After spending the entire session in red territory, the ASX 200 ended up closing down a nasty 1.18%. That leaves the index at 8,843.6 points at this mid-week point.

Today's unhappy performance from the Australian markets follows a similarly negative night up on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) closed down 0.59% after initially rising during morning trading.

In a rare coincidence, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) also finished up with a 0.59% loss.

But let's return to the local markets now and dive a little deeper into how today's pessimism filtered down into the various ASX sectors.

Winners and losers

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

What did Iluka Resources report?

• Mineral sands revenue fell 46.8% quarter-on-quarter to $147 million
• Zircon sand sales reached 40.3kt; Z/R/SR sales totalled 70.2kt for the quarter
• Weighted average zircon sand price steady at US$1,491 per tonne
• Total capital expenditure at Eneabba rare earths refinery reached $977 million
• Net debt as at 31 March: $417 million (mineral sands) and $693 million (rare earths, non-recourse)

What else do investors need to know?

Production volumes were down significantly from the prior quarter as Iluka idled its Cataby mine and both synthetic rutile kilns, pending market improvements. Finished goods output in the first half of the year is being sourced from Jacinth-Ambrosia, with Balranald mine continuing its ramp-up phase and producing on-specification heavy mineral concentrate.

The company has already contracted 50kt of zircon sand sales for the second quarter, incorporating price increases of up to US$120/t depending on customer and grade. Logistics costs are climbing, and Iluka expects a weighted average zircon price increase of around US$45/t for Q2. In rare earths, construction at Eneabba is nearing a key milestone, with engineering almost complete and major equipment now on site.

What's next for Iluka Resources?

Iluka's operational focus for 2026 will be the progressive ramp-up at Balranald, aiming for steady-state HMC production by mid-year, and continued development at Eneabba in preparation for planned commissioning in 2027. The company continues to monitor market demand, energy costs, and logistics conditions, with synthetic rutile kiln restarts dependent on improving pricing and sales outlook.

With macroeconomic uncertainty and energy supply disruptions affecting global markets, Iluka is targeting improved pricing and cost control, and progressing major projects that support Australia's supply of critical minerals for electrification and manufacturing.

Iluka Resources share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Iluka resources shares have risen 112%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 15% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Iluka Resources quarterly earnings: revenue, production, and project updates appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The market was caught off-guard by news of a major fire at one of Australia's two oil refineries yesterday.

This will undoubtedly add pressure to the fuel supply chain and potentially add to inflation and the chances of higher interest rates.

Amid the growing global fuel crisis, brokers have indicated continuing confidence in several ASX 200 shares.

These companies received renewed buy ratings this week.

Let's review.

Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO)

The Rio Tinto share price closed at $172.60 on Thursday, down 0.7%.

Over the past month, the ASX mining giant has lifted 11.6%.

Macquarie reiterated its buy rating on Rio Tinto stock this week.

The broker raised its 12-month price target from $168 to $183.

ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ)

The ANZ share price finished the session at $37.73, down 1.3%.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 bank share has edged 0.75% higher.

Morgan Stanley maintained its buy rating on ANZ shares this week.

But the broker shaved its 12-month price target from $37.80 to $37.

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

The Xero share price closed at $81.86 yesterday, up a whopping 9%.

In an apparent rebound for the entire tech sector, Xero shares have risen 16.1% since 30 March.

UBS reiterated its buy rating on Xero shares this week.

However, the broker slashed its 12-month target from $174 to $127.

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN)

The Paladin Energy share price closed at $14.15, up 2.6% on Thursday.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 uranium share has rocketed 27.6%.

Morgan Stanley kept its buy rating in place with a $14.45 price target this week.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)

The South32 share price finished yesterday's trading day at $4.62, down 0.2%.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 mining share has lifted 11.1%.

Morgan Stanley reiterated its buy recommendation this week.

The broker also lifted its share price target from $4.70 to $5.

Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU)

The Iluka Resources share price closed at $7.77, up 4%.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 mineral sands share has ripped 20.7%.

Morgan Stanley maintained a buy rating and raised its target from $6.70 to $7.90.

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

Zip was the third-strongest performer within the ASX 200 yesterday.

