• Is now a good time to buy ASX dividend shares for passive income?

    Man holding fifty Australian Dollar banknotes in his hands, symbolising dividends.

    Great ASX dividend shares give investors a reliable and consistent dividend payout over a long-term period. So if passive income is what you’re after, ASX dividend shares should be part of your portfolio.

    Current sharemarket volatility, geopolitical uncertainty, and gloomy outlook might cause many investors to take a more cautious approach to buying shares, or perhaps not buy any at all.

    But there are a few reasons why I think now is as good a time as any to buy ASX dividend shares.

    Here are three of them.

    1. Dividend yields are still attractive

    Many ASX companies, such as Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) and Dexus (ASX: DXS), are currently offering dividend yields of around 5% to 6%, and more often than not, they’re also fully franked. That’s a great passive income.

    Some stable ASX high-yield dividend shares are paying even more. Nine Entertainment Co. Holdings Ltd (ASX: NEC) and Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING) yield as high as 9%.

    These aren’t just any stocks, either; they’re all strong companies with a history of paying a regular dividend. And they have good growth projections too.

    The opportunities for a great dividend yield are still out there.

    2. Several stocks are trading at a discount

    The year so far has been incredibly volatile. Geopolitical uncertainty, war in the Middle East, disruptions to global supply chains, rising interest rates, and soaring inflation are all creating panic.

    Investors are selling up and flocking to safe-haven assets.

    It’s pushed Australia’s sharemarkets to around a four-month low. At the time of writing, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down another 1.56% and down 2.54% for the year to date.

    The declines are seen across nearly all sectors, and while on the surface it could look alarming, they are also creating some fantastic entry points for investors to buy into strong ASX dividend stocks at cheap prices.

    Take Dexus, for example. The company is a major Australian property investor, developer, and manager with a large and diverse portfolio of rental assets across offices, industrial, and infrastructure sectors that generate consistent, predictable income. The ASX dividend share has a strong history, and it’s currently trading 14.22% lower year to date.

    3. ASX dividend stocks are a long-term play

    Another great reason to buy ASX dividend stocks right now is that they are a long-term play. ASX dividend shares are usually large and stable, which means they’re able to weather the storm over the long term. 

    When you’re looking at a long-term investment, it doesn’t matter how you time the market; the amount of time you hold the stock is more important.

    The post Is now a good time to buy ASX dividend shares for passive income? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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    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…

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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 no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Nine Entertainment. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Could Telix shares be a millionaire-maker stock?

    Cropped shot of a young female scientist working on her computer in the laboratory.

    It’s been a wild ride for investors in Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) shares. The biotech star surged to a high of $29.72 nearly a year ago, only to tumble around 56% to $12.29 at the time of writing.

    That kind of volatility might scare some investors away. But for others, it raises a more intriguing question: Could Telix shares become a long-term winner and turn $50,000 into a $1,000,000?

    A different growth story

    Telix isn’t your typical early-stage biotech. The company develops radiopharmaceuticals used in cancer diagnosis and treatment. It operates in a niche combining precision medicine with complex manufacturing and global distribution.

    Importantly, Telix has already transitioned into full commercial operations. That sets it apart from many speculative biotech plays still waiting on approvals.

    As more of its products gain regulatory clearance and clinical adoption increases, revenue has the potential to scale rapidly. In other words, future growth is less about macroeconomic conditions and more about how quickly its therapies are adopted.

    That dynamic can create sharp price swings, as seen recently with Telix shares. But it also offers direct exposure to a high-growth corner of healthcare.

    Revenue is booming

    Telix’s latest results show just how quickly the business is expanding.

    Last month, the company reported full-year revenue of US$803 million, up 56% year on year and at the lower end of its upgraded guidance range.

    Even more impressive, it expects to generate between US$950 million and US$970 million in revenue this year. That would push it comfortably beyond the $1 billion mark.

    At the same time, Telix is continuing to invest heavily in future growth, with research and development spending forecast at US$200 million to US$240 million.

    This combination of strong revenue growth and continued innovation is exactly what long-term investors in Telix shares want to see.

    Major opportunity, limited competition

    One of the most exciting developments is Telix’s progress in brain cancer.

    The company recently submitted a European marketing application for TLX101-Px, an imaging agent designed for glioblastoma — one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat cancers.

    This week, Telix resubmitted its New Drug Application to the U.S. FDA for TLX101-Px, including new data addressing prior feedback and supporting approval.

