

A third factor driving this ASX 200 mining share's price is more institutional money flowing out of technology and into materials producers.

Alcoa's surge aligns with a larger trend emerging in 2025–2026: institutional capital is shifting away from high-flying tech stocks and towards hard asset producers — material companies that provide the essential building blocks of the global economy.

Aluminum, copper, and steel manufacturers have all experienced renewed interest as investors reassess inflation, infrastructure spending, and commodity restrictions.

There are other factors driving this redirection of capital.

Trefis said:

This transition … encompasses geopolitical developments, trade regulations, and supply chain adjustments.

Recent tariffs on aluminum and steel, capacity limitations in Asia, and infrastructure reconstructions in certain areas of South America have contributed to a narrative that industrial metals are back in demand.

While the Alcoa share price surge is certainly impressive, with clear tailwinds behind it, Trefis warns of potential risks.

The stock could be susceptible to an increase in global supply, especially from Indonesia, which may add over 1.5 million tons of annual capacity in the coming years.

Concerns about valuations also persist. Current P/E and price-to-book ratios are at elevated levels compared to historical averages, implying that investor enthusiasm might already be factored into stock prices.

The post Why is this ASX 200 mining share up 93% in six months? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Some commodities have risen by more than 25% and even up to 70% in just a month, and many miners hit multi-year highs last week.

They included the ASX 200's largest mining share, BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), as well as fellow diversified miners, Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) and South32 Ltd (ASX: S32).

Others that hit multi-year highs included ASX 200 lithium major PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), gold large-cap Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM), copper pure-play Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR), and aluminium stock Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI).

The broader market also had a strong week. The benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) rose 2.13% to finish at 8,903.9 points.

Nine of the sectors finished the week in the green.

Let's review.

ASX 200 mining shares' unstoppable trajectory

The BHP share price reached a two-year high of $49.75 per share on Thursday.

BHP shares closed 2.66% higher for the week at $48.99 on Friday.

The Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) share price rose 0.48% to $22.82 while Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) lifted 3.63% to $148.25.

The Mineral Resources share price lifted 4.71% to $59.78 while South32 gained 8.05% to $4.16.

Among the ASX 200 pure-play copper stocks, Sandfire Resources shares ascended 2.68% to close at $19.15.

Capstone Copper Corp CDI (ASX: CSC) shares finished 7.72% higher at $15.63.

ASX 200 lithium shares also had a good week, with PLS Group shares lifting 0.65% to $4.68.

PLS Group shares hit a two-and-a-half-year high of $5.04 on Thursday, and profit-taking was apparent on Friday.

The Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) share price rose 4.88% to $2.15, while IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) increased 2.66% to $8.88.

ASX 200 gold shares benefited from another resetting of the gold price record at US$4,642.58 on Wednesday.

The ASX 200's largest gold share, Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST), rose 8.54% to close at $26.83 on Friday.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price rose 2.34% to $13.12, and Newmont lifted 7.53% to $169.25.

Among ASX 200 ASX rare earths shares, Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) increased 9.79% to $15.48.

Arafura Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: ARU) shares fell 5% to 28 cents per share.

Bauxite and alumina producer Alcoa rose 4.45% to $95.28 per share on Friday.

Soaring ASX 200 mining shares prompted many brokers to issue revised 12-month share price targets last week.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

Here's how the 11 market sectors stacked up last week, according to CommSec data.

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 materials sector outperforms as mining shares continue their ascent appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

While there are plenty of rare earth companies listed on the ASX, potential gallium producers are a bit harder to find, so I've done the work for you.

Top-tier producer

First cab off the rank, and the most advanced potential producer, is major aluminium company Alcoa Inc (ASX: AAI).

Alcoa announced last October that it would be working with both the US and Australian governments on a gallium plant to be co-located at the company's Wagerup alumina refinery in Western Australia.

Under a non-binding agreement announced at the time, the governments and the company would contribute capital to the project, "and receive gallium offtake in proportion to their interests''.

As Alcoa said at the time:

Among other purposes, the capital would be used for preparation of final feasibility studies, and the development and construction of the project. Definitive agreements for the gallium joint venture will be prepared among the governments of the United States, Australia and Japan, and Alcoa and (Japanese company) Sojitz.

Gallium is naturally present in bauxite, the raw material used in the production of alumina, and can be extracted during the refining process. Gallium is a critical mineral essential to technology, especially the semiconductor industry and defence sectors and is recognized as vital to national security by the United States, Australia and Japan. Globally, gallium production is concentrated from a single source, and market controls have heightened interest in establishing and securing alternate supply chains. 

Juniors also stepping up

The other Australian companies with potential gallium projects are at the exploration and development phase, and often are also in the rare earths exploration sector.

