Highlights
The ASX 200 opened lower amid escalating Middle East conflict and global market losses.
Resource stocks including MIN, PLS, and LTR declined sharply in early trade.
Gains observed in uranium, coal, and gaming sectors amid broader market caution.
The ASX 200 index saw a drop at market open, aligning with weakness in global equities amid rising geopolitical tension. The benchmark followed overnight losses on Wall Street and European indices, as investors reacted to escalating conflict between Iran and Israel and strong remarks from the former U.S. president.
Major constituents within the ASX 100 and ASX 50 showed early red, impacting overall sentiment and performance across the local bourse.
Resource Sector Suffers Sharp Declines
Notable losses were observed in the lithium and mining sectors, contributing to the broader decline on the ASX 300.
Mineral Resources Limited (ASX:MIN), Pilbara Minerals Limited (ASX:PLS), and Liontown Resources Limited (ASX:LTR) led the downturn within the resource-heavy segment. All three companies faced early selling pressure as market participants responded to rising geopolitical uncertainties and their impact on global supply chains.
Energy and Commodities See Mixed Reactions
In contrast, uranium and coal-related companies registered positive momentum despite the broader market retreat.
Deep Yellow Limited (ASX:DYL), a uranium-focused player, recorded gains as investors appeared to shift attention to energy alternatives amid potential global disruptions. Coal producer Yancoal Australia Limited (ASX:YAL) also posted a solid rise during morning trade.
Both companies remain in focus as market participants assess the implications of potential supply constraints in energy markets.
Gaming and Tech Maintain Resilience
Gaming manufacturer Light & Wonder Inc (ASX:LNW) emerged as one of the early gainers, showing resilience amid broader equity weakness.
Its performance offered some support to the tech and gaming subset within the All Ordinaries, though the wider index remained under pressure throughout the morning session.
Global Cues Add to Domestic Pressure
Global indices, including the Dow Jones, Nasdaq, and S&P 500, ended lower as tensions in the Middle East and strong remarks from the U.S. added to the risk-off sentiment.
The situation intensified after Donald Trump’s statements aimed at Iran’s leadership, heightening concerns of expanded conflict and geopolitical instability. Oil prices moved higher amid the uncertainty, adding to inflation-related concerns.