By the time trading wrapped up, the index had finished 0.33% lower at 9,232.6 points.

This miserly start to the Australian trading week followed a more upbeat end to the American week on Friday night (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) closed the week on a generous note, rising by 0.28%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was even more upbeat, gaining a healthy 1.3%.

But let's get back to this week and our local markets now and dive a little deeper into what was happening amongst the various ASX sectors this Monday.

Winners and losers

Despite the market's losses, there were still plenty of green sectors this session.

But first, it was again financial stocks that were singled out for punishment. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) cratered 2.27% lower this Monday.

Consumer discretionary shares got the cold shoulder too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) slumping 0.45%.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) were also unlucky. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) sank 0.28% today.

Our other losers were utilities stocks, evident from the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)'s 0.23% slip.

Let's get to the green sectors now, though. Leading those winners were gold shares. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) continued its recent run with another 2.61% surge.

Communications stocks had a day to remember as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) soaring 1.7%.

Healthcare shares were in demand too. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) vaulted 1.45% higher today.

Mining stocks also ran hot, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ)'s 1.22% jump.

We could say something similar for tech shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) ended up bouncing 0.57% higher.

Consumer staples stocks held their value too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) lifting 0.36%.

Next came industrial shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) managed to stay afloat with a 0.05% advance.

Finally, energy stocks tied with industrials, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ)'s 0.05% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Coming out on top of today's pile was classifieds stock Car Group Ltd (ASX: CAR). Car shares roared a healthy 9.92% higher today to close at $29.70 each.

This followed some pleasing earnings from the company 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.

However, sentiment cooled off throughout the trading day, and the ASX 200 was lucky to finish ahead, eventually recording a rise of just 0.1%. That leaves the index at 8,976.8 points as we head into the weekend.

This lukewarm end to the Australian trading week followed a much more upbeat night up on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in fine form, rising 1.19%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) did much better again, gaining a euphoric 2.78%.

But let's get back to ASX shares now and take a closer look at what was happening within the various ASX sectors this session.

Winners and losers

We had plenty of both red and green sectors this Friday.

Leading the former were healthcare stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) was hit hard, slumping 1.85%.

Consumer staples shares provided no cover either, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) cratering 1.26%.

Communications stocks were on the nose, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) saw its value dive 0.73% today.

Financial shares also fared poorly, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)'s 0.37% dip.

Consumer discretionary stocks were looked over, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) sank 0.24% this session.

Industrial shares were our last losers today, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) sliding down 0.04%.

Turning to the green sectors now, it was gold stocks that, fittingly, got the medal. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) soared 1.62% higher by the end of trading.

Broader mining shares also ran hot, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ)'s 1.43% surge.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) were in demand as well. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) saw its value vault 0.69% higher.

Tech stocks enjoyed another positive day, with the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) lifting 0.56%.

Utilities shares were close behind. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) got a 0.54% bump.

Finally, energy stocks got over the line, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ)'s 0.37% rise.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Our best share to close out this Friday was healthcare stock 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX). 4DMedical shares rocketed 13.08% today to close the week at $3.63 each. This significant jump came after the company released a quarterly activity report this morning.

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.

What did Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd report?

• FY26 gold production rose 15% year on year to 86,078 ounces; silver production was 766,009 ounces.
• Aggregate gold equivalent production reached 97,159 ounces, within FY26 guidance range.
• Full-year all-in sustaining cost (AISC, pre-royalties) was US$1,178 per ounce, US$372 below guidance range low.
• Quarterly gold sales were 19,290 ounces, with 199,625 ounces of silver also sold.
• Available cash, bullion, and doré at 30 June 2026 stood at A$179.2 million.
• An unfranked 10 cent interim dividend ($26.6 million) was paid to shareholders during the quarter.

What else do investors need to know?

Kingsgate outperformed cost guidance, with both quarterly and full-year AISC (pre-royalties) coming in well below expectations, reflecting ongoing operational efficiency and cost control at the Chatree Gold Mine. This marks the sixth consecutive quarter with over 20,000 ounces of gold production from Chatree, demonstrating consistent performance.

The company advanced several key strategic initiatives during the quarter, including completing the acquisition of royalty and water rights at the Nueva Esperanza project in Chile and making progress on technical work programs for long-term operations at Chatree. Kingsgate's inclusion in the S&P/ASX200 Index during the quarter also recognises its growing position among Australian listed companies.

What did Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd management say?

Kingsgate's Managing Director and CEO, Jamie Gibson, said:

Achieving our FY26 production guidance is another significant milestone for Kingsgate and reflects the consistency of our operations, with Chatree delivering a sixth consecutive quarter of more than 20,000 ounces of gold production. Importantly, we not only met our production targets but materially outperformed our cost guidance, delivering an AISC (pre-royalties) well below the lower end of our guidance range. This demonstrates the quality of the operation and the ongoing focus of our team on operational excellence and cost discipline."

What's next for Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd?

Looking ahead, Kingsgate will continue development work at the Chatree Gold Mine, including ongoing waste mining, technical studies for future tailings and water management, and preparations for mining commencement at Q Pit in early FY27. The company is also progressing its Nueva Esperanza project in Chile, where drilling campaigns and water bore equipping are underway to support future development.

Management has reiterated its disciplined approach to capital allocation and operational efficiency, aiming to support sustainable value creation and fund ongoing growth initiatives. The company remains on track to meet its strategic goals for the upcoming financial year.

Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd share price snapshot

The Kingsgate Consolidated share price has smashed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the last 12 months. During this time, it has recorded a gain of 63%.

