The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fell 0.28% to 8,772.3 points over the week.

Oil and gas prices surged last week as Iran-backed Houthi militants attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea.

The Saudis have been piping oil across to the Red Sea port of Yanbu for export while the Strait of Hormuz is effectively shut down.

The Brent crude oil price increased 13% to US$99.80 per barrel on Friday.

The US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil price rose 11.5% to US$91.25 per barrel.

UK and European gas prices rose 8% and German gas prices increased 13%.

On Friday, Trading Economics analysts said escalating tensions were raising fears of prolonged global energy supply disruptions.

The US launched a 13th straight day of strikes on Iran, with both sides ruling out near-term talks.

President Trump also threatened "major military punishment" against Iran and the Houthis over any further attacks on Red Sea shipping and said he was considering a "massive attack" on Iran.

Asian buyers have begun discussing rerouting Saudi crude shipments through the Suez Canal and around Africa.

Adding to supply constraints, the Caspian Pipeline Consortium suspended crude loadings at its Black Sea terminal after tanker attacks, disrupting around 80% of Kazakhstan's oil exports.

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

Let's recap.

Energy shares led the market last week

The Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price rose 6.27% over the week to $32.37 on Friday.

The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price lifted 3.78% to $7.97.

The Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) share price rose 2.98% to $38.67.

The Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) share price ascended 6.84% to $2.50.

The Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) share price rocketed 19.33% to $1.79.

Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) shares increased 2.84% to 91 cents apiece.

The Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) share price shot 14.96% higher to $9.68 on Friday.

The Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE) share price rose 6.56% to $1.30.

The Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) share price jumped 12.87% to $6.05.

Whitehaven Ltd (ASX: WHC) shares rose 4.31% to $7.75.

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 rise 6% as reignited US-Iran conflict continues appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The optimism that we saw earlier in the week was nowhere to be seen today, with the market staying in the red the entire session. By the time trading wrapped up, the ASX 200 had given up 0.75% of its value. That leaves the index at 8,772.3 points as we head into the weekend.

This rough end to the week for Australian investors comes after an even direr night over on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in a mood, falling 0.97%.

It was even worse for the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC), which lost a nasty 2.15%.

But let's get back to the local markets now and see how the different ASX sectors weathered today's rough tides.

Winners and losers

There were only a handful of green sectors today, but more on those in a moment.

Firstly, it was gold shares that took the brunt of today's selling. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) had crashed 4.28% by the end of the day.

Tech stocks were hit hard too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) tanking 3.98%.

We could say the same for mining shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) ended up cratering 2.84%.

Communications stocks had a tough one too, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 1.52% slump.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) didn't escape the storm. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) took a 1.18% dive.

Nor did consumer discretionary shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) giving up 1.06%.

Industrial stocks weren't much better. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) was walked back 1.02%.

There wasn't anything healthy about healthcare shares either, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)'s 0.95% dip.

Turning to the green sectors now, it was energy stocks that topped today's market. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) roared 0.93% higher.

Financial shares ran relatively hot too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) jumping 0.88%.

Utilities stocks were spared as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) bounced up 0.8% this Friday.

Finally, consumer staples shares held their value, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)'s 0.4% rise.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Taking out the top spot this Friday was energy stock Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR). Karoon shares shot up a healthy 10.84% this session to close the week at $1.79 each. There wasn't any news out that explains this, although most energy shares had a day to remember.

Here's the rest of today's best: 

Enjoy the weekend!

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

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

This in-form display on the ASX boards follows a more downbeat session up on Wall Street last night.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) couldn't hold on to an early lead and finished 0.012% lower.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was more decisive, dropping 0.57%.

But let's return to ASX shares now and check out what the various ASX sectors were up to this Thursday.

Winners and losers

Despite the market's gains, we had an even split between red and green sectors today.

Leading those red sectors were tech stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) was hit hard, plunging 3.32%.

Consumer discretionary shares weren't popular either, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) diving 1.52%.

Next came healthcare stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) ended up slumping 1.43%.

Communications shares were also on the nose, evident from the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 1.15% dip.

Consumer staples stocks were no safe haven. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) went backwards by 0.53%.

Our last losers were industrial shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) slipping 0.46%.

Turning to the green sectors now, mining stocks headlined the winners. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) soared 1.37% higher this session.

Gold shares were in demand as well, illustrated by the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD)'s 1.34% surge.

Energy stocks ran hot too. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) saw its value climb 0.98%.

Utilities shares followed energy, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) lifting 0.65%.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) also enjoyed today's market sunshine. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) vaulted up 0.52% today.

