In afternoon trade on Thursday, shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) Aussie fuel supplier are swapping hands for $33.06 apiece, down 0.2%.

For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.3% at this same time.

Taking a step back, Ampol shares have surged 60.1% over the past 12 months, smashing the 15.4% one-year gains delivered by the benchmark index. And that's not including the 10 cents a share in fully-franked dividends the company paid to eligible stockholders over the year.

Ampol stock currently trades on a fully-franked trailing dividend yield of 3%.

And looking ahead, DP Wealth Advisory's Andrew Wielandt believes the stock is well positioned for more outperformance (courtesy of The Bull).

Here's why.

Should you buy Ampol shares today?

"Ampol is Australia's largest petrol and convenience network. It serves about three million customers a week across about 1800 branded sites," Wielandt noted.

Citing the first reason he's bullish on Ampol shares, he said, "Ampol is increasingly rolling out a network of unstaffed U-GO fuel sites operating 24 hours a day, which are gaining popularity."

Then there's the company refinery, one of just two refineries still operating in Australia.

"Ampol also owns the Lytton oil refinery in Queensland, and it was a major contributor to earnings in full year 2025," Wielandt said.

Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) owns and operates Australia's only other refinery. And, as you may have heard, operations at Viva Energy's Geelong refinery in Victoria are likely to be impacted for some time by a major fire that broke out at the site last night.

Which brings us to the third reason Wielandt has a buy rating on Ampol shares.

"The convenience retail segment grew earnings in 2025 and provides the benefit of diversification," he concluded.

What's been happening with the ASX 200 energy stock?

It wasn't just Ampol's convenience retail segment that grew earnings in 2025.

The company's fuels and infrastructure, and New Zealand segments both delivered earnings growth as well.

On a group level, Ampol shares caught investor interest with the company reporting 2025 calendar year earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $1.44 billion, up 20% from 2024.

And on the bottom line, Ampol's underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) was up 83% to $429 million.

"The financial performance in 2025 is a high quality and broad-based result that reflects the steps taken in recent years to strengthen our delivery and increase our exposure to the more stable and growing business segments," Ampol CEO Matt Halliday said.

The post Up 60% in a year, 3 reasons to buy Ampol shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The Ampol share price climbed as high as $34.85 earlier in the session before easing back to $33.24, where it remains up 0.33% at the time of writing.

Even with that intraday pullback, the stock is still up roughly 61% over the past 12 months, leaving it among the ASX 200's strongest blue-chip performers.

The rally points to rising expectations that Ampol could benefit from stronger refining margins while Geelong remains disrupted.

Here's what investors are watching.

Geelong refinery fire puts the spotlight on Lytton

The main driver is the overnight fire at Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) Geelong refinery in Victoria, which has already pushed its shares into a trading halt.

Recent reports suggest the disruption could last months, with petrol production expected to be affected.

That immediately lifts the focus onto Ampol's Lytton refinery in Brisbane, now the country's only other major operating refinery.

Together, the two refineries account for a significant share of Australia's transport fuel production.

With Geelong expected to run below normal levels, investors are increasingly looking at what that could mean for refining margins at Lytton.

A tighter local fuel market is likely to support Ampol through stronger domestic refining margins and higher demand across its supply network.

A strong run was already underway

Ampol shares had already been trending higher over recent months as refining conditions improved and sentiment across energy stocks strengthened.

The stock's 1-year gain of around 61% shows investors were already warming to the earnings recovery outlook before today's latest catalyst.

The dividend has also remained part of the appeal, with the stock still offering an attractive fully-franked yield based on its most recent payout.

Ampol paid a 60-cent final dividend.

And now, the Geelong disruption gives investors another reason to believe earnings could stay stronger in the near-term.

Foolish Takeaway

I still think Ampol has room to stay well supported while refining conditions remain favourable.

The market is now looking beyond the immediate Geelong outage and more at what a tighter domestic supply could mean for Lytton's margins over the next few months.

The dividend yield also continues to make the stock attractive, especially while earnings momentum across the downstream business is improving.

After a 61% run over 12 months, I would expect gains to become more measured, but the setup still looks supportive if the disruption lasts longer than expected.

The post Why Ampol shares just hit a multi-year high as Australia's fuel squeeze deepens appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

There are some businesses that may well see their earnings increase because of the flow-on effects of the inflation. Even excluding these shorter-term effects, both of the businesses I'm going to talk about have an attractive long-term future, according to experts.

Experts from the fund manager Wilson Asset Management have picked out two leading ASX 200 blue-chip shares worth owning that are in the WAM Leaders Ltd (ASX: WLE) portfolio, which is a listed investment company (LIC) that targets the "highest quality Australian companies".

Let's take a look at what the experts like about the two businesses and what they're seeing right now.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

The Woodside share price rose in March as it benefited from the higher oil and LNG prices amid the events in the Middle East and the disruption to the shipping flows in the Strait of Hormuz.

WAM notes that Woodside has no operations in the affected area, leaving it well positioned to benefit from the supply shock.

Last month, the ASX energy share also confirmed the permanent appointment of Liz Westcott as managing director and CEO, who reaffirmed the growth strategy, with a focus on project execution and shareholder value creation.

