ASX 200 Closes Slightly Lower as ILU, HLS and PLS Lift While Tech and Gold Drag

June 26, 2025 04:49 PM AEST | By Team Kalkine Media

ASX 200 Closes Slightly Lower as ILU, HLS and PLS Lift While Tech and Gold Drag — Image source: shutterstock

ILU, HLS, and PLS Rise Amid Commodity and Operational Strength

Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX:ILU) closed as one of the session’s top gainers, followed closely by Healius Ltd (ASX:HLS) and Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX:PLS). The positive momentum around critical minerals and improved sentiment around lithium pricing contributed to renewed focus on select mining names.

The uptrend in Pilbara Minerals followed recent leadership changes, including the interim appointment of its financial controller as CFO. Meanwhile, Healius appeared to benefit from interest in healthcare-focused turnaround activity across the sector.

Tech and Gold Stocks Underperform on Broader Market Caution

Technology company Xero Ltd (ASX:XRO) experienced notable pressure during the session, reflecting broader caution in growth-sensitive sectors. Xero was the session’s most pronounced decliner among the ASX 100, pulling sentiment within the index lower.

Gold miners including Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX:NST) and St Barbara Ltd (ASX:SBM) also featured among the weaker names. Recent commentary around institutional re-evaluation of gold equities and pricing fluctuations weighed on the sub-sector.

Volatility Index Rises as Market Participants Digest Macro Trends

The implied volatility gauge for the ASX 200 moved higher, reflecting underlying caution amid broader market developments. A combination of global economic signals and sector-specific news shaped cautious sentiment during the afternoon trade.

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