    Crucially, there are currently no widely available commercial alternatives. That gives Telix a rare opportunity to address an urgent medical need with limited direct competition.

    If successful, this could become a meaningful growth driver for Telix shares in the years ahead.

    What do analysts think?

    Despite the share price slump, sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive on Telix shares.

    According to TradingView data, all 16 analysts covering ASX biotech stock rate it as a buy or strong buy. Average 12-month price targets suggest Telix shares could climb around 95% to $23.97, with the most bullish forecasts pointing to as high as $31.59. This points to a potential upside of more than 150%.

    That’s a remarkable level of confidence for a stock that has fallen so sharply.

    Foolish Takeaway

    There’s no doubt Telix shares carry risk. Biotech stocks are inherently volatile, and success depends on execution, approvals, and market uptake.

    But with surging revenues, a growing commercial footprint, and exposure to a high-value medical niche, Telix has the ingredients of a powerful long-term growth story.

    If it can deliver on its pipeline and scale globally, today’s weakness could one day look like an opportunity. The kind that patient investors have million-dollar dreams about.

    The post Could Telix shares be a millionaire-maker stock? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Telix Pharmaceuticals right now?

    Before you buy Telix Pharmaceuticals 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 Telix Pharmaceuticals 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 20 Feb 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 positions in and has recommended Telix Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Telix Pharmaceuticals. 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

    3 children standing on podiums wearing Olympic medals.

    It ended up being a short-lived reprieve for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) earlier this week, with investors back to hitting the sell button this Thursday, and hard.

    It was a shockingly painful day for investors, with the ASX 200 opening sharply lower and staying that way all session. By the time trading wrapped up, the index had plunged by a painful 1.65% down to 8,497.8 points.

    This horrid Thursday session for Australian investors comes after a similarly dire morning on Wall Street.

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was slammed, dropping 1.63%.

    Things were only slightly better for the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC), which fell 1.46%.

    But let’s grit our teeth and return to the local markets now for an autopsy of today’s trading, so we can see which of the various ASX sectors were hardest hit today.

    Winners and losers

    Despite the broader market’s steep drop, a few sectors still came away with a win today. But more on those in a moment.

    Firstly, the worst place to have been invested this session was in gold shares. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) suffered a calamitous 9.23% crash this Thursday.

    Broader mining stocks were also smashed, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) diving 4.83%.

    Tech shares weren’t spared. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) had tanked 2.97% by the end of trading.

    Nor were real estate investment trusts (REITs), illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)’s 2.36% plunge.

    Healthcare stocks were no safe haven. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) ended up cratering 2.16%.

    Industrial shares couldn’t escape the storm either, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) shedding 1.95% of its value.

    Consumer discretionary stocks followed just behind that. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) came home 1.78% lighter today.

    Financial shares were sold off as well, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)’s 0.47% dip.

    Our last losers today were communications stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) slid 0.43% lower this session.

    Let’s turn to the far less numerous winners now. It was (no surprise) energy shares that cleaned up today, with the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) rocketing 5.08%.

    Consumer staples stocks were another safe haven. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) rose by a comfortable 0.91%.

    Finally, utilities shares were finding buyers, evident from the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)’s 0.36% bounce.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    Our ASX 200 winner this Thursday was (again, no surprise) energy stock Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA). Viva shares exploded 15.17% higher this session to finish up at $2.43 each.

    It seems investors think Viva is a great place to invest amid the turmoil in energy markets at the moment.

    Here’s how the rest of the winners landed their planes:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) $2.43 15.17%
    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) $33.70 7.19%
    Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) $8.03 6.78%
    Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) $2.01 5.51%
    New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) $5.53 5.33%
    Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) $32.97 4.60%
    Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) $1.29 4.05%
    Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) $8.02 3.22%
    Worley Ltd (ASX: WOR) $10.47 2.95%
    Sims Ltd (ASX: SGM) $21.22 2.61%

    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…

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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 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.

  • 5 ASX 200 energy shares smash multi-year highs after oil price spike

    A business person directs a pointed finger upwards on a rising arrow on a bar graph.

    ASX 200 energy shares ripped 5.1% on Thursday with the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) reaching a two-year high.

    Five of the largest energy stocks on the market followed suit, soaring to set new multi-year price milestones today.

    This followed a spike in oil prices after both Israel and Iran launched fresh missile attacks on energy infrastructure assets.