On top of that, an investor site visit to the Louisiana LNG project affirmed that the development remains "on schedule and on budget", with de-bottlenecking opportunities identified.

The fund manager concluded its thoughts on the ASX 200 blue-chip share:

The company continues to be a key holding in the WAM Leaders investment portfolio with its geographical diversification and pipeline of growth projections positioning the company well in the current environment.

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD)

The other business that WAM Leaders highlighted is Ampol, which also saw its share price rise during March following higher oil prices and "materially stronger refining margins following the disruption to Middle Eastern oil supply".

Refining economics are, according to WAM, "highly sensitive to margin movement", therefore the near-term refining environment is "expected to improve as global supply tightens and as China restricts diesel and gasoline export contracts from major state refiners".

The fund manager also noted that the Australian Government has lifted the fuel security services payment thresholds, providing greater downside protection for the ASX 200 blue chip's refining business through the cycle.

The ACCC's phase 2 review of Ampol's proposed acquisition of EG Australia's fuel and convenience retail network also progressed, with sites under review narrowing from 115 to 54. A determination is due by 5 June 2026.

The post 2 ASX 200 blue-chip shares worth owning in April 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This follows a substantial sell-off for ASX 200 energy shares yesterday.

On Wednesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) dropped 7.3% after the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire.

The rest of the market celebrated the news, with the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) finishing the session 2.8% higher.

Today, we've seen a reversal of trends.

ASX 200 energy shares are up 2.4% while the ASX 200 is down 0.05%.

Oil prices have also rebounded today after a sharp fall yesterday.

Brent Crude is currently up 2.7% to US$97.35 per barrel.

Why are ASX 200 energy shares leading the market today?

There is uncertainty in the market as investors wonder how fresh Israeli strikes on Lebanon will impact the ceasefire.

Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz remains largely obstructed.

As part of the ceasefire deal, Iran agreed to allow safe passage of shipping through the Strait, coordinated by its armed forces.

On Thursday, Trading Economics analysts said:

Iranian media reported that oil tanker traffic through the strait had been suspended following the attacks, amid disputes between Tehran and the American-Israeli side over whether the truce extends to Lebanon.

A senior Iranian official also stated that three provisions of the ceasefire agreement have already been breached.

Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance said there are indications the strait may begin reopening as he leads a US delegation to Islamabad for direct talks with Iran this weekend.

The Strait of Hormuz is not technically closed.

However, shipping companies have chosen not to sail through it for fear of Iranian attacks and a lack of insurance coverage.

About 20% of global crude oil and gas is shipped via the Strait.

The war has triggered the worst oil shock since the 1970s.

ASX 200 energy shares whipsaw on ceasefire tensions

Let's take a look at what's happened with the market's largest ASX 200 energy shares over the past two days.

On Wednesday, the Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price plummeted 10.4% to close at $32.06.

Today, Woodside shares have regained 3.8% to $33.29, at the time of writing.

Yesterday, the Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price fell 4.6% to $7.76. Today, Santos shares are 2.5% higher at $7.95.

The Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) share price dropped 13.4% to $1.90 on Wednesday.

Today, Karoon Energy shares are $1.98, up 4.3%.

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) shares fell 4.2% yesterday to $32.12, but today they're up 3.6% to $33.26.

The Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) share price tanked 9.1% to $2.42 yesterday.

Today, Viva Energy shares are $2.49 apiece, up 2.7%.

ASX 200 coal share Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) fell 9.8% to $7.49 on Wednesday.

Today, Yancoal shares are in the red again, down 0.1% to $7.48.

The New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) share price dropped 9.6% to $5.30 yesterday.

On Thursday, New Hope shares are slightly higher, up 0.2% to $5.31.

The post ASX 200 energy shares whipsaw amid fragile ceasefire appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

He describes what he calls a "double-sided ceasefire" contingent on Iran opening the Strait of Hormuz to allow oil supplies to flow back through.

The latest update has renewed hopes that the two nations may be moving toward a ceasefire agreement to end the conflict.

The announcement saw the price of WTI crude oil plummet below US$95 per barrel this morning, down from over US$117 per barrel yesterday, according to Trading Economics data.

The prices for Brent oil, gasoline, and heating oil have also dropped significantly.

The latest market shift has acted as a tough headwind for ASX oil and gas or energy shares this morning, with many opening in the red.

These are the stocks to watch today.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

Woodside shares have crashed 10.7% this morning, to $31.97 a piece. Today's share price drop follows a steep share price rally during the first three months of 2026, which accelerated significantly since the conflict between the US and Iran ramped up in late February. 

Woodside shares spiked to a multi-year high of $34.93 at the close of the ASX on Tuesday, having jumped over 51% since the start of 2026.

Santos Ltd (ASX: STO)

Santos shares have dropped 6% in Wednesday morning trade, after news that a reprieve in global oil restrictions saw investors sell up their shares. The Australian oil and gas exportation and production company's shares are changing hands for $7.60 a piece at the time of writing.

Santos shares spiked to a four-year high of $8.08 at the close of the ASX yesterday afternoon, having jumped 31.5% since the markets opened on the 2nd of January.

Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT)

Beach Energy shares are also suffering in early morning trade. At the time of writing, the Australian oil and gas exploration and production company's shares are down 7.1% to $1.21 a piece.

