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Highlights
ASX 200 advances, led by strength in financials, technology, and retail
Tech stocks like NXT, WTC, and XRO post notable gains
Gold stocks retreat, with EVN and NEM facing pressure
The S&P/ASX 200 Index recorded a strong performance across major sectors, with financials, technology, and retail shares driving the benchmark to new highs. The index tracked by the (ASX:XJO) saw broad-based support, while the ASX 200 Total Return Index also reflected positive sentiment following a period of global trade-related volatility.
Financials and retail players fuel gains
The financial sector was among the key contributors, with major banks rallying. Notably, National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX:NAB) led the charge among the big four. Retail heavyweights also played a role in the benchmark's climb, with JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX:JBH) and Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX:WES) registering solid performances on the day.
Technology stocks extend rally
Technology shares continued their recent run of gains. NextDC Ltd (ASX:NXT) saw a significant upward move, followed by strength in WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX:WTC) and Xero Ltd (ASX:XRO). These movements aligned with broader global sentiment and renewed interest in the digital infrastructure and enterprise software spaces.
Gold stocks retreat amid sector-wide pressure
The gold sub-index (ASX:XGD) was the notable laggard, marking a decline driven by pronounced weakness in major constituents. Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX:EVN) and Newmont Corporation (ASX:NEM) both declined, weighing heavily on the broader resources group.
Additional standout performances across the board
Several mid-cap and emerging stocks contributed positively. Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX:PME), Nitro Software Ltd (ASX:NTO), and Bapcor Ltd (ASX:BAP) gained traction. Meanwhile, heavyweights such as Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX:IAG) and Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX:TLC) added to the broader momentum.
Mixed results in diversified industrials and materials
Industrial and materials sectors delivered mixed performances. Cleanaway Waste Management Ltd (ASX:CWY), Sims Ltd (ASX:SGM), and GUD Holdings Ltd (ASX:GUD) posted moderate movements. Mining services and commodity-adjacent businesses like Coronado Global Resources Inc (ASX:CRN) and Arafura Rare Earths Ltd (ASX:ARU) traded in varying ranges depending on underlying commodity sentiment.
Healthcare, data, and infrastructure attract attention
Healthcare and infrastructure-related shares were active. Data centre operator NEXTDC Ltd (ASX:NXT) and logistics software provider Wisetech Global Ltd (ASX:WTC) supported the tech narrative, while Nanosonics Ltd (ASX:NAN) and Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX:NEU) reflected mixed interest within the healthcare bracket.
Small and micro-cap names edge forward
Among the smaller players, Avira Resources Ltd (ASX:AVW), Dateline Resources Ltd (ASX:DTR), and TMG Corporation Ltd (ASX:TMG) attracted trading volumes, with price movements across the spectrum. Emerging technology and niche industrials such as PWR Holdings Ltd (ASX:PWH) and Zimplats Holdings Ltd (ASX:ZIM) also featured in daily turnover.
Sector resilience defies global headwinds
Despite broader uncertainties stemming from international developments, local equities remained resilient. This strength was observed in both blue-chip and diversified names like New World Resources Ltd (ASX:NWL), Droneshield Ltd (ASX:DRO), and Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX:PTM), underscoring the supportive domestic sentiment.
Copper highlights in commodity movements
Copper-related sentiment stayed firm as movements in the base metals market influenced trade flows in commodity-linked equities. Companies such as Australian Strategic Materials Ltd (ASX:ASM) and Aeris Resources Ltd (ASX:AIS) were noted among the day’s movers.