View Original Announcement

The post Kingsgate Consolidated FY26 earnings: Gold output jumps, ASX200 inclusion appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Meantime, brokers have identified some stocks they think are good buys for the new financial year.

Let's check them out.

ASX shares raised to strong buy status for FY27

The following stocks have been recently upgraded to 'strong buy' consensus ratings among analysts on the CommSec platform.

A consensus rating is the average rating based on the opinions of multiple analysts.

4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX)

The 4DMedical share price is $3.17, down 3.2% on Tuesday.

This ASX All Ords healthcare share soared 1,244% over the past 12 months.

Philippe Bui from Medallion Financial Group has a buy rating on 4DMedical shares.

He commented this week (courtesy The Bull):

The company is well capitalised and we remain content holders at current levels given several potentially positive catalysts.

Droneshield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

The Droneshield share price is $1.78, down 14% today.

The ASX All Ords industrials stock has lost 40% of its value over 12 months.

Canaccord Genuity is among the brokers with a buy recommendation on this defence company.

The broker has a price target of $3.75, implying a potential 110% upside on this current price in FY27.

Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN)

The Kingsgate share price is currently $4.16, down 2.12% on Tuesday.

The ASX All Ords gold share is up 72% over 12 months.

Canaccord Genuity has a buy rating on Kingsgate shares with a 12-month target of $8.10.

This suggests the stock could almost double over the new financial year.

Elevra Lithium Ltd (ASX: ELV)

This All Ords lithium share was among the 5 best-performing stocks of FY26, rising 327%.

Elevra has a globally diversified portfolio of mines and development projects across Québec, North Carolina, Ghana, and Western Australia.

The company was formed through the merger of Piedmont Lithium and Sayona Mining.

The miner's flagship project is the North American Lithium Project. 

Macquarie is among the brokers with a buy call on this ASX All Ords mining share.

The broker sets a $14.50 target for this stock, implying a potential 91% upside in FY27.

Dexus Industria REIT (ASX: DXI)

This real estate investment trust (REIT) is trading at $2.49 apiece, up 1.84%.

The Dexus Industria REIT share price has declined 9% over the past year.

MA Financial Group is among the brokers with a buy call.

MA Financial gives Dexus Industria stock a 12-month share price target of $3.30.

This implies a potential 33% upside from here.

NRW Holdings Ltd (ASX: NWH)

The NWH share price is $7.16, down 2.2% today.

The ASX All Ords industrial share has risen 123% over 12 months.

Morgans is among the brokers with a buy call on NRW shares.

Looking ahead to the August reporting season, the broker said:

We expect strong FY26 earnings with our forecast ($284m) slightly ahead of VA consensus ($281m) and towards the upper end of guidance ($275-285m).

For FY27, we expect NWH to guide ahead of consensus (MorgansF $315m vs consensus $308m).

Morgans lifted its 12-month target from $6.60 to $8, which suggests a potential 12% upside in FY27.

The post 6 ASX shares lifted to strong buy consensus status for FY27 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This excitable Wednesday on the ASX comes after an even more upbeat night over on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in a great mood, rising 0.74%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was even more jubilant, gaining 1.29%.

But get back to the local markets now and dive a little deeper into what the different ASX sectors were doing this hump day.

Winners and losers

Despite the broader market's gains, there were a few sectors that were left out in the cold.

First amongst those were again healthcare shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) tanked 1.93% today.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) were also shunned, with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) diving 1.44%.

Consumer discretionary stocks matched that loss. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) also tumbled 1.44%.

Tech shares were on the nose too, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ)'s 1.07% slump.

Communications stocks weren't much better. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) dipped 0.93% this session.

Utilities shares came next, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) shedding 0.75% of its value.

Industrial stocks fared better, though. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) saw its value decline 0.08% this Wednesday.

Our final losers were consumer staples shares, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)'s 0.02% slip.

Turning to the winners now, it was gold stocks that came out on top. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) enjoyed a 3.98% surge today.

Broader mining stocks also ran hot, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) roaring 2.3% higher.

Energy shares didn't miss out either. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) jumped 0.67% this session.

Last and least, financial stocks joined the party, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)'s 0.19% increase.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Titanium stock IperionX Ltd (ASX: IPX) was our index winner this Wednesday. IperionX shares rocketed 8.67% higher today to close at $3.51 each. Although there was no news out from the company, most mining shares had a stunner today.

Here's how the other chart-toppers 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.

After yesterday's lethargic showing, investors came back to the ASX boards with a little more pep in their steps, sending the ASX 200 0.37% higher. After staying in green territory all day, the index ended up closing at 8,841.1 points.

This confident mid-week session for the Australian markets follows a sunny session on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) had a lukewarm day, rising by just 0.018%.

However, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was far more bullish, gaining 0.9%.

Let's get back to the local markets now and dive a little deeper into what the various ASX sectors were up to today.

Winners and losers

We had more green sectors than red ones this session.

Leading the red sectors were communications shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) was shunned, tumbling 1.2%.

Gold stocks had a similar experience, with the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) diving 0.95%.

Energy shares found themselves on the nose, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) retreated 0.57% this hump day.

We could say the same for consumer staples stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) dipping 0.56%.

Healthcare stocks couldn't hold their own either, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)'s 0.38% slide.

Our last losers were consumer discretionary shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) slipped 0.22% lower by the close of trading.

Let's turn to the winners now. Leading the push higher were mining stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) surging 1.7%.

Utilities shares were far tamer, though. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) lifted 0.17% today.