The shares jumped over 20% in March alone, but after this morning's sell-off, they're trading 0.8% below where they were this time last year.

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD)

The Australian petroleum company is the largest transport energy distributor and retailer in Australia, with more than 1,800 Ampol-branded service stations across the country as of June 2025. Unsurprisingly, news that the US and Iran could be reaching a peace deal has resulted in a sharp drop in its share price.

At the time of writing, Ampol shares are down 4.2% to $32.03 each; however, they are still up 13.7% since the war escalated in late February.

Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA)

Viva Energy Australia is a listed Australian company that owns the Geelong Oil Refinery and is licensed to retail Shell-branded fuels across Australia under a licence agreement. It also owns and retails fuel through Coles Express, OTR, Reddy Express, Liberty Oil, and Westside Petroleum-branded service stations. 

Like Ampol, its share price is suffering from downward pressure from lower oil prices this morning. At the time of writing, Viva shares have crashed 9.9% to $2.38. Viva shares have soared, however, over the past 5 weeks. Even after this morning's decline, the share price is 34.5% higher than in late February. 

The post ASX shares to watch as oil price crashes appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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.

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.

The post New ratings on 4 ASX 200 energy shares: experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The initial public offering (IPO) for the Solaris Australian Equity Income Plus Ltd (ASX: SET) closes next Wednesday, 1 April.

With energy prices surging amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, two of the fund manager's top picks earn their keep drilling for and supplying oil and gas.

"While surging energy and oil prices are hammering household budgets, income investors exposed to key names in the energy sector are set to cash in," Solaris portfolio manager Charles Casey said.

The third ASX 200 dividend stock is a logistics solutions provider.

So, which passive income stars does Solaris recommend?

I'm glad you asked!

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

First up we have Woodside Energy.

"Woodside's earnings and dividends are strongly supported by the current high gas prices," Casey said.

Commenting on the passive income outlook for this ASX 200 dividend stock,

A large volume of gas production from competitors in the Middle East, particularly Qatar, has been impacted. It could take three to five years to bring that production back online, meaning Woodside is supplying product into an undersupplied market and gaining a significant competitive advantage.

Importantly, Woodside has both the ability and the capacity to pay higher dividends. They have surplus franking credits, and we see strong potential for a dividend lift backed by these elevated earnings.

Woodside currently trades on a fully franked trailing dividend yield of 4.8%

Which brings us to the second company you might want to buy for its positive income outlook.

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD)

Solaris is also bullish on ASX 200 dividend stock Ampol.

"Ampol is a clear beneficiary of the higher oil refining margins currently being realised at their Lytton refinery," Casey said.

Commenting on the passive income outlook for the Aussie fuel supplier he added:

Oil refining earnings are cyclical, but at times like this they can deliver substantial windfall gains. This will help increase Ampol's earnings, support higher dividends and further strengthen their balance sheet.

Ampol is definitely one to watch for a material dividend increase in the coming year. It also has the potential to pay special dividends if margins stay elevated given its surplus franking credits. On the willingness side, the board led by Steven Gregg has a strong track record of returning capital to shareholders, they have paid two special dividends in the recent past.

Ampol currently trades on a fully franked trailing dividend yield of 3.0%.

Rounding off the list of income stocks we have…

Qube Holdings Ltd (ASX: QUB)

Solaris is optimistic on the outlook for this ASX 200 dividend stock following the recent Macquarie-led transaction to acquire interests in key port and logistics infrastructure.

"Qube Logistics is pending a material special dividend, which is particularly attractive for investors on lower tax rates," Casey said. "This is supported by surplus franking credits, and we have confidence in the board's willingness based on our direct engagement."

Casey concluded:

As shareholders prior to the approach from Macquarie, there was some uncertainty regarding UniSuper's intentions as they were aggressively buying shares on market. However, given the existing relationships between UniSuper and Macquarie on multiple other unlisted investments, we took the firm view that they were highly likely to support the deal.

The post Fund manager names 3 top ASX 200 dividend stocks to buy today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) is down 2.5% while the broader S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is up 1.75%.

Oil and gas prices are easing across the board today after the United States said it was continuing discussions with Iran to end the war.

Israeli media indicated that the US had proposed a one-month ceasefire to facilitate ongoing discussions for a diplomatic resolution.

The New York Times reported that the US had sent Iran a 15-point proposal via Pakistan, which had offered to act as an intermediary.

Trading Economics analysts commented:

These developments outweighed concerns over further Middle East escalation after President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of roughly 2,000 troops to the region, as the administration considered options to loosen Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz.

The 2,000 troops are from the US Army's 82nd Airborne Division.

Iran continues to deny it has even engaged in negotiations with the US, and the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively shut.

This is disrupting 20% of the world's oil and gas supplies, which has led to rising fuel prices and some shortages.

In Australia, petrol prices are as high as 247.9 cents per litre in Sydney.

Scores of service stations across the nation have run out of either petrol or diesel, or both.

Nine of the top 10 fastest fallers on the ASX 200 today are energy shares.

Let's take a look.

ASX 200 energy shares slip on Wednesday

The worst-hit ASX 200 energy share today is Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR), down 6.7% to $1.92.

