Four ASX shares that have failed to follow the market higher today are listed below. Here's why they are falling:

Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE)

The Boss Energy share price is down 11% to $1.54. Investors have been selling the uranium producer's shares after it downgraded its guidance. Boss Energy now expects FY 2026 production for the Honeymoon operation to be between 1.40 million and 1.45 million pounds of U3O8. This is down from previous guidance of 1.6 million pounds. The company's managing director, Matthew Dusci, said: "We recognise this downgrade is disappointing, particularly after maintaining guidance as recently as March. At that time, our expectation was that site access and reagent deliveries would normalise during the month. Subsequent unexpected rainfall, combined with the degraded baseline condition of access roads, extended disruption materially beyond that assumption. This has impacted both production and the timing of commissioning critical infrastructure during ramp-up."

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX)

The Telix Pharmaceuticals share price is down 6% to $14.50. This has been driven by news that the radiopharmaceuticals company is raising US$600 million through a convertible bonds offering. The bonds are expected to carry a relatively low coupon of between 1.50% and 1.75% and will be issued with a conversion price of US$13.85 (~A$19.55). This is a premium of approximately 37.5% to the current share price. Telix's managing director and group CEO, Dr. Christian Behrenbruch, said: "The successful completion of the convertible bonds refinance is in line with our capital management strategy and provides financial flexibility for Telix. We are pleased with the support we have received from both existing and new investors as part of the concurrent repurchase and new issue of convertible bonds."

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

The Woodside Energy share price is down 2.5% to $33.13. Investors have been selling the energy producer's shares today in response to reports that the US and Iran have re-entered peace talks. This caused oil prices to tumble overnight. It isn't just Woodside shares that are falling. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy index is down 2% at the time of writing.

Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL)

The Yancoal Australia share price is down 2.5% to $7.06. This is despite the coal miner announcing a major acquisition today. Yancoal revealed that it has agreed to acquire an 80% interest in the Kestrel coal mine in Queensland's Bowen Basin for up to US$2.4 billion. This includes an upfront payment of US$1.85 billion, as well as contingent payments of up to US$550 million that are linked to future coal prices.

The post Why Boss Energy, Telix, Woodside, and Yancoal shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the ASX 200 coal stock is up 1.5% to $7.32 after returning from a short trading halt.

Why is this ASX 200 coal stock rising today?

The catalyst for the move has been the announcement of a major acquisition.

According to the release, Yancoal has entered into binding agreements to acquire an 80% interest in the Kestrel coal mine in Queensland's Bowen Basin.

The transaction will be completed through the acquisition of Kestrel Coal Group, which holds the interest in the mine.

The total consideration for the deal is up to US$2.4 billion. This includes an upfront payment of US$1.85 billion, as well as contingent payments of up to US$550 million that are linked to future coal prices.

Management describes Kestrel as a high-quality, long-life asset, producing premium metallurgical coal that is used in steelmaking. It is the largest producing underground coal mine in Australia, which highlights the scale of the acquisition.

Strategic benefits

The ASX 200 coal stock believes the acquisition is a strong strategic fit for its existing portfolio.

The addition of Kestrel is expected to increase the company's exposure to metallurgical coal, lifting its share of production to approximately 22% on a pro forma basis.

This is significant given that metallurgical coal typically commands higher margins and is linked to global steel demand.

The asset is also located near Yancoal's existing operations in the Bowen Basin, which may provide operational and logistical benefits over time.

Funding

Yancoal plans to fund the acquisition through a combination of existing cash, debt facilities, and future cash flows from the enlarged business.

The transaction remains subject to a number of regulatory approvals and conditions.

Completion is currently targeted for the second half of calendar 2026, assuming all approvals are received.

Commenting on the acquisition, the ASX 200 coal stock's CEO, Sharif Burra, said:

The proposed acquisition of 80% of the Kestrel Coal Mine represents a strong strategic fit for Yancoal and adds another high-quality, long-life mine to our portfolio. Kestrel delivers increased scale and diversification to Yancoal's portfolio and is expected to contribute premium metallurgical coal into our product mix.

The acquisition positions us to deliver greater value to our shareholders and consolidates Yancoal's position as a leading Australian coal miner. We look forward to working closely with Mitsui, the joint venture partner and owner of 20% of Kestrel, in the future as co-owners of Kestrel to continue to add value to the mine, local communities and stakeholders.

The post ASX 200 coal stock higher on US$2.4 billion deal appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Yancoal Australia report?