One such company is RareX Limited (ASX: REE), which just this week announced it had been granted a mining lease for its Cummins Range project in Western Australia.

The company said the grant of the lease materially derisked the project, where it aims to mine rare earths, gallium, scandium and phosphate.

RareX in November said a historical review of drilling results at Cummins showed "extensive deposits of gallium-rich clays''.

The company also stated at the time that Cummins was "technically Australia's largest undeveloped rare earths project."

Another junior developer looking at progressing a gallium project is Mt Ridley Mines Ltd (ASX: MRD),

Mt Ridley Mines stated in a mid-December release that gallium at its Mount Ridley project was found within the same clay horizons being assessed for rare earths.

It went on to say:

The company currently expects that gallium mineralisation may represent a potential by-product opportunity within a rare earth element-focused processing flowsheet and is actively engaged with leading industry participants within allied Western jurisdictions to support the evaluation and development of appropriate processing pathways, rather than under a standalone gallium processing route.

And finally there is Victory Metals Ltd (ASX: VTM) which is aiming to develop a project in the Cue region of WA, targeting rare earth elements as well as scandium, hafnium and gallium.

Victory published a mineral resource estimate in August and said at the time the project could play a "pivotal role as a future supplier of critical minerals''.

The post Gallium has been earmarked as a critical mineral. Here's how you can get exposure on the ASX appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) rose 2.3% to hit an eight-year high of 22,523.1 points this morning.

The materials sector is a long way out in front of the other 10 market sectors. The second best performer is real estate, up 0.9%.

A slew of ASX mining shares have also reset their 52-week highs today as commodity values continue to spike.

Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is up 0.92% after a strong night on Wall Street.

The S&P 500 Index (SP: INX) hit a new record of 6,986.33 points last night, and finished 0.16% higher for the session.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI), which tracks 30 selected S&P 500 stocks, also hit a record 49,633.35 points.

Surging commodity values continue to push ASX mining shares higher.

Let's take a look.

Commodity prices just keep going…

The hottest commodity on the global market right now, silver, is up 0.37% to US$84.24 per ounce at the time of writing.

The silver price has risen an astounding 30% in just one month and is up 181% year over year.

The lithium carbonate price leapt 8.6% in overnight trading to US$21,797.74 per tonne.

The commodity has surged 60% over the past month and has doubled year over year.

The aluminium price rose 1.3% overnight to US$3,189.8 per tonne. That's an 11% monthly gain and a 24% increase over 12 months.

The iron ore price rose 0.2% to US$108.25 per tonne. Iron ore is up 2% over the past month and almost 10% over 12 months.

The gold price is down 0.25% at US$4,586 per ounce, but up 6.5% over the month and 72% year over year.

The copper price is 1% lower at US$5.93 per pound. Copper futures are up 11% over the month and 38% year over year.

The red metal hit a record above US$6 per pound last week.

Let's check out the impact on ASX mining shares today.

ASX mining shares smashing 52-week highs today

ASX 200 iron ore and lithium miner Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) rose 2.8% to a 52-week high of $60.20.

The market's largest pure-play copper share, Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR), reached a 52-week peak of $19.58, up 4.4%.

The biggest pure-play lithium share, PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), also hit a 52-week high of $4.92, up 3.1%.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) shares rose 4.2% to $2.24, and IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) lifted 1.2% to $9.02 — both new 52-week highs.

The Elevra Lithium Ltd (ASX: ELV) share price ripped 11.6% to a 52-week high of $10.19.

ASX 200 diversified miner South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) hit a 52-week high of $4.04 per share, up 3.6%.

Unico Silver Ltd (ASX: USL) shares ripped 6.6% to a 52-week high of $1.13.

ASX 200 gold share Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) lifted 0.8% to a record high of $167.99.

The Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG) share price rose 3.8% to a 52-week peak of $1.35.

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares surged 3% to a record $4.52.

Gold and copper miner, Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) lifted 5.1% to a 52-week high of $12.58 per share.

Aluminium stock Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI) hit a 52-week high of $98.32 per share, up 3.8%.

The post ASX mining shares on fire! New 52-week highs today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Let's see what's sparked their runs.

Alcoa (ASX: AAI)

Alcoa is a vertically integrated U.S. based aluminium producer with a global footprint across bauxite mining, alumina refining, primary aluminium smelting and casting, and associated energy generation.

Like many mining stocks, it has enjoyed a strong start to the year. 

Gold, silver and other commodity shares are continuing on from 12 months of strong performance. 

Alcoa shares have risen more than 18% year to date already. 

For context, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is up just 0.67%. 

This ASX 200 stock is now up 64% over the last 12 months, and is sitting close to an all-time high. 

