Gold Miners Anchor ASX as Global Tariff Moves Fuel Uncertainty

Highlights

• ASX 200 opens flat amid international trade pressure

• Mixed FY25 performance from gold miners shapes sector tone

• Mid-tier mining stocks gain traction ahead of FY26

The ASX 200 began the week on a cautious note, opening flat as traders responded to rising global uncertainty. European markets ended lower ahead of the August tariff deadline linked to Donald Trump’s planned reciprocal trade measures. With US markets closed for Independence Day, the spotlight turned to international and fiscal shifts.

One of the key developments was the passing of a significant US fiscal package, bringing sweeping changes to tax and spending. Trade concerns deepened as several nations received formal tariff notices, prompting many to seek revisions or delays. The implications of these global adjustments were felt across sectors, including mining.

Gold Sector Reacts to Quarterly Announcements

Locally, attention focused on gold miners as companies released their FY25 updates. Despite strong Australian-dollar gold prices during the financial year, stock gains in the sector were more subdued. Production results remained steady, with no major surprises or disruptions reported.

Top performers for FY25 included (ASX:SX2), (ASX:RRL), (ASX:EVN), De Grey Mining, and (ASX:GOR), which benefitted from reduced hedge exposure and effective operational performance. attention now shifts to how these companies shape their guidance for FY26, especially as external pressures continue to evolve.

Mid-Cap Miners Maintain Momentum

Among the mid-tier segment, (ASX:WGX) and (ASX:BGL) were noted for maintaining strong positioning due to their scalable operations and disciplined cost management. Their performance stood out as the market begins evaluating prospects for the upcoming fiscal period.

Meanwhile, (VTM) saw renewed focus following adjustments to its hedge strategies, improving outlooks around its margins. However, sentiment toward (ASX:SX2) was more reserved as valuation concerns began to emerge despite a solid FY25 run.

(ASX:RRL) remained a standout among the larger names, showing resilience and maintaining appeal compared to peers such as (ASX:NST) and (ASX:EVN). Several of these miners are also part of the ASX top 300, underlining their importance within the broader Australian market landscape.

As global economic narratives continue to develop and gold prices remain elevated, the performance and strategy of mining companies—particularly in the mid-cap space—are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the ASX’s direction over the coming quarters.