Finally, financial stocks got across the line intact, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)'s 0.29% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Financial stock Generation Development Group Ltd (ASX: GDG) was our best performer on the ASX today. Generation shares rocketed a massive 37.13% this session to close at $4.58 each. This extraordinary leap higher followed an exceptionally well-received quarterly update.

Here's how the rest of today's top stocks tied up at the dock: 

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

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

What did Karoon Energy report?

• Produced 1.08 million barrels of oil equivalent (MMboe) in Q2 FY26
• Sales revenue of US$116.4 million, down 9% from prior quarter
• Baúna oil realised price jumped 33% to US$94.56/bbl; Who Dat liquids price surged 55% to US$101.93/bbl
• Operating efficiency at Baúna FPSO reached 97%, above the 90–95% target
• Liquidity of US$363.6 million at 30 June 2026; net debt at US$269.7 million
• 2.8 million shares bought back during the quarter; further buybacks planned

What else do investors need to know?

Karoon Energy completed the transition of Baúna FPSO operatorship in May, giving it more control over costs and unlocking efficiency gains. Production at Baúna is now back to around 22,000 barrels per day, following major maintenance and well intervention works.

At Who Dat, the A1 sidetrack well came online after the end of the quarter, and planning is underway to address riser issues. The Who Dat E manifold is expected to resume production in the fourth quarter of 2027, depending on ongoing remediation work. The company is also advancing growth projects, with a final investment decision on Who Dat East expected in Q3 and further progress on Neon in Brazil.

What did Karoon Energy management say?

Karoon's CEO and MD, Ms Carri Lockhart, commented:

At the start of 2026, we commenced a clear and ambitious program to strengthen Karoon's operations at Baúna. In the second quarter, we delivered these commitments. We transitioned FPSO operatorship, completed the largest maintenance and revitalisation program in the Company's history, restored production from the SPS-92 and PRA-2 wells, and established a stronger operating platform for higher operational efficiency, structurally lower operating costs and stronger cash generation going forward.

What's next for Karoon Energy?

Karoon expects higher free cash flow in the second half of 2026 as production ramps up and capital spending drops with the major Baúna work program substantially complete. The board sees share buybacks as an attractive use of capital in the near term, while potential development decisions on Who Dat East and Neon will be evaluated with a disciplined approach.

For the full year, the company has guided total production between 7.2 and 8.2 MMboe and total capex of US$178–202 million. Its capital allocation framework seeks to balance growth, shareholder returns, and maintaining a strong balance sheet.

Karoon Energy share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Karoon Energy shares have declined 21%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 1% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Karoon Energy delivers higher oil prices and improved efficiency in Q2 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX 200 didn't record a gain for the day, though. It didn't record a loss either. Instead, it ended the day exactly where it started. Yep, the index was completely flat this Tuesday, moving precisely 0.00% and finishing at 8,808.5 points, where it was 24 hours ago. A rare occurrence indeed.

This fascinating result for the local markets followed a decisively negative night to kick off the American trading week on Wall Street, though.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) wasn't in a good mood, dropping 0.26%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared even worse, falling 1.55%

But let's return to ASX shares now and take stock of how the different ASX sectors navigated this Tuesday's tepid trading conditions.

Winners and losers

As you may expect, we had a fairly even break between winners and losers this session.

Leading the latter were real estate investment trusts (REITs). The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) was hit hard today, tumbling 1.64%.

Consumer staples shares didn't hold their value either, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) tanking 0.81%.

Financial stocks also had a rough time. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) retreated 0.54%.

Industrial shares were on the nose too, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ)'s 0.47% slide.

That's it for the red sectors though, so let's get to the winners. Leading said winners were energy stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) rocketed 1.98% this Tuesday.

Utilities shares were in demand as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) soaring 1.37%.

Mining stocks ran hot, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) surged 0.67% by the closing bell.

Healthcare shares were right behind that, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)'s 0.66% jump.

Gold stocks were also in that ballpark. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) leapt 0.62% higher this session.

Consumer discretionary shares came next, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) advancing 0.39%.

Communications stocks got out ahead as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) lifted 0.21% today.

Finally, tech shares were lucky to come out intact, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ)'s 0.07% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Gaming technology company Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW) took out this Tuesday's top spot. Light & Wonder shares vaulted 7.98% higher today to finish at $111.60 each. We dove into this jump earlier today.

Here's how the other winners pulled up at the kerb: 

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

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

However, the ASX 200 staged a late comeback and only just managed to finish in the green, gaining 0.028% for the day and finishing at 8,808.5 points.

This shaky start to the trading week for the Australian markets came after a happy finish to the American trading week on Friday night (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) fared decently, rising 0.29%.

In a rare event, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) also gained 0.29%.

But let's return to this week and the local markets to see how the various ASX sectors performed this session.