The Zip share price ripped 11.4% higher to $2.05 ahead of its quarterly update today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 financial share has soared 28.1%.

Citi reiterated its buy rating on the buy now, pay later provider this week.

The broker has a $2.60 price target on Zip shares.

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)

The Coles share price closed at $22.70, up 0.2%, yesterday.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 consumer staples share has lifted 9%.

Jefferies reiterated its buy rating this week.

The broker also raised its share price target on Coles from $23.50 to $25.50.

The post ASX 200 shares with renewed buy ratings this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In a research note sent to clients this week, Wilsons makes the case that rare earths elements "sit at the centre of several powerful structural trends, including electrification, automation and defence modernisation''.  

Large demand drivers

They say that permanent magnets represent the largest source of rare earths demand, "with applications spanning electric vehicle motors, wind turbines, robotics and industrial automation, as well as consumer electronics''.

They go on to say:

Key magnet rare earths include NdPr (neodymium and praseodymium), which are used to produce NdFeB (neodymium–iron–boron) permanent magnets, the dominant magnet technology in advanced electric motors. In certain applications, heavy rare earths such as DyTb (dysprosium and terbium) are added to improve performance at elevated temperatures.

Wilsons says demand for magnet rare earths is expected to triple over the next decade, underpinned by a combination of structural drivers including the energy transition, automation and robotics, and defence and rearmament.

There are also major barriers to entry on the mining and processing front, as they say:

Rare earth supply is structurally inelastic to price signals. Projects face high capital intensity, complex permitting and financing requirements, and long development timelines that typically span 10-15 years. Against this backdrop, and with demand rising strongly, several magnet rare earth elements, including NdPr and DyTb, are expected to face supply deficits over the near to medium-term. Beyond the global supply/demand balance, an increasingly important dynamic for Western producers is the emergence of an increasingly bifurcated rare earth market, where strategic demand for ex-China supply is supporting pricing premiums and long-term supply agreements for Western rare earths.

Wilsons says China dominates both the extraction and refining of rare earths, which is a strategic vulnerability for Western economies.

Local winners

Among the ASX-listed companies in the sector, Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) stands out, Wilsons says, as the largest rare earths producer outside of China.

Wilsons says Canaccord Genuity has a price target of $22 on the company, compared with the current price of $18.89.

Lynas just this week announced a major supply agreement with the US Department of War, involving US$96 million in rare earth oxide offtake and a US$110/kg floor price for NdPr.

Wilsons says Canaccord also has a buy rating on Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU) and a price target of $6.55 against the current price of $6.03.

Among the project developers, Canaccord has a speculative buy on both Brazilian Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: BRE) and Meteoric Resources Ltd (ASX: MEI).

The price target for Brazilian Rare Earths is $8, against the current price of $4.20, and for Meteoric Resources, 40 cents, compared with 16.5 cents.  

The post 4 cheap Aussie rare earths companies which are worth a look, according to Wilsons Advisory appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The good news is that these conditions are expected to remain for the foreseeable future, which could make it worth having some exposure to ASX rare earths stocks.

The team at Wilsons has been looking at this side of the market and is feeling very positive. It said:

The rare earth market is benefiting from a powerful combination of structural demand growth, constrained supply and increasing policy support for ex-China supply chains. These dynamics are expected to support elevated rare earth prices while also strengthening demand for, and the pricing outcomes of, Western supply in particular.

But which shares could be buys for rare earths exposure? Let's take a look at three that Canaccord Genuity is bullish on, courtesy of Wilsons. They are as follows:

Brazilian Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: BRE)

Canaccord Genuity thinks investors with a high tolerance for risk should look at this rare earths developer.

It has put a speculative buy rating and $8.00 price target on this Brazil-focused ASX rare earths stock. Based on its current share price of $4.70, this implies potential upside of 70% for investors over the next 12 months. It said:

Highest grades we have come across at the Monte Alto discovery in Brazil – partnership with Carester, upcoming Resource/ Scoping for integrated oxide production + bauxite spinout offer potential catalysts.

Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU)

Another ASX rare earths stock that is highly rated is Iluka. Although its mineral sands business is weighing on its performance, its exposure to rare earths with the Eneabba project is seen as a reason to buy.

Canaccord Genuity has a buy rating and $6.55 price target. However, this is largely in line with where its shares currently trade.