The market's biggest ASX 200 oil share, Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS), is down 3.5% to $33.50 per share.

The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price is down 2.4% to $7.66.

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) shares are down 2.8% to $32.88.

The Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) share price is down 2.5% to $2.39.

Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) shares are 5.1% lower at $1.25.

ASX 200 coal shares are also lower today.

The Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) share price is 5.3% lower at $7.86.

The Whitehaven Ltd (ASX: WHC) share price is down 4.6% to $8.89.

The New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) share price is $5.59, down 4.3%.

Why is the rest of the market rising?

The ASX 200 is rising strongly on hopes that the war in Iran will end soon, as well as new inflation data that surprised on the downside.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) lifted 3.7% in the 12 months to February.

That's down 0.1% from the 12 months to January.

Markets were expecting 3.8% for February, so the data was a pleasant surprise for investors.

However, inflation remains well outside the Reserve Bank's target range of 2% to 3%, with its ultimate goal being to reach the mid-point.

Housing costs, which incorporate electricity prices, new homes, and rents, rose the most at 7.2% over the 12 months.

Electricity prices alone rose 37% over the period.

The post Why are ASX 200 energy shares tumbling today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

According to Trading Economics, WTI crude is trading around US$89.70 per barrel, down about 8.7% on the session. Brent crude is near US$100.60 per barrel, after falling roughly 10.3%.

This follows a pullback in prices after recent gains linked to supply disruptions across the Middle East.

Shift in expectations weighs on prices

Recent reports indicate that the United States has paused planned strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure for five days following high-level discussions.

Markets seem to have interpreted this as a possible step toward easing tensions.

Earlier, oil prices surged as tensions between the US and Iran raised fears about supply routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz. This chokepoint handles roughly 20% of global oil flows.

With the immediate risk of disruption appearing lower, traders appear to have adjusted their expectations, leading to a decline in prices.

Volatility remains elevated

Despite the recent pullback, oil remains higher on a longer-term basis.

Brent crude is up around 38% since the start of the US-Israel conflict involving Iran. Prices briefly moved above US$110 per barrel, up from around US$70 before the conflict.

Recent trading also highlights how quickly prices are moving. Brent has recorded large swings within a single session as markets reacted to escalating updates.

These moves have been driven by changing expectations around supply risk.

ASX energy stocks move lower

The drop in oil prices weighed on local energy stocks in early trading today.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) shares were down about 3.5% in early trading to $33.56. The stock remains roughly 20% higher over the past month.

Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) shares also declined, falling around 3% to $7.82. The company's shares are still up about 14% over the same period.

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) shares were down about 0.8% to $33.19. In contrast, Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) shares rose approximately 2.3% to $2.43.

Coal stocks also moved lower, with Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC) down about 2% and New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) slipping around 1%.

Foolish takeaway

Oil prices have fallen as immediate supply concerns have eased, though they remain above pre-conflict levels.

While there have been no confirmed disruptions to production or shipping, recent price movements have been driven by changes in expectations.

Moves across ASX energy stocks seem to have followed these changes in oil prices, rather than any new specific updates from the companies themselves.

The post Oil slides below US$100 as tensions shift, ASX energy stocks pull back appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) rose 1.2% yesterday while many other sectors fell. 

This index is now up 33% year to date, while the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down just over 4%. 

Some ASX energy shares that have enjoyed strong returns lately include: 

• Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) is up 72% year to date
• Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) is up 32%
• Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) has risen 15% in March 
• NexGen Energy Ltd (ASX: NXG) is up nearly 9% year to date. 

Why are energy shares rising?

ASX energy shares are rising mainly because oil and gas prices have surged, driven by geopolitical tensions (especially in the Middle East) and supply disruptions, which tighten global energy supply.

Higher energy prices also increase inflation expectations, making energy stocks more attractive compared to other sectors like tech.

At the same time, investors are rotating into commodities and defensive sectors, pushing more money into energy shares.

Investors may be concerned about whether this rally can continue. Here are some recent outlooks for these high performing ASX energy shares. 

Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL)

Yancoal Australia is sitting at a 52-week high at the time of writing, after it climbed nearly 4% yesterday. 

Yancoal has a diversified mix of metallurgical and thermal coal mines, with primary geographical markets Japan, Singapore, China, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. 

It closed yesterday trading at $8.63. 

After hitting record highs, analysts now view the stock as overvalued. 

According to five analysts offering forecasts via TradingView, Yancoal has an average one year price target of $7.66. 

This target is 11% lower than yesterday's closing price. 

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD)

Ampol shares rose another 1% during yesterday's trade. 

It is the largest, and only Australian-listed, petroleum refiner and distributor. 

After rising 15% in March, analysts now see the stock as fully valued. 

10 analysts have an average one year price target of $33.68 according to TradingView, right around yesterday's closing price of $33.44. 

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR)

Karoon Energy is another energy stock hovering close to its 52-week high. 

It rose a healthy 4.5% yesterday to close trading at $2.06. 

The company is an oil and gas explorer and producer with assets in Brazil.

It is also now fully valued based on targets from analysts. 

9 analyst ratings via TradingView have a one year forecast of $2.04, suggesting there is little future upside. 

NexGen Energy Ltd (ASX: NXG)

NexGen Energy an exploration and development stage entity engaged in the acquisition, exploration, evaluation, and development of uranium properties in Canada.