Winners and losers

At the front of today's red sectors were tech stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) was hit hard, plunging 2.48%.

Gold stocks were also hit hard, with the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) cratering 1.89%.

Utilities shares were unpopular, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) saw its value tank 1.63% today.

Consumer staples stocks were no safe haven either, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)'s 0.91% slump.

Mining shares didn't hold water. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) sank 0.65% this Monday.

Nor did healthcare stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) dropping 0.61%.

Industrial stocks were our final losers today. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) slid 0.17% down.

Let's turn to the winners now. Leading the push higher were communications stocks, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 0.89% surge.

Consumer discretionary shares proved popular as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) jumped 0.86% today.

We could say something similar for financial stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) advancing 0.67%.

Energy shares also ran relatively hot. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) put on an additional 0.66% this Monday.

Finally, real estate investment trusts (REITs) only just got over the line, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)'s 0.04% inch higher.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Biotech company Mesoblast Ltd (ASX: MSB) was the best share on the index. Mesoblast stock leapt 4.91% higher this Monday to close at $2.35. This was potentially a reaction to a bullish broker note, which we covered this morning.

Here's the rest of today's best: 

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

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

The US hit Iran following its attacks on vessels in the key global oil and gas shipping channel, the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran launched retaliatory strikes on US bases across the region.

The new strikes created uncertainty in global markets, with the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) falling 0.43% to 8,806 points last week.

Energy shares followed oil and gas prices higher.

The Brent crude oil price increased 5.7% over the week to US$76.01 per barrel on Friday.

The US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil price lifted 4.6% to US$71.89 per barrel.

US heating oil rose 8.3% over the week.

UK gas prices rose 13%, German gas lifted 11.8%, and European gas increased 8.7%.

On Friday, Trading Economics analysts said:

Shipping traffic through Hormuz slowed sharply this week, with markets closely monitoring whether transit activity will normalize.

The strategic waterway continues to be a key sticking point in ongoing US-Iran negotiations.

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

Let's review.

Energy shares rise as US-Iran attacks resume

The Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price rose 4.23% over the week to $29.05 on Friday.

The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price lifted 7.32% to $7.62.

The Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) share price rose 4.13% to $35.28.

The Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) share price ascended 5.14% to $2.25 at Friday's close.

The Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) share price finished 1.07% higher at $1.42.

Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) shares lifted 4.17% to 88 cents apiece.

The ASX 200's largest uranium share, Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN), rose 0.8% to $10.06 on Friday.

The Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE) share price rose 6.3% to $1.35.

The Deep Yellow Ltd (ASX: DYL) share price fell 2.36% to $1.45.

The market's largest ASX 200 coal share, Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) fell 2.16% to $5.44.

The Whitehaven Ltd (ASX: WHC) share price lost 2.24% to finish the week at $7.42.

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 rebound after US-Iran peace deal falls apart appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This tough hump day for ASX investors followed a similarly bearish session on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) did start well, but quickly lost all momentum to finish down 0.25%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was more decisive, dropping 1.16%.

But let's get back to the Australian bourse now and dive a little deeper into what was happening amongst the different ASX sectors today.

Winners and losers

Despite the market's loss, we still had a few corners of the market that managed to prosper today.

But first, it was again gold shares that copped it hardest. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) had another bruising session, cratering by 2.36%.

Communications stocks were hit hard as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) plunging 2.1%.

Mining shares were also on the nose. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) took a 2% dive this Wednesday.

Tech stocks were in the firing line too, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ)'s 1.87% tumble.

Industrial shares came next. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) saw its value cut by 0.52%.

Healthcare stocks were our last losers, with the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) sliding down 0.32%.

Turning to the green sectors, it was energy shares that topped the tables. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) vaulted 3.25% higher this hump day.

Utilities stocks also had a day to remember, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)'s 1.22% spike.

Consumer staples shares proved to be a safe haven, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) surged up 1.04% this session.

Financial stocks attracted attention as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) leaping up 0.65%.

Next came real estate investment trusts (REITs). The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) advanced 0.52% today.

Finally, consumer discretionary shares stayed out of trouble, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ)'s 0.4% jump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

This Wednesday's winning stock was energy share Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR). Karoon shares roared 6.64% higher this session to finish at $1.45 each. There wasn't any news out from the company today, but most energy shares did very well.

Here's how the other top stocks tied up at the dock: 

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

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

As the new financial year begins, brokers have signalled new confidence in several ASX shares.

Here are six stocks that have just been upgraded, and their 12-month share price targets. 

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN)

The Paladin Energy share price is $9.88, down 0.6% today and up 25% over 12 months.

RBC Capital upgraded the ASX energy share to a buy rating on Tuesday. 

The broker lifted its 12-month price target from $11 to $13.50.