Commenting on the stock, the broker said:

Mineral sands business suffering from structural issues, but Eneabba provides medium-term exposure + a possible beneficiary of Australian Critical Minerals Reserve floor pricing.

Meteoric Resources NL (ASX: MEI)

A final ASX rare earths stock that gets the thumbs up from the broker is Meteoric Resources.

Canaccord Genuity has put a speculative buy rating and 40 cents price target on its shares. This is more than double its current share price.

Commenting on the Brazil-based developer, it said:

Low capex/low cost IAC development project in Brazil approaching major milestones (BFS/approvals/ funding/FID) in mid'26.

The post Top broker names 3 ASX rare earths stocks to buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After a brief dip into negative territory this morning, the ASX 200 spent the rest of the day in the green, closing up 0.31%. That leaves the index at 8,640.6 points.

The optimism that we saw on the local markets this Wednesday followed a similarly optimistic morning on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) fared decently, gaining a timid 0.1%

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was more decisive though, rising 0.47%.

But let's get back to the Australian markets now and check out what was happening amongst the different ASX sectors this session.

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

By the time the markets closed this Wednesday, the ASX 200 had risen by another 0.59% after staying in green territory all session, leaving the index at 8,743.5 points. 

This happy hump day for the local markets comes after a nervous morning over on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was volatile, but ended up closing 0.072% lower.

Things were a bit better for the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC), though, which overcame its own shakiness to finish 0.0051% higher.

But let's get back to the Australian share market now and see what was happening amongst the various ASX sectors today.

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

From market close on 30 January through to the closing bell on 27 February, these stocks delivered gains of 17% to more than 27%.

So, which companies were the ones to buy at the end of January and own throughout February?

I'm glad you asked!

ASX 200 stocks leaping higher in February

At the top of my list for February, we find Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC).

The Lynas Rare Earths share price gained an impressive 27.4% over the month just past, closing at $18.98.

The ASX 200 stock enjoyed a big boost after reporting its half-year results (H1 FY 2026) last week. Highlights included a 62.7% year-on-year increase in revenue for the six months to $413.7 million. And on the bottom line, Lynas' net profit after tax (NPAT) of $80.2 million was up 1,259% from H1 FY 2025.

Rival rare earths miner Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU) also shot the lights out in February. If you'd bought the ASX 200 stock at the end of January and sold at market close on 27 February, you'd have booked a gain of 25.9%.

The critical minerals miner reported its full-year results on 18 February. Although mineral sands revenue of $976 million was down 13.5% year on year, investors bid up the stock amid expectations of declining costs and capital expenditures in 2026, and a stronger outlook for mineral sands and rare earths markets.

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) – formerly known as Pilbara Minerals – was another top stock to own in February. PLS shares closed the month up 21%.

The ASX lithium miner released its half-year results on 19 February. Highlights included a 47% year-on-year increase in revenue to $624 million. And PLS swung to a NPAT of $33 million, up from a $69 million loss in the prior corresponding half year.

Moving away from the ASX 200 mining stocks for a moment, Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC) shares gained an impressive 18.5% in February.

Australia's biggest private hospital operator reported its H1 FY 2026 results on 26 February. Ramsay reported a 9.7% year-on-year increase in revenue from contracts with customers to $9.34 billion. And NPAT of $160.7 million was up from a $104.9 million loss in 1H FY 2025.

Which brings us back to the Aussie miners.

Buoyed by the ongoing strength in the global gold price and its half-year results release on 19 February, Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) shares gained 17.1% over the month just past.

In H1 FY 2026, the ASX 200 gold stock achieved a 40% year-on-year increase in half-year gold sales revenue to $1.09 billion. NPAT of $323 million was up 73% from H1 FY 2025.

Honourary mentions

Two of best known names on the index, which includes the biggest ASX 200 stock by market cap, also shot the lights out over the month just past on the back of their own strong earnings results.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) shares gained an impressive 16.4% in February.

And the BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price surged 15.5%, which saw the Aussie mining giant reclaim its title as the top-listed Australian stock from Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA).

Quite a month!