So is there any more upside?

Alcoa shares closed yesterday at $94.75 per share. 

However, it appears estimates from analysts believe it is now trading above fair value. 

TradingView has an average 12 month price target of $74.11. 

This is approximately 21.8% lower than its current share price. 

Reliance Worldwide Corporation Ltd (ASX: RWC)

Reliance is the world's largest supplier of push-to-connect (PTC) brass plumbing systems for water and central heating applications.

This ASX 200 stock is already up almost 9% so far in 2025. 

This marks a rebound from a tough 2025. 

Its share price remains down almost 16% from a year ago. 

It seems this year's bounce back could continue based on guidance from analysts. 

TradingView has an average one year price target of $4.59 which indicates more than a 9% upside. 

Online trading platform Selfwealth lists this ASX 200 stock as undervalued by 20%.

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS)

Ramelius Resources is another ASX 200 materials stock continuing its bull run. 

It has risen by almost 8% so far this year. 

It is a gold mining and production company with its primary production being focused on the Mt Magnet goldmine in Western Australia. 

Over the last 12 months its share price is now up just over 100%. 

In recent news out of the company, it is maintaining its FY26 gold production guidance and lifting its minimum dividend to two cents per year.

Despite its rapid rise, there appears to be modest upside for this ASX 200 stock, although it is approaching fair value estimates. 

TradingView has an average one year price target of $4.71. 

This indicates an upside of 7.3%. 

Selfwealth lists the stock as undervalued by roughly 12%. 

The post Red hot: These ASX 200 shares are off to a strong start in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Reflecting the miners' dominance, the S&P/ASX 300 Metal & Mining Index (ASX: XMM) rose 3.64% last week and the S&P/ASX All Ords Gold Index (ASX: XGD) lifted 1.41%, while the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) weakened 0.11% to finish at 8,717.8 points.

Only four of the 11 market sectors finished the week in the green.

Let's recap.

Scores of ASX 200 mining shares reach 52-week highs

Ongoing strength in commodity prices boosted ASX 200 mining shares last week.

At the time of writing, the iron ore price is up 0.45% for the week at US$107.65 per tonne.

This helped send several ASX 200 iron ore shares to 52-week highs.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares reached $48.49, Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) $154.75, and Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) $58.64.

The Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) share price didn't reach an annual high but increased 2.57% over the week to close at $22.71 on Friday.

Copper futures surged above US$6 per pound, a new record, which also supported BHP given it is now the world's largest producer.

Several ASX 200 copper shares also reached 52-week peaks, including the market's largest pure-play Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR).

The Sandfire Resources share price hit an all-time record of $19.43, as did Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC) shares at $15.89.

Lithium prices also surged, with the carbonate price streaking 16% higher for the week and 49% over the past month.

Unsurprisingly, ASX 200 lithium shares ripped, with many also setting new 52-week price milestones last week.

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) shares rose to $4.89 apiece, Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) hit $2.10, and IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) reached $8.95.

ASX 200 rare earths shares increased on news that China will limit exports of rare earths to Japan.

Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) shares shot the lights out, ripping 15.38% to close the week at $14.10.

The Arafura Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: ARU) share price flew 9.26% to close at 30 cents per share.

What about gold?

The gold price rose 3% last week to above US$4,467 per ounce in late trading on Friday Australian time.

The market's largest ASX 200 gold share, Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) rose 1.19% to close at $24.72 on Friday.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price rose 1.1% to close at $12.82.

Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) shares hit a record high of $162.45 apiece last week.

Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) shares hit a 52-week high of $5.80, as did Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) shares at $7.84.

Gold and copper miner, Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) lifted 9.09% over the week to close at $11.52.

The Greatland Resources share price reached a record high of $11.66 on Friday.

Silver continues its amazing run, up 5% over the week and 152% over the past 12 months.

This helped ASX 200 diversified miner South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) hit a 52-week high of $3.87 per share.

South32 is exposed to silver via its Cannington mine, which is one of the world's largest producers of silver and lead.

The rising aluminium price also supported South32 shares.

Aluminium gained 2.2% last week and is up 22% over the past year.

This also helped bauxite and alumina producer Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI) hit a 52-week high of $94.31 last week.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

Here's how the 11 market sectors stacked up last week, according to CommSec data.

Over the five trading days:

Final word on the week

Here at the Fool, we continued to dissect all the results of 2025 for your review last week.

We revealed the 5 best ASX 200 mining shares of 2025 for capital growth.

We also considered what $10,000 invested in the BetaShares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE) returned over the past year.

You might also be interested in the 5 top ASX 200 gold shares, the 12 best performing commodities, and the best sectors for dividends.

The post ASX 200 materials sector dominates as scores of mining shares hit new highs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.