Four of the fastest rising 10 stocks on the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) today are lithium shares.

The best performer is diversified miner Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN), up 6.1% to $62.97 per share.

Next is lithium and nickel producer IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO), up 5.7% to $9.23 per share.

The Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) share price is 5.3% higher on Friday at $2.18.

The market's largest pure-play lithium company, PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), cracked a new record at $6.14 today.

The PLS Group share price is currently $6.01, up 5.3%.

Among the smaller players outside the ASX 200, Elevra Lithium Ltd (ASX: ELV) shares hit a 52-week high of $10.39.

The Elevra Lithium share price is currently $10.31, up 11.9%.

Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) shares are up 9.4% to 37 cents apiece.

Lake Resources NL (ASX: LKE) shares are 7.6% higher at 9.9 cents.

What's driving ASX lithium shares higher?

Experts say the Iran war and ensuing global oil shock are reminding us of the value of electric vehicles (EV).

The lithium carbonate price has risen 9% this week and is up 43% year to date (YTD), according to Trading Economics data.

Analysts at Trading Economics say lithium prices are rising on a bullish future outlook.

Chinese EV manufacturer BYD announced it expects to sell more EVs this year due to the oil shock.

BYD has raised its 2026 sales forecast to 1.5 million units, up from the January estimate of 1.3 million units.

The analysts said:

The surge in crude oil and product prices since the start of March supported the outlook for larger economies to favor new energy vehicles, which use batteries that take lithium as a major input.

Demand also remained supported by Chinese investment in power infrastructure, recently exemplified by the announcement of higher power storage spending.

This was combined with Beijing stating it would double national EV charging capacity to 180 gigawatts by 2027, supporting lithium-rich energy storage systems.

In the meantime, Zimbabwe suspended exports of lithium concentrates and other raw materials to stimulate refining in the country.

Oil shock a tailwind for lithium prices

Lithium prices were already rebounding from a painful two-year downward spiral before the war in Iran began.

We have seen a rapid turnaround in lithium prices from mid-2025.

Supply/demand rebalanced after a long period of oversupply last year.

We also saw the impact of the green energy transition finally bleed through to markets in 2025.

Other commodity prices joined lithium in an upward surge in 2025 as the world began building new power infrastructure at scale.

The lithium carbonate price lifted to a two-year high of about US$26,200 per tonne in January.

It endured a short, sharp fall to just below US$20,000 in early February as part of a broader metals and minerals rout.

Today, the lithium carbonate price is US$24,850, representing a 43% year-to-date gain.

Lithium spodumene is up from about US$600 per tonne in June 2025 to US$2,415 per tonne today.

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Experts say there are buys among the rubble, with investors appearing open to buying the dip given the positive long-term outlook for mining.

The Mining Index began a rebound last week, with ASX mining shares recovering 6% during this short trading week so far.

Here are three examples of mining stocks with buy recommendations.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

The BHP share price is $52.78, up 0.5% on Thursday.

The market's largest ASX mining share has fallen 11% over the past month.

This week on The Bull, Remo Greco from Sanlam Private Wealth revealed a buy rating on BHP shares.

Greco explained his rating:

The current volatility presents investors with an opportunity to buy this global miner at attractive prices.

The recent BHP announcement of Brandon Craig replacing the retiring Mike Henry as chief executive is a good appointment.

Craig was responsible for the company's Americas business, and that's where the growth is likely to come from in the medium term. 

Group revenue in the first half of 2026 was up 11 per cent on the prior corresponding period and profit from operations was up 34 per cent. 

29Metals Ltd (ASX: 29M)

The 29Metals share price is 37 cents, up 0.6% today.

This ASX copper mining share has fallen 13% over the past month.

Morgans recently initiated coverage on 29Metals with a buy rating and a price target of 54 cents.

The broker said:

We expect the Xantho Extended restart and Gossan Valley development at Golden Grove to restore grades and operating flexibility, while a potential Capricorn Copper restart provides medium-term production growth.

Following its recent equity raise, 29M is better positioned to execute its plans, with upside potential supported by a constructive long-term copper outlook.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

The Liontown share price is $1.80, down 0.4% today.

This ASX lithium mining share has demonstrated resilience, rising 4.7% over the past month.

In fact, Liontown has been on a longer-term tear, lifting 221% over 12 months amid a strong recovery in lithium prices since mid-2025.

For example, the lithium carbonate price has increased 118% over 12 months.

Late last month, Ord Minnett upgraded its rating on Liontown shares from hold to accumulate on valuation grounds.

Ord Minnett has a 12-month price target of $1.90.