The post 5 of the best ASX 200 stocks to buy and hold in February revealed appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

As it happens, the ASX 200 closed the week right on its new record high of 9,198.6 points after a bouncy day that saw stints in both red and green territory. That was a gain worth 0.25% for the index.

This happy end to the Australian trading week on the ASX comes after a decidedly less sunny morning over on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) managed to squeak a rise, but only just, inching 0.034% higher.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was far more decisive, but not in a good way, falling 1.18%.

But let's get back to the happier market now, though, and take a deeper look at what the various ASX sectors were up to this session.

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

In order to receive a dividend, you must own the ASX share before its ex-dividend date.

Here is a sample of the large number of ASX All Ords shares with ex-dividend dates next week.

ASX All Ords shares about to go ex-dividend

Which companies will we hear from today?

The big one today is the half-yearly report from supermarket network Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL).

Woolworths shares ripped this week after the ASX All Ords consumer staples giant reported a 16% profit lift to $859 million for 1H FY26.

We'll also hear from TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPG), Michael Hill International Ltd (ASX: MHJ), and Pexa Group Ltd (ASX: PXA).

The latest report from The Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SGR) will also be interesting, as investors seek further news on the turnaround plan for the beleaguered casino operator.

Yesterday, Star Entertainment shares bounced on news of a debt refinancing deal, including extra liquidity to fund the turnaround plan.

The post 35 ASX All Ords shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

By the time trading wrapped up today, the ASX 200 had given up a morning lead to close down 0.041%. That small drop leaves the index at 9,022.3 points.

This miserly session for the ASX follows an even nastier start to the American trading week on Wall Street in the early hours of this morning.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was crushed, dropping 1.66%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared slightly better, but still lost 1.13% of its value.

But let's return to the local markets and take stock 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.

According to the analysts at Macquarie, this interest has jumped again early this calendar year, with the US launching the US$12 billion Vault Project, which is in addition to the US National Defense Stockpile (NDS).

Stockpiles will drive demand

Just how the Vault Project will work and even which minerals will be stockpiled are unclear at this stage, but it is undoubtedly a positive for critical minerals companies, Macquarie said in a recent research note sent to clients.

Macquarie said the project was "aggressive", and while details were thin on the ground, it would undoubtedly be a positive for critical minerals suppliers.

They added:

Currently, there is no clear guidance on either the scale or composition of minerals to be stockpiled under the Vault Project. However, if we assume an NdPr (neodymium-praseodymium)stockpile cap similar to the US$2bn NDS and adjust for the larger funding envelope, the implied NdPr oxide inventory for the Vault Project would be about 2.6kt, or about 2% of projected global demand in CY26. We note that the internal budget may ultimately target a significantly larger volume, given NdPr's widespread use across civilian and industrial applications.

Macquarie said the critical minerals strategy would be built on four pillars: direct investment; strategic stockpiling; market protection; and rebuilding the mining ecosystem.

Two ASX-listed companies which could stand to benefit, the Macquarie team said, were Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) and Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU).

In the case of Iluka, Macquarie has a price target of $6.50 on the company's shares, compared with $5.35 currently.

Iluka reported its first-half results on Wednesday, saying mineral sands revenue had fallen from $1.13 billion to $976 million over the full year.

The company also dropped its full-year dividend from 4 cents to 3 cents, on a $288 million net loss, down from a $231 million full-year profit. The loss included $565 million in impairment charges announced to the market in January.

The company, in its statement to the ASX, mirrored Macquarie's sentiment that it was well-placed to take advantage of demand as the rare earths market developed.

The company said:

Rare earths dominated headlines globally in 2025 and were recognised as a clear priority by investors, consumers and policymakers alike. We saw the risk of supply disruptions shift from the theoretical to the concrete, reinforcing the value and strategic importance of the new business Iluka has been building since 2022, with the Eneabba refinery to be commissioned next year.

Iluka said an example of the market evolving was the US government introducing a price floor for light magnet rare earths.

It went on to say:

The acceleration of these developments underscores the advantage of Eneabba coming online in 2027; the products it will deliver (light and heavy rare earths oxides); how those products will be priced; and the wide range of feedstocks the facility has access to and will be capable of processing.

Meanwhile, Macquarie's price target on Lynas was $17.50 per share compared with $15.44 currently. Lynas will report its results on February 26.

