• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

    A neon sign says 'Top Ten'.

    It was a rather unpleasant day to be an ASX investor this Thursday, wth the Australian markets suffering a significant sell-off over the session. After a reprieve from the selling that we saw earlier in the week yesterday, the bears were back on the ASX today, with the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) staying in red territory all day and closing down a chunky 0.68%.

    That leaves the ASX 200 at 8,748.7 points.

    This lacklustre session on the ASX comes after a mixed night up on Wall Street.

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in an accommodating mood, rising 0.35%.

    However, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) wasn’t so lucky, dropping 0.43%.

    But let’s return to the local markets now and dig down into what was happening with the various ASX sectors over today’s trading.

    Winners and losers

    Despite the broader market’s drop, we still had a few sectors that advanced this Thursday.

    But first, it was again gold shares that were the scourge of the market. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) had another shocker, crashing 4.35%.

    Energy stocks were also in the firing line, with the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) cratering 2.48%.

    Mining shares found themselves on the nose as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) plunged down 2.28%.

    We could say the same for financial stocks, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)’s 1.22% dive.

    Tech shares were unpopular as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) gave up some of yesterday’s gains, tanking 0.82%.

    That’s it for the losers, though, so let’s turn to the winners now.

    Leading said winners were, fittingly,  healthcare stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) roaring 2.56% higher.

    Consumer discretionary shares also ran hot. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) enjoyed a 2.11% surge this Thursday.

    Its consumer staples counterpart was also in demand, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)’s 1.41% jump.

    Next came real estate investment trusts (REITs). The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) enjoyed a 1.07% boost this Thursday.

    Utilities shares didn’t miss out either, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) bouncing up 0.71%.

    Communications stocks were a little more muted. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) advanced 0.27% today.

    Finally, industrial shares got across the finish line, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ)’s 0.24% uptick.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    ASX REIT LendLease Group (ASX: LLC) took out today’s top spot. LendLease units rocketed 8.93% higher today to close at $3.17 each.

    This great leap higher followed LendLease revealing the details of a major asset sale today.

    Here’s how the other winners landed their planes this Thursday:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    LendLease Group (ASX: LLC) $3.17 8.93%
    Reece Ltd (ASX: REH) $16.80 7.28%
    James Hardie Industries plc (ASX: JHX) $36.85 5.23%
    Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) $23.09 5.05%
    ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD) $29.20 4.55%
    Block Inc (ASX: XYZ) $109.88 4.40%
    Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) $8.21 4.32%
    Premier Investments Ltd (ASX: PMV) $14.79 4.23%
    JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH) $81.60 4.08%
    Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN) $10.71 4.08%

    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 16 June 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 Block, Lovisa, and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Lovisa and Premier Investments. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Age pension income and asset test limits to rise next week

    Four senior friends laugh together with arms around each other

    The income you can earn and the value of assets you can own in retirement, while still qualifying for the age pension, will rise next week.

    The Department of Social Services has just announced the next lot of indexation changes to means testing for the pension.

    These indexation changes are made twice per year to reflect the impact of inflation.

    Pension amounts will remain as they are today. All that is changing next Wednesday, 1 July, is the parameters for means testing.

    The full age pension $1,200.90 per fortnight for singles and $905.20 per person, per fortnight, for couples.

    Let’s review.

    When can I get the age pension?

    Australians born on or after 1 January 1957 are eligible for the pension at age 67, whether retired or not.

    The pension is subject to an assets test and an income test. You have to pass both to receive the full pension.

    If you own too much in assets, or earn too much income, you may only qualify for a part-pension, or no support at all.

    What are the new pension thresholds for asset values?

    The first thing to know is that your home is excluded from the pension assets test if you own your residence.

    If you rent your home, you are allowed to own more assets (and earn more income) while still qualifying for the pension.

    Assessable assets include ASX shares, international shares, superannuation, bonds, managed funds, rental properties, and cash.

    Single homeowners

    Under next week’s changes, single homeowners will be able to own up to $333,000 in assets and still qualify for the full age pension.