The broker said:

The company forecasts reduced unit costs – $855–1045 per tonne on a 5.2% lithium oxide basis (SC5.2) versus market and Ord Minnett expectations of $913 per tonne and $934 per tonne, respectively– as the underground mining operation contributed the largest proportion of ore, rather than the open pit, by the end of FY26.

Liontown sees a consistent recovery rate of circa 70% once the underground ore becomes the main feedstock.‍

The post Experts name 3 ASX mining shares to buy after March sell-off appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

According to a note out of Macquarie, its analysts have retained their outperform rating on this appliance manufacturer's shares with a trimmed price target of $37.10. Macquarie has been looking at industry data and believes it is favourable for Breville and suggests that it could be outperforming peers. The broker highlights that this is being driven by growth from its coffee business, as well as new products and new markets. Overall, Macquarie believes this leaves Breville well-placed for annual growth of 10%+ through to FY 2028. The Breville share price ended the week at $26.28.

Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH)

A note out of UBS reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating and $302.00 price target on this hearing solutions company's shares. UBS believes that recent share price weakness has created an attractive buying opportunity for investors. This is especially the case given how the broker believes Cochlear's new next-generation cochlear implant platform, Nexa, will underpin a strong earnings recovery. The broker believes that with limited competition, Cochlear is well-placed to win market share. And while there are concerns over gene therapies, UBS doesn't believe this is something that will impact its near term performance. The Cochlear share price was fetching $170.23 at Friday's close.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

Another note out of UBS reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating and $2.20 price target on this lithium miner's shares. UBS is feeling positive about lithium and believes now could be a good time for investors to consider a position in the industry. This is because UBS sees potential for another upcycle for lithium prices. It suspects that surging oil prices and supply disruptions caused by the war in the Middle East could be good news for lithium. It feels that the impact this is having on the fuel market could lead to increased demand for electric vehicles and lithium for batteries. In fact, the broker sees potential for the spodumene price to reach US$4,000 per tonne by the end of the year. The Liontown share price ended the week at $1.76.

The post Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let's recap.

ASX 200 mining shares fight back

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What about ASX gold shares?

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

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

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

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

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

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

Oil prices have skyrocketed since Israel and the US attacked Iran one month ago.

Over the past 30 days, the Brent crude oil price has jumped 38% while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) has risen 31%.

UBS analysts see "the potential for another upcycle" in lithium prices, which began rebounding from a two-year rout in mid-2025.

Last year's rebound was driven by greater global demand for batteries, EVs, and power infrastructure due to the green energy transition.

Lithium spodumene prices rose from less than US$600 per tonne in June last year to over US$1,400 per tonne by December.

Today, lithium spodumene is fetching US$2,230 per tonne, according to Shanghai Metals Market.

UBS sees potential for the spodumene price to reach US$4,000 per tonne by the end of the year. 

The lithium carbonate price rose to a two-year high of about US$26,200 per tonne in January, before paring back to US$22,650 today.

Let's take a look at the changes UBS has made to its ratings and 12-month price targets for ASX lithium shares.

ASX lithium shares re-rated

UBS has upgraded IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) shares from a neutral to buy rating with a slightly improved 12-month price target of $8.55.

On Friday, the IGO share price is $7.94, up 4.1% today, down 7.8% since the war in Iran began, and up 90% over 12 months.

UBS reiterated its buy rating on Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR) and raised its target by 4.8% to $2.20.

The Liontown share price is $1.72, up 0.7% on Friday, 0.7% higher over the month, and up 161% over the past year.

The broker downgraded the market's largest lithium pure-play miner, PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), from a buy rating to neutral.

UBS put a price target of $4.95 on PLS shares.

On Friday, the PLS Group share price is $5.06, up 1.8% today and down 2.5% since the war began.

PLS shares have ripped 174% over the past year and reached a two-and-a-half-year high of $5.32 last month.

Trading Economics analysts say there are "signs of a momentary pullback in battery demand" as the war in Iran drags on.

On Friday, the analysts said:

Electric vehicle sales by top Chinese manufacturer BYD tanked 40% annually in February, a reversal from the growing trend in the previous months to raise concerns that the Chinese EV market may be slowing.

The data magnifies worries that higher energy costs due to war in the Middle East could hamper large manufacturers from building input goods inventories, driving industrial metals to pull back.

Still, Chinese supply was also expected to remain muted due to Beijing's anti-involution campaign.

Last year, data showed increasing sales of EVs in China, with EVs outselling traditional cars for the first time in October.

Trading Economics reported that EV sales in China grew 20.6% annually to a record of 1.823 million units in November.

