FEAR & GREED | Business News Afternoon Report | Energy slumps
Dec 18, 2025
The ASX 200 closed flat, influenced by a slump in the energy sector due to low oil prices and geopolitical tensions. In tech news, Oracle's stock took a hit over concerns from a report on Blue Owl. Austal celebrated a share rise after landing a $1 billion defense contract. Meanwhile, the PM unveiled a five-point strategy to combat anti-Semitism. ANZ faced backlash over executive pay, experiencing a second strike from shareholders. Lastly, Warner Bros urged investors to back Netflix over a competing bid from Paramount.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Energy Sector Reacts To Geopolitics And Leadership
- Energy stocks fell as oil hit five-year lows but then spiked 2% on renewed geopolitical tensions. This volatility shows energy sector moves quickly on conflict news and executive changes like Woodside's CEO exit amplify selloffs.
Shipbuilder Score Big With Army Contract
- Austell jumped over 5% after signing a $1 billion contract to build 18 landing craft for the Australian Army. The deal illustrates how defence contracts can deliver sharp, immediate share-price gains for local builders.
Government Combines Education And Enforcement
- The PM announced a five-point plan to fight anti-Semitism including education and cracking down on hate preachers after the Bondi attack. High-level political responses combine policy, education and enforcement when terrorism prompts social backlash.