Financial stocks were also in that ballpark, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)'s 0.15% advance.

Tech shares followed financials. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) jumped 0.13%.

Then we had real estate investment trusts (REITs), with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) also bouncing 0.13% higher.

Finally, industrial stocks rounded out the winners this Wednesday, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ)'s 0.07% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Our best performer this hump day was miner Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN). Kingsgate shares shot up 15.89% this session to finish at $4.23 each.

This came after the company reported some guidance and production updates, which clearly went down well with the market.

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.

S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares rose by 2.77% and provided total gross returns (including dividends) of 7% in FY26.

Thirteen ASX 200 shares doubled in value — or better — over the 12 months.

Three of them were ASX 200 gold miners, which benefited from an 18% rise in the gold price last year.

Four were lithium miners, which generated turbocharged earnings amid a 278% lift in the spodumene price and a 160% rise in the carbonate price over FY26.

While healthcare was the worst-performing sector, the ASX 200's fastest rising stock came from it and blasted 1,786% higher!

Let's check out this group of ASX 200 double baggers for FY26.

Double-baggers of FY26

1. 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX)

This ASX healthcare share skyrocketed 1,786% in FY26 to close out the year at $4.53.

The respiratory imaging technology company gained US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its CT:VQ product in September 2025.

CT:VQ has since been deployed at several well-known academic hospitals and clinics.

One broker thinks there is more room to run for 4DMedical shares in FY27.

2. Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6)

This ASX 200 gold share ripped 508% to finish FY26 at 73 cents.

Minerals 260 is building the Bullabulling Gold Project near Kalgoorlie in Western Australia's Eastern Goldfields region.

3. Elevra Lithium Ltd (ASX: ELV)

This ASX 200 lithium share flew 327% to $9.60 over FY26.

Elevra has a globally diversified portfolio of mines and projects across Québec, North Carolina, Ghana, and Western Australia.

4. PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

This fellow ASX lithium share leapt 275% to close out FY26 at $5.02.

The company's flagship project is Pilgangoora, the world's largest independent hard-rock lithium mine.

Formerly known as Pilbara Minerals, PLS Group was the best performer among the ASX 200 large-cap shares last year.

5. Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS)

The Electro Optic Systems share price increased 261% to close the year at $10.30.

This made Electro Optic the best-performing stock of the industrials sector in FY26.

The company specialises in defence technology, advanced weapon systems, and counter-drone solutions.

6. Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

The Mineral Resources share price rose 188% in FY26.

The ASX large-cap mining share finished the year at $62.07.

Value investors returned to Mineral Resources after corporate governance and financial problems crushed the stock in FY25.

Mineral Resources reported its best half-year result ever for 1H FY26. The miner reported record revenue of $3.1 billion and EBITDA of $1.2 billion due to rising lithium prices and the successful ramp-up of its Onslow iron ore project.

7. NRW Holdings Limited (ASX: NWH)

This ASX 200 industrials share soared 149% to finish the year at $7.44.

8. Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

This ASX 200 lithium share rose 142% to finish the year at $1.69.

For 1H FY26, Liontown reported doubled revenue after a 70% lift in spodumene production.

In 3Q FY26, Liontown became cash flow positive and hit its 1.5Mtpa annualised underground run-rate ahead of schedule.

9. SRG Global Ltd (ASX: SRG)

This ASX 200 industrials share rose 136% to finish the year at $3.98.

10. Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA)

This ASX 200 tech share lifted 119.5% to finish the year at $44.14.

ASX 200 tech shares tanked in FY26, with only four finishing the year in the green.

11. Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN)

This ASX 200 gold share rose 119% to finish the year at $4.95.

12. Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC)

This ASX 200 rare earths share increased 115% to close out the year at $18.06.

An 80% lift in the neodymium price, and restricted rare earths exports out of China helped Lynas shares grow in FY26.

13. Alkane Resources Ltd (ASX: ALK)

This ASX 200 gold share rose 92% to finish the year at $1.37.

The post 13 ASX 200 shares that doubled in value in FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Index changes loom

That's because S&P Dow Jones has just issued its quarterly rebalancing of the various indices, and Pro Medicus is set to be dropped from the S&P/ASX 50 Index (ASX: XFL), with minerals analysis company ALS Ltd (ASX: ALQ) to join.

The removal of Pro Medicus comes despite the company recently announcing several contract wins, including a five-year, $28 million contract renewal with Allegheny Health Network in the US.

Removal from an index can trigger the selling of a stock, as funds that track indices sell out of dropped stocks and buy into added ones.

With regard to the S&P/ASX 100 Index (ASX: XTO), uranium company Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) will join the index, while grocery company Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS) will be dropped.

Paladin shares are currently up 43.9% over a 12-month period, with Macquarie recently issuing a price target of $13.25 for Paladin shares compared to $9.52 currently.

Macquarie said Paladin had successfully ramped up production at its Langer Heinrich mine in Namibia and was also making "real progress" on its Patterson Lake South approvals in Canada.

Paladin recently reported that for the March quarter it had produced 1.29 million pounds of uranium at Langer Heinrich, up 5% from the previous quarter, "driven by strong processing plant performance".

The Patterson Lake South Project had also had its environmental impact statement approved.

In the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), there will be nine changes in all, with Elevra Lithium Ltd (ASX: ELV), Electro Optic Systems Ltd (ASX: EOS), Firefly Metals Ltd (ASX: FFM), and Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN) being added.

The companies being removed are Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6), Guzman Y Gomez Ltd (ASX: GYG), IDP Education Ltd (ASX: IEL), SiteMinder Ltd (ASX: SDR), Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW), and Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB).

