• Forget bonds, metals are now the ‘essential hedges’: experts

    A magnifying glass on wooden blocks spelling out bonds.

    Global asset manager, Sprott, which specialises in precious metals and critical materials investments, says the debasement trade is one of the strongest global market themes in play today, and a key reason why metal prices are likely to continue rising.

    In an article, Paul Wong and Jacob White from Sprott Asset Management say:

    A year ago, the debasement trade was outside of the mainstream, but it has evolved into a structural allocation theme.

    Let’s decode this financial lingo.

    What is debasement?

    Debasement refers to currency debasement, or a weakening in the purchasing power of a currency.

    Purchasing power is being eroded in many developed nations right now because central banks are expanding the money supply.

    They’re doing this by purchasing government bonds and keeping interest rates low, in order to support governments running large fiscal deficits, which are prevalent globally today.

    Wong and White point out that US public debt surpassed $38 trillion in 2025, double the level of a decade ago, and few major economies have run a fiscal surplus since the early 2000s.

    Here’s how all of this works in simplified terms.

    Fiscal deficits and bonds

    Governments running deficits — which means they are spending more than they are collecting in tax — issue new bonds to raise money to support their big spending programs.

    The higher volume of bonds in the marketplace helps lower their yields, which ultimately lowers the cost to governments.

    Central banks buy the bonds as a supportive measure. They don’t care about receiving a low yield because their primary purpose is to keep the financial system stable.

    But investors certainly care, and, of course, they are less inclined to buy bonds when yields are low.

    Meanwhile, the additional money circulating in the economy degrades the purchasing power of money, which weakens the currency, and can push up inflation.

    Wong and White comment:

    The pandemic-era policy mix of greater debt, deficits and stimulus has entrenched fiscal dominance as a structural regime.

    In theory, central banks should act independently to maintain price stability. In practice, ballooning deficits and soaring interest expenses have tied policymakers’ hands.

    Every rate hike amplifies the government’s debt-servicing burden, creating a feedback loop that incentivizes lower rates and liquidity injections, even when inflation remains above target.

    By late 2025, this regime was evident across developed markets. 

    Large fiscal deficits and low bond and savings yields make gold and other hard assets more appealing as alternative stores of value and a hedge against inflation.

    White and Wong say:

    … the debasement trade is likely to accelerate, reinforcing the strategic case for hard assets in institutional portfolios.

    This bodes well for metal prices.

    Central banks buying gold

    Central banks are key facilitators of the debasement trade today.

    Experts say a structural shift is underway, as central banks around the world diversify their reserves away from the US dollar, whose purchasing power is under pressure, into gold.

    As central banks have increased their gold holdings, they’ve pushed the gold price higher.

    The gold price rose 27% in 2024, 65% in 2025, and is up 12.5% in the year-to-date, despite the recent rout.

    This has encouraged both institutional and retail investors to follow suit, rotating out of cash and bonds and into hard assets such as gold, silver, and other select commodities.

    They’re also buying mining shares, which is why ASX materials was the top performing sector last year, returning a staggering 36%.

    60/40 portfolio losing relevance

    In these circumstances, Sprott says traditional portfolio construction is undergoing a profound shift as traditional models lose relevance.

    Traditional portfolios have a 60/40 construction, with 60% in growth assets like shares, and 40% in cash and other fixed-income assets.

    This is the classic, default ‘balanced’ superannuation portfolio mix.

    But Sprott says 60/40 is losing relevance given the eroded purchasing power of many currencies around the world.

    Wong and White comment:

    The 60/40 framework has broken down, with bonds no longer providing reliable hedging power as inflation becomes the secular driving force.

    Volatility and the growing awareness of the debasement trade have prompted investors to allocate toward commodities.

    Hard assets now serve as essential hedges against fiscal and monetary credibility shocks, geopolitical fragmentation and supply disruptions.

    These are portfolio risks that equities and bonds cannot fully mitigate in a rapidly deglobalizing world.

    The post Forget bonds, metals are now the ‘essential hedges’: experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Wondering where you should invest $1,000 right now?

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for over ten years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    Scott just revealed what he believes could be the ‘five best ASX stocks’ for investors to buy right now. We believe these stocks are trading at attractive prices and Scott thinks they could be great buys right now…

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 3 top ASX energy stocks dividend investors should watch

    a small child holds his chin with his head on the side in a serious thinking pose against a background of graphic question marks and a yellow lightbulb.