This ASX energy stock has almost doubled in the last year. 

However unlike the previous three stocks, it appears experts believe this company can continue to rise in 2026. 

UBS recently put a 12 month share price target of $21. 

From yesterday's closing price of $15.51, that's suggests almost 35% upside. 

19 analysts' forecasts via TradingView paint a similar picture, with an average price target of $21.18. 

The post Can these red hot ASX energy shares keep charging higher? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Fear and uncertainty weighed on the broader market, with the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) falling 2.19% to 8,428.4 points.

Energy shares have gained 16.21% while the ASX 200 has fallen 8.37% since Israel and the US attacked Iran on 28 February (US time).

Last week, the Reserve Bank of Australia lifted interest rates for a second time this year, mainly due to inflation trending higher.

However, the war and rising petrol prices were clearly a concern for the RBA board, which said:

… the conflict in the Middle East has resulted in sharply higher fuel prices, which, if sustained, will add to inflation.

Short-term measures of inflation expectations have already risen.

As a result, the Board judged that there is a material risk that inflation will remain above target for longer than previously anticipated.

The ASX 200 was volatile all week, while Brent crude ripped to almost US$120 per barrel after Israel and Iran bombed energy assets.

Over the past 30 days, the Brent crude oil price has skyrocketed 50% while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) has risen 42%.

On Friday, Trading Economics analysts said:

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would refrain from additional attacks on Iranian energy facilities and that the war could end sooner than expected, noting Iran's reduced capacity to enrich uranium or produce ballistic missiles.

Despite the pullback, Brent futures remain up almost 50% since the start of the conflict, as the disruption has effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz and forced major regional producers to sharply curb output.

Seven of the 11 market sectors finished the week in the red.

Let's review.

Energy shares rip 6% as war drags on

Several of the largest ASX 200 energy shares hit new multi-year highs last week.

The Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price reached a two-and-a-half-year high of $34.31 on Friday.

Woodside shares rose 9.66% over the week to finish at $34.04.

The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price hit a 52-week high of $8.19 on Friday.

Over the week, Santos shares lifted 5.98% to close at $7.98 apiece.

The Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) share price ascended to an 18-month high of $34.29 on Friday.

Ampol shares increased 7.33% over the week to close at $33.11.

The Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) share price rose to a 52-week high of $2.64 on Friday.

Viva Energy shares ripped 10.28% over the week to close at $2.36 apiece.

ASX 200 coal shares also rose again last week, as disrupted gas supplies forced power plants to start using coal.

The thermal coal price has risen 25% over 30 days.

The thermal coal price was US$145.20 per tonne on Friday, its highest level since November 2024.

The Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) share price rose 3% to end the week at $8.31, a new 52-week high.

The New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) share price lifted 6.73% to $5.71, after reaching a 52-week peak of $5.79 on Friday.

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 energy shares lead the market for a third week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are not letting that hold them back are listed below. Here's why they are rising:

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD)

The Ampol share price is up 1.5% to $33.52. Investors have been buying this fuel retailer's shares after releasing an update outlining changes to the Fuel Security Services Payment (FSSP) and on its fuel supply operations. The former has seen an increase in the collar from 6.4 cents per litre to 10.0 cents per litre. The company's CEO, Matt Halliday, said: "We welcome the adjustments made to the FSSP, which effectively increase the level at which payments under the scheme will commence. The important role Australian refineries play in supporting the resilience of our domestic fuel supply is being reinforced in the current global oil market environment. The amendments recognise the significant cost increases, and capital investment made, since the scheme began in 2021 and the importance of maintaining an economically viable domestic oil refining capability in Australia for the medium term by providing support when refiner margins do not cover the cost of production."

Atlantic Lithium Ltd (ASX: A11)

The Atlantic Lithium share price is up 11% to 35 cents. This morning, the lithium explorer announced the ratification of the mining lease of its flagship Ewoyaa Lithium Project by the Parliament of Ghana. It notes that this means the company can advance discussions relating to project funding and continue its progress towards a project final investment decision. Atlantic Lithium's CEO, Keith Muller, said: "We are delighted to have the full support of the Government as we work towards achieving first production of spodumene. Having already built itself to become a leading gold producer, Ghana has now taken a major step towards a new lithium future."

Brightstar Resources Ltd (ASX: BTR)

The Brightstar Resources share price is up 2% to 34.7 cents. This follows news that the gold developer has successfully completed its funding package. The company notes that this means it is now fully funded through to gold production at the Goldfields Project and the Sandstone Project final investment decision. Brightstar's managing director, Alex Rovira, commented: "We are delighted to have successfully executed on this funding package, particularly in the context of the challenging market conditions over the past weeks."

Premier Investments Ltd (ASX: PMV)

The Premier Investments share price is up almost 4% to $13.00. Investors have been buying the retailer's shares following the release of its half-year results. The company reported Premier Retail underlying EBIT of $119.3 million, which was in line with its guidance. This allowed the company's board to declare a fully franked interim dividend of 45 cents per share.

The post Why Ampol, Atlantic Lithium, Brightstar, and Premier Investments shares are rising today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the ASX 200 stock is up 4% to $34.29.