    This pushed the Brent crude oil price 4% higher to US$112 per barrel today.

    Iran hit a Qatari facility housing the world’s largest LNG export plant, while Israel attacked Iran’s South Pars gas field.

    ASX 200 energy shares soar while broader market falls

    The benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fell 1.65% as investors worried about the possibility of a longer-than-expected war.

    An entrenched conflict would keep oil prices high, which would flow through to higher costs across many industries.

    The Brent crude oil price has streaked 55% over the past 30 days, with the war effectively shutting down the Strait of Hormuz.

    More than 20% of the world’s global oil and gas exports, mainly from Iran, Iraq, Qatar, and the UAE, pass through the strait.

    Meanwhile, ASX 200 energy shares soared today.

    New multi-year highs for energy giants

    ASX 200 oil & gas giant Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) rose 6.6% to a two-and-a-half-year high of $33.65 today.

    The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price lifted 3.7% to a 52-week peak of $8.06.

    The Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) share price reached an 18-month high of $33.65 today.

    The Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) share price streaked 18% to a 52-week high of $2.49.

    There was no price-sensitive news from Viva Energy today; however, it did announce a date for its AGM — 21 May.

    ASX 200 coal share, New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) lifted 5.5% to a two-and-a-half-year high of $5.54.

    ASX 200 coal shares have been rising as gas supply disruptions force power plants around the world to switch to coal.

    This is pushing up the thermal coal price, with Newcastle futures rising 20% over the past 30 days to US$139.35 per tonne.

    This is the highest thermal coal price since November 2024.

    What about other energy stocks?

    While not reaching new 52-week highs, many other ASX 200 energy shares rose strongly today.

    Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) shares lifted 9.7% to an intraday high of $8.25, just short of their new 52-week high of $8.27 set last week.

    The Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) share price increased 5.2% to an intraday peak of $2.01.

    The Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) share price rose 4.8% to an intraday high of $1.30.

    The post 5 ASX 200 energy shares smash multi-year highs after oil price spike appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Ampol 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 Ampol 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 20 Feb 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.

  • Down 20% in 2026, is now the time to buy CSL shares?

    A child covering his eyes hiding from a toy bear representing a bear market for ASX shares

    The CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) share price is heading south today, with the biotech giant continuing a difficult run.

    At the time of writing, the CSL share price is down 1.91% to $135.37, after falling as low as $133.35 earlier in the session. That marks a new multi-year low, with the stock last trading at these levels back in September 2017.

    The decline means CSL shares are now down around 22% in 2026. This raises the question of whether this is a buying opportunity or if the share price has further to fall.

    Let’s take a closer look.

    A prolonged downtrend continues

    CSL’s share price has been trending lower for some time, and recent trading suggests momentum remains weak.

    Over the past year, the stock has consistently made lower highs and lower lows. The latest move to multi-year lows reinforces that trend, with no clear signs of a reversal.

    From a technical perspective, indicators remain soft. The relative strength index (RSI) has been hovering in the low range, pointing to weak buying pressure rather than strong accumulation.

    At the same time, the share price is trading well below key moving averages, which tell us sellers are still in control.

    The next key level to watch is around the $130 mark, which may act as near-term support. On the upside, previous support near $150 could now act as resistance if the stock attempts to recover.

    What is driving the weakness?

    CSL has faced slower growth expectations in parts of its business, particularly in its vaccine division. Reduced vaccination demand and changes in global health trends have weighed on sentiment.

    There have also been concerns around margins, with rising costs and pricing pressures affecting earnings expectations.

    At the same time, broader market conditions have not helped. Healthcare stocks have lagged in 2026, while investors have shifted towards sectors such as resources and energy.

    This rotation has left CSL out of favour with investors, despite its strong long-term track record.

    Is this a buying opportunity?

    Despite the recent weakness, CSL remains one of Australia’s largest and most established healthcare companies.

    The business has a global footprint, strong positions in plasma therapies and vaccines, and a long track record of growth.

    After the recent pullback, valuation is starting to come into focus. Some investors may see value at these levels, especially given CSL’s history.

    However, the trend is still pointing lower. Until earnings stabilise and sentiment improves, the share price could remain under pressure.

    Foolish takeaway

    CSL shares have fallen to levels not seen in almost a decade, highlighting how much sentiment has changed.

    The sell-off has made the stock look cheaper, but the trend is still pointing lower.

    That means the next move will likely depend on whether CSL can rebuild confidence in its growth outlook over the coming months.

