ASX Market Update Summary – 25 March 2026

Welcome to the live ASX coverage for Wednesday, March 25, 2026. Given the high volume of activity, this summary provides key updates and insights, culminating in a complete overview before midday AEST.

Lithium Futures Surge 3.74%

By 12:08 PM, lithium stocks saw considerable gains with Chinese lithium carbonate futures rising by 3.74%, reaching 158,200 yuan per tonne. This upward trend is reflected in the performance of major lithium companies on the ASX.

Silver Prices Rally

At 12:05 AM, the precious metals market witnessed a solid performance, particularly in silver, which increased by 3% to approximately US$74. Notable gains were observed among pure silver miners such as Andean Silver (+14.3%), Unico Silver (+10.4%), and Silver Mines Ltd (+13.3%), although silver still sits 40% below its recent peak.

ASX 200 Index Gains Post-Inflation Report

The ASX 200 recorded a 2% increase by 11:49 AM, buoyed by a lower Consumer Price Index (CPI) reading of 3.7% annual inflation, dropping from 3.8% the previous month. The materials sector excelled, rising over 4%. Money markets are now abuzz with speculation regarding potential interest rate hikes by the RBA in May.

Key Inflation Insights

The CPI report indicated inflation has eased slightly, attributed to lower housing (7.2%) and recreation costs (4.1%). However, the data mainly predates recent geopolitical tensions.

Gold Miners Respond to Price Increase

Gold prices have surpassed US$4,500 per ounce, thanks to reports suggesting potential peace negotiations in the Middle East. This surge has significantly benefitted ASX gold miners with companies like Northern Star, Evolution Mining, and Sandfire Resources all witnessing increases above 6%.

Noteworthy Moves in Lithium and Uranium Markets

ASX-listed lithium stocks, including Liontown (up 6.4%) and PLS Group (up 4.3%), benefited from rising Chinese futures, with lithium carbonate prices more than doubling from last year’s lows. In the uranium sector, Uranium stocks generally increased, correlating with the growing demand for nuclear energy amid global energy transition efforts.

Top Gainers and Losers on ASX 200

Gainers

• 4DMedical (4DX): +20.73% to $5.59
• Genesis Minerals (GMD): +7.69% to $6.16

Losers

• Maas Group (MGH): -8.38% to $4.59
• Mercury NZ (MCY): -7.58% to $5.24

Recent News Highlights

• Rio Tinto secured a $2 billion investment with the federal and Queensland governments to sustain operations at the Boyne aluminium smelter until 2040.

• Pepper Money declined a $2.25 per share takeover from Challenger, reinforcing strong business momentum with significant growth in loan applications and originations.

• Syrah Resources (SYR) requested a trading halt to pursue potential funding sources, indicating strategic shifts including an equity raising.

• The medical technology firm 4DMedical is rolling out its CT:VQ imaging system at Mayo Clinic, marking a major advancement for its technology.

Conclusion

As trading progresses, expect volatility driven by various factors, including geopolitical concerns, inflation rates, and commodity price fluctuations. The early indicators suggest a strong start for the ASX, yet with caution advised given global uncertainties.

Stay tuned for further updates and ensure you check back tomorrow for the latest developments in the ASX market. Thank you for joining us today!