Why is this ASX 200 stock rising today?

The fuel supplier's shares are pushing higher following the release of an announcement outlining changes to the Fuel Security Services Payment (FSSP) and an update on its fuel supply operations.

According to the release, Ampol has welcomed amendments to the FSSP, which is a government support scheme designed to help maintain domestic fuel refining in Australia.

The key change is an increase in the collar, which is the level at which payments begin, from 6.4 cents per litre to 10.0 cents per litre. There is also a favourable adjustment to how refinery margins are calculated for Ampol's Lytton refinery.

Management believes these changes will help reduce earnings volatility and better reflect the higher costs involved in refining fuel.

In simple terms, the FSSP acts as a safety net for refineries when profit margins are weak.

Under the revised structure, Ampol may receive financial support when refining margins fall below certain levels. This support is based on how much fuel is produced.

Ampol estimates this could provide up to $108 million per year in support for its Lytton refinery during periods of low margins.

Supply chain update

The ASX 200 stock also provided an update on fuel supply conditions, particularly in light of ongoing disruption in global oil markets.

Ampol noted that conflict in the Middle East has impacted global supply chains, especially in Asia where much of Australia's imported fuel originates.

However, the company said it was well prepared, with sufficient crude oil and fuel inventories and confirmed supply orders at the start of the disruption.

To further support domestic supply, Ampol has delayed maintenance at its Lytton refinery. This is expected to increase local fuel production by around 300 million litres.

Commenting on the news, the ASX 200 stock's CEO, Matt Halliday, said:

We welcome the adjustments made to the FSSP, which effectively increase the level at which payments under the scheme will commence. The important role Australian refineries play in supporting the resilience of our domestic fuel supply is being reinforced in the current global oil market environment. The amendments recognise the significant cost increases, and capital investment made, since the scheme began in 2021 and the importance of maintaining an economically viable domestic oil refining capability in Australia for the medium term by providing support when refiner margins do not cover the cost of production.

The amendment of the collar to 10 Acpl and the favourable adjustment to the Government's refiner margin calculation, will also assist in reducing the volatility in Lytton earnings over time. We look forward to continuing the dialogue with the Federal Government in the months ahead on the long-term prospects for transport fuels refining in Australia.

The post This ASX 200 stock is charging higher on big news appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Ampol report?

• FSSP collar increased from 6.4 to 10.0 Acpl; cap remains at 1.8 Acpl
• Favourable amendment to the Government Margin Marker calculation for Lytton refinery (+0.62 Acpl)
• Planned Turnaround & Inspection (T&I) at Lytton refinery deferred to August 2026
• Additional ~300 million litres of domestic fuel production enabled during deferral
• Scheme may provide up to $27 million support per quarter for Lytton's operations at low margins

What else do investors need to know?

Ampol will engage in a second phase of the FSSP review in 2026, targeting longer-term fuel supply resilience and refining in Australia. Any material changes to the FSSP will depend on the outcome of this second-phase review.

The global oil market has been impacted by Middle East events and a reduction in Chinese fuel exports. Despite some disruptions in Asia, Ampol had strong inventory and confirmed orders at the outset of the conflict, helping ensure ongoing supply for its customers in Australia and New Zealand.

Ampol's proactive deferral of its T&I maintenance at Lytton will help meet increased local demand, while a temporary easing of fuel standards by the government allows even more locally produced petrol to be sold domestically.

What did Ampol management say?

Matt Halliday, Managing Director and CEO, said:

We welcome the adjustments made to the FSSP, which effectively increase the level at which payments under the scheme will commence. The important role Australian refineries play in supporting the resilience of our domestic fuel supply is being reinforced in the current global oil market environment. The amendments recognise the significant cost increases, and capital investment made, since the scheme began in 2021 and the importance of maintaining an economically viable domestic oil refining capability in Australia for the medium term by providing support when refiner margins do not cover the cost of production.

The amendment of the collar to 10 Acpl and the favourable adjustment to the Government's refiner margin calculation, will also assist in reducing the volatility in Lytton earnings over time. We look forward to continuing the dialogue with the Federal Government in the months ahead on the long-term prospects for transport fuels refining in Australia.

What's next for Ampol?

Ampol will continue working with the Federal Government on the FSSP's phase two review during 2026, which is expected to shape Australia's future fuel resilience and refining sector.

In the short term, Ampol remains focused on maintaining reliable supply for customers, taking advantage of regulatory changes and operational flexibility to help meet domestic needs amid current global supply challenges.

Ampol share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ampol shares have risen 35%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Ampol welcomes stronger refinery support and domestic supply boost appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It was a shockingly painful day for investors, with the ASX 200 opening sharply lower and staying that way all session. By the time trading wrapped up, the index had plunged by a painful 1.65% down to 8,497.8 points.

This horrid Thursday session for Australian investors comes after a similarly dire morning on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was slammed, dropping 1.63%.

Things were only slightly better for the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC), which fell 1.46%.

But let's grit our teeth and return to the local markets now for an autopsy of today's trading, so we can see which of the various ASX sectors were hardest hit today.

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

Five of the largest energy stocks on the market followed suit, soaring to set new multi-year price milestones today.

This followed a spike in oil prices after both Israel and Iran launched fresh missile attacks on energy infrastructure assets.