    Single homeowners with assets worth between $333,001 and $733,500 will qualify for a part-payment.

    Single non-homeowners

    Single renters will be able to own up to $600,000 in assets and still qualify for the full age pension.

    Single non-homeowners with assets worth between $600,001 and $1,000,500 will be eligible for a part-pension.

    Couple homeowners

    Couple homeowners will be able to own up to $499,000 in assets and still qualify for the full age pension.

    Couple homeowners with assets worth between $499,001 and $1,102,500 will still be eligible for a part-payment.

    Couples who are renting in retirement

    Couple non-homeowners will be able to own up to $766,00 in assets and still be eligible for the full pension.

    Renters who own assets worth between $766,001 and $1,369,500 will qualify for a part-payment.

    How much income can you earn and still get the age pension?

    Under next week’s changes, singles will be able to earn up to $226 per fortnight and still qualify for the full pension.

    If they earn between $227 and $2,627.80 per fortnight, they will qualify for a part-payment.

    Couples will be able to earn up to $396 per fortnight and still receive the full age pension.

    Couples who earn between $397 and $4,016.80 per fortnight will be eligible for a part-payment.

    Assessable income includes wages and investment income.

    To make things easier, Centrelink relies on deeming rates to determine a pensioner’s investment income.

    (The only exception is rent from investment properties. Pensioners must report actual net rental income each year.)

    Deeming rates have been well below market average returns for many years.

    The Albanese Government has been gradually increasing deeming rates and the asset value thresholds.

    Under next week’s changes, the lower deeming rate will remain at 1.25% and the upper deeming rate will remain 3.25%.

    However, the thresholds will lift.

    The lower deeming rate will apply if a single pensioner’s assets are worth less than $66,800. For couples, the new threshold is $110,600.

    If your investments are worth more than that, the upper deeming rate will apply.

    The post Age pension income and asset test limits to rise next week 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 16 June 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.

  • ASX 200 drops again as investors dump banks and miners

    ASX board.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is having another rough session on Thursday.

    At the time of writing, the ASX 200 is down 0.47% to 8,766 points.

    That leaves the benchmark on track for another disappointing session. The market is struggling to build on a more positive lead from Wall Street futures.

    At the latest check, 103 ASX 200 shares are rising, while 92 are falling and 5 are unchanged.

    Let’s take a closer look at what’s putting the index in the red.

    Banks and resources weigh on the ASX 200

    The big miners are doing a fair bit of damage today as commodity prices fall across the board.

    At the time of writing, BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) is down 1.93% to $58.35, Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) is down 2.61% to $169.38, and Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) is down 1.09% to $19.04.

    Energy shares are also under pressure after oil prices dropped back toward pre-war levels.

    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) shares are down 3.10% to $27.37 as crude oil trades below US$70 a barrel.

    Oil had rallied earlier this month on Middle East supply fears, but that support has quickly faded as tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz improves.

    And looking at the banks, they aren’t offering much help either.

    National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) is down 3.07% to $37.56, Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) is down 0.59% to $35.57, and ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) is down 0.70% to $35.39.

    Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) is only slightly lower, down 0.03% to $164.75.

    Not everything is falling

    But while the heavyweights are in the red, there are still some winners on the ASX 200 today.

    Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) is up 2.25% to $89.23, while Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) is up 1.73% to $40.05.

    CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) is also having a positive session, rising 2.91% to $118.34.

    The S&P/ASX All Technology Index (ASX: XTX) is 0.1% higher, helped by a solid lead from US tech futures after Micron Technology Inc (NASDAQ: MU)’s strong update.

    What investors are watching now

    The jobs data has added another wrinkle to today’s session.

    Australia’s unemployment rate fell to 4.4% in May, with employment rising by 40,300 jobs.

    That’s good news for the economy, but it may also keep the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) cautious if the labour market stays firm.

    Despite today’s fall, the ASX 200 remains up about 0.6% since the start of 2026.