    The post Down 20% in 2026, is now the time to buy CSL shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in CSL right now?

    Before you buy CSL 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 CSL 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras 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 CSL. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • ASX 200 down as fresh missile strikes on energy assets send oil prices higher

    Frustrated and shocked business woman reading bad news online from phone.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are down 1.5% as new missile strikes send oil prices higher and stoke fears of a protracted war.

    The ASX 200 has now fallen 7.4% since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on 28 February (US time).

    The Brent crude oil price jumped 4% to US$112 per barrel today after new missile attacks on energy infrastructure in the Middle East.

    Trading Economics analysts explained the spike:

    … fresh attacks on key energy infrastructure in the Middle East heightened concerns over disruptions to global oil and gas flows.

    Iran launched missile strikes on a Qatari facility housing the world’s largest LNG export plant, marking one of several energy assets Tehran vowed to target following an Israeli strike on Iran’s South Pars gas field.

    US President Donald Trump said he had prior knowledge of the Israeli attack on the South Pars field but urged against further strikes on Iranian energy sites.

    The Brent crude oil price is now almost 11% higher over the week and 55% higher over the past 30 days.

    The war has effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz.

    More than 20% of the world’s global oil and gas exports, mostly from Iran, Iraq, Qatar, and the UAE, pass through the strait.

    The shutdown has led to several Middle Eastern oil producers curbing production as storage systems fill up and container ships sit still.

    ASX 200 energy shares soar amid red day for market

    The oil price spike has sent several ASX 200 energy shares soaring today.

    The Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price is up 6.5% to $33.46.

    Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) shares are up 3.5% to $8.05 apiece.

    The Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) share price is up 4.6% to $1.29.

    Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) shares are 5.1% higher at $33.12, while Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) is up 16.4% to $2.46.

    The ASX 200 experienced a partial rebound after the Bureau of Statistics revealed a 0.2% lift in the unemployment rate to 4.3% today.

    The unemployment rate lifted mainly due to a 0.2% expansion in the participation rate.

    The softer-than-expected labour data eased the risk of further interest rate hikes, causing a positive market reaction.

    However, the partial rebound was not enough to change the ASX 200’s trajectory for the day.

    Lucinda Jerogin, Associate Economist at Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), said the war and rising energy costs were creating risks for the Aussie jobs outlook.

    While the labour market remains on the tighter side today, Jerogin said: “We do see upside risks to the unemployment rate from here.”

    Jerogin commented:

    … the participation rate will be one area to watch in upcoming labour force surveys as cost-of-living pressures worsen amid higher inflation and fuel costs related to the War in Iran. This may induce people back into the workforce.

    The post ASX 200 down as fresh missile strikes on energy assets send oil prices higher 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…

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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.

  • You won’t believe this ASX stock’s dividend growth

    Two plants grow in jars filled with coins.

    When I am considering buying an ASX stock, one of the first metrics I look at is that stock’s dividend growth history. This history alone can tell us a lot about a company’s financial health, its resilience, and its potential as a profitable, long-term investment.

    Although investors love dividends, paying them places an enormous burden on a company. Dividends are not free money. They are cash payments funded from a company’s profits. Every dollar that goes out the door as a dividend is lost to that company forever. It cannot be used to pay taxes, reduce debt, or be reinvested in the business for future growth.

    Many companies manage to afford to pay regular dividends to their investors. But only the best have the financial capacity to deliver regular dividend increases above the rate of inflation. If you find a company that can do this consistently, it has a high chance of being a long-term winner and market-beating investment. At least in my opinion.

    When it comes to divided growth streaks, there are few ASX shares that can match MFF Capital Investments Ltd (ASX: MFF).

    MFF Capital is a listed investment company (LIC) that specialises in investing in US stocks. Like most LICs, MFF holds a portfolio of underlying investments that it manages on behalf of its shareholders. MFF typically follows a Warren Buffett playbook of buying high-quality companies at attractive prices and holding them. Some of its most successful positions have been in its portfolio for years, and include Amazon, Google-owner Alphabet, Mastercard, Home Depot, American Express, and Visa.

    This ASX stock is a dividend growth machine

    But let’s talk about this ASX stock’s dividend growth. MFF happens to have one of the sharpest dividend growth trajectories on the ASX. To illustrate, MFF shares paid out 2 cents per share in fully-franked dividends back in 2017. By 2021, that annual total had grown to 7.5 cents per share. By 2025, it had reached 17 cents per share.

