5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday

Here's what to expect on the ASX 200 on Friday…

Smiling man with phone in wheelchair watching stocks and trends on computer

Image Source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

On Thursday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was on form and charged higher. The benchmark index rose 0.5% to 7,435.3 points.

Will the market be able to build on this on Friday and end the week on a high? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 poised to rise

The Australian share market looks set to rise slightly on Friday despite another poor night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open 8 points or 0.1% higher this morning. In late trade in the United States, the Dow Jones is down 0.3%, the S&P 500 is down 0.2%, and the NASDAQ index is down 0.3%.

Oil prices higher

Energy producers Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) could have a good finish to the week after oil prices pushed higher overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 1.1% to US$80.37 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 1.5% to US$86.24 a barrel. Demand hopes boosted prices.

Pilbara Minerals quarterly

The Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS) share price will be on watch on Friday after the lithium giant released its quarterly update. For the three months, Pilbara Minerals reported a 10% quarter on quarter increase in production to 152,151 dry metric tonnes (dmt) and an 8% lift in shipments to 148,627 dmt. The company also recorded a sizeable 33% increase in the price of its lithium.

Gold price storms higher

Gold miners Newcrest Mining Ltd (ASX: NCM) and St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM) could have a strong finish to the week after the gold price charged higher overnight. According to CNBC, the spot gold price is up 1.3% to US$1,931.8 an ounce. Gold was boosted by demand for safe havens.

BHP rated neutral

The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price remains fully valued according to analysts at Goldman Sachs. This morning, the broker has retained its neutral rating with a slightly trimmed price target of $48.00. Although BHP delivered a "a relatively robust Dec Q operating result with better-than-expected iron ore, copper and met coal production and realised prices," it isn't enough for a change of rating. Goldman notes that its price target for BHP "already applies a sector high 6.5x target multiple."

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Share Market News

A piggy bank on the cloud in the blue sky symbolising a record high share price.
52-Week Highs

12 ASX 200 shares that smashed historical peak prices today

Twelve ASX 200 shares rose to new multi-year peaks in an otherwise quiet day of trading.

Read more »

A woman's hand draws a stylised 'Top Ten' on a projected surface.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

Investors saw another day of mild gains for the stock market this Thursday.

Read more »

Two boats on the water with crates with the words trade war in the middle.
Share Market News

Trump's tariffs blocked by trade court: Which ASX 200 stocks could benefit the most?

These 3 ASX 200 stocks have heavy tariffs exposure.

Read more »

A man in his 30s holds his laptop and operates it with his other hand as he has a look of pleasant surprise on his face as though he is learning something new or finding hidden value in something on the screen.
Broker Notes

How this undervalued ASX All Ords share could rocket 80% in a year

A leading fund manager expects a big turnaround for this beaten-down ASX All Ords stock.

Read more »

Man looking happy and excited as he looks at his mobile phone.
Share Gainers

Why Champion Iron, Clarity Pharmaceuticals, St Barbara, and Woodside shares are charging higher today

These shares are having a good session today. But why are investors buying them?

Read more »

Frustrated stock trader screaming while looking at mobile phone, symbolising a falling share price.
Share Fallers

Why ALS, Black Cat, Boss Energy, and Soul Patts shares are falling today

These shares are falling on Thursday. Let's find out why.

Read more »

A car dealer stands amid a selection of cars parked in a showroom.
Broker Notes

Up 77% in a year, guess how much more upside Macquarie tips for Eagers Automotive shares

Macquarie released its latest analysis on Eagers Automotive fast rising shares this morning.

Read more »

Boy looks quizzical standing in front of a graph.
Share Market News

Big ASX 200 news! Stock market whipsaws as Trump's tariffs struck down

Markets initially surged on news that Trump's tariffs are out.

Read more »