5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday

Here's what to expect on the local market today.

A man looking at his laptop and thinking.

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 Tuesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was out of form and edged into the red. The benchmark index fell 0.15% to 7,851.7 points.

Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Wednesday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to rise

It looks set to be a better day for the Australian share market on Wednesday following a good session in the United States. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 19 points or 0.25% higher. On Wall Street, the Dow Jones rose 0.15%, the S&P 500 pushed 0.25% higher, and the Nasdaq climbed 0.2%.

Oil prices fall

It could be a subdued session for ASX 200 energy shares including Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) after oil prices dropped overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 0.9% to US$79.06 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 1% to US$82.88 a barrel. This appears to have been driven by lower geopolitical risks.

Telstra remains a buy

The Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) share price hit a multi-year low on Tuesday after the telco giant released an update. The team at Goldman Sachs has been looking over the update and sees both positives and negatives. Ultimately, though, the broker has retained its buy rating with a reduced price target of $4.25. It said: "Overall we revise TLS FY24-26 EBITDA -1% and EPS by -1% to -3%, reflecting the revised mobile outlook and broader restructure. Our 12m TP is -7% to A$4.25, given earnings and reduction in mobile EBITDA multiple to 6.0X (was 6.5X) on increased mobile uncertainty."

Gold price eases

ASX 200 gold shares Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a soft session after the gold price eased overnight. According to CNBC, the spot gold price is down 0.4% to US$2,428.7 an ounce. A stronger US dollar weighed on the precious metal.

Webjet update

Webjet Ltd (ASX: WEB) shares will be in focus today when the travel agent releases its FY 2024 results. According to a note out of Goldman Sachs, its analysts are forecasting group total transaction value (TTV) of $5,635 million, revenue of $469 million, and underlying EBITDA of $190 million. The latter will be an increase of 40.7% year on year. The key driver of its growth is expected to be the WebBeds business. Goldman is forecasting segment TTV and EBITDA growth of 40% for FY 2024.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Woodside Energy Group. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Telstra Group. 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

Hand holding Australian dollar (AUD) bills, symbolising ex dividend day. Passive income.
Broker Notes

Invest $1,000 into Pilbara Minerals and these ASX 200 stocks

Analysts have named these shares as top picks for a $1,000 investment. Let's see why.

Read more »

Happy young couple saving money in piggy bank.
Opinions

Want to start investing in ASX shares? Here's what I'd buy

This is where I’d begin to put my money in the stock market.

Read more »

A female ASX investor looks through a magnifying glass that enlarges her eye and holds her hand to her face with her mouth open as if looking at something of great interest or surprise.
Broker Notes

3 of the best ASX 200 shares to buy in 2025

Let's see why analysts at Bell Potter are bullish on these shares next year.

Read more »

People of different ethnicities in a room taking a big selfie, symbolising diversification.
Opinions

Want diversification? Get it instantly with these ASX 200 shares

Some businesses offer a lot more diversification than others.

Read more »

A happy man and woman on a computer at Christmas, indicating a positive trend for retail shares.
Opinions

2 ASX 200 shares I'd want to receive as a present today

Merry Christmas! Are there any stocks under your tree?

Read more »

a young woman raises her hands in joyful celebration as she sits at her computer in a home environment.
Share Gainers

Why Avita Medical, GenusPlus, Mesoblast, and Polynovo shares are storming higher

These shares are having a better day than most today. But why?

Read more »

Three guys in shirts and ties give the thumbs down.
Share Fallers

Why Charter Hall Retail, DroneShield, FBR, and St Barbara shares are tumbling today

These shares are having a tough time on Tuesday. But why?

Read more »

Contented looking man leans back in his chair at his desk and smiles.
Broker Notes

Leading brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

Here's why brokers believe that now could be the time to snap up these stocks.

Read more »