The post ASX lithium shares 'compelling' as top broker adjusts ratings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW)

According to a note out of Macquarie, its analysts have retained their outperform rating on this gaming technology company's shares with a trimmed price target of $205.00. Macquarie believes that Light & Wonder is well-positioned to continue its strong growth in 2026. However, it suspects that growth will be weighted to the second half of the year due to new product launches and easing cost pressures. In light of this and its current valuation, Light & Wonder is the broker's top pick in the industry right now. The Light & Wonder share price is trading at $123.87 on Friday.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

A note out of UBS reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating and $2.20 price target on this lithium miner's shares. The broker is feeling positive about the lithium industry and believes now is an attractive time for investors to consider a position. This is because UBS sees scope for another upcycle for lithium prices due to surging oil prices and supply disruptions caused by the war in the Middle East. It suspects that the impact this is having on the fuel market could lead to increased demand for electric vehicles. This would be good news for lithium demand and prices. In fact, the broker sees potential for the spodumene price to reach US$4,000 per tonne by the end of the year. The Liontown share price is fetching $1.65 at the time of writing.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

Another note out of Macquarie reveals that its analysts have retained their outperform rating on this telco giant's shares with an improved price target of $5.64. This follows the announcement of mobile plan increases by Telstra this week. Macquarie believes that these price increases will support average revenue per user growth. And with its budget offering, Belong, also increasing prices, the broker sees only low risks of churn. Macquarie expects this to underpin fully franked dividends of 21 cents per share in FY 2026 and then 21.5 cents per share in FY 2027. The Telstra share price is trading at $5.30 on Friday.

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

But are they a good option? Let's see what analysts at Ord Minnett are saying about the lithium miner.

What is the broker saying?

Ord Minnett was pleased with the company's performance during the first half of FY 2026, highlighting that its net loss was smaller than expected. It said:

Liontown posted an underlying first-half FY26 net loss that was smaller than market expectations, as reduced tax charges and benefits from non-cash inventory movements outweighed higher-than-anticipated depreciation and amortisation (D&A) expenses, while the rest of the result was as expected.

In addition, it notes that the company has reaffirmed its production guidance for FY 2026 and hit a 1.5 million tonnes per annum run rate. But it won't be stopping there, with the company looking to grow its production to 2.8 million tonnes per annum next year.

At the same time, Liontown is expecting to reduce its unit costs meaningfully, which leaves it well-placed to generate material free cash flow at current prices. Ord Minnett said:

The lithium miner reiterated FY26 production guidance for the Kathleen Valley project in Western Australia and for the project to reach a run rate of 1.5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of spodumene concentrate by the end of the March quarter this year, before rising to a run rate of 2.8Mtpa by the end of the June quarter in 2027.

The company forecasts reduced unit costs – $855–1045 per tonne on a 5.2% lithium oxide basis (SC5.2) versus market and Ord Minnett expectations of $913 per tonne and $934 per tonne, respectively– as the underground mining operation contributed the largest proportion of ore, rather than the open pit, by the end of FY26. Liontown sees a consistent recovery rate of circa 70% once the underground ore becomes the main feedstock.

Should you buy Liontown shares?

According to the note, the broker has put an accumulate rating on Liontown shares with a $1.90 price target.

Based on its current share price of $1.71, this implies potential upside of 11% for investors over the next 12 months. It concludes:

Post the result, we have cut our EPS estimates by 12.0% to incorporate increased finance costs and higher D&A charges, while our FY27 and FY28 forecasts are trimmed by 2.4% and 3.0%, respectively, to account for increased selling, general and administrative(SGA) expenses with a partial offset from reduced lease payments. We maintain our target price of $1.90 but have raised our recommendation to Accumulate from Hold on valuation grounds.

The post Are Liontown shares a buy, hold, or sell? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX mining shares have been the worst hit by the war in Iran, with the Metal & Mining Index falling 15.7% vs. a 7.3% drop for the ASX 300.

Mining shares have fallen as investors sell out on fears that diesel shortages and higher oil prices will impact earnings and production.

Perennial portfolio manager Sam Berridge told the Australian Financial Review (AFR):

Australia is uniquely sensitive to this because our fuel inventory is so low, and we import such a high proportion of refined products.

Operations in the US, Brazil and Canada are definitely not going to run out of diesel and won't have to curtail production … so we are seeing more opportunities overseas where there isn't the same level of diesel supply risk that Australian miners have.

Berridge, who runs Perennial's Strategic Natural Resources Trust, has sold the fund's ASX gold shareholdings but kept overseas stocks.

US and Iran are continuing negotiations to end the war, but no one knows how long this will take.

The longer the conflict drags on, leaving the Strait of Hormuz virtually non-operational, the more severe this oil supply shock will be.

While we watch and wait, here are the experts' recommendations on three ASX mining shares.

