• How investing $50 a day into ASX shares could become $1 million faster than you think

    Green stock market graph with a rising arrow symbolising a rising share price.

    The potential of assets to grow our wealth over the long term becomes increasingly powerful as the numbers compound. Putting money towards ASX shares each day, week, or month could make a huge difference to how much wealth we have in the coming years.

    How much do we need to invest to become wealthy? Depends on how wealthy you want to be and how long you have to achieve that goal.

    It’d be great to invest $100,000 every year, but not many households have a financial picture like that.

    For Aussies serious about building wealth, reaching $1 million will require significant effort, choices, and patience. It’ll require attention on the expenses and/or income side of things.

    I’m going to show how putting $50 per day into an ASX share portfolio can deliver results. But investing more or less than that would also be a worthwhile thing to do, depending on a household’s finances.

    Investing $50 per day into ASX shares

    I’m not suggesting that Aussies make an investment every single day. Doing so once a month or so would probably be a good call. If someone saved $50 per day for 30 days, that would be $1,500. I’d suggest around $1,000 would be a bare minimum because that could help minimise brokerage costs.

    Over a year, saving $50 per day would translate into investing $18,250. Again, I’ll point out that investing $5,000, $10,000, or $25,000 over a year would also be a great thing to do for our finances. But I’ll show how $50 per day can develop.

    I’d need a working crystal ball to know how good the returns are going to be in the coming years.

    Past performance is not a guarantee, or even a reliable indicator, of future returns. But it shows the types of returns an investment can produce.

    The ASX share market – which I think the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) is a good proxy for – has returned an average of 10% per year over the ultra-long-term. If someone invested $50 per day and earned an average of 10% per year, it would grow to $1 million after 20 years.

    The global share market could be a better place to invest for long-term returns because of the earnings growth potential and the strength of the businesses involved. I like the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) as a way to invest in the global share market – it has returned an average of 13.4% per year over the past decade. Investing $50 per day would grow to $1 million in 17 years at that pace.

    I think there are plenty of investments that could outperform these two over time, which is what I look for.

    The post How investing $50 a day into ASX shares could become $1 million faster than you think appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF right now?

    Before you buy Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares 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 Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares 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 20 Feb 2026

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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 recommended Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF. 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

    Lines of codes and graphs in the background with woman looking at laptop trying to understand the data.

    Well, it was about as bad a start to a trading week as can possibly be for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and most ASX shares this Monday. After a rough week last week, investors returned to the ASX boards in sheer panic today.

    Thanks largely to shocks on global energy markets rolling through the world’s economy, investors hit the sell button hard this session, sending the ASX 200 down by a horrific 2.85%. That leaves the index at just 8,599 points after it finished at 8,851 points last Friday.

    This depressing start to the Australian trading week comes after a tough end to the American week on Saturday morning (our time).

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) suffered a sizeable drop of 0.95%.

    The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was hit even harder, falling by 1.59%.

    But let’s grit our teeth and return to this week and our local markets now for an autopsy of the various ASX sectors performance this Monday.

    Winners and losers

    There was only one sector that prospered in today’s sea of red. No prizes for guessing this one, but first, the losers.

    Leading the sell-off this session were gold shares. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) continued last week’s pessimism this Monday, crashing by another 5.18%.

    Broader mining stocks were also abandoned, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) tanking 4.82%.

    Tech shares were friendless, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) had a day to forget, tumbling 4.76%.

    Industrial stocks weren’t immune from a smashing either, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ)’s 3.65% plunge.

    Healthcare shares were no safe haven. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) suffered a 3.24% swing against it.

    Nor were real estate investment trusts (REITs), with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) retreating 2.36%.

    Consumer staples stocks couldn’t provide a safe harbour. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) dipped 2.21% this session.

    Its consumer discretionary counterpart wasn’t much better, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ)’s 2.18% loss.

    Financial stocks weighed on the market, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) was sent home 2.06% lighter this Monday.

    Communications shares also went backwards, with the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) sliding 1.89%.

    Our last losers were utilities stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) saw its value cut by 1.18% today.

    Finally, let’s get to our only green sector. If you guessed energy shares, you were on the money, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ)’s 1.65% lift.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    The best stock on the index this Monday was coal miner Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL). Yancoal shares made hay while the rain poured today, shooting 13.27% higher to $7.17 each.

    There wasn’t any news out from the company, but, as we’ve already established, energy shares were the port in today’s storm.