Elevra shares are up an impressive 310.4% over the past year; however, the stock has come off a bit recently.

The company raised $275 million in an institutional placement in mid-May at $12.20 per share; however, the shares are now changing hands for $10.46.

Another large capital raise

Electro Optic Systems, meanwhile, is in the midst of a capital raise, having raised $150 million at $8 a share.

Shareholders in the company were also able to subscribe for up to $30,000 worth of shares at the same price, with that process ongoing this week.

EOS shares are currently changing hands for $9.98, meaning the raise is well in the money at the moment. Shareholders will find out on Friday how many shares they have been allocated.

The index rebalances will take effect from 22 June.

The post Why might Pro Medicus shares soon be under pressure? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This will see five ASX shares kicked out of the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) prior to the open of trading on 22 June. You can read about those shares here.

Replacing them in the benchmark index are the five ASX shares named below. Here's what you need to know:

Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS)

Defence and space company Electro Optic Systems will be joining the ASX 200 index later this month. EOS shares have been on fire over the past 12 months as demand for its defence solutions surges. During this time, the company's share price has risen approximately 350%, boosting its market capitalisation to approximately $2.3 billion.

Elevra Lithium Ltd (ASX: ELV)

Another ASX share that has more than quadrupled in value since this time last year is Elevra Lithium. It is the lithium miner that was created when Piedmont Lithium and Sayona Mining merged last year. Its key asset is the North American Lithium (NAL) project. It also has a portfolio of mineral exploration assets in Australia, Canada, Ghana, and the United States.

Firefly Metals Ltd (ASX: FFM)

Firefly Metals is joining the ASX 200 index after its shares doubled in value over the past 12 months, lifting its market capitalisation to $1.5 billion. Firefly Metals owns the Green Bay Copper-Gold Project in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. It recently revealed a mineral resource estimate (MRE) of 50.4Mt @ 2.0% copper equivalent in the measured & indicated (M&I) categories. This leaves it well-placed to potentially benefit from increasing demand for copper.

Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN)

Another addition to the index is Kingsgate Consolidated. This gold miner joins after a 120% annual gain took its market capitalisation to $1.3 billion. Kingsgate Consolidated owns the Chatree Gold Mine in Thailand. During the last quarter, Chatree produced 21,036 ounces of gold. This was the fifth consecutive quarter of over 20,000 ounces of gold.

Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6)

A final ASX share that is being added to the ASX 200 index at the quarterly rebalance is Minerals 260. It is another gold stock that has rocketed over the past 12 months. During this time, excitement around the Bullabulling Gold Project has led to its shares rising over 400%, which has taken its market capitalisation to almost $1.7 billion.

The post EOS and these ASX shares are joining the ASX 200 index this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX 200 is up 1.5% to 8,721.7 points at the time of writing.

Reported expectations are that the ceasefire will be extended by 60 days and the Strait of Hormuz may be reopened.

Despite today's recovery, ASX 200 shares remain in the red for 2026.

However, the experts have flagged five ASX shares that they believe will outperform over the next 12 months.

Champion Iron Ltd (ASX: CIA) 

The Champion Iron share price is $4.51, down 5.7% today.

This ASX mining share is down 27% in the calendar year to date (YTD).

RBC Capital has a buy rating on Champion Iron shares with an $8.11 target.

This indicates a potential 80% upside ahead.

Kogan.com Ltd (ASX: KGN)

The Kogan share price is $4.17, up 1.5% today.

This ASX consumer discretionary share has increased 12.4% YTD.

Canaccord Genuity has a buy rating with a $7.50 target.

This implies potential capital gains of 80% ahead.

Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN)

The Kingsgate share price is $6.10, up 4.1% today.

This ASX gold mining share is up 5.7% YTD.

Canaccord Genuity has a buy rating with a $10.30 target.

This implies a potential near-70% upside ahead.

Guzman Y Gomez Ltd (ASX: GYG)

The Guzman y Gomez share price is $19.50, up 0.6% today.

This ASX 200 consumer discretionary share has fallen 9.6% in 2026.

After Guzman upgraded its earnings guidance and announced its US exit, Morgans renewed its buy rating.

The broker also raised its 12-month price target from $26.70 to $29.40.

This suggests capital growth of 51% over the next 12 months.

The broker said:

The exit removes a loss sooner than consensus anticipated and simplifies the story while the Australian operations are performing well and in line with expectations.

Stripping out the US losses results in material upgrades to our EBITDA and NPAT forecasts.

We maintain our BUY rating and upgrade our price target to A$29.40.

Australian Agricultural Company Ltd (ASX: AAC)

The Australian Agricultural Company share price is $1.31, up 0.5% today.

This ASX agriculture share is down 9.8% YTD.

Bell Potter has a buy rating with a $1.85 price target.

This implies a potential 41% capital gain over the next 12 months.

The broker said:

AAC delivered a record operating performance that was understated, due to the inclusion of $9m in flood related costs.

While costs are currently experiencing inflationary pressure (grain and oil), continued strong pricing in core offshore markets, uplifts in grainfed cattle capacity (FY27-28e sales program) and a larger herd are reason for optimism in future periods.

The post 5 ASX shares set to soar 40% to 80% in 12 months: experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Among the 11 market sectors, only the consumer staples and consumer discretionary sectors are in the green.

Let's find out how the experts rate these three ASX All Ords shares.

Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN)

The Kingsgate share price is $6.05, down 7.6% today and up 41% over six months.

Mark Elzayed from Investor Pulse has a buy rating on this ASX All Ords gold share.