• Entered a binding agreement to acquire 80% of the Kestrel Coal Mine in Queensland's Bowen Basin
• Total consideration of up to US$2.4 billion: US$1.85 billion upfront and up to US$550 million in contingent payments
• Kestrel recorded 2025 saleable production of 5.9 Mt (100% basis), with a life-of-mine plan backed by 164 Mt marketable coal reserves
• Yancoal plans to fund the deal using a mix of available cash and a US$1.2 billion syndicated acquisition loan facility
• Strategic move increases Yancoal's pro-forma share of metallurgical coal to 22% and positions it as a leading ASX-listed coal producer

What else do investors need to know?

The acquisition is set to make Yancoal one of the largest producers of underground metallurgical coal in Australia, with increased exposure to high-demand Asian steelmaking markets. Kestrel's mine life extends 25 years, and combined resources underpin stable, long-term output.

The deal brings operational synergies due to Kestrel's proximity to Yancoal's existing Queensland assets. It also diversifies Yancoal's production profile further into metallurgical coal while maintaining a strong presence in thermal coal.

In terms of funding, Yancoal has lined up a US$200 million working capital facility, and expects to use cash flows from the broader business to meet contingent consideration payments over five years. The deal is subject to regulatory approvals, with completion targeted for the end of Q3 2026.

What did Yancoal Australia management say?

CEO of Yancoal said Sharif Burra said:

The proposed acquisition of 80% of the Kestrel Coal Mine represents a strong strategic fit for Yancoal and adds another high-quality, long-life mine to our portfolio. Kestrel delivers increased scale and diversification to Yancoal's portfolio and is expected to contribute premium metallurgical coal into our product mix. The acquisition positions us to deliver greater value to our shareholders and consolidates Yancoal's position as a leading Australian coal miner. We look forward to working closely with Mitsui, the joint venture partner and owner of 20% of Kestrel, in the future as co-owners of Kestrel to continue to add value to the mine, local communities and stakeholders.

What's next for Yancoal Australia?

Yancoal expects the Kestrel acquisition to support resilient cash flows and boost its production of premium metallurgical coal, with sales mostly destined for Japanese, Korean, Indian, and Southeast Asian buyers. The company aims to complete the transaction by late Q3 2026, pending required regulatory approvals.

Looking forward, Yancoal will work to integrate the Kestrel operation into its portfolio, targeting operational improvements and ongoing due diligence to verify coal reserves and resources. The company also intends to maintain financial flexibility, enabling it to manage future growth opportunities as Australia's coal sector evolves.

Yancoal Australia share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Yancoal shares have risen 48%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 15% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Yancoal Australia announces $2.4bn Kestrel Coal Mine acquisition appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Oil and gas prices soared while gold and other metals crumbled, impacting ASX 200 shares in different ways.

Shares in the energy sector surged 18.5% while the materials sector, which includes Australia's biggest miners, crumbled 14.1%.

Amid the upheaval for share prices, brokers reviewed their ratings and 12-month targets on a bunch of ASX stocks.

Here are some of the ASX 200 shares elevated to strong buy consensus status after last month's turmoil.

7 ASX 200 shares newly elevated to strong buy ratings

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

A consensus rating represents the average rating among analysts.

Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD)

The Genesis Minerals share price dropped 20.7% in March alongside a steep fall in the gold price.

So far this month, the ASX 200 gold mining share is up 10.9% to $6.53 at yesterday's close.

MA Financial is among the brokers that have upgraded Genesis Minerals to a buy rating.

The broker has lifted its 12-month price target from $8.05 to $8.40.

Orica Ltd (ASX: ORI)

The Orica share price descended 17.9% in March.

So far this month, the ASX materials share is up 6.7% to $21.40.

Jefferies has reiterated its buy recommendation, but reduced its price target from $25.73 to $24.04.

Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN)

The Qantas share price fell 15.9% in March.

So far in April, the ASX 200 airline share has rebounded 8.6% to $9.09.

Jefferies has reiterated its buy rating with a price target of $12.80.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

The WiseTech Global share price declined 20% in March.

So far in April, the market's largest ASX 200 tech share is up just 1.6% to $38.62.

Morgan Stanley is buy-rated on Wisetech but has slashed its target from $100 to $70.

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

The Xero share price descended 9.7% in March.

The tech share has fallen a further 2.3% in April to $73.41 at yesterday's close.

Morgan Stanley has reiterated its buy recommendation with a $130 target.

Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL)

The Yancoal share price skyrocketed 41.5% in March, as power plants switched from gas to coal.

So far this month, the ASX 200 coal share has declined 10.3%.