    Recently, MFF has confirmed that investors will receive an interim dividend worth 10 cents per share, fully franked, in May. Just this week, the company told shareholders to expect a final dividend of 11 cents per share later this year. This, if all goes to plan, would see MFF’s 2026 dividend total come in at 21 cents per share.

    That would be a 23.5% rise over 2025’s dividends in one go. It would also mean that investors have enjoyed a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) in dividend payments of 26.4% over the past five years. Since 2017, the CAGR has been 29.86%. In contrast, Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) paid out $4.29 in dividends per share in 2017, and $4.85 per share in 2025. And that didn’t include a dividend hike every year in between.

    MFF Capital has one of the best dividend growth streaks on the ASX. Certainly, one of the steepest. That’s why I’m confident this ASX stock will continue to be a winner going forward.

    At the time of writing, MFF shares are trading on a trailing dividend yield of 4.15%.

    The post You won’t believe this ASX stock’s dividend growth appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Mff Capital Investments right now?

    Before you buy Mff Capital Investments 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 Mff Capital Investments 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 20 Feb 2026

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    American Express is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen has positions in Alphabet, Amazon, American Express, Berkshire Hathaway, Mastercard, Mff Capital Investments, and Visa. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Alphabet, Amazon, Berkshire Hathaway, Home Depot, Mastercard, and Visa. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Alphabet, Amazon, Berkshire Hathaway, Mastercard, Mff Capital Investments, and Visa. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Buy, hold, sell: What this leading broker is saying about Lynas shares

    A man looking at his laptop and thinking.

    Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) shares have been on fire over the past 12 months.

    During this time, the rare earths producer’s shares have risen more than 150% to $19.68.

    Let’s see what one leading broker is saying about this high-flyer this week.

    What is the broker saying?

    The team at Wilsons is feeling positive on the company due to favourable rare earths supply-demand dynamics. It said:

    The rare earth market is benefiting from a powerful combination of structural demand growth, constrained supply and increasing policy support for ex-China supply chains. These dynamics are expected to support elevated rare earth prices while also strengthening demand for, and the pricing outcomes of, Western supply in particular.

    Against this backdrop, established ex-China producers are particularly well positioned to benefit from the emerging bifurcation of the rare earth market. In this context, Lynas Rare Earths (LYC) stands out as the world’s largest producer of separated rare earth oxides outside of China and one of the few scaled ex-China producers positioned to capture stronger pricing across both light and heavy rare earths.

    The broker highlights that Lynas is well-placed to benefit from a favourable policy backdrop for Western producers. It adds:

    Lynas’ status as the largest producer of rare earth oxides outside China positions the company to benefit from the favourable policy backdrop for Western producers amidst efforts to onshore critical minerals supply chains. This was evidenced in 2022 when Lynas was awarded a US$120m grant from the U.S. Department of War to develop a heavy rare earths (HRE) separation facility in Texas, although the ultimate development of the project remains uncertain.

    Canaccord Genuity’s view

    Wilsons highlights that its research partner, Canaccord Genuity, has a positive view of the stock.

    The broker currently rates Lynas shares as a buy with a $22.00 price target. Based on its current share price, this implies potential upside of approximately 12% for investors over the next 12 months.

    Canaccord Genuity commented:

    Sector leader with immediate exposure to pricing rally and potential upside from downstream integration into magnets. Possible beneficiary of Australian Critical Minerals Reserve floor pricing.

    Overall, this could make it worth considering the miner if you are looking for exposure to this side of the resources sector.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: What this leading broker is saying about Lynas shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Lynas Rare Earths Ltd right now?

    Before you buy Lynas Rare Earths Ltd 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 Lynas Rare Earths Ltd 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 20 Feb 2026

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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 recommended Lynas Rare Earths Ltd. 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.

  • Brent crude hits US$112. Here’s why Australia is more exposed than most

    Woman refuelling the gas tank at fuel pump, symbolising the Ampol share price.

    Brent crude oil prices have surged above US$112 per barrel, rising more than 4% in a single session and approximately 55% over the past month.

    The increase comes as global supply tightens and disruption risks return across key oil-producing regions, namely the Middle East.

    Australia relies heavily on imported fuel

    Australia produces oil, but imports most of its refined fuel. Over the past two decades, domestic refining capacity has declined, with much of the country’s petrol and diesel now sourced from Asian refineries.