He explained why on The Bull this week:

Kingsgate operates the Chatree gold mine in Thailand and is benefiting from elevated gold prices and improving operational momentum.

We like the stock because March quarter gold production reached 21,036 ounces, with record margins of $US2613 per ounce.

Total cash and bullion climbed to $213.4 million, while debt was significantly reduced.

Management is also targeting gold production of between 85,000 ounces to 95,000 ounces in full year 2026, supported by stronger grades and ongoing exploration upside near Chatree.

Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS)

The Metcash share price is $3.06, down 1% today and down 17.3% over six months.

Metcash owns the IGA supermarket network.

Jed Richards from Shaw and Partners has a hold rating on this ASX All Ords consumer staples share.

Richards commented: 

Metcash remains a quality defensive business with diverse earnings across food, liquor and hardware. Its strong customer network provides consistent cash flow and resilience during economic uncertainty.

Recent updates show stable margins despite increasing cost pressures, and the company continues to generate an attractive dividend yield.

While growth is modest, its defensive characteristics and reliable income stream support a hold position. It remains well positioned to benefit from steady consumer demand.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

The Woodside share price is $30.47, down 0.8% today and up 29% in 2026.

Like most ASX All Ords energy shares, Woodside has benefitted from higher oil and gas prices due to the Iran war.

Richards reckons it's time to take profits, and has a sell rating on Woodside shares.

He said: 

Woodside has benefited from elevated oil and gas prices driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

However, in our view, the share price strength appears largely macro driven rather than based on underlying company improvements.

Given Middle East tensions are expected to ease over time, energy prices could soften and reduce earnings support.

The stock now appears fully valued. In response to share price gains, it makes sense to lock in profits and re-allocate the proceeds to opportunities with stronger growth outlooks.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Kingsgate, Metcash, Woodside shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because they have just been named as buy ideas by experts, courtesy of The Bull.

Let's see what they are recommending to investors:

Argo Investments Ltd (ASX: ARG)

The team at Shaw and Partners thinks that this investment company's shares are undervalued at current levels and has named them as a buy.

The broker likes the company due to the discount to its underlying asset value, as well as its attractive fully franked dividend yield. It said:

This listed investment company is trading at a material discount to its underlying asset value, offering an attractive entry point. It provides broad diversity across leading Australian companies and pays a reliable fully franked dividend yield, which was recently above 4.4 per cent. Recent results highlight steady income growth and a strong balance sheet.

Its conservative style suits investors seeking income and stability. Buying at a discount enhances long term return potential, while maintaining exposure to high quality Australian equities.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

Over at Investor Pulse, it has named CBA shares as a buy. It believes that recent share price weakness has created a buying opportunity for long-term focused investors.

This is especially the case given Investor Pulse's belief that CBA shares could recover once sentiment in the banking sector stabilises. It said:

CBA remains Australia's dominant retail bank. The recent sharp sell-off has created a more attractive entry point for long term investors. The bank generated unaudited cash net profit after tax of $2.7 billion in the third quarter of fiscal year 2026, up 4 per cent on the prior corresponding period. Lending and deposits continued to grow despite a softer economic backdrop.

CBA also maintains strong capital levels and recently paid a fully franked interim dividend of $2.35 a share for the first half of fiscal year 2026. The shares fell heavily following housing concerns flowing from the Federal Budget. We see scope for a recovery once sentiment stabilises.

Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN)

Another ASX share that Investor Pulse rates as a buy this week is gold miner Kingsgate.

It highlights its exposure to elevated gold prices as a reason to be positive, commenting:

Kingsgate operates the Chatree gold mine in Thailand and is benefiting from elevated gold prices and improving operational momentum. We like the stock because March quarter gold production reached 21,036 ounces, with record margins of $US2613 per ounce.

Total cash and bullion climbed to $213.4 million, while debt was significantly reduced. Management is also targeting gold production of between 85,000 ounces to 95,000 ounces in full year 2026, supported by stronger grades and ongoing exploration upside near Chatree.

The post Experts recommend CBA and these ASX shares as buys appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In late morning trade, the Kingsgate share price is down 0.96% to $5.17.

The weakness comes amid a softer session for the broader ASX after failed weekend talks between the United States and Iran. This appears to have weighed on market sentiment and pushed investors away from risk assets.

Despite today's dip, Kingsgate shares are still up more than 233% over 12 months, ranking among the ASX's best-performing gold stocks.

Let's take a closer look at today's update.

Another strong quarter keeps FY26 on track

According to the release, Kingsgate reported March quarter production of 21,036 ounces of gold and 182,549 ounces of silver.

That marks the 5th consecutive quarter of gold production above 20,000 ounces and takes year-to-date output to 65,915 ounces of gold and 545,932 ounces of silver.

The company also lifted its total cash, bullion, and dore balance to $213 million at 31 March, up roughly 19% from the December quarter.

Management said the result reflected another solid quarter from the Chatree mine in Thailand, supported by a new monthly production record in March after an additional excavator joined the fleet.

The result also follows the recent payment of an interim dividend, with management reiterating that full-year guidance remains unchanged.

So, why is the market still cautious today?

The softer share price move likely reflects profit-taking and broader ASX weakness rather than disappointment with the release itself.

After rallying more than 200% over the past year, Kingsgate shares had already priced in a lot of operational momentum.

That can make even a solid quarterly update less likely to drive fresh buying unless the result materially exceeds market expectations.

Gold stocks are also seeing some mixed sentiment today as investors weigh safe-haven demand against broader market selling pressure across the ASX.