    For passive income investors, ASX energy stocks are shaping up as an increasingly attractive hunting ground.

    With power prices elevated, infrastructure cash flows holding firm and balance sheets improving, Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG), AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL) and APA Group (ASX: APA) are well placed to keep rewarding shareholders.

    For dividend investors willing to look beyond the banks, these top ASX energy stocks could be a compelling place to generate passive income.

    Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG)

    Origin Energy has re-established itself as a solid income option after a few volatile years. The ASX energy stock pays semi-annual dividends. At current price levels it offers a yield of around 5.1%, with a history of fully franked payouts when earnings allow.

    Origin’s strength lies in its diversified earnings base across energy retailing, generation and LNG exposure. This mix can support dividends through the cycle. At the same time, management is investing heavily in renewables, storage and international growth opportunities, which could underpin future cash flow.

    The key weakness is earnings volatility. Profit can swing with wholesale energy prices and regulatory settings, meaning the dividend payout may fluctuate from year to year.

    AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL)

    This ASX energy stock is another familiar name for income seekers, but it comes with higher risk. The company traditionally targets a payout of 50% to 75% of underlying profit. It currently offers a yield broadly in line with Origin.

    AGL’s scale as Australia’s largest electricity generator gives it a strong market position. It also enables it to generate substantial cash flow in favourable conditions. However, margins have come under pressure. The ASX energy company also faces heavy capital requirements as it accelerates the closure of coal plants and builds out renewable capacity.

    That transition creates uncertainty around earnings and dividend sustainability in the near term, making AGL a higher-yield, higher-risk option.

    APA Group (ASX: APA)

    APA Group stands out as the pure income play of the trio. With a yield often north of 6%, APA has built a long-standing reputation as a dependable distributor, supported by regulated and contracted gas pipeline assets.

    Its dividend distributions are paid twice yearly and have grown steadily over many years, appealing to investors seeking predictable income. The defensive nature of its infrastructure assets is a major strength.

    However, the group carries meaningful debt and runs with high payout ratios. Regulatory changes and funding costs are the main risks to watch.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Taken together, these three ASX energy stocks highlight the trade-offs income investors face. APA offers consistency and yield, Origin balances income with growth potential, and AGL provides upside but with greater uncertainty.

    The post 3 top ASX energy stocks dividend investors should watch appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Origin Energy Limited right now?

    Before you buy Origin Energy Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Origin Energy Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Apa Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • How Aldi is planning to disrupt Woolworths and Coles

    Close-up Of Empty Shopping Cart Near Person's Hand Using Calculator Over White Desk

    The supermarket wars are heating up as Aldi has put into action changes with its strategy to combat recent price reductions implemented by Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) and Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW).

    While Aldi has grown its national store count to more than 600 as of last year, the business only has 10.7% market share, according to reporting by the Australian Financial Review.

    The German supermarket business recently started a delivery partnership with Doordash, opening up a new growth avenue for Aldi Australia, with this being its first online offering for shoppers to do their grocery shopping.

    But, the business has more plans to tackle the major players of Coles and Woolworths.

    Price cuts and range reductions

    According to reporting by the Australian Financial Review, Aldi is reducing the number of branded goods that it sells in stores as well as cutting the price on hundreds of products as it looks to increase competition in the sector.

    Woolworths and Coles have been cutting shelf prices following the boom in inflation sending up food prices.

    Aldi is cutting the price on 300 products. The AFR quoted Aldi Australia boss Anna McGrath, who said:

    We just reduced [prices of] another 300 products. We want to continue to drive those savings.

    Over 90 per cent of our everyday range is our Aldi exclusive brands. That has not changed. We are the pioneers of low-cost grocery. We definitely want to focus on being an exclusive brand retailer.

    The best value is when we offer the lowest prices. It is what we are good at…we can do that most successfully at our exclusive brands.

    McGrath claimed that Aldi prices are 16.8% cheaper than similar items at Coles and Woolworths. Aldi is reportedly able to achieve higher profit margins on its own-brand items compared to items from other brands.

    What positives can Coles and Woolworths take?