This implies a potential 37% upside ahead.

Graincorp Ltd (ASX: GNC)

The Graincorp share price is $4.83, down 0.6% today, and down 36% over 12 months.

Bell Potter upgraded the ASX 200 consumer staples share to a buy rating on Wednesday.

The broker increased its price target from $5.20 to $5.90.

This implies potential capital growth of 22% over the next year.

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR)

The Karoon Energy share price is $1.36, down 4.6% today and down 30% over 12 months. 

Morgans upgraded the ASX energy share to a buy rating on Tuesday.

The broker trimmed its 12-month price target from $1.90 to $1.77.

This implies a potential 30% upside ahead.

The broker said: 

The last 30 days have been the toughest part of the rollercoaster, with KAR's share price -36% on an initial Middle East peace agreement and guidance downgrade.

The start to 2026 was always going to be a tough period for KAR: a) heavy H1 investment spend, b) key Bauna well restart (SPS-92) and c) conflict uncertainty.

Now at the end of H1, the first two of those three factors have been resolved, with KAR moving back into positive FCF generation with most of its 2026 capex now sunk.

KAR also announced the next phase of its on-market buyback starting in July 2026. 

Stockland Corporation Ltd (ASX: SGP)

The Stockland share price is $4.04, down 0.5% today and down 28% over 12 months. 

Citi upgraded the ASX 200 real estate share to a buy rating on Tuesday.  

The broker bumped up its 12-month target from $4.30 to $5.10.

This suggests a potential 26% upside ahead.

DigiCo Infrastructure REIT (ASX: DGT)

The DigiCo share price is $2.50, down 2% today and down 23% over 12 months. 

Jefferies upgraded the ASX real estate investment trust (REIT) to a buy rating with an improved $3 target. 

This implies a potential 20% upside ahead.

Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE)

The Boss Energy share price is $1.18, up 1.7% today and down 74% over 12 months. 

RBC Capital upgraded this ASX uranium share to a hold rating on Tuesday. 

The broker raised its 12-month price target from $1.10 to $1.30. 

This suggest a potential 10% upside ahead.

The post 6 ASX shares upgraded by experts this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here's what the broker is saying about these three popular shares:

Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF)

Morgans is positive on this quick-service restaurant operator following the release of its FY 2026 results.

However, the broker has cut its valuation to reflect disappointment in Europe. Morgans has a buy rating and $10.60 price target on Collins Foods shares. It said:

In our view, CKF reported a solid result in light of tough conditions. NPAT grew 17.6%, at the mid-point of guidance. COGS are expected to be flat to modest in FY27, which is better than feared. KFC Australia 1H27-to-date SSS of +4.0% is a stronger-than-expected start. Europe disappointed with early 1H27 SSS tracking deeply negative, though attributable to factors outside CKF's control.

Balance sheet remains strong with ND/EBITDA of 0.8x, keeping CKF well placed to fund the German expansion, accelerate Kwench rollout, and pursue further German bolt-on acquisitions. While the composition of our forecasts has changed, the net profit impact is minor. We believe CKF remains undervalued for its growth profile. Despite the tough consumer environment, CKF proves resilient regardless of numerous challenges and continues to deliver solid growth. We retain our BUY recommendation and revise our price target to A$10.60 from A$12.50.

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR)

Another ASX share that Morgans has been looking at is Karoon Energy.

Following a rollercoaster month, the broker has upgraded the energy producer's shares to a buy rating with a $1.77 price target.

The broker appears to believe investors should be taking advantage of recent weakness caused by a Middle East peace agreement and guidance downgrade. It explains:

The last 30 days have been the toughest part of the rollercoaster, with KAR's share price -36% on an initial Middle East peace agreement and guidance downgrade. The start to 2026 was always going to be a tough period for KAR: a) heavy H1 investment spend, b) key Bauna well restart (SPS-92) and c) conflict uncertainty.

Now at the end of H1, the first two of those three factors have been resolved, with KAR moving back into positive FCF generation with most of its 2026 capex now sunk. KAR also announced the next phase of its on-market buyback starting in July 2026. We upgrade our rating to BUY (from Hold) with a A$1.77 target price (was A$1.67).

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

Morgans remains positive on this medical imaging technology company. However, due to a recent rally, the broker has downgraded Pro Medicus shares to an accumulate rating with an improved price target of $230.00.

Commenting on the downgrade, Morgans said:

PME has re-gained positive momentum (MoMo) off its multi-year lows. The move reflects a closing of the value gap flagged in our recent note (1 June), not any change to the underlying business. With a >50% price move in June and heavy buying across the network in the mid to low $100s, taking some profits on new and overweight positions is hard to argue against, but absolutely view maintaining positions in PME as a core growth holding.

