Energy Surge Lifts ASX 200 as Brent Gains; Indexes Edge Up

Highlights

• ASX 200 advanced as energy stocks rebounded, supported by movement in global crude benchmarks

• Boss Energy, Ampol, and Santos were among the notable gainers in the energy segment

• Zip climbed after reaffirming performance guidance, while Nuix declined on withdrawn estimates

The Australian sharemarket reversed a two-day decline, with the asx 200 finishing higher amid a broad-based lift in energy stocks. The index closed with gains, supported by sectors including energy, financials, and real estate. On the index front, the All Ordinaries and ASX Small Ordinaries also posted upward movements.

The energy sector was the leading performer, aided by movement in global crude benchmarks. Ampol Limited (ASX:ALD), Santos Limited (ASX:STO), and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX:WDS) registered upward momentum, following news around international production adjustments and trade discussions between major global economies. Boss Energy Ltd (ASX:BOE) recorded a sharp rise after disclosing at a corporate conference that uranium exports would remain unaffected by overseas tariffs, citing confidence in ongoing industry developments.

Technology and Financial Services in Focus

Zip Co Ltd (ASX:ZIP) climbed during the session after reaffirming its earnings guidance and reporting growth in transaction volumes in overseas markets. The technology-related name moved in contrast to Nuix Ltd (ASX:NXL), which declined after withdrawing earlier expectations related to annualised contract values, attributing the decision to uncertain global economic conditions and geopolitical factors.

MA Financial Group Ltd (ASX:MAF) recorded gains after announcing the formation of a joint venture with Monroe Capital and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation. The collaboration aims to channel capital into senior secured loans directed at the US middle market segment.

Consumer and Retail Activity Among Diverse Movers

Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX:TPW) rebounded from early weakness, reporting an improvement in sales during the second half to date. The company noted that global trade conditions were having a positive impact on operations. JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX:JBH), a key player in the retail sector, posted higher sales for the third quarter, although broader sector sentiment remained mixed due to ongoing retail headwinds.

Scentre Group (ASX:SCG) reaffirmed its full-year guidance after reporting improved foot traffic and retail partner performance across its Westfield-branded properties. Nine Entertainment Co Holdings Ltd (ASX:NEC) also gained after its leadership expressed confidence regarding a potential acquisition involving a subsidiary platform under its control.

Corporate Developments and Licensing Updates

Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX:MQG) moved higher during the session, despite an announcement from the Australian corporate regulator imposing additional licence conditions. The update was related to previous compliance concerns associated with derivative products and futures.

The National Stock Exchange of Australia Ltd (ASX:NSX) also rose after announcing a capital raise to strengthen its working capital base. Meanwhile, MedAdvisor Ltd (ASX:MDR) was placed in a trading halt following a substantial share price increase after the company received an acquisition approach, with more information expected in an upcoming release.

Market Events and Earnings Ahead

NAB Ltd (ASX:NAB) reported improved financial results for the first half, with commentary citing better underlying metrics and a reduction in credit-related adjustments. The bank's performance stood out in a competitive environment where margins continued to show pressure.

Looking forward, key market participants are watching the US Federal Reserve's next rate decision. Domestically, the Macquarie conference concludes on Thursday, with scheduled earnings updates from ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX:ANZ), News Corporation (ASX:NWS), and Orica Ltd (ASX:ORI) expected to draw further attention.