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The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX:XJO) kicked off the trading week with a strong performance, with most ASX 200 shares enjoying gains on Monday. As of the latest update, the ASX 200 has climbed 0.64%, bringing it back to approximately 8,075 points. Among the standout performers are ASX energy stocks, which have been a focal point of investor attention.
Several major energy shares have outperformed the broader market, driven by favorable conditions in the oil market. Let’s delve into the top movers in the ASX energy sector and explore the factors fueling their gains.
Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX:WDS) - Leading the Charge
Woodside Energy Group Ltd, the largest energy stock on the ASX 200, has been a top performer today. Woodside shares are currently experiencing a 1.74% surge, pushing the stock to AU$26.29 per share. This strong upward momentum has outpaced the broader market, signaling robust investor confidence in the company.
Woodside’s gains are likely tied to recent developments in the oil market, which have seen a spike in prices. The company’s significant exposure to oil production means that higher oil prices directly translate to improved profit margins and increased valuations. Investors appear to be reacting positively to these favorable conditions, driving Woodside’s stock higher.
Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX:KAR) - Another Market Beater
Karoon Energy Ltd is another ASX 200 energy stock that has outperformed the broader market today. At present, Karoon shares have jumped 1.6%, reaching AU$1.72 per share. This impressive gain places Karoon among the top performers in the energy sector.
Similar to Woodside, Karoon’s strong performance can be attributed to the recent rise in oil prices. As an oil exploration and production company, Karoon stands to benefit significantly from higher oil prices, which can boost its revenue and profitability. The market’s enthusiasm for oil-related stocks appears to be driving Karoon’s share price upward.
Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX:VEA) and Beach Energy Ltd (ASX:BPT) - Modest Gains
While not matching the stellar gains of Woodside and Karoon, other energy stocks like Viva Energy Group Ltd and Beach Energy Ltd have also enjoyed positive momentum today. Viva Energy shares have risen by 0.66%, reaching AU$3.07 per share, while Beach Energy shares have gained 0.55%, bringing the stock to AU$1.29 per share.
These gains, though more modest, still reflect the overall positive sentiment in the energy sector. The spike in oil prices has provided a tailwind for these companies, even if their gains haven’t been as pronounced as those of their peers.
Santos Ltd (ASX:STO) and Other Energy Stocks - Divergent Performance
However, not all ASX energy stocks have shared in today’s optimism. Notably, Santos Ltd, Strike Energy Ltd, and Ampol Ltd have slipped in today’s trading. Santos, in particular, has traded ex-dividend, which could explain its decline. Additionally, coal-focused companies like Whitehaven Coal Ltd have also seen their shares dip, highlighting that the positive sentiment has not extended across the entire energy sector.