    The post ASX 200 drops again as investors dump banks and miners 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 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, Micron Technology, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group, CSL, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 3 reasons to buy the rebound in JB Hi-Fi shares today

    Woman checking out new laptops.

    JB Hi Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH) shares are charging higher today.

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) electronics retailer closed trading yesterday for $78.40. In afternoon trade on Thursday, shares are swapping hands for $81.57 apiece, up 4.1%.

    For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.4% at this same time.

    Today’s rally adds fuel to the stock’s recent rebound. JB Hi-Fi shares plumbed a one-year closing low of $68.89 on 3 June, and the share price is now up 18.4% in three weeks.

    Longer-term, however, shares in the ASX 200 electronics retailer remain down 25.0% since this time last year, underperforming the 2.5% 12-month gains posted by the benchmark index.

    Though we shouldn’t forget the two fully franked dividends, totalling $4.15 a share, that the company paid out to eligible stockholders over this time.

    JB Hi-Fi stock currently trades on a 5.1% fully franked trailing dividend yield.

    And looking ahead, Baker Young’s Toby Grimm believes the stock’s recent rally has further to run (courtesy of The Bull).

    Here’s why.

    Should I buy JB Hi-Fi shares today?

    “The share price of this consumer electronics giant has significantly fallen since August 2025 in response to cost of living and supply chain cost pressures and increasing interest rates,” Grimm noted.

    Citing the first reason he’s bullish on the ASX 200 stock, Grimm said, “Despite these issues, JBH is expected to deliver positive sales and underlying earnings growth during the next two years.”

    As for the second reason, he has a buy recommendation on JB Hi-Fi shares, Grimm said, “The outlook for consumer electronics remains structurally sound. Diminishing rate hike expectations is another positive.”

    And the third reason you may want to buy shares in the Aussie electronics retailer today is the attractive passive income.

    “The stock is trading on more appealing multiples compared to 2025 and was recently offering an attractive dividend yield above 5%,” Grimm concluded.

    What’s the latest from the ASX 200 electronics retailer?

    The last price-sensitive news from JB Hi-Fi was the company’s third quarter (Q3 FY 2026) sales update, released on 6 May.

    The company reported a 4.0% year-on-year increase in sales at JB Hi-Fi Australia and a whopping 23.2% increase in sales at JB Hi-Fi New Zealand.

    As for its other two business segments, third-quarter sales at the Good Guys were up 2.5% year-on-year, while e&s sales went the other way, falling 1.4% from Q3 FY 2025.

    With investor expectations clearly running high, JB Hi-Fi shares closed down 6.3% on the day of the update.

    The post 3 reasons to buy the rebound in JB Hi-Fi shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Jb Hi-Fi right now?

    Before you buy Jb Hi-Fi 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 Jb Hi-Fi 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 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben 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.

  • Crude oil falls below US$70 as ASX energy shares sell-off

    An image showing a red graph with a white arrow pointing downwards above three black barrels of oil.

    The oil price rally has faded quickly, and ASX energy shares are being pulled lower with it.

    At the time of writing, crude oil is down 1.71% to US$69.14 a barrel, while Brent crude is down 1.88% to US$72.35 a barrel.

    That leaves crude oil below US$70 and Brent below US$73, with both benchmarks now moving back toward levels seen before the recent Middle East war.

    It’s a clear shift from earlier in the month, when traders were closely watching the Strait of Hormuz and pricing in the risk of supply disruptions.

    Here’s what has changed.

    Oil prices fall as US-Iran talks continue

    According to reports, tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has improved after recent progress in US-Iran talks.

    One report said 14 oil tankers crossed the maritime chokepoint on Tuesday, carrying about 20 million barrels of oil. That compares with roughly 12 tankers a day the previous week.

    Trading Economics also noted that shipowners are becoming more confident moving through the area after safety guarantees from the International Maritime Organization.

    The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates the United Arab Emirates is exporting oil at nearly 85% of pre-war levels, selling roughly 60 million barrels from the Persian Gulf.

    China demand is also being watched

    The demand side is not helping oil prices either.