    Here’s the rest of today’s best:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) $7.17 13.27%
    Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) $2.00 10.19%
    Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC) $8.85 4.36%
    New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC)
    $5.18 2.78%
    Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) $7.64 2.41%
    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) $31.36 1.98%
    Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) $1.17 1.30%
    Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) $31.35 1.26%
    Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF) $9.39 0.21%
    Data#3 Ltd (ASX: DTL) $7.12 0.14%

    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.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Yancoal Australia Ltd right now?

    Before you buy Yancoal Australia 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 Yancoal Australia 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 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 recommended Collins Foods. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 3 ASX ETFs that could be massive winners by 2036

    Smiling couple sitting on a couch with laptops fist pump each other.

    Trying to predict the next big individual stock is incredibly difficult. Even the most promising companies can stumble over time.

    One way investors can tilt the odds in their favour is by focusing on powerful long-term trends instead. Exchange traded funds (ETFs) built around structural themes can capture entire industries that are expanding over time rather than relying on a single company.

    With that in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that could potentially be massive winners by 2036.

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

    The first ASX ETF that could be a big long-term winner is the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF.

    Automation is steadily reshaping how the global economy operates. From warehouse robots and autonomous vehicles to machine learning software and advanced manufacturing systems, businesses are increasingly relying on intelligent machines to boost productivity.

    This fund invests across the companies building this new infrastructure. Its holdings include Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), which supplies the high-performance chips powering artificial intelligence (AI) systems, Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG), a leader in robotic-assisted surgery, and Keyence, which develops advanced factory automation sensors.

    The interesting thing about automation is that its adoption often accelerates over time. As labour shortages, rising costs, and productivity demands increase, businesses have strong incentives to automate more processes.

    That dynamic could support strong growth across the robotics and AI ecosystem for many years. It is partly for this reason that the fund was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

    Global X Battery Tech & Lithium ETF (ASX: ACDC)

    Another ASX ETF that could become a major long-term winner is the Global X Battery Tech & Lithium ETF.

    The shift toward electrification is changing multiple industries simultaneously. Electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, and portable electronics all depend on advanced battery technology.

    This fund focuses on companies involved throughout the battery supply chain. This includes lithium producers such as Albemarle (NYSE: ALB), battery manufacturers like Contemporary Amperex Technology, and electric vehicle giant Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA).

    As countries push to decarbonise their economies, the demand for energy storage solutions is expected to rise significantly. Batteries will be central not only to electric transport but also to stabilising renewable-heavy electricity grids.

    If those trends continue to gather momentum, the companies enabling this transition could see strong growth over the next decade.

    This fund was recently recommended by analysts at Global X.

    Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

    A final ASX ETF that could still deliver impressive returns over the long term is the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF.

    Rather than focusing on a single theme, this fund provides exposure to a collection of companies that are driving the modern digital economy. The Nasdaq 100 index includes businesses involved in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, ecommerce, semiconductors, and software.

    Its holdings include companies such as Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), which provides the global infrastructure behind cloud computing, Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), whose devices form a massive consumer technology ecosystem, and Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), which sits at the centre of the AI computing boom.

    Importantly, the index evolves over time. New innovators enter the benchmark as industries change, allowing investors to remain exposed to emerging technology leaders.

    Over the long run, that adaptability has helped the Nasdaq 100 remain closely aligned with the companies shaping the future of the global economy.

    The post 3 ASX ETFs that could be massive winners by 2036 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Global X Battery Tech & Lithium ETF right now?

    Before you buy Global X Battery Tech & Lithium 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 Global X Battery Tech & Lithium 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Apple, BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, Intuitive Surgical, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Tesla and is short shares of Apple and BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. 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 positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Apple, Microsoft, and Nvidia. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Computershare shares fall to a 2-year low. Is this the bottom?

    Boxer falls down in the ring, indicating a share price performance low.

    The Computershare Ltd (ASX: CPU) share price has slipped to its lowest level in around 2 years.

    On Monday, shares in the financial admin company fell to $29.26, marking the stock’s weakest point since 2024.

    At the time of writing, the Computershare share price has recovered slightly to $29.60, though it remains down 3.30% for the day.

    The decline continues a difficult stretch for investors. Computershare shares are now down more than 13% since the start of 2026 and have fallen roughly 25% over the past 12 months.

    So, what could be behind the sell-off?