Turaco Gold Ltd (ASX: TCG)

The Turaco Gold share price is 61 cents, up 0.8% today and down 23% since the conflict in Iran began.

Morgans maintains a buy rating on the ASX gold mining share with a 12-month price target of $2.19.

This implies a potential 260% upside ahead.

The broker said:

TCG released an MRE upgrade for the Afema Gold Project lifting the resource base to 4.65Moz Au at 1.3g/t Au (up from 4Moz)– a beat on our forecasts of 4.5Moz Au at 1.1g/t Au.

Afema now ranks as one of the largest undeveloped gold resources on the ASX.

Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO)

The Rio Tinto share price is $150.35, up 0.3% today and down 10% since the war began.

This week, UBS reiterated its hold rating on the diversified ASX 200 mining share with a $160 target.

This implies a potential 6% upside from here.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

The Liontown share price is $1.69, down 2.6% on Thursday and down 1.5% since the war began.

On The Bull this week, Tony Locantro from Alto Capital revealed a sell rating on this ASX lithium mining share.

Locantro explained:

With earnings still developing and the company transitioning through a capital intensive ramp-up phase, the risk-reward balance at current levels favours taking profits following the sector's recent re-rating.

The post 3 ASX mining shares: Buy, hold, or sell? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

By the time trading wrapped up, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) had gained a pleasing 1.85%. That lifts the index up to 8,534.3 points.

This happy Wednesday for the local markets comes despite a far more bearish morning over on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) couldn't quite stick the landing, dropping 0.18%

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared even worse, falling by 0.84%.

But let's get back to the ASX now and dig into what was going on amongst the various ASX sectors today.

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

The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) — dominated by Australian miners — has fallen 18.7% since 28 February.

Amid the market turmoil, here are three ASX mining shares to buy, hold, and sell, according to the experts.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

The Northern Star Resources share price closed at $17.57 yesterday, up 2.1% for the day and down 2% over 12 months.

The ASX 200 gold mining share has fallen 42% since the war began.

A downgrade in guidance from the miner and a 16% fall in the gold price have contributed to the stock's dramatic fall this month.

Last week, Ord Minnett reiterated its buy rating on Northern Star Resources shares.

However, the broker slashed its 12-month target from $29.70 to $23.70.

This still implies a potential upside of 35% ahead.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

The BHP share price closed at $48.52 yesterday, up 3% for the day and up 23% over the past 12 months.

The market's largest ASX 200 mining share has fallen 17% since the war in Iran began.

As we reported yesterday, BHP is among the 5 most traded ASX 200 shares on the Stake platform this month.

It's likely that investors have been cashing in their gains after BHP shares reached a new record of $59.39 on 3 March.

Last week, UBS reiterated its hold rating on BHP shares with a 12-month price target of $52.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

This ASX 200 lithium mining share finished yesterday's session at $1.55, up 6.5%.

Liontown has held up much better than its materials sector peers since the war in Iran began.

The Liontown share price has fallen 9.3% since 28 February, but remains 138% higher over 12 months.

Lithium commodity prices have been resilient this month, falling just 3.6% over 30 days.

On The Bull this week, Tony Locantro from Alto Capital put a sell rating on Liontown shares.

Locantro explained:

The company's first half year result in fiscal year 2026 highlighted strong operational progress, with production ramping up and revenue increasing significantly from growing concentrate shipments.

While the long term outlook for lithium demand remains encouraging, the current share price appears to reflect a large portion of the project's future growth potential.

With earnings still developing and the company transitioning through a capital intensive ramp-up phase, the risk-reward balance at current levels favours taking profits following the sector's recent re-rating.

The post Are these 3 ASX 200 mining shares a buy, hold, or sell? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because fuel is both a major cost and key input for mining operations across the country.

Bell Potter has been looking at this and has earmarked a number of ASX mining stocks that are better placed than others in the current environment.

What is the broker saying?

Bell Potter highlights that diesel prices have been rising in response to the conflict in the Middle East. It said:

The Middle East conflict and associated rally in oil prices, flows almost directly through to higher costs for much of the mining sector. The sector may also have to manage scarcity of diesel supply, which could impact production volumes. These risks are particularly apparent for large-scale open pit operations relying heavily on diesel powered trucking fleets. Many mining and exploration projects are also reliant on diesel gensets to power plant and associated infrastructure.

Which ASX mining stocks should you buy?

There are a number of stocks under the broker's research coverage which are less exposed to these diesel price and supply risks.

The first is uranium producer Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE), which has been named as a buy with a $1.95 price target. It said:

The Honeymoon project draws power directly from the grid (connected to Broken Hill). In-situ-recovery operations by nature do not require high-diesel consuming truck and shovel fleet typically seen in open-pit operations. The only exposure is via 3rd party site deliveries for reagents.