Huatai Securities is buy-rated on Yancoal with a $14.40 share price target.

CAR Group Ltd (ASX: CAR)

The CAR Group share price fell 14% in March.

In April, the ASX 200 retail share is up 2.7% to $23.41.

Morgan Stanley reiterated its buy recommendation last week.

However, the broker reduced its 12-month target from $38 to $32.

The post 7 ASX 200 shares just upgraded to strong buy ratings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

Today, we've seen a reversal of trends.

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

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

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

Why are ASX 200 energy shares leading the market today?

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

Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz remains largely obstructed.

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

On Thursday, Trading Economics analysts said:

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

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

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

The Strait of Hormuz is not technically closed.

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

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

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

ASX 200 energy shares whipsaw on ceasefire tensions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Not all shares fell with the market. Here are four ASX 200 shares that delivered big returns for investors during March:

Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA)

The Viva Energy share price was the best performer on the ASX 200 in March with a 40.4% gain. Investors appear to believe that this fuel retailer will be benefitting from surging fuel prices caused by the war in the Middle East. In addition, last month the Federal Government increased the Geelong Refinery FSSP Margin Marker cap and collar by 3.6 Australian cents per litre (Acpl), which is the equivalent to A$5.70 per barrel. Viva Energy's CEO and managing director, Scott Wyatt, said: "Today's announcement underscores the important role that domestic refining plays in strengthening Australian energy security. Viva Energy is proud to own and operate one of the two refineries that together produce approximately 20% of the country's fuel requirements."

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX)

The Telix Pharmaceuticals share price wasn't far behind with a 40% gain last month. The radiopharmaceuticals company's shares rebounded strongly after the release of a couple of promising announcements. One was that its ProstACT Global Phase 3 study achieved its primary objectives, demonstrating an acceptable safety and tolerability profile with no new safety signals observed. The other revealed that Telix has resubmitted a New Drug Application (NDA) to the United States Food and Drug Administration for its Pixclara product. It is an investigational PET imaging agent for the characterization of recurrent or progressive glioma (brain cancer) from treatment related changes in both adult and paediatric patients.

Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL)

The Yancoal Australia share price was on form and raced 33.9% higher in March. This follows a strong month for coal prices driven by strong demand to counter surging LNG prices and supply uncertainty. For the same reason, the New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) share price was up 23.6% in March and the Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC) share price was up 16.5% during the period.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

The Woodside Energy share price had a strong month and rose 16%. This was driven by the war in the Middle East, which has driven LNG and oil prices materially higher. In fact, both WTI and Brent crude oil prices ended the month above US$100 a barrel, representing a gain of 50% for the month. Investors appear optimistic that Woodside will be generating significant cash flow, which could support capital returns.

The post These were the best-performing ASX 200 shares in March appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After starting deep in red territory this morning, the ASX 200 dropped as low as 8,379 points during intra-day trading before wrapping up at a flat 8,461 points. That puts the index down 0.65% for the session today.

This rather bleak Monday for ASX investors came after an even more turbulent end to the American trading week on Saturday morning (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was hit hard, dropping by a nasty 1.73%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared even worse, falling by a horrid 2.15%.

But let's get back to this week and our local markets, and check out the damage to the different ASX sectors inflicted by today's market drop.

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

As such, we head into the weekend with the ASX 200 at 8,516.3 points.

This disappointing conclusion to the week's trading for Australian investors was preceded by an even more downbeat morning on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) gave up an early lead to finish at a significant 1.01% loss.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was hit even harder, falling by 2.38%.

But let's return to the local markets now and dive a little deeper into how the various ASX sectors fared amid today's tough trading conditions.

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

In afternoon trade today, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 0.3%.

Here's how these three ASX 200 coal stocks are tracking at this same time:

• Whitehaven shares are up 4.8% at $9.23 each
• New Hope shares are up 4.2% at $5.67 apiece
• Yancoal shares are up 3.5% at $8.35 each

So, what's going on?

ASX 200 coal stocks lift on rising energy concerns

With no fresh price-sensitive news out from any of the three ASX 200 coal stocks, it looks like they are all enjoying renewed investor interest amid a rising coal price.

Thermal coal is trading for US$142 per tonne, up 3.2% overnight, according to data from Trading Economics. This sees the coal price up more than 21% in March.

Like oil and gas, the coal price – and the shares of New Hope, Yancoal, and Whitehaven – have risen sharply since the onset of the Iran war on 28 February.

Today's increase comes after the thermal coal price dipped to US$138 per tonne earlier this week. That drop was driven by hopes that the war could be nearing an end after United States President Donald Trump extended his deadline to commence bombing Iran's power stations, saying the nations are involved in negotiations.

