Author: openjargon

The Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) share price is on the move on Tuesday morning.

At the time of writing, the banking giant’s shares are up almost 1% to $38.82.

This follows the release of its half-year results before the market open.

Westpac share price higher on results day

For the six months ended 31 March, Westpac reported a 2% decline in revenue over the previous half to $11.3 billion.

This reflects a 3% decline in non-interest income due to lower fee income and a decrease in Markets revenue, combined with a 1% decline in net interest income. The latter was driven by a 6-basis points decline in its net interest margin, which more than offset an increase in average interest earning assets.

Management advised that lending competition, the impact of timing differences related to interest rate changes, and weaker Treasury performance contributed to its contraction in net interest margin.

However, Westpac was able to reduce its expenses by 6% to $5.8 billion during the half, which underpinned a 4% increase in pre-provision profit to $5.5 billion.

This ultimately led to Australia’s oldest bank reporting a statutory net profit of $3.4 billion (down 5% from the previous half) and net profit excluding notable items of $3.5 billion (down 1%).

Despite the profit decline, the Westpac board elected to declare a fully franked interim dividend of 77 cents per share. This is flat on the previous half and up 1.3% on last year’s interim dividend and represents a payout ratio of 77.1%.

What happened during the half?

It was a strong half operationally. Business lending was up 13% to $120 billion and institutional lending grew 23% to $131 billion.

Elsewhere, customer deposits lifted 8% to $379 billion, business deposits climbed 5% to $156 billion, and institutional deposits grew 12% to $137 billion.

Westpac also provided an update on its Unite strategy. It revealed that of its 57 planned initiatives, it has completed 8. This includes completing the customer migration from Asgard to Panorama.

Commenting on its performance, Westpac’s CEO, Anthony Miller, said:

This half, we’ve delivered solid operating momentum while investing for the future. Our strong balance sheet and disciplined focus will allow us to support customers through global uncertainty. Westpac is well positioned to deal with the impacts of ongoing conflict. Our role is to stay close to customers, back them through current challenges and make sure help is there when it’s needed. While our customers are resilient and stress levels have declined, we’ve taken a prudent approach and increased our provisions.

Growth is solid across lending and deposits, with several highlights. We grew Australian mortgages, excluding RAMS, in the half at 1.2x system, with the proportion of new first party lending increasing. We are supporting Australian businesses with lending up across both business and institutional over the past year. At the same time we are managing costs, which are down from the prior half.

Outlook

Miller warned that the war in the Middle East is presenting challenges. He said:

The war in the Middle East is presenting challenges for some customers and the economic impact of the conflict will continue through the year. The disruption to energy supply chains has driven a rise in prices and we’re seeing this flow through to businesses and households, with some sectors more affected than others.

The post Westpac share price rises on $3.5bn first-half profit appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday
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• What happened with ASX 200 banks stocks NAB and CBA in April?

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.

The ALS Ltd (ASX: ALQ) share price is in focus today after the company reported a recent cyber security incident that temporarily disrupted some of its global operations.

What did ALS report?

• Identified malicious cyber activity with unauthorised third-party access to certain IT systems
• Temporary disruption occurred in parts of operations, but vast majority now operational
• Containment and remediation underway with the support of external cyber response experts
• Australian Cyber Security Centre and other relevant bodies notified
• Investigation ongoing to determine extent and impact on data

What else do investors need to know?

ALS moved quickly after detecting the breach, working alongside external cyber security specialists to minimise risk and restore services. The company says most operations are now back online, with targeted efforts continuing where needed.

Continuous updates will be provided for clients, government agencies, and stakeholders as the investigation unfolds. ALS is cooperating fully with authorities and remains committed to transparency throughout the process.

What’s next for ALS?

ALS says it is focused on fully understanding the incident’s impact and strengthening its cyber defences. The company is working towards comprehensive remediation in affected areas and will keep stakeholders informed as efforts progress.

Ongoing investment in IT security and incident response protocols remains a priority to protect client and company data. Investors can expect further updates as more details emerge from the investigation.

ALS share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, ALS shares have risen 25%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post ALS reports cyber security incident impacting operations appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart 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 article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX consumer discretionary stocks have been among the worst-performing in 2026. 

The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) is down 14% year to date, compared to a flat S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO). 

Interest rates, inflation, and geopolitical conflict have all weighed on consumer sentiment, as investors have pushed towards safe-haven assets this year. 

These economic factors have all been headwinds for the sector this year.

However, there are now pockets of value appearing in a struggling sector. 

One such consumer discretionary stock is Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE). 

The team at Bell Potter have identified this consumer discretionary stock as one with upside. 

Company overview 

Eagers Automotive is the largest automotive retailing group in the Australian market.

The company’s core business involves the ownership and operation of motor vehicle dealerships covering a diversified portfolio of automotive brands. Its product and service offerings include the sale of new and used vehicles, vehicle repair services, and parts, among others.

The company also facilitates vehicle financing through third-party providers.

Its share price has stayed relatively flat in 2026, showing some resilience compared to other consumer discretionary stocks. 