    Oilprice.com reported that China’s crude imports have fallen to their lowest level since 2018.

    The report said China imported 7.82 million barrels per day in May. That was down 38% from February’s pre-conflict level.

    China is one of the world’s biggest oil buyers, so that number is getting plenty of attention.

    The same report said China has been relying more on physical cargoes already in storage, while cutting back purchases from major Middle East suppliers.

    ASX energy shares slide

    The latest developments have flowed through to ASX energy shares.

    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) shares are trading 2.92% lower at $27.41. The ASX’s biggest energy stock has now fallen almost 15% in a month.

    Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) shares are also tumbling, down 2.69% to $7.04. The Santos share price has dropped 14.5% across the same period.

    What investors are watching now

    There was some supportive inventory data in the background.

    According to the US Energy Information Administration, US crude inventories fell by 6.1 million barrels in the week ending 19 June.

    Commercial crude stockpiles fell to 412.1 million barrels, which is around 7% below the 5-year average.

    However, that wasn’t enough to stop oil prices from falling today.

    At the moment, the market appears more focused on easing Middle East supply concerns than lower US inventories.

    The post Crude oil falls below US$70 as ASX energy shares sell-off 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 16 June 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.

  • Buy, hold, sell: Capricorn Metals, Chrysos, Cochlear shares

    Broker looking at the share price on her laptop with green and red points in the background.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are down 0.4% to 8,772.2 points on Thursday.

    Among the 11 market sectors, healthcare is in the lead today, up 2.7%, amid signs of a meaningful sector rebound. 

    The energy sector is the drag on Thursday, down 2.5%, as the supply outlook improves in the Middle East.

    Trading Economics analysts reported that growing confidence in a lasting peace deal had prompted more tankers to transit the Strait of Hormuz with their tracking signals on.

    Supply has also increased across key segments of the market, with buyers facing a surge of crude offers from the Middle East and other exporting regions, including West Africa.

    In addition, a temporary US waiver permitting purchases of already-loaded Iranian oil is expected to further boost available supply.

    Meanwhile, three experts let us in on their opinions of three ASX shares.

    Let’s check them out.

    Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM)

    The Capricorn Metals share price is $11.98, down 5.5% today and down 17% in the calendar year to date (YTD). 

    David Coates from Bell Potter has a buy rating on this ASX gold share. 

    Coates said: 

    CMM is a sector leading gold producer, unhedged and debt free. It is fully funded to grow production from ~120kozpa to ~300kozpa from two gold mines in WA, each with +10 year mine lives.

    CMM is run by a management team that has an excellent track record of delivery.

    Our NPV-based valuation is up marginally to $16.25/sh.

    Chrysos Corporation Ltd (ASX: C79)

    The Chrysos Corporation share price is $5.65, down 3.4% today and down 23% YTD. 

    Toby Grimm from Baker Young has a hold recommendation on this ASX industrials share. 

    On The Bull this week, Grimm said: 

    The company combines science and software to create technology solutions for the global mining industry. The company’s flagship product is PhotonAssay.

    A pull back in gold prices, if protracted, presents a potential headwind. However, we’re encouraged by expansion into South America, where we see a large copper analysis opportunity as C79 continues to branch out from gold.

    The company’s decision to upsize its debt facility to $200 million reflects management’s confidence in the near term growth runway.

    In our view, the stock offers significant recovery potential given it was recently trading at a substantial discount to its February highs.

    Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH)

    The Cochlear share price is $115.31, up 1.6% today and down 56% YTD.

    Niv Dagan from Peak Asset Management has a sell rating on this ASX healthcare share.

    He explained: 

    Hospital capacity constraints amid softer consumer sentiment and reduced referral activity are weighing on implant volumes, while cost base restructuring is likely to impact earnings in the near term.

    In April, the hearing implants maker materially reduced its fiscal year 2026 underlying net profit guidance to between $290 million and $330 million from between $435 million from $460 million in February.