    Interest rate outlook may be weighing on sentiment

    One factor that often influences Computershare’s performance is the direction of global interest rates.

    The company generates a portion of its earnings from interest earned on client balances. When rates are higher, that income tends to rise. When rates begin to fall, the benefit can fade.

    In recent months, markets have increasingly priced in potential interest rate cuts across several major economies, including the United States.

    If rates move lower over time, it could reduce the tailwind that previously supported parts of Computershare’s earnings.

    That shift in expectations looks to be contributing to a more cautious view among investors.

    Market volatility also playing a role

    Broader market conditions could also be affecting sentiment.

    Equity markets have been volatile in recent weeks amid geopolitical tensions and uncertainty around the global economic outlook.

    During periods of market stress, investors often rotate away from stocks that previously performed strongly and toward more defensive areas.

    Computershare delivered strong returns in previous years, so some investors may now be locking in profits as the outlook becomes more uncertain.

    A business with global reach

    Despite the recent share price decline, Computershare remains one of the largest providers of shareholder services and corporate administration in the world.

    The company provides a range of services including share registry operations, corporate trust administration, employee share plan management, and mortgage servicing.

    Its clients include thousands of listed companies across markets such as Australia, the US, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

    Computershare’s global operations mean its earnings are influenced by several factors, including corporate activity, financial market conditions, and interest rate movements.

    Foolish takeaway

    The Computershare share price has fallen sharply over the past year and is now trading near a 2-year low.

    Shifting expectations around interest rates and broader market volatility may be weighing on sentiment in the near term.

    However, the company still operates a large global platform and generates significant recurring revenue from long-term client relationships.

    The key question now is whether the recent decline represents a temporary pullback or a continued downward trend.

    The post Computershare shares fall to a 2-year low. Is this the bottom? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Computershare 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 Computershare 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 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.

  • Why the CSL share price just hit a 9-year low

    Rede arrow on a stock market chart going down.

    The CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) share price has fallen to its lowest level in almost a decade.

    On Monday, shares in the biotech giant dropped to $140.93, marking the lowest level since December 2017.

    At the time of writing, the CSL share price has edged slightly higher to $141.30, though it remains down 3.40% for today.

    The decline caps off a difficult period for investors. CSL shares have now fallen more than 20% over the past month and are down roughly 45% over the past year.

    This makes it one of the weakest performers among ASX healthcare heavyweights.

    Investor sentiment turns bearish

    One major factor behind the weakness appears to be a major shift in investor sentiment.

    CSL was once widely viewed as one of the ASX’s most dependable growth companies. However, recent years have been more challenging. Earnings growth has slowed, and several operational pressures have weighed on the company’s outlook.

    Higher plasma collection costs, inflation across global operations, and changing demand patterns following the pandemic have all placed pressure on margins. These factors have made it harder for the company to deliver the strong earnings growth investors had become accustomed to.

    In addition, the recent departure of Chief Executive Paul McKenzie has added further uncertainty for investors. McKenzie stepped down in February after three years in the role.

    Share price now well below previous highs

    The current share price represents a significant fall from CSL’s previous peak.

    In August 2025, the company’s shares traded above $270. Since then, the stock has been trending steadily lower as investors reassess growth expectations for the biotech group.

    Technical indicators also highlight the extent of the decline. The chart shows CSL recently trading near the lower end of its Bollinger Bands, while the relative strength index (RSI) has moved into oversold territory.

    This suggests the stock has come under heavy selling pressure in recent weeks and highlights its weak momentum.

    Long-term fundamentals remain closely watched

    Despite the recent weakness, CSL remains one of Australia’s most globally recognised healthcare companies.

    Founded in Melbourne more than a century ago, the group operates across 3 major divisions: CSL Behring, CSL Seqirus, and CSL Vifor. Its therapies focus on areas such as plasma-derived medicines, vaccines, and treatments for rare diseases.

    Demand for plasma-based therapies continues to grow globally, driven by ageing populations and increasing diagnoses of chronic conditions.

    Foolish Takeaway

    CSL’s fall to a 9-year low shows how much investor sentiment has deteriorated toward the biotech giant.

    While the company still operates a large global healthcare business, investors are waiting for clearer signs that earnings growth is improving.

    With shares now trading at levels last seen in 2017, CSL has become one of the most closely watched healthcare stocks on the ASX.

    The post Why the CSL share price just hit a 9-year low 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.