The stock also remains well below the low-$7 levels reached earlier this year, suggesting some investors are locking in gains after the strong run.

Foolish Takeaway

Kingsgate continues to deliver steady results from its established gold operation.

Production remains consistent, cash generation is building, and the balance sheet continues to strengthen even after dividend payments.

While today's share price dip looks more like a reflection of weaker ASX sentiment and short-term profit-taking, the company's operating momentum remains solid.

Based on the current share price, Kingsgate has a market capitalisation of around $1.39 billion.

The post Gold output rises again, but this ASX miner is slipping with the market today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Energy prices and supply chain networks impact almost all corners of the global economy.

So it wasn't surprising to see a broad market sell-off over the first three weeks of March as multiple industries assessed the damage.

The sell-off now leaves room for investors to buy the dip.

A two-week ceasefire is underway amid hopes of a long-term deal between the US and Iran soon.

Brokers have reviewed their ratings after many shares fell, and they see good opportunities across a number of industries.

Here are some of the ASX All Ords shares elevated to strong buy consensus ratings after last month's turmoil.

6 ASX All Ords shares newly upgraded to strong buy ratings

These ASX shares have just been upgraded to strong buy consensus ratings among analysts on the CommSec platform.

A consensus rating represents the average rating among analysts.

Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN)

The Kingsgate Consolidated share price fell 38% in March alongside a big fall in the gold price.

In April so far, the ASX All Ords gold share is up 19% to $5.22 at yesterday's close.

MA Financial is among the brokers that have upgraded Kingsgate shares.

The broker also lifted its 12-month share price target from $6.85 to $6.95.

Pinnacle Investment Management Group Ltd (ASX: PNI)

The Pinnacle Investment Management share price fell 10% in March.

This month, the ASX All Ords financial shares is up 4% to $14.63.

Canaccord Genuity is buy-rated on Pinnacle shares with a $24.53 target.

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

The Zip share price fell 19% in March.

This month, the ASX All Ords financial share is up 19% to $1.84.

Blackwattle holds Zip shares in its Small Cap Quality Fund.

Portfolio managers Robert Hawkesford and Daniel Broeren describe Zip as 'one of the most compelling value opportunities on the ASX'.

WA1 Resources Ltd (ASX: WA1)

The WA1 Resources share price fell 20% in March.

This month, the ASX All Ords copper share is up 9% to $15.19.

Canaccord Genuity is buy-rated on WA1 Resources shares with a $32 target.

Macquarie Technology Group Ltd (ASX: MAQ)

The Macquarie Technology share price fell 12% in March.

In April so far, the ASX All Ords tech share is up 12% to $66.60.

Canaccord Genuity is also buy-rated on this stock with a $95 target.

Santana Minerals Ltd (ASX: SMI)

The Santana Minerals share price fell 27% in March.

This month, the ASX All Ords gold share is up 2% to 68 cents.

Shaw & Partners has a buy rating and a $2.15 target on Santana Minerals shares.

Further reading

Check out 7 ASX 200 shares just upgraded to strong buy ratings, too.

The post 6 ASX All Ords shares elevated to strong buy status after March sell-off appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Monday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to fall again

The Australian share market looks set for a disappointing start to the week following declines on Wall Street on Friday. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 61 points or 0.7% lower. In the United States, the Dow Jones was down 0.25%, the S&P 500 dropped 0.6%, and the Nasdaq tumbled 0.9%.

Oil prices rise

It could be a positive start to the week for ASX 200 energy shares Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) after oil prices charged higher on Friday night. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price was up 3.1% to US$98.71 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price was up 2.7% to US$103.14 a barrel. This was despite US efforts to reduce prices.

ASX 200 shares going ex-div

A number of ASX 200 shares are going ex-dividend this morning and could trade lower. This includes Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM), Chorus Ltd (ASX: CNU), Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB), Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN), and Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS). Hub24 is rewarding shareholders with a 36 cents per share fully franked dividend next month on 21 April.

Gold price falls

ASX 200 gold shares such as Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a poor start to the week after the gold price tumbled on Friday night. According to CNBC, the gold futures price was down 2% to US$5,023.1 an ounce. This was the second week in a row of weekly declines in response to inflation and rate hike concerns.

Buy Cochlear shares

The team at Wilsons thinks investors should be buying Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) shares. It highlights that the hearing solution company's shares are trading at a material discount to long-term multiples. The broker said: "Cochlear trades on a forward P/E multiple of ~26x, representing a >10 year low and a material discount to its 10-year average of ~42x. We view this as a compelling entry point for a high-quality business ahead of accelerating earnings growth."

The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

As we've reported, some of the biggest dividend increases among ASX mining shares this season came from the gold miners.

Next week, two of them go ex-dividend.

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares will pay a fully-franked interim dividend of 3 cents per share on 15 April.

This exceeds the company's commitment to pay a minimum annual dividend of 2 cents per share for FY26.

Ramelius Resources reported a 13% increase in EBITDA to $347.7 million but a 6% fall in net profit after tax (NPAT) to $160 million.

The ASX gold share goes ex-dividend on Monday.

Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) shares will pay a maiden fully franked interim dividend of 5 cents per share.

The gold miner reported a 130% jump in underlying NPAT to $144.8 million for 1H FY26.

The ASX gold share also goes ex-dividend on Monday.

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

ASX shares about to go ex-dividend

The post 26 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Despite today's dip, the stock is still 25.22% higher year to date and an enormous 435.56% higher than this time last year. 