The post Two critical minerals companies to consider, according to Macquarie appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Iluka Resources report?

• Mineral sands revenue of $976 million, down from $1,129 million in FY24
• Underlying mineral sands EBITDA of $300 million, with a margin of 31%
• Net profit after tax (NPAT) loss of $288 million, impacted by $566 million in impairments and write-downs
• Operating cash flow of $61 million (FY24: $252 million)
• Net debt (excluding non-recourse debt) of $473 million at year-end
• Final dividend of 3 cents per share fully franked; total full year dividend of 5 cents

What else do investors need to know?

The 2025 result reflects challenging conditions in the mineral sands market, with subdued demand and softer pigment industry activity. Iluka responded by suspending production at its Cataby and Synthetic Rutile 2 operations and completing a reset of its cost base.

On the development front, the company commenced mining at the high-grade Balranald site in January 2026 and expects to bring a second rig online shortly. Construction of the Eneabba rare earths refinery continues on budget, with commissioning targeted for 2027. Iluka also adjusted long-term synthetic rutile contracts to guarantee at least $240 million in contracted revenue for 2026.

What did Iluka Resources management say?

Managing Director Tom O'Leary said:

2025 saw challenges for mineral sands contrast with strong momentum in rare earths. External developments across both industries have validated Iluka's approach to our respective businesses, including in relation to diversification, operational and market discipline, capital allocation and balance sheet management.

What's next for Iluka Resources?

Iluka expects mineral sands costs and capital expenditure to decrease in 2026, following the cost reset and as the Balranald project ramps up. Management says the company is well positioned for a range of industry outcomes thanks to its diversified product mix and significant inventory.

The focus for 2026 and beyond is disciplined delivery at both Balranald and the Eneabba rare earths project. Engineering at Eneabba is now more than 95% complete, with offtake discussions advancing as construction picks up pace.

Iluka Resources share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, the Iluka Resources share prices have risen 13%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Iluka Resources posts lower FY25 profit but advances rare earths strategy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX mining stocks are a popular investment choice these days amid rising commodity prices.

The materials sector, which incorporates mining companies, had an incredibly strong year in 2025.

The sector returned a staggering 36% to investors as gold and commodities associated with the energy transition surged.

On The Bull this week, experts recommend selling the following three producers.

Let's take a look.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

Northern Star shares are $28.07 apiece, up 1.3% on Tuesday and up 57% over the past 12 months.

Tony Locantro from Alto Capital has a sell rating on this ASX 200 gold mining share.

Locantro comments:

Northern Star's share price has performed strongly, supported by higher gold prices and improved sentiment towards large market capitalisation producers.

However, the company's most recent production report disappointed, with output and cost guidance undershooting market expectations.

While the longer term outlook for gold remains positive, recent operational softness tempers near term confidence.

With much of the upside already reflected in the share price, the risk-reward balance favours taking profits at current levels.

Northern Star Resources will release its 1H FY26 results on Thursday.

Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU)

The Iluka Resources share price is $5.22, up 0.6% on Tuesday and up 12% over the past 12 months.

Tony Paterno from Ord Minnett has a sell rating on this ASX critical minerals mining share.

Paterno explains:

ILU's mineral sands business clocked up net debt of $473 million at December 31, 2025.

We suspect a capital raising may be an option to address the debt overhang as cash flow is impacted at operations at current prices.

The shares were punished following the company update on January 29, 2026, falling from $6.96 on January 23 to trade at $5.17 on February 5.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

The Liontown share price is $1.73, up 2.8% today and up 162% over the past 12 months.

Morgans maintained its trim rating on this ASX lithium mining share after Liontown released a 2Q FY26 update in the last week of January.

The broker increased its 12-month share price target on Liontown from 89 cents to $2.

Morgans commented:

2Q26 result beat expectations on production and costs.

Balance sheet de-risked following LG Energy Solution's election to convert its US$250m convertible notes into equity, removing debt and strengthening flexibility despite dilution.

Maintain TRIM with much of the near-term upside factored into its share price.