This pushed the Brent crude oil price 4% higher to US$112 per barrel today.

Iran hit a Qatari facility housing the world's largest LNG export plant, while Israel attacked Iran's South Pars gas field.

ASX 200 energy shares soar while broader market falls

The benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fell 1.65% as investors worried about the possibility of a longer-than-expected war.

An entrenched conflict would keep oil prices high, which would flow through to higher costs across many industries.

The Brent crude oil price has streaked 55% over the past 30 days, with the war effectively shutting down the Strait of Hormuz.

More than 20% of the world's global oil and gas exports, mainly from Iran, Iraq, Qatar, and the UAE, pass through the strait.

Meanwhile, ASX 200 energy shares soared today.

New multi-year highs for energy giants

ASX 200 oil & gas giant Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) rose 6.6% to a two-and-a-half-year high of $33.65 today.

The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price lifted 3.7% to a 52-week peak of $8.06.

The Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) share price reached an 18-month high of $33.65 today.

The Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) share price streaked 18% to a 52-week high of $2.49.

There was no price-sensitive news from Viva Energy today; however, it did announce a date for its AGM — 21 May.

ASX 200 coal share, New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) lifted 5.5% to a two-and-a-half-year high of $5.54.

ASX 200 coal shares have been rising as gas supply disruptions force power plants around the world to switch to coal.

This is pushing up the thermal coal price, with Newcastle futures rising 20% over the past 30 days to US$139.35 per tonne.

This is the highest thermal coal price since November 2024.

What about other energy stocks?

While not reaching new 52-week highs, many other ASX 200 energy shares rose strongly today.

Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) shares lifted 9.7% to an intraday high of $8.25, just short of their new 52-week high of $8.27 set last week.

The Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) share price increased 5.2% to an intraday peak of $2.01.

The Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) share price rose 4.8% to an intraday high of $1.30.

The post 5 ASX 200 energy shares smash multi-year highs after oil price spike appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In fact, energy was the only sector to finish the week in the green, rising 1.72%.

The broader market remained unsettled, with the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) falling 2.64% to 8,617.1 points.

Traders and investors worried that the war could turn into an entrenched conflict that would keep oil prices elevated.

This would have significant implications for inflation and interest rates, as higher petrol and gas prices would create greater cost pressures across entire economies.

Amid the uncertainty of what will happen next, the ASX 200 was volatile and oil prices spiked, then slumped, then spiked again.

At the start of the week, oil prices surged 25% to nearly US$120 per barrel before cliff diving to less than US$90 the very next day.

Oil prices have gone higher due to the effective shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz.

More than 20% of the world's global oil and gas exports, mostly from Iran, Iraq, Qatar, and the UAE, pass through the strait.

By Friday, Brent Crude was trading above US$100 per barrel again, while WTI Crude was fetching US$95 per barrel.

On Friday, Trading Economics analysts said:

Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei pledged to keep the Strait of Hormuz effectively shut.

He also warned that Iran may open additional fronts in the conflict if the US and Israel continue their attacks, while US President Donald Trump said preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and posing a threat to the Middle East is more important to him than the cost of oil. 

Energy shares led the ASX sectors last week

Let's take a look at how some of the ASX 200 energy shares performed last week.

ASX 200 oil & gas giant Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) rose 0.94% to close the week at $31.04 per share.

The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price also lifted 0.94% to $7.53.

The Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) share price ascended 0.87% to $1.16.

The Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) share price fell 0.36% to $30.85.

The Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) share price rose 1.9% to $2.14.

The Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) share price finished the week 1.1% higher at $1.84.

ASX 200 coal shares also rose last week, as gas supply disruptions forced power plants around the world to switch to coal.

The Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) share price ripped 27.33% to $8.06, after hitting a new 52-week high of $8.27 on Friday.

Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC) shares ascended 10.26% to $9.35 apiece.

The New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) share price lifted 6.15% to $5.35, after reaching a 52-week peak of $5.41 on Friday.

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 Here's why ASX 200 energy shares were the only risers last week 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.

Even leading Australian oil and gas producers and suppliers, Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) shares, are outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) at the time of writing. 

Santos shares are 1.29% higher at $7.48 a piece, while Woodside shares are 1.82% higher at $30.98 a piece, at the time of writing.

For context, the ASX 200 Index is trading in the red, down 1.19% for the day so far.

Why are these ASX energy stocks climbing higher today?

The price of oil has rebounded, creating a strong tailwind for ASX shares involved in oil transportation, supply, or production.

Oil prices peaked at a multi-year high of over US$100 per barrel earlier this week before temporarily dropping to below the US$80 mark. The price climb has now resumed. 

According to Trading Economics, the price of WTI crude oil has now rocketed back up past US$90 per barrel. At the time of writing, oil is trading at US$93.566 per barrel. That's a 7.05% increase in one day. The fuel is now 48.83% higher over the past month.

The price of Brent crude oil has also jumped to a multi-year high of US$97.788 per barrel. That's a 6.29% increase over the day and a 44.79% hike from last month.

Trading Economics stated that persistent concerns around the Iran war have overshadowed the International Energy Agency (IEA)'s approval for nations to release emergency oil reserves.