Another ASX mining stock to get the thumbs up is Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR). Bell Potter has a buy rating and $2.42 price target on the lithium miner's shares. It commented:

The Kathleen Valley underground lithium operation achieved 82% renewable energy penetration in 1H FY26. Lithium is likely to benefit from the increased incentive to Electric Vehicle take-up and Battery Energy Storage Systems emerging role in providing grid stability.

Nickel Industries Ltd (ASX: NIC) could be another stock to consider. Bell Potter has a buy rating and $1.45 price target on its shares. It said:

Insulated from oil price shock and security of supply issues due to Indonesia's near-self-sufficient diesel supply and a subsidised domestic fuel market. Process plant power supply secure, via on-site coal-fired power utilising abundant domestic coal. NIC is exposed to cost and supply risks of elemental sulphur, which is used to produce acid for High-Pressure-Acid-Leaching (HPAL) of nickel – a key growth area for NIC in CY26. NIC is highly leveraged to the nickel price, a first derivative beneficiary of higher EV demand.

Lastly, it notes that Vulcan Energy Resources Ltd (ASX: VUL) is well-positioned due to its geothermal electricity generation. It has a speculative buy rating and $6.10 price target on its shares. It said:

Phase One Lionheart lithium brine project (first production 2028) is vertically integrated from geothermal electricity generation and heat supply through to electrolysis production of lithium hydroxide. Like LTR, we expect VUL will benefit from stronger lithium markets.

The post 4 of the best ASX mining stocks to buy in the current environment appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because analysts have just given their verdict on these ASX mining stocks, courtesy of The Bull.

Here's what they are saying:

Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC)

The team at Medallion Financial Group thinks that this copper miner is a hold.

Although it believes that Capstone is well-positioned to benefit from higher long term copper prices, it isn't enough for a buy recommendation just yet. It said:

The company provides exposure to one of the strongest long term commodity themes — increasing copper demand driven by electrification, energy transition and global infrastructure investment. The company produces about 200,000 tonnes of copper equivalent annually, and has a pipeline of expansion projects capable of materially increasing production over time.

With copper supplies expected to tighten structurally in coming years, Capstone is well positioned to benefit from higher long term prices. While capital expenditure remains elevated during the expansion phase, the growth outlook is compelling. Investors already positioned in the stock should continue to hold exposure to what we regard as an appealing long term copper growth story.

Kingston Resources Ltd (ASX: KSN)

Over at Alto Capital, it has named Kingston Resources shares as a buy this week.

It likes the gold explorer due to its strong balance sheet, improving operational momentum, and multi-metal exposure. It explains:

Kingston Resources is advancing the Mineral Hill gold and base metals operation in New South Wales, where recent underground drilling has returned wide, high grade polymetallic intersections within the southern ore zone.

The results confirm encouraging gold, copper, lead, zinc and silver mineralisation in areas planned for near-term underground stoping, strengthening the existing mineral resource model and supporting mine planning. Selling the Misima gold project strengthened its balance sheet. With improving operational momentum and leverage to multiple metals, Kingston offers potential for a re-rating as Mineral Hill ramps up.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

One ASX mining stock that Alto Capital isn't positive on is lithium miner Liontown. It has named the company as a sell this week.

Although the broker thinks lithium has a positive long term outlook, it feels that Liontown shares are more than fully valued at current levels. It said:

LTR's Kathleen Valley lithium project in Western Australia is one of the largest new hard-rock lithium operations globally. The company's first half year result in fiscal year 2026 highlighted strong operational progress, with production ramping up and revenue increasing significantly from growing concentrate shipments. However, Liontown reported a net loss of $184 million, reflecting accounting charges and the ongoing costs associated with scaling up the operation.

While the long term outlook for lithium demand remains encouraging, the current share price appears to reflect a large portion of the project's future growth potential. With earnings still developing and the company transitioning through a capital intensive ramp-up phase, the risk-reward balance at current levels favours taking profits following the sector's recent re-rating.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Copper, gold, and lithium ASX stocks appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) lithium stock closed Friday trading for $1.455. In early afternoon trade on Monday, shares are changing hands for $1.407 each, down 3.3%.

For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.9% at this same time.

Despite today's retrace, Liontown shares remain up an impressive 116.9% since this time last year, smashing the 5.3% 12-month gains posted by the benchmark index. 

The miner has been benefiting from a roughly doubling in lithium carbonate prices over this time.

But with shares having already more than doubled over the last year, is the ASX 200 lithium miner still a good buy today?

Liontown shares: Buy, hold, or sell?

Alto Capital's Tony Locantro recently analysed the outlook for the Aussie lithium miner (courtesy of The Bull).