  • Why almost every ASX sector is falling in today’s market sell-off

    Red line going down on an ASX market chart, symbolising a falling share price.

    The Australian share market is under heavy pressure on Monday as escalating geopolitical tensions shake investor confidence.

    At the time of writing, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down more than 4%, with almost every sector trading lower.

    The sell-off follows rising concerns about the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Oil prices have surged as the conflict threatens global energy supply.

    Let’s take a closer look at how each major sector of the ASX is performing today.

    Materials stocks lead the decline

    The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) is the worst-performing sector today, down 5.69%.

    Mining and commodity companies are highly sensitive to changes in the global economic outlook. Many of these stocks have been heavily sold as traders move to reduce risk during the broader market downturn.

    Technology shares tumble

    Technology stocks are also under significant pressure.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) has fallen 5.32%, making it one of the weakest sectors in today’s session.

    The sector includes a number of high-growth companies whose share prices have been volatile during recent market swings.

    Financials and industrials fall sharply

    The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) has dropped 3.95%.

    Australia’s major banks make up a large portion of the ASX 200, and heavy selling in the sector is adding to the broader market decline.

    Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) is down 4.34%.

    This sector includes transport operators, infrastructure companies, and engineering businesses that are closely tied to economic activity.

    Healthcare and property under pressure

    The S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) has declined 3.38%.

    Several large healthcare names have already experienced a difficult year, and the sector is continuing to track lower today.

    Property stocks are also sliding. The S&P/ASX 200 Real Estate Index (ASX: XRE) has fallen 4.30% as investors reassess interest rates and economic growth outlooks.

    Consumer sectors retreat

    Consumer-facing sectors are also in the red today.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) has dropped 3.35%, with retail and other consumer businesses retreating during the broader market sell-off.

    Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) is down 2.66%.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) has slipped 2.51%, while the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) is down 1.59%.

    Energy stands out as the only winner

    The one sector holding up today is energy.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) is up about 0.9% after oil prices surged to around US$109 per barrel.

    Higher oil prices are supporting Australian oil and gas producers, helping the sector outperform the rest of the market during today’s sell-off.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Today’s trading session highlights how broadly the market is being affected, with almost every ASX sector moving lower at the same time.

    Energy stocks are the only major area of strength as rising oil prices support the sector while the rest of the market trades lower.

    The post Why almost every ASX sector is falling in today’s market sell-off 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 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.

  • Nosedive: Why did Qantas shares crash 9% today?

    A man stands before a chalk board with line drawings of paper planes with various curling flight trajectories and paths.

    It’s turning into a horrid day for the Australian share market and most ASX shares this Monday. At the time of writing, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has plunged by a horrendous 4.2% and is now under 8,500 points. If this continues, the ASX 200 is in for its worst day since the 2020 COVID crash. But let’s talk about what’s happening with Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN) shares.

    Qantas shares are faring even worse than the broader market today. The ASX 200 airline and travel stock closed at $8.92 a share on Friday afternoon. But this morning, those same shares opened at just $8.11, an awful 9.08% down from where Qantas closed last week.

    At the time of writing, the selling has eased, but Qantas remains down a nasty 5.7% at $8.41 a share.

    So why are investors punishing the Flying Kangaroo so severely today, compared with the broader market?

    Why are Qantas shares nosediving on Monday?

    Unfortunately for Qantas shareholders, today’s punishing sell-off of the airline’s shares is probably due to the nature of the company. As an airliner, Qantas is one of the ASX 200’s most sensitive stocks when it comes to oil prices. Fuel is the company’s single-largest balance sheet cost. To illustrate, fuel costs for Qantas’ 2025 financial year came in at $2.61 billion, making up more than a quarter of the company’s total costs ($10.23 billion).

    These fuel costs are directly tied to the global price of crude oil. Unfortunately for Qantas, oil has exploded higher over the weekend, thanks to the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz, itself a consequence of the US-Iran War.

    As we covered this morning, Brent crude was going for US$82 a barrel at the end of last week. Today, that same barrel is almost at US$110. That’s the highest we’ve seen oil at since the spike caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine in early 2022.

    If the current situation in the Middle East continues to deteriorate, Qantas’ fuel costs are set to skyrocket. That’s at the same time that global flights are in chaos thanks to attacks on or near popular Middle East airports in Dubai, Doha, and other Gulf states.