Trading Economics said:

In the latest developments, Iraq halted operations at its oil terminals after two oil tankers were targeted in Iraqi waters, underscoring heightened supply risks in the Middle East.

Iran also told intermediaries that the US must guarantee that neither it nor Israel will strike the country in the future for a ceasefire to be considered, which Washington is unlikely to accept. 

Additionally, the crucial Strait of Hormuz also remains effectively shut, with several commercial vessels reportedly struck off the coast of Iran. That has prompted major Middle Eastern producers to significantly curb output, tightening global supply further. 

Will Ampol and Beach Energy shares keep climbing higher?

Analysts are bullish on the outlook for Apmol shares but more bearish about Beach Energy stock.

Out of 11 analysts, nine have a buy or strong buy rating on Ampol, with a maximum target price of $36 over the next 12 months. That implies a 18.21% upside at the time of writing.

For Beach Energy, analysts are mostly neutral on the stock. Out of 15, seven have a hold rating, six have a sell or strong sell rating, and the other two have a strong buy rating. The maximum target price of $1.350 implies a potential 18.21% upside at current levels.

The concern is that these shares are heavily dependent on global oil prices, and as recent price movements have shown, oil is very volatile at the moment. Ongoing conflict in the Middle East only adds to concerns about near-term volatility and share price risk, with some warning that oil prices could keep rising.

The post Why are Ampol, Beach Energy shares jumping higher again today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX 200 energy sector is 3.4% lower, and it's the only sector in the red as the rest of the market recovers from yesterday's rout.

According to abc.net.au, President Trump said the Iran war was "very complete" and that the US was "very far ahead" of its four to five-week estimated schedule of attack.

ASX 200 energy shares are tumbling as oil prices rapidly retreat from nearly US$120 per barrel yesterday to less than US$90 per barrel today.

Here's the impact on energy stocks so far today.

ASX 200 energy shares take a big hit

The market's biggest ASX 200 oil share, Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS), is down 4.8% to $29.87 per share.

The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price is down 3.6% to $7.37, and Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) shares are down 3.5% to $30.25.

The Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) share price is down 9% to $1.82, while Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) shares are 5% lower at $1.11.

ASX 200 coal shares are also being hit.

The Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) share price is 5.3% lower at $6.79, while Whitehaven Ltd (ASX: WHC) shares are 2.7% down at $8.61.

The New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) share price is $4.95, down 4.5%.

Of the top 10 ASX 200 fallers on the market today, eight of them are energy shares.

Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is up 1.2% on Tuesday.

Why are ASX 200 energy shares tumbling?

ASX 200 energy shares are tanking while the broader market is recovering from yesterday's $90 billion wipeout.

The ASX 200 fell 3.2% yesterday, its largest single-day fall since 'Liberation Day' in the US in April 2025.

The drop followed an astronomical 25% surge in the Brent and WTI oil prices to almost $120 per barrel yesterday.

That was their highest level since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Oil prices skyrocketed amid fears that the war could become a long battle and that higher prices would lead to resurgent inflation worldwide.

Yesterday, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Iraq began cutting oil production due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

They did so because storage facilities are filling up quickly as tankers delay going through the Strait of Hormuz.

More than 20% of global oil and gas exports, mostly from Iran, Iraq, Qatar, and the UAE, pass through the strait, which sits between Iran in the north and Oman and the UAE in the south.

It is the only sea channel linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.

Gas prices have also been affected by the Iran war, with UK, Europe, and Germany natural gas futures up by more than 25% in a week.

European gas prices skyrocketed after QatarEnergy suspended production at its Ras Laffan and Mesaieed complexes following an Iranian drone strike on a water tank at the site last week.

The company provides about 20% of the global LNG supply.

Oil prices remain 20% higher over the week despite an overnight fall during US trading and further declines in today's Asia trading session.

Everything reversed course last night

Yesterday, there was fear in the market about whether the Iran war would become an entrenched conflict, potentially involving many nations over an extended period.

But it's funny how fast things can change with Donald Trump in the White House.

All it took was some comments from President Trump to send the Brent and WTI crude oil prices back below US$100 per barrel overnight.

With oil trading again right now in Asian markets, both Brent Crude and WTI Crude are under US$90 per barrel as we speak.

Trading Economics analysts sum up what's happened:

Brent crude futures fell below $95 per barrel on Tuesday after surging to nearly $120 in the previous session, as US President Donald Trump signaled that the war with Iran may be nearing its end and that the US military operation is progressing well ahead of its initial timetable.

Trump also said he plans to waive oil-related sanctions and have the US Navy escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz in an effort to keep oil prices in check.

Adding to the downward pressure, G7 finance ministers said the group "stands ready" to release oil from strategic reserves if necessary, although no action has been taken so far.

Here's what President Trump said

On Truth Social this morning, Donald Trump threatened to punish Iran if it disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

If Iran does anything that stops the flow of Oil within the Strait of Hormuz, they will be hit by the United States of America TWENTY TIMES HARDER than they have been hit thus far.

Yesterday, Trump posted:

Iran is no longer the "Bully of the Middle East," they are, instead, "THE LOSER OF THE MIDDLE EAST," and will be for many decades until they surrender or, more likely, completely collapse!

The post Why are ASX 200 energy shares getting smashed on Tuesday? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.