The post 3 ASX mining shares to sell: experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three broker buy ratings that you might want to know more about are summarised below. Here's why brokers think these ASX shares are in the buy zone right now:

Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU)

According to a note out of Macquarie, its analysts have upgraded this mineral sands producer's shares to an outperform rating with a reduced price target of $6.50. The broker made the move on valuation grounds following significant share price weakness. And while the broker acknowledges that its guidance for FY 2026 and sizeable one-off charge were disappointing, they are not enough to deter the broker from recommending it. Especially with its revenue coming in stronger than expected during the fourth quarter. The Iluka Resources share price is trading at $5.44 on Friday afternoon.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

A note out of Bell Potter reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating on this lithium miner's shares with a trimmed price target of $2.42. The broker highlights that Liontown's quarterly update was softer than expected for production and revenues, but that its unit costs were better than expected. Bell Potter points out that Liontown will be ramping up and de-risking its Kathleen Valley lithium project over the next 18 months. And with the current lithium price strength, it believes the company can rapidly generate cash to support incremental production expansions and shareholder returns. Additionally, it points out that Kathleen Valley is highly strategic in terms of scale, long project life, and location in a tier-one mining jurisdiction. The Liontown share price is fetching $1.88 at the time of writing.

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

Another note out of Bell Potter reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating on this mining and mining services company's shares with an improved price target of $70.00. This follows the release of a quarterly update which was stronger than Bell Potter was expecting. The broker was also pleased to see that Mineral Resources is upgrading its spodumene production to take advantage of recent strength in lithium prices. In addition, it notes that Mineral Resources' balance sheet is deleveraging, which bodes well for the future. The Mineral Resources share price is trading at $57.83 on Friday.

The post Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are falling more than most today are listed below. Here's why they are dropping:

Brainchip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN)

The Brainchip share price is down 6% to 15.5 cents. Investors have been selling this semiconductor company's shares following the release of another disappointing quarterly update. Brainchip recorded cash receipts of just US$0.4 million for the three months ended 31 December. That's despite it entering the commercialisation stage a few years ago. And with its market capitalisation now at $350 million, it seems that some investors are finally recognising that this premium valuation is undeserved.

Galan Lithium Ltd (ASX: GLN)

The Galan Lithium share price is down 13% to 40.7 cents. This morning, this lithium developer announced that it has received firm commitments from institutional and sophisticated investors for a $40 million placement at a discount of 41 cents per new share. The proceeds will be used to complete phase one construction activities, expand phase one production capacity from 4 ktpa LCE to 5.2 ktpa LCE, undertake exploration activities at Greenbushes South, and for working capital purposes. The company's managing director, Juan Pablo Vargas de la Vega, commented: "An accelerated recovery in lithium prices has provided Galan with an opportunity to expand HMW Phase 1 production capacity by 30%."

Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU)

The Iluka Resources share price is down 13.5% to $5.58. Investors have been selling this mineral sands company's shares after it revealed that it would recognise $565 million in impairment charges in its upcoming first-half results. It advised: "The suspension [of the Cataby mine] was enacted given subdued demand for mineral sands and their associated downstream products, particularly pigment. The persistence of these demand conditions has impacted price expectations in the nearer term."

Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX: OBM)

The Ora Banda Mining share price is down 13% to $1.44. This morning, this gold miner released its quarterly update and revealed record gold production. However, looking further ahead, management is now guiding to the low end of its production guidance range and has increased its cost guidance meaningfully. Its FY 2026 all-in sustaining cost (AISC) is now expected to be $3,250 per ounce to $3,350 per ounce from $2,800 to $2,900 per ounce.

The post Why Brainchip, Galan Lithium, Iluka, and Ora Banda shares are tumbling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The mineral sands miner said in a statement to the ASX that the suspension of operations at its Cataby mine in Western Australia and changes to price expectations for some of its inventory had led to the decision to make two separate write-downs.

Shutdown impacting on value for ASX rare earths share

The company said it announced in September that it would suspend operations at the Cataby mine and the synthetic rutile kiln number two from the start of December.

Iluka added:

The suspension was enacted given subdued demand for mineral sands and their associated downstream products, particularly pigment. The persistence of these demand conditions has impacted price expectations in the nearer term. Iluka expects to record a non-cash impairment charge of about $350 million pre-tax in its FY25 Results, the majority of which relates to the Cataby mine, synthetic rutile kilns 1 and 2 and associated project study costs for the South West region of Western Australia.

