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Highlights

  • Energy sub-index (AXEJ) rises 3-6% after recent decline
  • Oil and gas majors Woodside (ASX: WDS) and Santos (ASX: STO) see gains
  • Benchmark S&P/ASX 200 (ASX: .AXJO) recovers 1.5% amid sector-wide gains

Energy stocks on the Australian stock market saw a notable rebound today, with the sub-index gaining 3-6%, marking the largest intraday gain since November 2024. This uptick follows a challenging period where the index had fallen around 17% over the last three sessions. The sharp decline was driven by a slump in oil prices, fueled by concerns over a potential economic slowdown, exacerbated by tariff tensions related to former US President Donald Trump’s policies. However, crude oil prices showed signs of recovery, rising more than 1% during the day, which helped stabilise energy stocks.

Banks and miners also supported the broader market, with the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 rising 1.5%, reflecting a positive turn for most sectors after recent market sell-offs. Notably, oil and gas giants such as Woodside Energy (ASX: WDS) and Santos (ASX: STO) posted decent gains, up 1.6% and 3.2%, respectively.

Despite the recent recovery, energy stocks still face challenges this year. The AXEJ is down by 8.5% year-to-date, reflecting the broader uncertainty in the energy sector. With global economic concerns weighing on commodity prices, energy stocks remain vulnerable to fluctuations in oil prices, though today's gains offer a brief respite for investors.

In summary, the recent rally in energy stocks reflects a cautious optimism in the market, as underlying crude prices stabilise. However, investors remain vigilant as global economic pressures continue to impact energy market dynamics.