Highlights
- ASX 200 makes modest gains as US tariff exemption talks progress.
- Gold miners shine with strong performances amid rising gold prices.
- Lithium stocks face headwinds, while economic outlook sees an upward revision.
The Australian share market saw a slight uptick on Tuesday, with the S&P/ASX 200 closing marginally higher after US President Donald Trump indicated a willingness to consider exempting Australia from tariffs on aluminium and steel imports. The index finished just 1.2 points higher at 8,484, recovering from early gains that were pared back later in the session. Over the past five days, the index has lost 1.31%, currently sitting just under 1% below its one-year peak.
Market Performance and Sector Highlights
Eight out of 11 sectors on the ASX 200 ended in the green. Industrials led the market, rising 0.98%, with a five-day gain of 1.73%. Utilities followed with a 0.57% increase, while materials gained 0.17%. However, the energy sector struggled, slipping 0.3%.
Gold miners were among the top performers as gold prices surged above US$2,900 ($4,622) per ounce, reinforcing the appeal of the precious metal as a safe-haven asset. Evolution Mining (ASX:EVN) climbed 4.89% to $6.22, while Northern Star Resources (ASX:NST) advanced 4.04% to $18.54. De Grey Mining (ASX:DEG) gained 3.88% to $2.14, with Newmont (ASX:NEM) and Westgold Resources (ASX:WGX) adding 3.17% and 2.87%, respectively.
Lithium Stocks Face Challenges
In contrast, lithium miners faced pressure, with Liontown Resources (ASX:LTR) declining 9.09% to $0.60. Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS) followed with a 3.64% drop to $2.12, while Mineral Resources (ASX:MIN) slumped 6.93% to $32.62. IGO (ASX:IGO) also saw a decline, ending 4.29% lower at $4.69.
Economic Outlook Improves
In a positive development, ANZ has revised its 2025 GDP growth forecast upward from 2.2% to 2.4%, citing stronger-than-expected household consumption. An anticipated interest rate cut in February is expected to further support consumer confidence and spending, contributing to the economic recovery.
The S&P/ASX 200, representing the top 200 companies on the Australian Securities Exchange by market capitalisation, remains the country’s benchmark index, covering approximately 80% of the equity market. As global trade policies evolve and economic conditions shift, investor sentiment will likely be influenced by developments in tariff discussions and broader market trends.