Bell Potter recently increased its price target on the company, following the completion of its strategic investment in CanadaOne Auto, effective 30th April.

Here’s what the broker had to say. 

Updated view

Eagers Automotive has completed its strategic investment in CanadaOne Auto as of April 30. 

The company also announced that Pat Priestner, the founder of CanadaOne Auto, has exercised an option to acquire a 5% stake in easyauto123.

The only change to forecasts is related to timing. 

Analysts had previously assumed the investment would begin contributing from the end of March, but it instead started at the end of April. 

As a result, 2026 revenue and profit forecasts have been reduced by about 3%. There are no changes to the underlying business outlook in either Australia or Canada, and forecasts for 2027, 2028, and dividends remain essentially unchanged.

Price target increases

Following the update, the team at Bell Potter increased the target price to $29.25 (previously $28.50).

The broker has also maintained its buy recommendation.

From yesterday’s closing price of $24.57, this updated price target indicates an upside potential of nearly 20%. 

Potential drivers for the share price include strong sales from BYD, a recovery in Toyota sales in Australia, possible acquisitions in Canada following the completed investment, and a solid first-half result expected in August.

The post Why this consumer discretionary stock is poised for a 20% rise appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
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Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell 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 Eagers Automotive Ltd. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

ASX small caps come with heightened risk, but increased upside compared to blue-chip shares.

However some investors may choose to allocate some portion of their portfolio to these kinds of equities. 

If you are looking to monitor small-caps, these two recently received updated guidance from brokers.

Here’s what the experts are predicting. 

Aroa Biosurgery Ltd (ASX: ARX)

Aroa Biosurgery is a New Zealand-based biomedical company specialising in  soft tissue regeneration. It develops, manufactures, and distributes medical and surgical products to improve the healing of complex wounds and soft tissue reconstruction.

The team at Morgans has provided updated guidance on the company following its FY26 preliminary results. 

The broker highlighted that the company upgraded FY26 revenue and EBITDA guidance. 

We have revised our forecasts in line with guidance and increased our risk free rate (house view) which results in a small downgrade to our DCF valuation to A$0.77 (was $0.79). ARX will release its FY26 results on 26 May which will include FY27 guidance. The market will focus on revenue growth (MorgansF sit at 15%) and commentary around the continuing momentum with Myriad and SymphonyTM. We maintain our BUY recommendation with investor sentiment towards the name improving.

This price target from Morgans indicates an upside potential of 20%. 

Titomic Ltd (ASX: TTT)

Another ASX small-cap drawing positive outlooks is Titomic. 

It’s TKF technology provides capabilities for producing commercially viable additively manufactured metal products competing directly with traditional manufacturing methods. The company serves to the aerospace, defence, sporting goods, medical, automotive, industrial equipment, construction and marine.

It recently received a reiterated buy recommendation from Bell Potter following its quarterly activities report. 

The broker was impressed with the fact that during the March 2026 quarter, the company progressed on a number of process qualification, commercial and leadership fronts.

Looking ahead, TTT is engaged with several tier one aerospace and defence prime contractors for qualification ahead of the potential for initial production agreements. Applications include engine components, pressure vessel, heat-shielding for hypersonics and maintenance work.

Bell Potter is optimistic on this ASX small-cap thanks to its competitive advantage. 

TTT’s TKFtechnology has several advantages over traditional casting and forging manufacturing process including shorter lead-times and production cycles and improved material properties.

The broker currently has a 50 cent price target on this ASX small-cap, which indicates an upside potential of more than 80% from the current share price hovering around 27 cents per share.

The post Are these ASX small-caps too cheap to ignore? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell 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.

The Lottery Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLC) share price is in focus today as the company announced a 40-year extension of its Victorian Public Lottery Licence, a major win securing the business until 2068. This extension significantly strengthens the risks profile of its Lotteries business and supports future shareholder returns.

What did Lottery Corporation report?

• Secured 40-year extension for the Victorian Public Lottery Licence, now expiring 30 June 2068
• $1,145 million upfront premium payment for the licence, fully funded by new and existing debt
• No major lottery licence renewal required until 2050 (NSW)
• Dividend policy changing from 80–100% of NPAT to 80–100% of NPATA from FY27
• Pro forma leverage expected at upper end of 3–4x target range following payment

What else do investors need to know?

Lottery Corporation has held the Victorian licence since 1954, traditionally in 10-year increments. This early 40-year extension aligns the term with major state licences elsewhere in Australia, providing long-term security for the company’s national lotteries footprint.

The payment for the extension will be made in two instalments from existing cash and new debt, and the company is confident it will retain a strong investment-grade credit rating. Small business lottery retailers in Victoria will benefit from a 10-year extension of retail agreements and updates to their systems, further strengthening the retail network.

What did Lottery Corporation management say?

CEO Wayne Pickup, said:

The Lottery Corporation is delighted to have agreed an extension of the Public Lottery Licence with the State, securing our future in Victoria through to 2068. The 40-year extension strengthens our national licence portfolio and will help shape the next chapter of the Company’s growth. The longer term extension also significantly lowers the risk profile of the business and secures our position as the national lottery operator, with our next major lottery licence renewal now not until 2050.

