ASX 200 Set for Weaker Start as Energy and Tech Stocks Take Centre Stage

2 min read | July 23, 2025 04:32 PM AEST | By Team Kalkine Media

ASX 200 Set for Weaker Start as Energy and Tech Stocks Take Centre Stage — Image source: shutterstock

Energy Stocks in Focus Amid Softening Crude Prices

ASX-listed energy majors Santos (ASX:STO) and Woodside Energy Group (ASX:WDS) could be in the spotlight this week as oil prices weakened in the last session. International benchmarks, including WTI and Brent crude, retreated as mixed economic signals from the US counteracted fresh sanctions placed on Russian exports by the European Union.

Crude benchmarks dipped in response to economic data releases that did little to lift market sentiment. This, in turn, might shape early trading moves among domestic energy players that are sensitive to global oil market fluctuations.

Tech Sector Eyes Movement in Block (ASX:SQ2)

Block (ASX:SQ2), which operates in the digital payments and financial technology segment, could see notable price activity after its shares listed on the NYSE gained ground in after-hours trading. The lift in the company’s US-listed stock came after news that Block will be added to a key equity index in the US.

The development adds visibility for the company’s shares and might influence sentiment toward its ASX-listed entity during the Monday session. Block's platform includes services like Afterpay and Cash App, positioning it in the broader tech ecosystem, with a growing presence in the Australian market.

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