In terms of the adjustments to inventory, Iluka said price expectations had led to changes to the net realisable value, "resulting in some product inventory items falling below their weighted average cost, leading to a reduction in inventory value of about $215 million pre-tax''.

This reduction is mainly related to ore at the Cataby site, Iluka said.

Iluka said it expected its underlying mineral sands EBITDA to be about $300 million, before the one-off charges were factored in.

Good news on development project for ASX rare earths share

Separately, Iluka announced an increase to the mineral resource at its WIM100 deposit in Western Victoria, which is currently the subject of a definitive feasibility study for the potential long-term supply of rare earths and zircon.

The company said:

The updated mineral resource estimate for WIM100 comprises a total of 540 million tonnes grading at 4.6% heavy minerals for 25 million tonnes of heavy minerals. Relative to the previous mineral resource estimate, there is a 19% increase in total reported heavy mineral tonnage; an 8% increase in the heavy mineral tonnage classified as measured; and a 53% increase in heavy mineral tonnage classified as indicated. This represents a significant increase in heavy mineral tonnage and improvement in the confidence level of the WIM100 mineral resource estimate.

The company said the mineral sands from WIM100 were an important potential future feedstock for the company's Eneabba refinery in Western Australia, which is currently under construction.

The company added:

Upon commissioning in 2027, Eneabba will be one of the few rare earths refineries operating outside of China; a multi-decade infrastructure asset capable of processing a diverse range of feedstocks, from Australian and international projects, and producing both light and heavy separated rare earth oxides.   

Iluka shares were 9.4% lower at $5.85 in early trade.

The company was valued at $2.77 billion at the close of trade on Wednesday.

The post This mineral sands miner's shares are falling sharply on write-down news appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Iluka Resources report?

• Full year 2025 Z/R/SR (zircon, rutile, synthetic rutile) production: 559kt, up 13% on 2024 and above guidance
• Mineral sands revenue for 2025: $976 million, down 13.5% on 2024
• Unit cash costs of production: $1,054 per tonne for 2025, 19% lower than 2024 and below guidance
• Total capital expenditure for 2025: $862 million, mainly on Eneabba rare earths refinery and Balranald
• Net debt at 31 December 2025: $473 million for mineral sands, $584 million for rare earths
• Dividends received from Deterra: $23 million, distributed 100% to shareholders

What else do investors need to know?

Iluka's Q4 production rose despite the idling of the SR2 kiln from December, as higher zircon-in-concentrate output offset lower synthetic rutile. The company's quarterly review led to a cost base overhaul, cutting around 120 roles and targeting $36 million in 2026 savings.

The Eneabba rare earths refinery in Western Australia continued as a key investment focus, reaching $865 million in capital spend by year end. Mining began at Balranald in New South Wales, meeting or exceeding expected extraction rates, with ramp-up underway.

Market conditions for mineral sands remained subdued in Q4, especially in China, with lower pricing and customers keeping inventories lean. Iluka remains flexible, able to adjust synthetic rutile output if market demand recovers.

What's next for Iluka Resources?

Iluka's 2026 production guidance assumes Cataby and SR2 remain idle, with Balranald ramping up during the first half of the year. The company is prepared to restart SR2 if conditions improve.

Mineral sands capital expenditure in 2026 will focus mainly on the completion of Balranald, as well as ongoing studies for the Wimmera and Typhoon projects. For its rare earths segment, Eneabba construction remains on track, further positioning Iluka to diversify earnings as the project progresses.

Iluka Resources share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Iluka Resources shares have risen 42%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

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The post Iluka Resources shares in focus as 2025 production beats guidance appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

We've got a fairly diverse batch of market leaders this week.

Here's why investors have been buying these ASX shares.

ASX 200 stocks storming higher this week

The first outperforming stock on my list for the week is IperionX Ltd (ASX: IPX).

Shares in the titanium products producer closed last Friday trading for $6.37. At the time of writing, shares are changing hands for $7.16 each. That sees this ASX 200 stock up 12.3% for the week.

IperionX shares have been key beneficiaries of the United States' push to strengthen the defence-related supply chains for critical materials.