    One of the advantages that the major Australian supermarkets can provide shoppers is the convenience of a larger store network and a much broader range of products. There are reportedly only 1,800 items at Aldi compared to approximately 25,000 at a typical Coles or Woolworths supermarket.

    The AFR reported that one analyst – Craig Woolford from MST Marquee – said that Aldi could lose some shoppers it has gained from Woolworths and Coles in recent times if these plans lead to noticeably lower choice for consumers.

    He said:

    Aldi has a great reputation but if shoppers cannot get a handful of key brands they love, then they might not shop at Aldi.

    Plus, e-commerce growth continues strongly at Coles and Woolworths, which is a key advantage for them because of the additional items consumers have access to. In the first quarter of FY26, Coles supermarkets grew e-commerce sales by 27.9% to $1.3 billion and Woolworths Australian supermarket e-commerce sales grew by 12.9% to $2.2 billion.

    While Aldi is looking to turn up the heat, there may be enough room for all three to deliver growth.

    The post How Aldi is planning to disrupt Woolworths and Coles appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Woolworths Group Limited right now?

    Before you buy Woolworths Group Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Woolworths Group Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

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    Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Woolworths Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 2 ASX shares that could turn $100,000 into $1 million

    Stock market chart in green with a rising arrow symbolising a rising share price.

    Turning $100,000 into $1 million at the drop of a hat is every investor’s dream. But it’s not as easy, quick or risk-free as you’d think. 

    This type of growth usually requires years of patience, strong earnings growth, and a bit of luck. But here are two ASX shares with the scale and growth potential to make it happen.

    WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

    WiseTech provides logistics software to help improve global supply chains. The business already dominates the market, and it comes from a runway of a decade of mostly-consistent growth. 

    Its share price climbed pretty consistently over this period too. Or at least, they did, until 2025. 

    The ASX logistics software provider hit a couple of huge headwinds last year which sent the share price crashing.

    It posted some disappointing financial results, suffered a boardroom fallout, and not to mention the AFP and ASIC raid on its Sydney office. Several consecutive events over a short period of time slashed investor confidence and they quickly offloaded their stock.

    But it’s worth noting that despite the confidence crash, as a business, WiseTech is incredibly strong.The company is continually expanding operations and it has a proven track record of growth through various economic cycles and challenges.

    WiseTech is well-positioned to benefit from long-term trends, including cloud computing, automation, and overall AI adoption. 

    If it continues expanding at the same rate, its earnings could quickly compound and could see supersized returns.

    The best part is, at just $50 a piece at the time of writing, the shares are super cheap right now. Some analysts think this could rocket up to $169.14 within the next 12 months. That’s a huge potential 238.52% upside for investors.

    Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

    Cloud cloud-based, accounting software company Xero has a subscription-based model which offers monthly plans at various price points. It means that its business model is “sticky” with a high retention rate. As a result, Xero is able to benefit from recurring revenue, global exposure and profitability. 

    The ASX business is actively expanding the products it has on offer. In 2025 it rolled out new features like online bill payments and customisable pages to make its software more appealing to more small and medium-sized businesses.

    It’s actively expanding its global presence too. Xero acquired Melio as part of its strategy to grow its US business. It expects that by integrating a US payments platform with its current accounting software, it will be able open up new revenue streams for the business and accelerate its presence in the US small-business market.

    The ASX business is still early in its global expansion too. If it is able to crack the US market and become more dominant, while maintaining its position and revenue in other markets, its earnings could surge too.

    Like WiseTech, Xero shares are a steal right now. They’re currently trading at $82.11 a piece and I’m quietly confident that the ASX shares could double in value in 2026, or go even higher.

    The post 2 ASX shares that could turn $100,000 into $1 million appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in WiseTech Global right now?

    Before you buy WiseTech Global shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and WiseTech Global wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Samantha Menzies has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global and Xero. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Forget term deposits and buy these ASX dividend shares

    Animation of a man measuring a percentage sign, symbolising rising interest rates.

    The Reserve Bank of Australia may have lifted the cash rate to 3.85% this week, but that doesn’t automatically mean term deposits are the best place for income seekers.

    Even with higher rates flowing through, many term deposits still struggle to compete with the dividend yields available on the share market. And unlike cash in the bank, dividend shares also offer the potential for capital growth over time.