With the near-term upside/downside skew now less favourable, happy to lock in some outsized profits while maintaining a core growth holding. TP upgraded to A$230.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Collins Foods, Karoon Energy, and Pro Medicus shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

On 29 May, Woodside shares closed the day trading for $30.66. On 30 June, shares ended the day changing hands for $28.21 apiece. This saw the Woodside share price down 8.0% in the month just past.

Santos shares also underperformed. Santos shares closed May at $7.81 and ended June trading for $7.21 each. This put the Santos share price down 7.7% in June.

But Santos and Woodside shares both held up considerably better than their two smaller ASX 200 energy stock rivals.

Closing out May at $1.08 a share and ending June at 86 cents, Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) shares tumbled 20.4% over the month.

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) shares had an even rougher month. The Karoon Energy share price closed out May at $1.96 and finished June at $1.46. This saw the Karoon share price down a steep 25.5%.

Why did ASX 200 energy stocks tumble in June?

When every ASX 200 stock in a certain category materially underperforms the benchmark, there tends to be a common root.

In this case that shared root was another big leg down in the oil price in June, fuelled by ongoing peace negotiations between the United States and Iran and a partial reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Indeed, on 1 June, Brent crude oil was trading for US$95 per barrel. By 30 June, the oil price had sunk to US$73 per barrel, according to data from Bloomberg.

If sustained, that 23% fall in the global oil price will have a noticeable impact on the big Aussie oil and gas producers' profit margins and dividends.

Why did Karoon Energy shares lead the way down?

The more than 25% decline in the Karoon Energy share price in June can broadly be pinned on the full year 2026 production guidance downgrade at the company's joint venture Who Dat project, located in the US Gulf of Mexico.

Karoon reported the downgrade on 16 June. Shares in the ASX 200 energy stock closed down 11.6% on the day and fell another 13.4% the following day.

With damaged equipment to blame, Karoon lowered its 2026 production guidance from the project to between 1.2 million and 1.5 million net barrels of oil equivalent (boe). That's down from prior guidance of 2.1 million to 2.5 million boe.

Across all of its assets, Karoon decreased full year production guidance to between 7.2 million and 8.2 million boe, down from previous guidance of in the range of 8.1 million to 9.2 million boe.

The post Why ASX 200 energy stocks like Woodside and Santos shares got smashed in June appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

On 11 June, shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) energy stock closed the day trading for $2.05. Last Friday, 26 June, shares finished at $1.26 each, putting the stock down 29.5% in two weeks.

This week, Karoon Energy shares have come charging back, trading for $1.44 apiece on Tuesday.

But does the rebound have legs?

Should I buy Karoon Energy shares today?

Dolphin Partners Financial Services' Arthur Garipoli analysed the outlook for Karoon Energy stock late last week, prior to this week's rebound (courtesy of The Bull).

"This international oil and gas explorer and producer develops and operates offshore energy assets across Brazil, the United States and Australia," he said.

Commenting on the stiff headwinds battering the ASX 200 energy stock earlier this month, Garipoli noted, "Karoon recently announced a downgrade in production guidance at the Who Dat asset in the US Gulf of Mexico for calendar year 2026."

On 16 June, Karoon Energy shares closed down 11.6% and tumbled another 13.4% the following day after reporting the lowered guidance.

With damaged equipment at its Who Dat joint venture project taking longer to repair and replace than expected, management lowered 2026 production guidance from the project to between 1.2 million and 1.5 million net barrels of oil equivalent (boe). That's down from prior guidance of of 2.1 million to 2.5 million boe.

Across its assets, Karoon Energy decreased its full year production guidance to between 7.2 million and 8.2 million boe, down from prior guidance of 8.1 million to 9.2 million boe.

And Garipoli believes a potential peace deal in the Middle East could see Karoon Energy shares come under further pressure.

Summarising his sell recommendation on the ASX energy stock, he concluded:

The shares have fallen sharply post the production cut, but there may be further downside in response to falling crude oil prices resulting from increasing tanker traffic crossing the Strait of Hormuz.

Why is the ASX 200 energy stock rebounding this week?

This week's rebound has nothing to do with a resurgent oil price, with Brent crude oil recently trading for just over US$72 per barrel. That's right around where the oil price was before the commencement of the Iran war.

Rather, investors look to have been bidding up Karoon Energy shares after the company announced it had restored production at a key well within its Bauna project, located offshore Brazil. The well was reported to be back to pumping 8,600 barrels of oil per day.

Investor interest also looks to have been piqued by the company announcing that, following the recent completion its US$75 million on-market share buyback program, it will commence a further on market share buyback this month.