IperionX shares are marching higher again today after the company announced it had received the final US$4.6 million payment from the US$47.1 million US government funding package to support the development of titanium manufacturing within the US.

Which brings us to the second ASX 200 stock racing higher this week, Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC).

Shares in the coal miner closed last Friday trading for $7.83 and are currently trading for $8.82. This puts the Whitehaven share price up 12.7% for the week.

There were no price-sensitive announcements from the company this week. But the outlook for long-term coal demand is getting a big boost from China.

According to Trading Economics:

Coal prices rose toward US$110 per ton, climbing toward one-month highs as China prepares to launch more than 100 coal-fired power generators that are expected to supply electricity across the globe this year.

Moving on to the third ASX 200 stock smashing the benchmark this week, we have Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU).

Shares in the miner closed last week at $6.18. Shares are currently swapping hands for $7.06 each. That sees the Iluka Resources share price up 14.2% for the week.

With no fresh news out this week, Iluka also looks to be benefiting from the Western world's push to secure crucial rare earths supplies outside of China. Iluka produces zircon and high-grade titanium dioxide feedstocks, and the company owns a rare earths refinery project in Western Australia.

Which brings us to…

Leading the charge

The top performing ASX 200 stock on my list for the week is Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW).

Shares in the gaming technology company closed last week trading for $154.70. In afternoon trade today, shares are changing hands for $179.72 apiece. This sees the Light & Wonder share price up 16.2% for the week.

Light & Wonder shares closed up 18% on Monday after announcing an end to the legal actions lodged by rival gaming company Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL) in Australia and the United States.

Light & Wonder admitted it had erroneously used some of Aristocrat's maths information to develop its Dragon Train and Jewel of the Dragon games. The company agreed to pay Aristocrat Leisure US$127.5 million to settle the matter.

The post 4 ASX 200 stocks smashing the benchmark this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU) was one of the highflyers during Tuesday's trade, finishing 6.2% higher at $6.68. That brings the total gain in 2026 to 15.4%, while the ASX 200 resources stock has soared by 35% in the past 6 months.

Let's take a closer look.

Strategic rare earths player

This wasn't about quarterly numbers or a surprise announcement from the company itself. Global markets woke up bullish on the idea of building rare earths supply chains outside China. That optimism washed straight onto the ASX, and Iluka fits neatly into that picture.

While best known for mineral sands like zircon and titanium, the ASX 200 resources stock also owns a strategically important rare earths refinery project. One that suddenly looks a lot more valuable in a world scrambling for secure supply.

Iluka's strengths are clear. It controls some of the world's highest-quality mineral sands deposits, has deep processing expertise, and enjoys strong government backing for its rare earths strategy.

The ASX 200 miner operates major assets in Western and South Australia and owns the Sierra Rutile business in West Africa. Its next phase of growth is taking shape in Western Australia, where Iluka is building the Eneabba rare earths refinery.

From side hustle to growth engine

The project aims to position Australia as a reliable supplier of critical minerals to global markets and reduce reliance on China. If successful, the Eneabba refinery could reshape the company.

The ASX 200 resources stock would move beyond mineral sands into vertically integrated rare earths production. It would supply oxides used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and advanced electronics. These are markets with strong long-term demand.

If demand for electric vehicles, defence technology, and clean energy infrastructure continues to accelerate, Iluka's exposure to critical inputs starts to look less like a side hustle and more like a growth engine.

However, risks remain. Mineral sands prices are cyclical and closely tied to global manufacturing conditions, with Chinese supply playing a major role. Recent production pauses underscore Iluka's exposure to demand swings. Eneabba is also capital-intensive and relies on securing long-term offtake agreements. Delays or cost overruns could pressure valuations.

What's next for Iluka shares?

There is also a dose of broker enthusiasm driving the current rally. Recent upgrades have reminded the market that the ASX resources stock combines solid cash flows today with leverage to a structural trend tomorrow. That's a rare and appealing mix in the resources space.

It's no surprise that analysts and investors are warming up to Iluka's rare earths strategy. That long-term optionality is powerful.

Most brokers see the ASX 200 resources stock as a buy or strong buy. They have a 12-month average price target at $7.44, which points to a potential gain of 11%.  

The post Why this ASX 200 resources stock is off to a flying start in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.