    With that in mind, here are three ASX dividend shares that analysts think could be worth considering instead of locking money away in a term deposit.

    Cedar Woods Properties Ltd (ASX: CWP)

    The first ASX dividend share to look at is Cedar Woods Properties.

    It is one of Australia’s leading residential property developers, with a portfolio diversified across geographies, price points, and product types. This diversification helps smooth earnings across the property cycle.

    Bell Potter is positive on the company’s outlook, highlighting that Cedar Woods is well positioned to benefit from Australia’s chronic housing shortage. With demand for new housing continuing to outstrip supply, the broker believes this should support earnings and dividends in the coming years.

    Bell Potter is forecasting dividends of 35 cents per share in FY 2026 and 39 cents per share in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $7.58, this implies dividend yields of 4.6% and 5.1%, respectively.

    The broker has a buy rating and $10.00 price target on its shares.

    Dexus Convenience Retail REIT (ASX: DXC)

    Another ASX dividend share that stands out for analysts is Dexus Convenience Retail.

    This REIT owns a nationwide portfolio of service stations and convenience retail sites that are leased to high-quality tenants under long-term, inflation-linked agreements. These leases provide predictable cash flows, which is exactly what income-focused investors typically look for.

    The underlying assets are generally considered resilient. Demand for fuel, convenience goods, and essential services tends to hold up through economic cycles, while annual rental increases help protect income over time.

    Bell Potter is bullish on the REIT, with a buy rating and a $3.45 price target on its shares. It expects dividends of 20.9 cents per share in FY 2026 and 21.6 cents per share in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $2.68, that equates to dividend yields of 7.8% and 8%, respectively.

    Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL)

    A final ASX dividend share to consider according to analysts is Sonic Healthcare.

    It is a global medical diagnostics company, operating laboratories and collection centres across Australia, Europe, and the United States. Its services are tied to healthcare demand rather than economic cycles, which can provide a degree of earnings resilience.

    Bell Potter believes Sonic Healthcare is approaching a return to more consistent growth and thinks investors should be taking a closer look at its shares. The broker has a buy rating and a $33.30 price target on them.

    In terms of income, Bell Potter is forecasting partially franked dividends of 109 cents per share in FY 2026 and 111 cents per share in FY 2027. Based on the current share price of $22.57, this implies dividend yields of 4.8% and 4.9%, respectively.

    The post Forget term deposits and buy these ASX dividend shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Cedar Woods Properties Limited right now?

    Before you buy Cedar Woods Properties Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Cedar Woods Properties Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Sonic Healthcare. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday

    Shot of a young businesswoman looking stressed out while working in an office.

    On Thursday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was out of form and tumbled into the red. The benchmark index fell 0.4% to 8,889.2 points.

    Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Friday and end the week on a high? Here are five things to watch:

    ASX 200 expected to fall again

    The Australian share market looks set to fall on Friday following a poor night in the United States. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open 71 points or 0.8% lower this morning. In late trade on Wall Street, the Dow Jones is down 1%, the S&P 500 is down 1.05%, and the Nasdaq is down 1.4%.

    Oil prices sink

    It could be a poor finish to the week for ASX 200 energy shares including Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) after oil prices sank overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 3.1% to US$63.11 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 3% to US$67.37 a barrel. This was driven by news that Iran and the US have agreed to talks, easing conflict concerns.

    Rio Tinto-Glencore merger talks end

    Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares will be on watch on Friday after the mining giant abandoned merger talks with Glencore (LSE: GLEN). It stated: “Rio Tinto is no longer considering a possible merger or other business combination with Glencore plc, as Rio Tinto has determined that it could not reach an agreement that would deliver value to its shareholders.”

    Gold price tumbles

    ASX 200 gold shares Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) and Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) could have a tough finish to the week after the gold price tumbled overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is down 1.9% to US$4,856 an ounce. Gold and silver continued to fall after a short-lived rebound.

    Hold Beach Energy shares

    Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) shares are fully valued according to analysts at Bell Potter. This morning, in response to the energy producer’s half year results, the broker has retained its hold rating with a slightly improved price target of $1.15. It said: “BPT is in a production replacement cycle with respect to exploration and appraisal. Production growth should return in FY27 and capex ease, enabling positive free cash flow to support balance sheet deleveraging and ongoing dividends. We are positive on BPT’s exposure to Australian east coast gas markets (around half of sales volumes) and cautious with respect to global oil markets.”