"LTR's Kathleen Valley lithium project in Western Australia is one of the largest new hard-rock lithium operations globally," said Locantro, who has a sell recommendation on Liontown shares.

Liontown reported its half-year results (H1 FY 2026) on 12 March. Commenting on those results, Locantro said:

The company's first half year result in fiscal year 2026 highlighted strong operational progress, with production ramping up and revenue increasing significantly from growing concentrate shipments.

However, Liontown reported a net loss of $184 million, reflecting accounting charges and the ongoing costs associated with scaling up the operation.

Summarising his sell recommendation on Liontown shares, Locantro concluded:

While the long-term outlook for lithium demand remains encouraging, the current share price appears to reflect a large portion of the project's future growth potential. With earnings still developing and the company transitioning through a capital intensive ramp-up phase, the risk-reward balance at current levels favours taking profits following the sector's recent re-rating.

What's the latest from the ASX 200 lithium miner?

As Locantro mentioned above, first half production was strong, with Liontown reporting a 70% year on year increase in lithium oxide production to 192,514 dry metric tonnes (dmt). Lithium sales increase by 106% to 189,596 dmt.

But impacted by the ramp-up costs at Kathleen Valley, Liontown reported an underlying earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) loss of $7.7 million. 

As at 31 December, the miner had a cash balance of $391 million.

"Kathleen Valley is now a 100% underground operation," Liontown CEO Tony Ottaviano said.

"The underground ramp-up is on track and we expect the second half to be materially stronger as volumes, recoveries, and pricing all continue to improve," he added.

Liontown shares closed down 0.6% on the day of the results release.

The post Up 117% in a year, should you still buy Liontown shares now? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because Morgans has just given its verdict on three popular ASX 200 shares.

Are they buys, holds, or sells? Let's find out what the broker is saying:

Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF)

This KFC-focused quick service restaurant operator caught the eye of Morgans this month after announcing an attractive acquisition in Germany.

The broker believes the deal is sensible and could be the start of a re-rating for its shares. As a result, it has upgraded them to a buy rating with a $12.70 price target. It said:

CKF has announced what we see as a high-quality German KFC bolt-on at attractive economics. CKF is acquiring an eight-restaurant Bavarian portfolio at just under 6x restaurant-level EBITDA (pre-AASB 16) and expects the deal to be immediately EPS accretive. The Germany runway has been extended through the German Development Agreement (DA) to 45-90 new restaurants (from 40-70), materially extending the organic growth runway.

We believe this was a sensible, returns-focused deal that adds weight to the Germany growth story; execution is still key, but with a refreshed team and strong operators at the helm, success in Germany should be the catalyst for a re-rate despite lingering Netherlands noise. We upgrade to a BUY with a $12.70 target (was $12.40).

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

Lithium miner Liontown released its results last week and reported EBITDA and a loss that were ahead of expectations.

In addition, it was pleased to see that its balance sheet has been strengthened significantly.

As a result, it has upgraded Liontown shares to a hold rating with a $1.80 price target. It explains:

EBITDA and underlying NLAT beat MorgansF and consensus expectations, though earnings remain impacted by ramp-up costs. Kathleen Valley production continues to scale, the balance sheet has strengthened materially, and a brownfield expansion appears increasingly likely. We upgrade to a HOLD rating (from TRIM) with a A$1.80ps target price as we see the stock as trading at fair value.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

This gold miner disappointed Morgans with its second guidance downgrade of the financial year.

However, due to its attractive valuation, the broker has retained its buy rating on Northern Star's shares with a reduced price target of $30.00. It said:

NST has downgraded gold sales for the second time in FY26 and the third time since FY25, withdrawing full year guidance entirely, although indicate sales may exceed 1,500koz Au. The frequency, persistence and severity of operational issues across both KCGM and Yandal are concerning.

We have downgraded our forecasts for KCGM (FY26, FY27) and Yandal (FY26 and beyond) until operations demonstrate a period of stability. We downgrade our price target for NST to A$30.00ps (previously A$35.00ps). Our BUY rating is maintained, we note valuation strength is derived from the long-term growth profile rather than near-term earnings.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Collins Foods, Liontown, and Northern Star shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

According to a note out of Bell Potter, its analysts have retained their buy rating and $2.42 price target on this lithium miner's shares. This follows the release of a half-year result that was in line with expectations. However, the main talking point was the balance sheet reset thanks to the conversion of the LGES convertible note derivative. Bell Potter highlights that this means Liontown is now in a net cash position. And over FY 2026-27, it believes the company will continue to ramp up and de-risk Kathleen Valley. This is especially the case with current lithium price strength, which Bell Potter believes will allow Liontown to rapidly generate cash to support incremental production expansions and shareholder returns. The Liontown share price is trading at $1.69 this afternoon.