    So investors have a plethora of potential negative impacts on Qantas’ business model to digest today. As such, it’s not too surprising to see such a visceral reaction in the Qantas share price this session. Let’s see how the rest of the week unfolds and how it impacts this ASX 200 travel stock.

    The post Nosedive: Why did Qantas shares crash 9% today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Qantas Airways 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 Qantas Airways 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 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.

  • Woodside shares edge higher as Meg O’Neill prepares to take the top job at BP

    View of a business man's hand passing a $100 note to another with a bank in the background.

    The Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price is moving slightly higher on Monday.

    At the time of writing, Woodside shares are up 1.01% to $31.06.

    The move comes as investors continue to reflect on the departure of former Chief Executive Meg O’Neill. She is preparing to take the top job at global energy giant BP plc (LON: BP).

    Here’s what investors need to know.

    Meg O’Neill’s potential pay package revealed

    According to media reports, O’Neill could receive a pay package worth 11.7 million pounds (about $22 million) when she becomes BP’s Chief Executive.

    The package reportedly includes a base salary of 1.6 million pounds, along with restricted share awards worth around 8.3 million pounds.

    She may also receive performance-based incentives worth about 1.8 million pounds, with the compensation tied to company performance targets over the coming years.

    A large portion of the package is designed to replace remuneration she forfeited when leaving Woodside.

    Reports indicate more than 85% of the awards will be delivered in shares, aligning O’Neill’s interests with BP shareholders.

    The incentives are expected to vest over the coming years.

    From Woodside to global oil major

    O’Neill served as Woodside’s Chief Executive from 2021 until late 2025.

    She joined the company in 2018 after previously holding senior leadership roles at ExxonMobil.

    During her time as CEO, Woodside completed the merger with BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)’s petroleum business, creating one of the largest independent oil and gas producers listed on the ASX.

    The company also advanced major developments, including the Scarborough gas project and Pluto Train 2, which are expected to support Woodside’s future production growth.

    O’Neill stepped down from the role after being appointed as BP’s next Chief Executive.

    She is expected to formally take over leadership of the 117-year-old energy giant in April 2026, becoming the first woman to lead the company.

    Woodside continues leadership transition

    Following O’Neill’s departure, Woodside appointed Liz Westcott as acting Chief Executive while the board conducts a global search for a permanent replacement.

    Westcott joined Woodside in 2023 and previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Australian operations.

    The company has indicated it will consider both internal and external candidates as part of the selection process.

    Woodside has stated its aim is to appoint a permanent Chief Executive during 2026.

    Oil market tensions remain in focus

    Beyond the leadership transition, investors are also watching developments in global energy markets.

    Oil prices have risen in recent weeks as tensions escalate in the Middle East following the conflict involving the United States and Iran.

    Higher crude prices have been supporting earnings for Woodside and other major oil producers across the sector.

    As a result, the Woodside share price has surged around 30% year to date.

    The post Woodside shares edge higher as Meg O’Neill prepares to take the top job at BP appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Woodside Petroleum 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 Petroleum 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 recommended BP. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 3 blue chip ASX 200 shares I’d happily buy and hold through the next decade

    A group of people in suits watch as a man puts his hand up to take the opportunity.

    One of the biggest mistakes investors can make is assuming that blue chip shares are boring.

    They may not deliver the explosive short-term gains sometimes seen with small caps, but the right blue-chip ASX 200 share can quietly build enormous wealth over time.

    This is because they tend to dominate their industries, generate strong cash flows, and reinvest heavily to stay ahead.

    On the ASX 200, there are a number of shares that have demonstrated this ability repeatedly. Here are three blue chip shares that stand out as long-term compounders.

    ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD)

    The first blue chip ASX 200 share that could be a buy is ResMed.

    At first glance, ResMed looks like a medical device manufacturer selling sleep apnoea machines. But there’s more to it than just that. Each device connects patients, doctors, and healthcare providers through a growing digital health platform.

    This network effect is quietly strengthening the business. Every new device adds another patient to ResMed’s ecosystem, increasing the value of its software tools for clinicians and insurers.

    With sleep apnoea still massively underdiagnosed globally, the runway for growth remains long. Millions of people who need treatment are yet to be identified, which gives ResMed years of potential expansion ahead.

    That combination of recurring device sales, software revenue, and expanding healthcare demand is what could make ResMed such a powerful long-term blue chip.

    Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

    Another blue chip ASX 200 share that deserves attention is Goodman Group.