    The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Beach Energy Limited right now?

    Before you buy Beach Energy Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Beach Energy Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Woodside Energy Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • From viral hit to margin threat: Is inventory a growing risk for Adore Beauty?

    Graceful hands of professional make-up master, with the blue manicure on the nails, is painting in the red colour lips of splendid young woman.

    In FY25, beauty retailer Adore Beauty Group Ltd (ASX: ABY) displayed a controlled approach to inventory management, but in an industry so influenced by fast-moving TikTok trends, can it stay ahead of the game – and is it a buy right now?

    Fast-moving cycles pose a challenge in the sector

    Social media, particularly TikTok, has proved a phenomenon for beauty retailers, moving consumers from discovery to purchase in record time. And while this can be a tailwind, it can also lead to short-term aggressive cycles that put pressure on retailers.

    They must respond lightning fast to meet demand, making quick inventory decisions that can make or break. Understocking can lead to lost revenue and impact the retailer’s position in a customer’s consideration set. Overstocking can be a pathway to carrying costs, markdowns, and wastage.

    Short-cycle social media trends can be hard to predict. They may be based around a specific beauty ingredient, a whole category, or focused on one individual brand, making stock decisions even more complex.

    How has Adore Beauty responded so far?

    A few years ago, Adore Beauty made investments in AI-driven supply chain management technology to better manage these cycles. That foresight may well have paid off, with the company reporting strong results in FY25, including:

    • Record gross margin of 35.3%
    • EBITDA of $8.1 million, up 67.8% on the prior corresponding period (PCP)
    • Revenue of $198.8 million, up 1.6% on PCP
    • New customer growth up 4.9%
    • A cash balance of $12.7 million with no debt

    In FY25, it also made a move into brick-and-mortar retail. This saw the opening of seven new retail stores, with a reported goal of opening more than 25 stores across its Adore Beauty and IKOU brands.

    While many sectors are moving away from physical retail and its heavy cost base, in many ways, it makes sense for Adore Beauty. This play allows it to compete with prominent local beauty retailer Mecca and international powerhouse Sephora by offering similar interactive in-person experiences.

    In the last year, Adore Beauty demonstrated that it could perform under these challenging conditions. But as TikTok continues to compress and intensify demand cycles, it will need to remain vigilant and maintain its firm commitment to robust inventory management.

    Is Adore Beauty a buy?

    Adore Beauty has been on a wild ride since it listed on the ASX in 2020 with an IPO price of $6.75. Over the last five years, its share price has fallen by over 80%.

    That said, it has made positive progress recently, and if it executes on its ambitious retail strategy, it could see impressive gains over the next few years. With the company set to release H1 FY26 results on 24 February, it will be interesting to see if its upward trajectory has continued thus far.

    It’s definitely one to watch in 2026. For investors with a higher risk tolerance, it may be worth considering now, as I believe it is undervalued at current prices.

    The post From viral hit to margin threat: Is inventory a growing risk for Adore Beauty? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Adore Beauty Group Limited right now?

    Before you buy Adore Beauty Group Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Adore Beauty Group Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Melissa Maddison has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Adore Beauty Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Adore Beauty Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 3 exciting ASX ETFs with strong long-term growth potential

    Disabled skateboarder woman using mobile phone at the park.

    Long-term growth investing does not have to mean betting everything on a single stock.

    Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) can provide exposure to powerful structural trends that are likely to play out over many years, while spreading risk across dozens or hundreds of businesses.

    For investors looking beyond the next quarter and focusing on where the world may be heading, these three ASX ETFs stand out for their long-term growth potential.

    Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

    The first ASX ETF with exciting long-term potential is the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF.

    Cybersecurity is now a structural growth market. As businesses, governments, and consumers move more of their lives online, protecting data and systems has become critical infrastructure rather than discretionary spending.

    This ETF provides investors with exposure to global leaders in this space, including companies such as CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD), Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), and Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT). These businesses sit behind the scenes, securing cloud platforms, corporate networks, and digital identities.

    As threats become more sophisticated, demand for advanced security solutions is likely to remain a long-term growth driver. This ETF’s holdings stand to benefit greatly from this.

    Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ)

    Another ASX ETF with strong growth credentials is the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF.