Magellan Financial Group Ltd (ASX: MFG)

A note out of Morgans reveals that its analysts have upgraded this fund manager's shares to a buy rating with a $12.43 price target. This follows news that Magellan has agreed to merge with Barrenjoey. Morgans thinks the deal makes strategic sense and will reinvigorate the Magellan story. And while the deal pricing appears tilted in Barrenjoey's favour, it still sees plenty to like here for Magellan. The broker believes the merger fundamentally changes the company's overall outlook, strengthens the business, and provides additional pathways to growth. The Magellan share price is fetching $10.29 at the time of writing.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

Analysts at Citi have retained their buy rating and $199.00 price target on this property listings company's shares. According to the note, Citi was pleased to see that new listings were up mostly in February after almost a year of monthly year-on-year declines. And while it acknowledges that potential interest rate hikes in March and May could act as a headwind for the property market, Citi notes that this is priced into its forecasts. In fact, the broker sees potential for the company to outperform its guidance thanks to an outperformance in the Melbourne and Sydney markets. The REA Group share price is trading at $168.25 on Friday afternoon.

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

That's the view of analysts at Bell Potter, who remain bullish on the lithium miner following its half-year results release this week.

What is the broker saying?

Bell Potter notes that Liontown delivered a half-year result that was largely in line with expectations.

But the real highlight was its balance sheet reset, which it believes is a major positive. The broker explains:

LTR reported revenue of $208m, underlying EBITDA of -$8m (BP est. -$25m) and underlying NPAT of -$89m (BP est. -$98m). Statutory net loss after tax of -$184m includes a -$104m non-recurring, non-cash fair value movement on the LGES Convertible Note derivative. The company's balance sheet is strong following the LGES note conversion. At 31 December 2025, LTR had cash of $390m (previously reported). We estimate pro forma (post LG note conversion) net cash (excluding leases) of $32m.

FY26 guidance was reiterated, tracking to a stronger 2H with a higher portion of clean underground ore that will boost plant recoveries (1H FY26 61%) and production volumes (1H FY26 190kt), and materially stronger lithium market prices (spot SC6 US$2,220/t; 1H FY26 average US$955/t).

In addition, Bell Potter highlights that Liontown is looking at a brownfield expansion, with results from a study due to be released in the middle of the year. It adds:

The recent strength in lithium markets has motivated the company to revisit Kathleen Valley expansion options, potentially taking mining and plant throughput to 4Mtpa (from 2.8Mtpa) through de-bottlenecking and incremental capacity additions. A study is expected to be completed in mid-2026 and FID is subject to sustained lithium market strength and Board approvals. Current lithium market strength supports the expansion; at this stage we expect a positive decision.

Should you buy Liontown shares?

According to the note, Bell Potter has retained its buy rating and $2.42 price target on Liontown shares.

Based on its current share price of $1.62, this implies potential upside of 49% for investors over the next 12 months.

Commenting on its buy recommendation, the broker said:

LTR is now in a net cash position. Over FY26-27, LTR will continue to ramp up and de-risk Kathleen Valley. With current lithium price strength, LTR can rapidly generate cash to support incremental production expansions and shareholder returns. Kathleen Valley is highly strategic in terms of scale, long project life and location in a tier-one mining jurisdiction. LTR has offtake contracts with top-tier EV and battery OEMs. The company has a strong balance sheet with long tenor debt finance.

The post Are Liontown shares a buy after its results? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Friday and end the week on a high? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to fall

The Australian share market looks set to fall again on Friday following a poor night in the United States. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open 21 points or 0.25% lower this morning. In late trade on Wall Street, the Dow Jones is down 1.5%, the S&P 500 is down 1.45% and the Nasdaq is down 1.7%.

Oil prices jump

It could be a strong finish to the week for ASX 200 energy shares such as Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) after oil prices jumped. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 9.6% to US$95.61 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 9.45% to US$100.62 a barrel. Oil prices surged after Iran's supreme leader said that the Strait of Hormuz must remain closed.

ASX 200 shares going ex-dividend

A number of ASX 200 shares will be going ex-dividend this morning and could trade lower. This includes auto listings company CAR Group Limited (ASX: CAR), quick service restaurant operator Guzman Y Gomez Ltd (ASX: GYG), and logistic solutions company WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC). CAR Group will be paying a partially franked 42.5 cents per share dividend next month on 13 April.

Gold price falls

ASX 200 gold shares Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) and Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) could have a subdued finish to the week after the gold price fell overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is down 1.5% to US$5,100.3 an ounce. A stronger US dollar weighed on the precious metal.

