21 April 2026
The ASX 200 index edged lower as energy stocks retreated, while real estate and technology sectors attracted buyers, amid geopolitical tensions and hopes of a ceasefire extension. The index is on track for a ninth consecutive session within a 100-point range.
The ASX 200 index traded 0.15% lower at 8939 as of 3.00pm AEST, with energy stocks declining and real estate and technology sectors gaining. The index has been contained within a 100-point range for nine consecutive sessions. US-Iran tensions weighed on sentiment, but hopes of a ceasefire extension limited declines. The current two-week ceasefire expires on April 23. The energy sector, which surged 34.86% in Q1, fell 8.20% in April, while the real estate sector rose 10.50% and the IT sector gained 15.7% month-to-date. Stocks like DroneShield, Block, and ZIP drove the IT sector's gains.
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