    Many investors still think of Goodman as a property developer. In reality, it has become one of the world’s most important providers of logistics and data infrastructure.

    The company owns and develops warehouses, distribution hubs, and increasingly data centre facilities located near major cities. These assets sit at the heart of modern commerce.

    Every time a package is delivered from an online retailer or data is processed in the cloud, infrastructure like Goodman’s is often involved somewhere in the chain.

    The company also partners with global institutional investors to fund these developments, allowing it to expand while generating steady management and development income.

    As ecommerce, cloud computing, and data consumption continue to grow, demand for this type of infrastructure is unlikely to slow.

    Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG)

    A final blue chip ASX 200 share worth considering is Macquarie Group.

    Macquarie has built a reputation as one of Australia’s most globally successful financial institutions. Over the past two decades it has transformed itself from a domestic investment bank into a global infrastructure and asset management powerhouse.

    The company now manages and invests in assets ranging from airports and renewable energy projects to data centres and telecommunications infrastructure.

    What makes Macquarie particularly interesting is its ability to identify emerging investment themes early. Whether it was infrastructure decades ago or renewable energy more recently, the company has consistently positioned itself ahead of major capital flows.

    That adaptability has allowed Macquarie to grow earnings across multiple economic cycles while continuing to reward shareholders with rising dividends.

    The post 3 blue chip ASX 200 shares I’d happily buy and hold through the next decade appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Goodman 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 Goodman 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Goodman Group and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goodman Group, Macquarie Group, and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Goodman Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Buy, hold, sell: Whitehaven Coal, Goodman, and Xero shares

    A female ASX investor looks through a magnifying glass that enlarges her eye and holds her hand to her face with her mouth open as if looking at something of great interest or surprise.

    Looking for ASX shares to buy after the market selloff?

    Well, let’s see what analysts are saying about these popular shares, courtesy of The Bull.

    Are they buys, holds, or sells? Let’s find out:

    Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

    The team at Red Leaf Securities thinks there are limited short-term catalysts that could drive this industrial property company’s shares higher. As a result, it has put a hold rating on its shares this week.

    The investment company thinks investors should wait for a better entry point before buying shares. It said:

    Goodman Group offers high quality exposure to industrial property and data infrastructure globally. Structural tailwinds from e-commerce logistics and data centres support long term growth, while development margins remain robust. The capital management platform provides recurring earnings visibility.

    However, after a share price recovery, the valuation was recently stretched relative to near term earnings, and higher interest rates and construction costs temper development returns. The long term growth story is intact, but short term catalysts are limited, in our view. Existing investors can consider holding for now, while new entrants may wait for a more attractive entry point.

    Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC)

    The team at EnviroInvest has put a sell rating on the shares of coal miner Whitehaven Coal.

    It wasn’t impressed with its performance in the first half and highlights that its earnings are leveraged to a commodity that is facing long term demand erosion. It explains:

    Revenue of $2.5 billion in the first half of fiscal year 2026 was down from $3.4 billion in the prior corresponding period, reflecting a fall in average realised prices. Underlying EBITDA of $446 million was down from $960 million.

    The company reported an underlying net loss after tax of $19 million, despite moderately lower costs of $135 a tonne compared to the prior corresponding period. While markets may tighten cyclically, global decarbonisation targets and a capital flight from thermal coal remain structural risks. In my view, earnings are leveraged to a commodity facing long term demand erosion.

    Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

    Analysts at Red Leaf Securities are more positive on this one. They have put a buy rating on Xero shares following a recent selloff.

    The investment company highlights that the cloud accounting platform provider still has a long growth runway and believes artificial intelligence (AI) will enhance its offering, not disrupt it. It explains:

    This accounting software provider has been sold off, but fundamentals remain strong. Its capital light, subscription based model provides recurring revenue, pricing power and operating leverage. Subscriber growth in Australia, New Zealand and the UK is resilient amid expanding margins through improving cost discipline. The US market remains under-penetrated, offering options over the long term.

    Artificial intelligence is likely to enhance Xero’s product suite, improving workflow automation and stickiness rather than disrupting revenue. Recently trading below prior multiples, the risk/reward is attractive for long term investors. This is a profitable, global software platform with scale, and current weakness presents an accumulation opportunity for those looking beyond short term sentiment.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Whitehaven Coal, Goodman, and Xero shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Goodman 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 Goodman 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Goodman Group and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goodman Group and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Goodman Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.