    This fund focuses on stocks involved in robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence. These are areas that are reshaping how work is done across industries.

    Its holdings include businesses such as NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA), Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG), and Keyence. These provide the tools and hardware that enable automation and efficiency gains. This includes chips, sensors, and robotics systems that are increasingly being adopted in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.

    This fund was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

    Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

    A final ASX ETF to consider for long-term growth is the Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF.

    This popular fund provides investors with exposure to leading technology stocks across Asia, which is a region that continues to experience rising digital adoption and expanding middle classes. Holdings include stocks such as Tencent Holdings (SEHK: 700), Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA), and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE: TSM).

    While US technology companies may dominate headlines, many Asian tech leaders play critical roles in global supply chains, digital payments, and online services.

    For investors willing to ride out short-term fluctuations, this fund offers exposure to a region with significant long-term potential. It was also recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

    The post 3 exciting ASX ETFs with strong long-term growth potential appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Betashares Capital Ltd – Asia Technology Tigers Etf right now?

    Before you buy Betashares Capital Ltd – Asia Technology Tigers Etf shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Betashares Capital Ltd – Asia Technology Tigers Etf wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers Etf. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF, CrowdStrike, Fortinet, Intuitive Surgical, Nvidia, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, and Tencent. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Alibaba Group and Palo Alto Networks and has recommended the following options: long January 2028 $520 calls on Intuitive Surgical and short January 2028 $530 calls on Intuitive Surgical. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CrowdStrike and Nvidia. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

    A neon sign says 'Top Ten'.

    It was a dreary Thursday session for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and many ASX shares today. After some strong gains over the last couple of days, investors pulled back this session.

    By the time trading wrapped up, the ASX 200 had slipped by a pessimistic 0.43%, leaving the index at 8,889.2 points.

    This rather bleak Thursday session for the local markets comes after a mixed morning up on Wall Street.

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) managed to record a solid rise, gaining 0.53%.

    However, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) wasn’t out of the bad books, copping another 1.51% drop.

    But let’s get back to the Australian markets now, and see where the damage from today’s selling was felt the most amongst the various ASX sectors today.

    Winners and losers

    Despite the market’s falls this Thursday, we still saw far more sectors advance than retreat. But more on those in a moment.

    Bearing the brunt of today’s bad market mood were gold shares. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) gave up the big gains we saw yesterday to plunge 4.62% this session.

    Broader mining stocks weren’t much better, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) diving 3.32%.

    Energy shares reversed some of yesterday’s gains, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) sank 1.24% by the end of today’s trading.

    Our final losers this Thursday were tech stocks, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ)’s 0.13% slide.

    Turning to the winners now, it was consumer discretionary shares that were the most popular. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) shot 1.36% higher by market close.

    Its consumer staples counterpart saw some significant demand too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) galloping up 0.96%.

    Financial shares enjoyed another positive session as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) surged up 0.8% this session.

    Communications stocks were a little tamer, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)’s 0.34% rise.

    Industrial shares fared similarly. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) bounced 0.22% higher today.

    Real estate investment trusts (REITs) put on an identical performance, with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) also gaining 0.22%.

    Healthcare stocks came next. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) increased its value by 0.21% this Thursday.

    Finally, we have another tie with utilities shares, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)’s 0.21% bump.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    Wine maker Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) was our index topper this Thursday. Treasury shares surged 6.98% this session to close at $5.52 a share.

    There wasn’t any news or announcements out from Treasury today that could easily justify this move, though.

    Here’s how the other top stocks tied up at the dock today:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) $5.52 6.98%
    Amcor plc (ASX: AMC) $69.65 6.65%
    GQG Partners Inc (ASX: GQG) $1.72 6.19%
    Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) $24.00 5.96%
    Premier Investments Ltd (ASX: PMV) $13.95 5.92%
    Orora Ltd (ASX: ORA) $2.10 5.26%
    ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD) $37.46 4.90%
    Catapult Ltd (ASX: CAT) $3.44 4.88%
    Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) $32.09 4.19%
    Superloop Ltd (ASX: SLC) $2.34 3.54%

    Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

    The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Wondering where you should invest $1,000 right now?