The increase means the stock has significantly outperformed the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO), which climbed 10.21% over the same period, and has outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ), which increased 52.04% over the year.

Who is Kingsgate and what does it do?

Kingsgate is engaged in gold and silver mining, development, and exploration, operating on the Pacific Rim and with headquarters in Sydney, Australia.

Its main operation is the Chatree Gold Mine in Thailand, which restarted in 2023 after the Thai government halted all gold mining in the country in 2016. Kingsgate also operates the 100%-owned Nueva Esperanza Silver Gold Project in Chile's Maricunga Belt. 

The gold miner was added to the ASX 300 Index amid a quarterly rebalance in September. The company has a market capitalisation of $1.95 billion.

What pushed the ASX stock higher over the past year?

Kingsgate has ridden the wave of soaring gold prices over the past year as investors flock to safe-haven assets amid worsening geopolitical instability. 

The gold price spiked at an all-time high of US$5,419 in late January. A dramatic buy-the-dip rally sent the metal's price south earlier this month, but recent geopolitical turmoil has seen investors flock back to the asset. 

The gold price held above US$5,300 on Monday, paring earlier gains after spiking past US$5,419. At the time of writing on Tuesday morning, the gold price has climbed another 0.58% for the day to US$5,353. 

What do analysts expect next?

Even after Kingsgate's price surge over the past year, it looks like there could be room for more in 2026.

According to TradingView data, two analysts have ratings on the ASX 300 gold miner. One has a hold rating, and the other has a strong buy rating. The average target price is $8.07 per share, which implies a potential 12.15% upside at the time of writing.

The post This ASX stock soared 435% in 12 months, and is tipped to keep climbing appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The gold price is up 0.5% to US$4,958 per ounce, a new record, at the time of writing.

ASX gold shares and ASX gold ETFs are going nuts on Friday.

Get this: the S&P/ASX All Ords Gold Index (ASX: XGD) soared 1,322 points higher to a record 21,612.2 points this morning.

That equates to a staggering 6.5% gain in one day. By comparison, the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) is up 0.34%.

The screaming gold price continues to defy expectations.

Just three months ago, top broker Goldman Sachs predicted that gold would rise to US$4,900 per ounce by the end of 2026.

Well, that happened today, and it's only January.

The broker conducted a poll of institutional investors in November and found one in three expect gold to go above US$5,000 per ounce.

That seems increasingly likely.

The gold price is up by just under 15% in the year to date.

The market pushed the yellow metal 7% higher this past week alone after US President Donald Trump slapped a new 10% tariff on goods from eight European nations to punish their opposition to his aspirations to buy Greenland.

The gold price rocketed 65% in 2025, following a 27% gain in 2024, largely due to central banks diversifying away from the US dollar.

Let's see what ASX gold shares and ETFs are doing today.

Hold on to your hats… this is going to be fun.

ASX gold shares soar as gold price hits new record

Let's focus on the large-cap ASX gold shares first.

The Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) share price is up 6.23% to $27.81.

Northern Star shares dropped 8.1% yesterday after the miner disappointed the market with its December quarter report.

Northern Star's report, significant because it's the largest gold miner by market cap on the ASX, combined with news of lower unemployment in Australia, which raised the prospects of an interest rate hike this year, weighed on gold shares and ETFs yesterday.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price is up 6.59% to $15.04.

Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) shares are up 4.64% to $179.90 apiece.

Among the mid-cap ASX gold shares, Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares are up 8.3% to $4.96.

The Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) share price is up 9.81% to $14.22.

The Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) share price is $8.06, up 8.04%.

Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU) shares are up 6.6% to $6.46 apiece.

Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX) shares are up 6.67% to $7.76.

The Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) share price is up 4% to $15.47.

Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) shares are up 4.76% to $5.94 apiece.

Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) shares are up 8.64% to $8.24.

How about ASX small-cap gold shares?

Among the small-cap ASX gold shares, Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG) shares are up 8.14% to $1.40.

The Pantoro Gold Ltd (ASX: PNR) share price is 5.83% higher at $5.45.

Meeka Metals Ltd (ASX: MEK) shares are up 3.57% to 29 cents.

Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN) shares are up 2.48% to $7.03 apiece.

The Golden Horse Minerals Ltd CDI (ASX: GHM) share price is 0.64% higher at 79 cents.

Black Cat Syndicate Ltd (ASX: BC8) shares are up 5.24% to $1.56.

(By the way, Warwick Grigor, an analyst at Far East Capital, offered some advice on how to select small-cap gold stocks to buy this week.)

What about ASX gold ETFs?

The Betashares Global Gold Miners Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: MNRS) streaked 4.87% to a record $18.94 per unit today.

MNRS was the best performer among the 423 ETFs on the Australian share market last year.

The VanEck Gold Miners AUD ETF (ASX: GDX) is up 4.54% to $157.45.

Perth Mint Gold (ASX: PMGOLD) is up 2.29% to $71.92 per unit.

Global X Physical Gold (ASX: GOLD) is up 2.63% to $66.27 per unit.

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR), the No. 1 performer among ETFs holding ASX shares in 2025, is up 1.22% to $47.41.

The post ASX gold shares go crazy as gold price rips toward US$5,000 on Friday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Robert Hawkesford and Daniel Broeren, who run Blackwattle's Small Cap Quality Fund, said strongly rising share prices for junior gold explorers pushed the small-cap index higher at 2.5x the pace of the S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO) in 2025.

Small-caps are typically young, growing companies with market capitalisations of between a few hundred million dollars and $2 billion.

Let's take a look at some examples of ASX small-cap gold shares booking incredible 12-month growth rates.