    The downgrade was a response to weaker than expected demand in developed markets amid Middle East uncertainty, lower margins and foreign exchange headwinds.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Capricorn Metals, Chrysos, Cochlear shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Cochlear 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 Cochlear 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 Bronwyn Allen 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 Chrysos and Cochlear. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Chrysos. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Cochlear. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Downgrade alert! 4 ASX shares re-rated by experts this week

    Frustrated and shocked businesswoman reading bad news online from phone.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are down 0.4% to 8,777.5 points on Thursday.

    This week, brokers downgraded four ASX shares and recalculated their 12-month price targets on them.

    Let’s check them out.

    Jumbo Interactive Ltd (ASX: JIN)

    The Jumbo Interactive share price is $6.31, down 14.3% today.

    Over the past six months, this ASX 200 consumer discretionary share has fallen 44%.

    Morgan Stanley downgraded Jumbo Interactive shares to a hold rating yesterday.

    The broker slashed its 12-month price target from $14.50 to $8.40.

    This still implies a big potential upside of more than 30% ahead.

    Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT)

    The Beach Energy share price is 82 cents, down 5.2% today.

    In the calendar year to date (YTD), this ASX energy share has fallen 30%.

    Oil prices have retreated to pre-war levels after the US and Iran signed an interim peace deal.

    Morgans downgraded Beach Energy shares to a sell rating this week.

    The broker said:

    After downgrading our Q4 estimates for daily production rates, we see potential for BPT to fall just short of its FY27 group production guidance.

    While BPT’s share price has already been under pressure, its earnings outlook has declined at a faster rate, with its forward EV/EBITDA actually rising.

    The broker cut its 12-month price target from $1.10 to 81 cents.

    This suggests the stock is already fully priced.

    Amcor CDI (ASX: AMC)

    The Amcor share price is $60.94, up 4% today.

    Over the past month, this ASX 200 materials share has ripped 11% higher.

    Morgans downgraded Amcor shares from a buy to an accumulate rating this week.

    The broker explained:

    Following its merger with Berry Global in April 2025, AMC identified a non-core portfolio of ~US$2.5bn in revenue.

    These lower-growth or lower-margin businesses where AMC lacks scale or leadership positions are expected to be divested over time via cash sales or joint ventures/partnerships.

    While there is a range of scenarios that can play out, using conservative assumptions, we estimate the combined non-core portfolio could be worth ~US$1.8bn.

    To date, AMC has reached agreements to sell six businesses for a combined value of ~US$500m.

    AMC plans to use proceeds from non-core asset sales to reduce leverage, which stood at 3.8x at the end of 3Q26.

    While management expects leverage to end FY26 at 3.4-3.5x, the stretched balance sheet remains a key investor concern.

    Morgans kept its 12-month price target of $65.40, indicating 7% potential upside ahead.

    Centuria Capital Group (ASX: CNI)

    The Centuria Capital share price is $2.04, up 1.8% today and down 0.3% over six months.

    Centuria Capital Group is a funds manager that specialises in property investment and investment bonds.

    MA Financial Group downgraded the ASX real estate share to a hold recommendation on Tuesday.

    The broker has a 12-month price target of $2.18.

    This suggests a potential 7% upside ahead.

    The post Downgrade alert! 4 ASX shares re-rated by experts this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Jumbo Interactive right now?

    Before you buy Jumbo Interactive 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 Jumbo Interactive 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 16 June 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 positions in and has recommended Jumbo Interactive. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Amcor Plc. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Jumbo Interactive and Ma Financial Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Buying ASX shares or paying off a mortgage? Here’s what the inflation rate means for RBA interest rate hikes

    Inflation written in yellow with a rising blue line and red bars on a graph.

    Yesterday, mortgage holders and ASX share investors received a mixed message on Australia’s inflation rate.

    On the positive side of the scale, the ABS reported that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 4.0% in the 12 months to May. That’s down from the 4.2% increase in the inflation rate for the 12 months to April.