    This has increased reliance on global supply chains, with limited domestic refining to fall back on.

    As a result, domestic fuel prices closely track global benchmarks such as Brent crude, with changes flowing through quickly.

    Geography adds another layer of risk

    Australia’s location adds to the challenge. Fuel has to be shipped long distances before reaching domestic terminals and retail networks, which increases both costs and time.

    Delays in shipping, tighter freight capacity, and congestion at key routes can all push costs higher.

    The distribution task does not end once it reaches the coast. Fuel still needs to be transported across a large and sparsely populated country, adding further pressure to the system.

    These factors mean supply disruptions can take longer to work through locally, with a more noticeable impact on prices.

    Prices sit mid-range globally

    On a global scale, Australia’s fuel prices sit around the middle range of developed markets. While they are generally lower than in some parts of Europe, prices are higher than in the United States, where domestic supply is stronger.

    Even so, changes in crude oil prices still show up quickly at the pump.

    Recent data shows domestic prices rising sharply over a short period, tracking moves in global markets. The pace of these increases is what really stands out most.

    A market shaped by external forces

    Australia’s fuel market is largely shaped by global conditions rather than domestic supply. This leaves it more exposed to swings in international markets, especially during periods of geopolitical tension.

    With Brent crude now above US$112, recent price moves show how quickly global shifts can feed into local fuel costs.

    These same conditions are also reflected in the share prices of energy producers such as Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO). Their performance is closely tied to movements in global oil markets.

    Australia’s reliance on imports means that global disruptions will always have a more direct impact than other countries.

    The post Brent crude hits US$112. Here’s why Australia is more exposed than most appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Woodside Energy Group Ltd right now?

    Before you buy Woodside Energy Group Ltd 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 Woodside Energy Group Ltd 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras 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.

  • This ASX gold explorer could more than double in value: broker

    Young successful engineer, with blueprints, notepad, and digital tablet, observing the project implementation on construction site and in mine.

    Titan Minerals Ltd (ASX: TTM) this week released a 25% resource upgrade for its Dynasty Gold Project in Southern Ecuador, with the team at Canaccord Genuity saying they continue to expect big things from the company.

    Canaccord has reaffirmed its bullish price target for the company, which we’ll get to shortly.

    Firstly, let’s look at what was announced.

    More gold discovered

    Titan said in a statement to the ASX this week that the mineral resource estimate across the Dynasty Gold Project now stood at 3.9 million ounces of gold and 26.1 million ounces of silver, up 780,000 ounces and 4.1 million ounces respectively.

    The company said the mineralisation across all of its deposits remained open, with drilling set to start in the next week to assess how far the mineralisation extends.

    Titan said 47% of the mineralisation at the Cerro Verde deposit was in the top 100m and 76% in the top 200m.

    Titan Chief Executive Officer Melanie Leight said regarding the results:

    We are very pleased to have delivered substantial growth at the Dynasty Gold Project, with an increase of 25% in contained gold ounces from the previous July 2023 mineral resource estimate. The mineral resource estimate update comes after 12 months and about 22,400m of targeted resource expansion drilling, with a discovery cost of US$6.30 per ounce, which is an impressive result and a credit to our dedicated geology team in Ecuador. Titan’s geology team have been busy finalising a 30,000m drilling campaign to target continued resource growth and conversion. We look forward to the drill rigs kicking off again next week, with the geology team excited to test several compelling epithermal and porphyry targets that have never been drilled.

    Shares looking cheap

    The Canaccord team said in their research note issued this week that they had modelled their assumptions on the “indicated” category of mineral resource confidence, which did not change much in the update.

    They said regarding the update:

    Our price target remains $1.95, and we maintain our SPEC BUY rating. Our valuation is preliminary in nature and should be viewed as a what if case, given no formal mining studies have been published. Titan will now undertake scoping studies for Dynasty, the outcomes of which may be released to market late in 2026. However, given almost 70% of the resource is Inferred, we feel further resource conversion is required prior to Titan satisfying the ASX requirements to publish a mining study. As such, Titan will soon undertake a 30,000m resource conversion program.

    Titan shares are currently changing hands for 86 cents. The company is valued at $277.4 million.

    The post This ASX gold explorer could more than double in value: broker appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Titan Minerals Ltd right now?

    Before you buy Titan Minerals Ltd 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 Titan Minerals Ltd 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Cameron England 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.