ASX small-cap gold shares ripping up the charts

Barton Gold Holdings Ltd (ASX: BGD)

The Barton Gold share price has soared 385% over 12 months.

Barton Gold is a mineral explorer in South Australia.

Its projects include Tarcoola, a brownfield open-pit mine, and Tunkillia, which has a 1.5Moz Au JORC Mineral Resource Estimate.

Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN)

The Kingsgate share price is up 408% over 12 months.

The Australian gold and silver producer owns the Chatree Gold Mine in Thailand and the Nueva Esperanza Gold-Silver Project in Chile.

Golden Horse Minerals Ltd CDI (ASX: GHM)

The Golden Horse share price has ascended 250% over 12 months.

Golden Horse is working on multiple gold prospects in Western Australia. Its flagship project is Hopes Hill.

Black Cat Syndicate Ltd (ASX: BC8)

Black Cat shares are up 111% over 12 months.

This Western Australian miner has a portfolio of high-grade projects in prime gold regions.

They include the Paulsens Gold Operation in the Pilbara and the Kal East Gold Project east of Kalgoorlie.

What's next in 2026?

All of these ASX small-cap gold shares benefited from a 65% rally in the gold price last year.

That was gold's greatest annual rise in more than four decades and came on top of a 27% lift in 2024.

Strong central bank purchasing, lower interest rates, geopolitical tensions, US tariffs, and other elements have fuelled gold's growth.

Professional investors are expecting the gold price to rise further in 2026.

A Goldman Sachs poll conducted in November found one in three institutional investors expect gold to go above US$5,000 per ounce this year.

Today, the gold price is US$4,672 per ounce, down 0.1% at the time of writing.

Warwick Grigor, an analyst at mining investment company Far East Capital, says gold has continuing tailwinds in the new year.

In an article, Grigor commented:

There is not much doubt that the gold price will continue to rise during 2026.

Sure, there will be volatility and some people are already saying that gold is a sell, but you would have to be very brave to exit gold just now.

As Hawkesford and Broeren point out, "smaller cap companies offer the greatest range of opportunities" for investors.

By nature, these young companies have more room for growth than larger, established companies.

This makes ASX small-cap shares exciting, but also risky, for investors.

If you're considering buying ASX small-cap gold shares, Grigor has some advice on how to choose among them.

How to choose ASX small-cap gold shares

Far East Capital expects another strong year for the gold sector in 2026, but Grigor warns that "not every company will be a winner".

The first step to selecting a good ASX small-cap gold share for investment is assessing its quality.

Grigor said:

Take the time to think about the quality of the investment being presented to you.

An existing producer can be more easily assessed by looking at its track record but there are many new companies coming through the pipeline.

They will be highly aspirational and have grand plans, but you need to take the time to consider how realistic they are.

The second step is considering the quality of the management team.

If you're happy with the people running the business, then step three is assessing its technical merits.

Grigor said:

Many of these companies will be going to raise money while the ducks are quacking, but often their plans will be incomplete and uncertain — yet they can be made to look good on paper.

Most of these should be treated as trading opportunities in the near term, and they might be great stocks to own in the resource definition and expansion stage but never forget about the subsequent development and commissioning risk.

The post Considering ASX small-cap gold shares? Expert advice on how to decide appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX 300 slightly outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which lifted 6.8% and gave a total return of 10.32%.

Here are four ASX 300 shares that outperformed the market average by a mile.

In fact, they more than doubled in value.

Let's take a look.

4 ASX 300 shares that more than doubled in value last year

Electro Optic Systems Holdings (ASX: EOS)

The Electro Optic Systems share price leapt by an astounding 632% to finish 2025 at $9.44 per share.

This ASX 300 industrial share is benefiting from the global defence spending megatrend.

Electro Optic Systems produces advanced weapon systems, counter-drone solutions, and space domain awareness programs.

Predictive Discovery Ltd (ASX: PDI)

This ASX 300 gold share skyrocketed 220% to close the year at 74 cents apiece.

Predictive Discovery is developing gold deposits within the Siguiri Basin in Guinea.

Its key asset is the Tier-1 Bankan Gold Project. Bankan has a mineral resource estimate of 5.53Moz.

Predictive Discovery completed the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) in June last year.

The Guinea Government has approved the environmental Impact assessment, and the exploitation permit application is in the final stages.

Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN)

Fellow gold explorer Kingsgate joined the ASX 300 in the September quarter rebalance.

The Kingsgate share price flew 340% to finish at $5.63 per share on 31 December.

Kingsgate is an Australian gold and silver producer and the owner and operator of the Chatree Gold Mine in central Thailand.

The ASX 300 miner also owns and operates the Nueva Esperanza Gold-Silver Project in the Maricunga Belt in northern Chile.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

The Liontown share price roared 197% higher to close at $1.58 per share in 2025.

The ASX 300 lithium share surged on the back of rising lithium prices, which began rebounding midway through 2025.

The lithium carbonate price is at a two-year high, up 105% over the past 12 months.

Renewed global demand and low supply are powering this turn of events.

Lithium prices experienced dramatic price falls in 2023, followed by 18 months of stagnation in 2024 and the first half of 2025.

There is a greater demand for lithium now to power batteries and new infrastructure as part of the green energy transition.

EV manufacturing is also back on the rise, with EVs outselling traditional cars in China for the first time last October.

China is also trying to stabilise lithium prices by implementing policy measures to avoid overproduction.

The post 4 ASX 300 shares that ripped 100% or more in 2025 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.