The post Karoon Energy shares: Buy, hold or sell? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The  S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) endured a rough Tuesday session today, giving up much of the rise we saw yesterday that kicked off the trading week to finish lower.

After an initially optimistic morning of trading, investors lost confidence throughout the session, with the ASX 200 ending the day down 0.51%. That leaves the index at 8,778.7 points. 

This rough session for the local markets follows a much more upbeat beginning to the American trading week on Wall Street last night.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in fine form indeed, gaining a solid 0.59%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) did even better, rising a confident 2.07%.

But let's return to ASX shares now and take stock of what the different ASX sectors were up to today.

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

ASX 200 shares are up 0.06% to 8,828.5 points at the time of writing. 

Meanwhile, two experts have revealed their views on three ASX shares (courtesy The Bull).

Let's see what they think.  

Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

The Goodman share price is $32.16, up 0.2% today and down 6.1% over FY26. 

Stuart Bromley from Medallion Financial Group has a buy rating on this ASX real estate investment trust (REIT).

Bromley said: 

GMG is a global industrial property group and data centre developer. Recent acquisitions and development activity have further strengthened the group's exposure to data centres, artificial intelligence infrastructure and cloud computing demand.

Work in progress of $14.5 billion at March 31, 2026 is expected to increase to $18 billion by the end of June.

We believe the market is still undervaluing the long term earnings potential of Goodman's data centre strategy.

Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1)

The Accent share price is steady at 71 cents and has almost halved over FY26. 

Arthur Garipoli from Dolphin Partners has a hold rating on this ASX consumer discretionary share. 

Garipoli said: 

This footwear and apparel retailer operates a chain of stores in Australia and New Zealand, such as Platypus, The Athlete's Foot, Hoka and UGG.

The company recently received an all cash takeover offer from Frasers Group PLC at 65 cents a share. The offer had no premium attached to the prevailing share price at the time.

The Accent board has recommended shareholders reject the offer as the price was materially inadequate.

We view the bid as opportunistic given prior weakness in the AX1 share price. The bidder may need to increase its offer if it wants Accent, or another suitor may emerge.

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR)

The Karoon Energy share price is $1.43, up 4.2% today and down 25% over FY26. 

Garipoli has a sell rating on this ASX 200 energy share. 

He explained: 

This international oil and gas explorer and producer develops and operates offshore energy assets across Brazil, the United States and Australia. 

Karoon recently announced a downgrade in production guidance at the Who Dat asset in the US Gulf of Mexico for calendar year 2026.

The shares have fallen sharply post the production cut, but there may be further downside in response to falling crude oil prices resulting from increasing tanker traffic crossing the Strait of Hormuz.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Goodman, Accent, Karoon Energy shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

The Karoon share price is up 8.33% to $1.365 after the company updated investors on its Bauna operations in Brazil.

The bounce comes after a rough two weeks. Karoon shares have fallen more than 30% since the company lowered its CY26 production guidance earlier this month, which put pressure on investor confidence.

With Karoon's market capitalisation sitting just under $1 billion, today's update appears to have given investors something more positive to focus on.

Karoon restarts key Bauna well

According to the release, production has been restored from the SPS-92 well at Bauna after Karoon replaced its electrical submersible pump.

Karoon said SPS-92 is currently producing around 8,600 barrels of oil per day.

This means that Bauna production has now lifted to roughly 20,500 barrels per day before natural decline.

Karoon could get another lift from PRA-2 as well. Management expects that well to add around 1,000 to 2,000 barrels per day once it is brought back online, with umbilical work already underway.

SPS-92 has been causing problems since August last year, when a partial pump failure cut production by around 4,500 barrels per day.

While getting it back online doesn't fix everything, it does ease some of the pressure on Karoon's recent production outlook.

Higher production, higher costs

Karoon said the final cost of the SPS-92 intervention came in higher than first expected.

This was due to extra rig time, wellbore debris, and equipment-related downtime during the work.

As a result, the company has reviewed its 2026 investment expenditure guidance.

Bauna capex is now expected to be between US$89 million and US$97 million. This is up from the previous guidance range of US$61 million to US$74 million.

Total 2026 capex guidance has also increased to between US$178 million and US$202 million. Previously, Karoon was expecting US$150 million to US$183 million.

Management said the spending is expected to support the long-term value of Bauna and stronger operating cash flow in the second-half of 2026.

Can the rebound continue?

Karoon also gave investors another reason to take a second look.

The company announced that it plans to begin a further on-market share buyback from 1 July 2026.

This follows the recent completion of the second phase of its US$75 million buyback program, which was announced last year.

Management said the next phase will be carried out at a measured pace, with the company taking into account market conditions, capital requirements, and future growth projects.