But with the US moving significant new forces into the conflict zone, and Iran denying it is seeking a deal, hopes of a near-term ceasefire have faded.

And as we hope for cooler heads to prevail, energy prices and energy stocks are moving higher.

How have New Hope, Yancoal, and Whitehaven shares performed in March?

Since the onset of the Middle East conflict on 28 February, the ASX 200 has slumped 7.8%.

As for the ASX 200 coal stocks, Yancoal shares are up 42.4% over this time; New Hope shares have gained 20.9%; and Whitehaven shares are up 18.0% in March.

Looking ahead, while it's impossible to predict how coal prices will move longer term, I think it's likely they will remain elevated over the coming months. That's because even the rapid end to the conflict that we're hoping for will leave nations around the world scrambling to secure their depleted energy needs.

That should help support the recent outsized gains posted by New Hope, Yancoal, and Whitehaven shares.

We could also see significant increases in the next round of dividends from the ASX 200 coal stocks as they share their growing profits with stockholders.

The post Why New Hope, Yancoal and Whitehaven shares are storming higher on Friday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

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

Trading Economics analysts commented:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let's take a look.

ASX 200 energy shares slip on Wednesday

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

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

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

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

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

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

ASX 200 coal shares are also lower today.

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

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

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

Why is the rest of the market rising?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Electricity prices alone rose 37% over the period.

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

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

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

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

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

Why are energy shares rising?

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

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

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

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

Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL)

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

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

It closed yesterday trading at $8.63. 

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

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

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

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD)

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

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

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

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

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR)

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

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

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

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

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

NexGen Energy Ltd (ASX: NXG)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

After initially plunging almost 2% this morning, the ASX 200 pared back those losses and ended up closing 0.74% lower today. That loss leaves the index at 8,365.9 points.

This coldwater start to the trading week for Australian investors comes after a tough end to the American trading week on Saturday morning (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was hit hard, falling by a horrid 0.96%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was hit even harder, dropping 2.01%.

But let's get back to this week and the local markets now with a look at how the various ASX sectors handled today's trading conditions.

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

Strong gains in oil and coal prices are continuing to support the move, with energy shares among the standout performers in 2026.

Let's take a closer look at which stocks are hitting highs right now.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

The Woodside share price is up 0.97% to $34.37 at the time of writing.

Earlier in the session, the energy giant's shares reached $34.60, marking a multi-year high. The last time the stock traded at these levels was in October 2023.

The rally means Woodside shares are now up approximately 45% in 2026, making them one of the best performers on the ASX 200 this year.

Recent strength in oil prices has been a key driver. Brent crude has surged above US$112 per barrel amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, tightening supply expectations and lifting sentiment across the sector.

At the same time, Woodside has been returning a large portion of its cash flow to shareholders. Its dividend payout ratio targets 50% to 80% of underlying net profit.

Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL)

Yancoal shares are also pushing higher today.

The coal producer's share price is up 3.85% to $8.63, after hitting an intraday high of $8.70 earlier in the session. This marks the highest level for the stock since mid-2017.

Yancoal has now surged approximately 74% in 2026, making it also one of the standout stocks on the ASX 200 this year.

Coal prices have remained firm due to ongoing supply constraints and strong demand, particularly across Asian markets. This has supported earnings expectations across the sector.

The company operates a portfolio of thermal and metallurgical coal assets across New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia.

Yancoal has also been returning significant cash to shareholders. In recent periods, it has delivered large dividends supported by strong earnings and cash flow.

What is driving the sector?

Energy stocks have been leading the market in recent weeks, supported by a lift in underlying commodity prices.

Geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, have pushed oil prices significantly higher. At the same time, supply risks and steady demand have supported coal prices.

This combination has lifted earnings expectations across the energy sector, helping drive share prices higher and improve investor sentiment.

While commodity prices can be volatile, current conditions are providing a clear tailwind, with strong pricing continuing to support recent gains.

The post These two ASX 200 stocks are hitting fresh 52-week highs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

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

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

Short-term measures of inflation expectations have already risen.

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

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

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

On Friday, Trading Economics analysts said:

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

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

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

Let's review.

Energy shares rip 6% as war drags on

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 energy shares lead the market for a third week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After yesterday's horrid 1.7% drop, investors weren't in the mood to turn the ship around today. The ASX 200 spent the entire session in the red and ended up closing down 0.82%. That leaves the index at 8,428.4 points as we head into the weekend.