    On the negative side of that scale, the ABS revealed that trimmed mean inflation, which takes out certain volatile items (like fuel), increased to 3.6%. That’s up from 3.4% in the 12 months to April and well above the RBA’s 2% to 3% target range.

    That’s important for ASX share investors and mortgage holders hoping for interest rate relief, as the trimmed mean number is the RBA’s preferred gauge.

    As you’re likely aware, Aussies have already had to contend with three interest rate increases from the central bank in 2026. While the RBA kept rates on hold at 4.35% at its last meeting on 16 June, this still sees the official interest rate back at their 2024 peak, and matching the highest level since 2011.

    So, what can we expect from interest rates now?

    What the experts are saying on the inflation rate and the RBA

    Commenting on the latest inflation rate numbers, Ebury economist Anthony Malouf said, “May CPI data was weaker than expected at the headline level… However, the headline figure is heavily distorted by the ongoing unwind of automotive fuel prices, which have fallen over the past two months.”

    As for what this might mean for Australia’s interest rates, Malouf said:

    More concerning for the RBA, trimmed mean inflation surprised to the upside, rising 0.4% MoM with the annual rate lifting to 3.6% from 3.4% in April, suggesting underlying inflation continues to firm…

    We maintain our view that the cash rate remains on hold at 4.35% through 2026 and into 2027.

    CreditorWatch chief economist Ivan Colhoun has a more hawkish view on what we might expect from the RBA’s rate-setting path.

    According to Colhoun:

    There was some good news in today’s CPI release with the first reports of some price falls as fuel surcharges were reduced…

    However, that still leaves Australia with a labour market inflation problem, with the recent 4.75% national wage case decision likely to sustain price rises at rates nowhere near consistent with the RBA’s 2.5% aims. That suggests the Bank isn’t finished tightening as yet.

    Connecting the dots, Colhoun advised mortgage holders and ASX investors to brace for another rate hike towards the end of the year.

    He concluded:

    My base case remains of a continuing slow, elongated tightening cycle in Australia, underpinned by the global AI, defence and renewables investment boom, with mining also benefiting. Further tightening remains a significant risk. My expectation is the RBA will continue to observe inflation and the economy for a while longer and next tighten in November.

    And we’ll leave off with BNY APAC macro strategist, Wee Khoon Chong, who said the latest inflation rate data leaves the door open for another RBA rate hike in 2026.

    Chong noted (quoted by the Australian Financial Review):

    Markets appear too complacent in assuming the current tightening cycle has peaked. The data is unlikely to shift the RBA from its current wait-and-see stance in the near term.

    However, the firmer core inflation reading reinforces our view that further policy tightening remains possible before year end.

    Stay tuned!

    The post Buying ASX shares or paying off a mortgage? Here’s what the inflation rate means for RBA interest rate hikes 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 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben 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.

  • Morgans says these ASX shares could rise 5%, 20%, and 55%

    Smiling man sits in front of a graph on computer while using his mobile phone.

    Looking for some investment options? Well, Morgans has just given its verdict on these ASX shares.

    Is it bullish or bearish? Let’s see what the broker is saying about them:

    Astron Ltd (ASX: ATR)

    Morgans is a fan of this mineral sands and rare earths company and has named it as a (speculative) buy with a 90 cents price target. This implies potential upside of 55% for investors from current levels. It commented:

    ATR’s flagship Donald Project is shovel-ready and on track for a Phase 1 FID in the Sept-Q 2026, with project financing and HMC offtake the final gating items. A newly released Phase 2 study and JV partner Energy Fuels’ rapid US rare earth processing build-out reinforce the long-term upside of this high-quality, ex-China critical minerals developer. Maintain SPECULATIVE BUY rating with a A$0.90ps target price.

    Baby Bunting Group Ltd (ASX: BBN)

    The broker thinks a compelling entry point has arrived for investors to accumulate this baby products retailer’s shares. It has a price target of $1.70 on its shares, which implies potential upside of 20% for investors from current levels.