The buyback should provide support after the recent sell-off, with Karoon saying its shares remain significantly undervalued at current levels.

The post Why this ASX energy stock is jumping 8% after a brutal sell-off appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX 200 shares are currently down 0.003% to 8.748.4 points.

Meanwhile, brokers have indicated new confidence in several ASX shares this week.

Here are six stocks that have been upgraded.

Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)

The Flight Centre share price is $12.05, down 0.08% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 consumer discretionary share has ripped 22%.

Jarden upgraded Flight Centre shares to a buy rating with a $15.90 target price.

This suggests a potential 30% upside ahead.

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR)

The Karoon Energy share price is $1.27, down 1.5% today.

Karoon Energy shares tumbled 11% last Tuesday when the company issued production downgrades.

Calendar year 2026 total production guidance was revised to a range of 7.2 MMboe to 8.2 MMboe.

That's down from 8.1 MMboe to 9.2 MMboe previously.

Macquarie upgraded the ASX 200 energy share to a hold rating this week.

The broker's 12-month target is $1.50, suggesting an 18% upside ahead.

Oil prices have slumped back to pre-war levels following the signing of the US-Iran interim peace deal.

Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU)

The Iluka Resources share price is $6.95, down 3.2% today.

This ASX 200 mining share has risen 18% in the calendar year to date (YTD).

Canaccord Genuity upgraded Iluka Resources shares to a buy rating on Wednesday.

The broker upped its 12-month price target from $8.10 to $8.45.

This implies a potential 20% upside ahead.

Baby Bunting Group Ltd (ASX: BBN)

The Baby Bunting share price is $1.41, up 0.7% today.

Over the past six months, this ASX consumer discretionary share has tumbled 43%.

Ord Minnett upgraded Baby Bunting shares on Thursday.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $2.30.

This implies a potential 60% upside ahead.

Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF)

The Collins Food share price is $8.16, down 1.3% on Friday.

Over the past six months, the KFC fast food restaurant operator has lost 23% of its market valuation.

Citi upgraded Collins Foods shares to a buy rating on Tuesday.

The broker shaved its 12-month price target from $10.45 to $10.30.

This indicates capital gains of 26% over the next year. 

Sims Ltd (ASX: SGM)

The Sims share price is $28.13, up 0.3% today.

Over the past month, this ASX industrial share has ascended 15%.

Jefferies upgraded Sims shares to a hold rating this week.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $31.

This indicates a potential 10% upside over the next year. 

The post 6 ASX shares with upgraded ratings from experts this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Meanwhile, three experts have revealed their views on three ASX 200 shares.

Let's see what they think. 

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR)

The Karoon Energy share price is $1.29, down 5.8% today and down 17% in the calendar year to date (YTD). 

Karoon Energy shares tumbled 11% last Tuesday when the company issued production downgrades.

Calendar year 2026 total production guidance was revised to a range of 7.2 MMboe to 8.2 MMboe.

That's down from 8.1 MMboe to 9.2 MMboe previously.

Citi reiterated its buy rating on this ASX 200 energy share but cut its 12-month target from $2.50 to $1.75.

Last week, oil prices slumped back to pre-war levels after the US and Iran signed an interim deal and began new talks in Switzerland.

Brambles Ltd (ASX: BXB)

The Brambles share price is $19.57, up 2.6% today, and down 14% YTD.

Christopher Watt from Bell Potter has a hold rating on this ASX 200 industrials share. 

On The Bull, Watt explained: 

The underlying franchise remains high quality, but a recent trading update introduced uncertainty around supply constraints, freight costs, plant inefficiencies and softer conditions in parts of Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Management has presented a credible plan to improve capacity through new pallets and service centres, but the financial recovery may take longer than the operational fix.

With earnings expectations still at risk, the outlook is balanced.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

The REA share price is $133.43, up 1.4% today and down 28% YTD. 

Michael Ardrey from Bell Potter has a sell rating on this ASX 200 communications share. 

REA expects no growth in home values across the combined capital cities in CY26, and a rebound to 5.5% growth in CY27.

Ardrey explained the broker's reiterated sell recommendation: 

Our thesis rests on REA's share price declining from a reduction in EPS forecasts in-line with market pricing, driven by: (1) Elevated near-term RBA cash rate forecast driving softening in demand for lending, (2) Recent budget measures adversely impacting investment in property as an asset class, largely in the investor book partially offset by owner-occupied; (3) Both factors combining to negatively impact average national dwelling values and listing volumes more than offsetting Buy yield for REA; and (4) REA's history of EPS declines in a falling 12-mth average dwelling price environment.

The analyst gave REA shares a 12-month target of $133, down from $137.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Karoon Energy, Brambles, REA shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude also reached a four-year high of US$113 per barrel during the conflict.