This not-so-nice end to the trading week for Australian investors follows a similarly downbeat morning on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) couldn't hold water, falling 0.44%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) only managed a slightly better performance, dropping 0.28%.

Time now to get back to the local markets and take a closer look at what was happening amongst the different ASX sectors this Friday.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ASX 200 energy shares soar while broader market falls

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

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

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

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

Meanwhile, ASX 200 energy shares soared today.

New multi-year highs for energy giants

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is the highest thermal coal price since November 2024.

What about other energy stocks?

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

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

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

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

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

Will the market be able to build on this on Thursday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 set to sink

The Australian share market looks set to fall on Thursday following a poor night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 138 points or 1.6% lower this morning. In late trade in the United States, the Dow Jones is down 1.7%, the S&P 500 is down 1.3% and the Nasdaq is 1.4% lower.

Core Lithium shares on watch

Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) shares will be on watch on Thursday. That's because the lithium miner has raised $120 million to support the restart of the Finniss Lithium Project. The company notes that the restart repositions Finniss as a lower cost, long-life, brownfield lithium operation with a shorter path to nameplate production of 214ktpa. Unit operating costs are expected to be A$762 per tonne. This compares favourably to the current spodumene concentrate spot price of US$2,200 per tonne.

Oil prices rise

ASX 200 energy shares Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have a good session on Thursday after oil prices rose overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 1.7% to US$97.88 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 5.3% to US$108.89 a barrel. Oil prices charged higher after Iran threatened to strike oil facilities in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

Shares going ex-dividend

A number of ASX 200 shares are going ex-dividend today and could trade lower. This includes infant formula company A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M), hearing solutions company Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH), transport services provider Kelsian Group Ltd (ASX: KLS), telco Spark New Zealand Ltd (ASX: SPK), and coal miner Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL). The latter will be paying its shareholders a fully franked 12.2 cents per share dividend next month on 15 April.

Gold price sinks

ASX 200 gold shares including Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a poor session on Thursday after the gold price tumbled overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is down 3.1% to US$4,853.3 an ounce. Traders were selling the precious metal after the US Federal Reserve kept interest rates on hold.

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

Both companies experienced share price falls of more than 4.6%. 

Let's take a look at what happened 

Lynas Rare Earths crashes after deal 

Lynas Rare Earths is primarily involved in the exploration, development, and processing of rare earth minerals in Australia and Malaysia.

On Monday, Lynas Rare Earths signed a major US rare earth supply deal with the United States Department of War (DoW). 

Under this arrangement, approximately US$96 million will be allocated by the DoW to the purchase of Light and Heavy Rare Earth oxide products from Lynas. The floor price for supply of NdPr oxide will be US$110/kg. 

The proposed agreement covers deliveries over a four-year period.

Despite the news, Lynas shares are now down 6% since this week's open. 

Its share price remains up more than 60% year to date and 163% over the last 12 months. 

Yancoal hits a speedbump

Meanwhile, Yancoal shares fell 4.9% yesterday, and are also down 6% since Monday. 

The company is a coal miner involved in identifying, developing, and operating coal-related projects in Australia. 

It has a diversified mix of metallurgical and thermal coal mines. It owns, operates, or participates in 11 coal mines across NSW, Queensland, and Western Australia.

Coal prices have been surging so far in 2026, which has helped Yancoal shares rise more than 50% year to date. 

However, coal prices (USD/T) have hit significant volatility over the past week amidst conflict in the Middle East. 

Should investors buy the dip?

Recent analysis from brokers indicates Lynas Rare Earths may now be fully valued. 

Last week, Lynas signed a major long-term supply agreement with Japan Australia Rare Earths (JARE) guaranteeing revenue of approximately $775 million. 

This prompted adjustments from brokers on the outlook for the company. 

Despite this good news, an updated price target from Bell Potter now sits at $19.00. 

From yesterday's close of $20.02, that still indicates a downside of 5%. 

14 analysts' forecasts via TradingView paint a similar picture, with an average one year price target of $20.89. 

This indicates the current share price is close to fair value. 

Meanwhile, Yancoal shares closed trading yesterday at $7.57 each. 

5 analysts forecasts via TradingView have a one year average price target of $7.66. 

This suggests this week's pullback was warranted, and there is roughly 1% difference between yesterday's close and the average price target. 

The post Should you buy Lynas Rare Earths or Yancoal shares after yesterday's crash? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On Friday, Trading Economics analysts said:

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

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

Energy shares led the ASX sectors last week

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

The post Here's why ASX 200 energy shares were the only risers last week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.