Buy Liontown shares

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) shares are good value according to analysts at Bell Potter. This morning, the broker has retained its buy rating on the lithium miner's shares with a $2.42 price target. It said: "LTR is now in a net cash position. Over FY26-27, LTR will continue to ramp up and de-risk Kathleen Valley. With current lithium price strength, LTR can rapidly generate cash to support incremental production expansions and shareholder returns. Kathleen Valley is highly strategic in terms of scale, long project life and location in a tier-one mining jurisdiction. LTR has offtake contracts with top-tier EV and battery OEMs. The company has a strong balance sheet with long tenor debt finance."

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

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

Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS)

The EOS share price is down 4.5% to $10.22. Investors have been selling the defence and space company's shares after it revealed that the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) has reviewed its continuous disclosure practices. The ASX has formed the view that a previous announcement by EOS on 15 December 2025 regarding a conditional US$80 million high-energy laser contract failed to adequately describe market sensitive information. The stock exchange operator has directed EOS under Listing Rule 18.8(k) to review its continuous disclosure policy.

GQG Partners Inc (ASX: GQG)

The GQG Partners share price is down a further 2.5% to $1.76. The fund manager's shares have dropped this week following the release of its latest funds under management (FUM) update. GQG Partners reported a 4.3% increase in FUM to US$172.9 billion during the month of February. However, this was driven by investment performance, which offset net outflows of US$3.2 billion. The company's net outflows were recorded across all strategies.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

The Liontown share price is down 2.5% to $1.59. This has been driven by the release of the lithium miner's half-year results. Although Liontown more than doubled its revenue to $207.5 million, it recorded a statutory net loss after tax of $184 million. Commenting on its performance, Liontown's CEO, Tony Ottaviano, said: "Kathleen Valley is now a 100% underground operation. We have delivered a one million tonne per annum underground run-rate on schedule, sold 190,000 tonnes of concentrate across ten shipments, and more than doubled revenue period to period. The underground ramp-up is on track and we expect the second half to be materially stronger as volumes, recoveries, and pricing all continue to improve."

Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW)

The Temple & Webster share price is down almost 8% to $6.82. This may have been driven by concerns over how the war in the Middle East could impact the online furniture and homewares retailer. With shipping costs surging, there are fears this could hit its profitability in the second half of FY 2026.

The post Why EOS, GQG, Liontown, and Temple & Webster shares are tumbling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the lithium miner's shares are down 2.5% to $1.59.

Why are Liontown shares falling?

Investors have been selling Liontown shares this morning following the release of its half-year results.

According to the release, the company delivered strong growth in production and revenue during the half as the Kathleen Valley lithium project ramps up underground operations.

For the six months ended 31 December, Liontown produced 192,514 dry metric tonnes (dmt) of spodumene concentrate at a grade of 5.0% Li₂O. This represents a 70% increase on the prior corresponding period.

Sales volumes also surged, rising 106% to 189,596 dmt as the Kathleen Valley operation increased output.

Liontown's average realised price for the period was US$888 per dmt for SC6 concentrate. This is up from US$811 per dmt a year earlier. This helped drive revenue of $207.5 million for the half year, more than double the $100.4 million recorded in the prior corresponding period.

The good news is that its realised price is likely to rise further in the coming quarter. Liontown highlighted that its inaugural Metalshub spot auction in November 2025 cleared at US$1,254 per dmt SC6 for shipment in January 2026.

Ramp-up weighs on earnings

Despite the strong growth in production and revenue, Liontown reported an underlying EBITDA loss of $7.7 million as the project continues to ramp up production.

The company also posted a statutory net loss after tax of $184 million. However, this includes $104.4 million of non-cash charges relating to the LGES convertible note derivative.

Management advised that this accounting charge was largely driven by the company's share price appreciation during the period and will not recur following the conversion of the LGES notes to equity in February 2026.

Operational costs also declined through the half, with unit operating costs of $985 per dmt and all-in sustaining costs of $1,179 per dmt.

Outlook

Liontown's managing director and CEO, Tony Ottaviano, was pleased with the half and is positive on its outlook. He said:

Kathleen Valley is now a 100% underground operation. We have delivered a one million tonne per annum underground run-rate on schedule, sold 190,000 tonnes of concentrate across ten shipments, and more than doubled revenue period to period. The underground ramp-up is on track and we expect the second half to be materially stronger as volumes, recoveries, and pricing all continue to improve.

The company's FY 2026 guidance remains unchanged and cash generation is expected to improve through the second half as production continues to ramp up.

The company also confirmed that work is underway on a refresh of its planned 4 million tonne per annum expansion at the Kathleen Valley lithium operation.

The post Liontown shares drop on $184m half-year loss appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.