    Morgans believes at under 9x earnings, this ASX share looks good value. It said:

    BBN reported a weaker than expected trading update, downgrading its pro-forma NPAT by ~11% at the midpoint of guidance. The downgrade was driven by softer sales, particularly in the 4Q, and increased supply chain costs. Our price target lowers to $1.70 (from $1.79), and we maintain our ACCUMULATE rating. Despite a softer consumer environment, we see the strength of the refurbished store program likely to underpin earnings growth in FY27. Trading at <9x PE, we see the current price as a compelling entry point to accumulate.

    Tasmea Ltd (ASX: TEA)

    Morgans has downgraded this specialist maintenance services provider’s shares to an accumulate rating with a $9.80 price target (offering 5% upside). It made the move after the ASX share recorded very strong gains over the past month. The broker adds:

    Hot-on-the-heels of the Maxim acquisition announced earlier this month, TEA has entered into an agreement to acquire JPS Group, a specialist integrated services provider to [the] energy sector, for $50m upfront (5x FY26 EBIT) or up to $75 million inclusive of all earn-outs (7.5x FY26 EBIT or just 6.2x $12m maintainable EBIT).

    This adds scale and an important growth lever to the underperforming Mechanical division, with JPS expected to double revenue by FY29. For the base business, FY26 guidance of $117m EBIT and $72.5m NPAT has been reiterated. We increase our EPS forecasts by +5-6% in FY27 and FY28. Our target price rises in line with our earnings forecasts to $9.80 (from $9.15).

    The post Morgans says these ASX shares could rise 5%, 20%, and 55% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Astron 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 Astron 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 16 June 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 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.

  • Lendlease shares jump 6% after $525 million deal. Is the worst over?

    A view through a glass wall into a board room where people are sitting in chairs around a long table, some with their backs to the front of the picture, others racing the front.

    Lendlease Group (ASX: LLC) shares are in demand on Thursday after the ASX-listed property group announced another major divestment.

    At the time of writing, the Lendlease share price is up 5.84% to $3.08.

    That adds to a better recent run for the ASX real estate stock, which has now climbed almost 10% over the past month.

    However, shareholders are still sitting on some heavy losses in 2026. Lendlease shares remain down about 40% since the start of the year, showing just how much pressure the stock has been under.

    Here’s what the company told the market today.

    Lendlease sells Keyton stake

    According to the release, Lendlease is selling its remaining interest in the Keyton Retirement Living Trust.

    Current co-investor Aware Super will acquire Lendlease’s 25.1% interest for $525 million, with the net proceeds to be used to reduce group debt.

    The deal is in line with the company’s half-year 2026 book value and remains subject to conditions, including regulatory approvals.

    Lendlease is targeting completion in the first half of FY27.

    Keyton is a retirement living business, and the sale adds another piece to Lendlease’s plan to simplify the group and recycle capital out of its non-core assets.

    That has been a major focus for Lendlease as it works through its turnaround. Over the past year, sentiment has been weighed down by debt concerns, asset sales, and earnings pressure.

    More capital recycling

    The latest deal adds to a growing list of moves from Lendlease’s Capital Release Unit (CRU).

    The company said it has now announced or completed more than $3.4 billion of capital recycling transactions since its May 2024 strategy update.

    That includes asset sales across Australian communities, US military housing, international land and inventory, retail and office interests, and other holdings.

    Management said the “focus remains on balancing value realisation with speed of execution.”

    Can the recovery continue?

    Today’s gain is a welcome change for Lendlease shareholders, but it doesn’t erase what has been a brutal year.

    The stock is still down around 40% since the start of 2026, so the market is unlikely to get carried away on one deal.

    The $525 million Keyton sale gives Lendlease more cash to reduce debt and keeps its capital recycling plan moving.

    But there’s still a lot of work to do. The company needs to keep completing asset sales, bring debt down further, and avoid selling assets too cheaply.

    Until that happens, the Lendlease share price could move sideways from here.

    The post Lendlease shares jump 6% after $525 million deal. Is the worst over? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Lendlease Group 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 Lendlease Group 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 16 June 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.