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for over ten years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    Scott just revealed what he believes could be the ‘five best ASX stocks’ for investors to buy right now. We believe these stocks are trading at attractive prices and Scott thinks they could be great buys right now…

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Catapult Sports, Lovisa, Netwealth Group, ResMed, and Treasury Wine Estates. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Amcor Plc, Catapult Sports, Netwealth Group, ResMed, and Treasury Wine Estates. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Gqg Partners, Lovisa, Orora, and Premier Investments. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • I would buy these ASX software shares after the AI selloff

    A young man talks tech on his phone while looking at a laptop. A financial graph is superimposed across the image.

    The recent selloff across software-as-a-service (SaaS) stocks has been brutal. Artificial intelligence (AI) breakthroughs have sparked fears that entire layers of software could one day be automated away, and the market hasn’t waited around to find out. Valuations have compressed fast, sentiment has turned, and some very high-quality businesses have been sold as if their competitive advantages no longer matter.

    I don’t see it that way.

    While it’s sensible to acknowledge that AI will change how software is built and used, I think the market has gone too far in assuming it will simply replace entrenched platforms with deep customer relationships, complex workflows, and massive datasets. In a few cases, the selloff has created a risk-reward setup that looks genuinely attractive.

    Two ASX software shares I would buy after the AI selloff are WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) and Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO).

    Why WiseTech still has a powerful moat

    WiseTech’s share price has been hit hard, with investors worrying that AI could commoditise logistics software or lower barriers to entry. That fear ignores how deeply embedded WiseTech’s CargoWise platform is in global supply chains.

    CargoWise isn’t a simple point solution. It sits at the centre of freight forwarding operations, customs compliance, tariffs, documentation, and increasingly complex cross-border trade rules. Large logistics providers don’t just use it because it’s functional. They rely on it because ripping it out would be operationally risky and enormously disruptive.

    AI, in my view, is more likely to enhance CargoWise than replace it. Automating data entry, improving routing decisions, and helping customers navigate regulatory complexity all play directly into WiseTech’s strengths. Add in the integration of e2open and the shift to a new commercial model, and I think the business is quietly setting itself up for a re-acceleration in earnings once execution risk fades.

    The share price suggests the market is focused on what could go wrong. I’m more interested in what happens if WiseTech simply continues doing what it has done for years.

    Why AI may strengthen Xero

    Another ASX software share caught up in the broader AI panic is Xero, with concerns that generative AI could one day replace accounting software altogether. But when you dig into how small businesses actually operate, I think that thesis looks shaky.

    Xero already sits at the heart of a small business’s financial life. It is the system of record that holds years of transaction data, payroll history, tax information, and compliance workflows. AI tools still need a trusted source of truth to operate from, and that is where Xero’s position becomes powerful.

    In an investor briefing this week, management made it clear that Xero sees AI as a way to evolve from a system of record into a “system of action and decision making” for small businesses. The company highlighted that millions of subscribers are already benefiting from AI-enabled features, from automation through bank feeds to insights that help owners manage their businesses more effectively. Xero also pointed to its deep domain knowledge, unique data platform, and strong network of accountants and bookkeepers as structural advantages that are hard to replicate.

    Rather than being disrupted by AI, Xero appears to be using it to expand its total addressable market and increase the value it delivers per customer. The integration of Melio in the US only reinforces that, bringing accounting and payments together on one platform and improving unit economics over time.

    Why the risk-reward looks compelling here

    There’s no denying that both WiseTech and Xero face real risks. AI is moving quickly, competition is intense, and execution always matters. But after the share price declined by more than 50% over the past 12 months, I think the market is already pricing in a lot of bad news.

    What it may be underestimating is how durable these platforms are, how sticky their customers tend to be, and how well positioned they are to adapt AI to their advantage rather than fall victim to it.

    For me, this is exactly the kind of environment where long-term investors should lean in, not step back. When fear drives prices well below what the underlying business quality suggests, the odds start to tilt in your favour.

    Foolish takeaway

    AI will absolutely reshape software. But not all software is created equal.

    WiseTech Global and Xero aren’t generic tools that can be swapped out overnight. They are deeply embedded platforms with data, scale, and customer trust on their side. After the recent selloff, I think the market is being too pessimistic about their futures.

    The post I would buy these ASX software shares after the AI selloff appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in WiseTech Global right now?

    Before you buy WiseTech Global shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and WiseTech Global wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global and Xero. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.