Oil prices skyrocketed due to the effective shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz, which carries 20% of the world's oil and gas supply.

Today, all those oil price gains are gone.

Oil prices are back to pre-war levels, and ASX 200 energy shares are down sharply this week as a result.

What's the oil price today?

The Brent crude oil price is US$79.50 per barrel, and WTI is US$76.40 per barrel at the time of writing.

Brent Crude is down 9% for the week and down 24% over the month. WTI has fallen 10% this week and 22% over the month.

Oil prices began a rapid retreat in recent weeks after US President Donald Trump talked up an impending deal with Iran.

News of a US-Iran interim peace agreement earlier this week saw a final cascade in oil prices back to February levels.

The deal incorporates a 60-day ceasefire, the end of the US blockade of Iranian ports, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Trading Economics analysts said the supply disruption caused by the 16-week war was the biggest on record.

Today, tankers are slowly moving out of the Strait of Hormuz.

The analysts said:

Tankers carrying previously stranded crude began exiting the waterway on Thursday, and Kuwait said it would begin increasing production.

As a result, oil prices have erased nearly all the gains recorded since the Middle East conflict began in late February.

While oil prices have slumped, many economists say we have yet to see the full inflationary impact of the supply shock.

In Australia, higher oil prices have contributed to three interest rate rises already this year.

What's happening with ASX 200 energy shares on Friday?

ASX 200 energy shares are in the red on Friday, with the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) down 0.9%.

By comparison, the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 1%.

The Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price is up 0.1% to $28.66 today, but down 7.2% over the week.

The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price is 1.5% lower at $7.23, and has fallen 8.9% over five days.

The Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) share price is 1.4% lower at $32.88, and is 8.1% lower over the week.

The Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) share price is down 0.5% to $2.14, and down 1.8% over five days.

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) shares are 2.3% lower at $1.41, and down 25.7% this week after production downgrades.

The Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) share price is 2.5% lower at 97 cents, and down 9.8% over five days.

The post Oil prices slump to pre-war levels as supply-risk premium evaporates appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This week, brokers see new potential in several ASX shares.

Let's take a look at them.

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR)

The Karoon Energy share price is $1.41, down 2.6% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 energy share has lost almost a third of its value.

Morgans upgraded Karoon Energy shares from a trim to hold rating on Tuesday.

The broker said:

A good company in a difficult position, dealing with multiple operational issues, albeit enjoying a nice bump in earnings resulting from the Middle East conflict.

Operator LLOG advised of ongoing operational issues leading to a 41% downgrade to Who Dat production in 2026, an 11% downgrade at group level. Down 20% in two sessions, KAR is trading close to our revised target price.

As a result, we lift our Trim rating to HOLD with a A$1.67 target price.

Morgans has a 12-month price target of $1.90, which implies very healthy upside of 35% ahead.

Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE)

The Treasury Wine Estates share price is $4.78, down 0.6% today.

Over the past month, this ASX wine share has risen 10%.

Citi upgraded Treasury Wine Estates shares to a buy rating on Tuesday.

The broker lifted its 12-month price target from $4.25 to $5.50.

This implies a potential 15% upside ahead.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

The Liontown share price is $1.96, down 4.1% today.

In 2026, this ASX 200 lithium share has gained 21% in value.

Lithium commodity prices are rapidly recovering from a devastating two-year decline.

The carbonate price is now 43% higher YTD, following a 58% rise in 2025.

Macquarie upgraded Liontown shares to a buy rating on Monday.

The broker lifted its 12-month price target from $2.20 to $2.30.

This implies a potential 17% upside ahead.

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

The Evolution share price is $12.55, down 5% today.

In 2026, this ASX 200 gold share has dipped 1%.

Macquarie upgraded Evolution shares to a buy rating on Tuesday.

The broker shaved its 12-month price target from $14 to $13.

This suggests just 3% potential upside ahead.

Sims Ltd (ASX: SGM)

The Sims share price is $29.45, down 1.8% today.

Over the past month, this ASX industrial share has ripped 31%.

Jefferies upgraded Sims shares to a hold rating on Wednesday.

The broker lifted its 12-month price target from $19 to $31.

This indicates a potential 6% upside over the next year. 

Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1)

The Accent share price is 73 cents, down 0.7% today.

Over the past month, this ASX consumer discretionary share has soared 31%.

On Monday, Frasers Group plc (LSE: FRAS) made an unconditional on-market cash takeover offer of 65 cents per share.

Following the bid, Morgan Stanley upgraded Accent shares to a hold rating.

The broker has a 12-month target of 75 cents.

This suggests the ASX retail share is almost fully valued.

The post 6 ASX shares upgraded by analysts this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.