Typically, almost one in two adult Victorians play our lottery games each year – some of which are among Australia’s most recognised and iconic brands. Today’s licence extension allows The Lottery Corporation to continue to responsibly deliver safe, engaging and sustainable entertainment to Victorians for many years to come, while supporting a vibrant lottery retail network underpinned by small businesses, and generating material lottery duty revenue to fund state and community services.

What’s next for Lottery Corporation?

Looking ahead, Lottery Corporation plans to maintain steady operations under its expanded long-term licence footprint. The upcoming change to a more cash-based dividend payout ratio is designed to provide shareholders with consistent, reliable returns while keeping leverage in check.

The company will also explore long-term debt funding and continue to focus on strengthening its product range and retail network, taking advantage of the security and certainty delivered by the Victorian licence extension.

Lottery Corporation share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Lottery Corporation shares have risen 5%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Lottery Corporation secures 40-year Victorian lottery licence extension appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart 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 The Lottery Corporation. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended The Lottery Corporation. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV) shares have had a tough year.

Following another decline on Monday, this ASX 200 stock is now down by a disappointing 21% since this time last year.

Let’s see if Bell Potter thinks this could be an opportunity to buy the Dan Murphy’s owner’s shares.

What is the broker saying about this ASX 200 stock?

Bell Potter highlights that an update this week reveals that consumer sentiment is hitting the drinks giant’s growth. It said:

Retail: Sales rose 2.9% YoY in 3Q26 (weeks 28-40) to $2,398m. HTD (weeks 28-43) growth was 0.7%. In the prior period, Easter fell in Week 42, outside of the third quarter. EDV noted consumer demand remains subdued outside of key events. Retail continued to gain share in a competitive market, the Easter holiday trading period delivered an increase in Retail sales compared to Easter in the previous year, with significant promotional activity.

Hotels: 3Q26 growth of 3.7% ($531m) maintained through the HTD period, despite momentum softening in March across food, bar and gaming due to cost-of-living pressures. Notwithstanding a record trading result on ANZAC Day, sales growth across March and April was 1.5% YoY, tracking below our full year estimate of 4.3%.

The broker also highlights that the ASX 200 stock is increasing its inventory cover for fast-moving lines in response to the Middle East conflict. This is expected to impact costs and margins. It adds:

EDV is increasing inventory cover for fast-moving lines by up to $400m to mitigate supply chain risks, funded via short-term debt. Elevated fuel and freight prices are expected to increase FY26 costs by $6-8m, primarily impacting Retail gross margins.

Should you buy Endeavour’s shares?

Despite the tough trading conditions, Bell Potter believes this could be an ASX 200 stock to buy right now.

In response to the update, the broker has retained its buy rating with a trimmed price target of $3.85 (from $4.15). Based on its current share price of $3.29, this implies potential upside of 17% for investors over the next 12 months.

In addition, a fully franked 4.6% dividend yield is expected over the period. This boosts the total potential return beyond 21%.

Commenting on its buy recommendation, Bell Potter said:

We retain our Buy rating. Although the outlook for consumer spending has weakened due to the Middle East conflict and a worsening rate environment, we believe market expectations are low for the company’s strategic refresh, leaving greater room for upside potential. We see opportunity for consensus upgrades: a strengthening of Dan Murphy’s lowest-price perception; and cost-out opportunities.

The post Down 21%: Why Dan Murphy’s owner could be an ASX 200 stock to buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

The Nextdc Ltd (ASX: NXT) share price is in focus today as the company announced it has secured A$1.8 billion in new senior debt facilities, taking its available senior debt to A$8.2 billion and boosting estimated pro forma liquidity to A$8.4 billion.

What did NEXTDC report?

• Secured A$1.8 billion in new senior debt commitments from domestic and international banks
• Total available senior debt facilities to rise from A$6.4 billion to A$8.2 billion
• Estimated pro forma 30 June 2026 liquidity (cash and undrawn facilities) increases to approximately A$8.4 billion
• Debt margins broadly in line with existing senior facilities
• Proceeds earmarked to fund recent contract wins and ongoing data centre development

What else do investors need to know?

NEXTDC’s new borrowing signals strong backing from both local and international banks, following record contracted utilisation updates and recent capital-raising efforts. These facilities will support the company’s growth plans, particularly expanding its data centre footprint in response to increased customer demand.

A general syndication process for the debt is about to begin, with financial close on track for July 2026, subject to the usual conditions. The company’s existing Common Terms Deed will govern the new facilities, offering consistency and predictability for both NEXTDC and its stakeholders.

What’s next for NEXTDC?

NEXTDC plans to apply the funds to capital expenditure for new and ongoing data centre projects, driven by recent large customer contract wins. The financing ensures robust liquidity and supports its growth ambitions, positioning the business to capitalise on Australia’s digital infrastructure boom.

Investors can expect the company to focus on operational excellence and sustainability as it strengthens its leadership in the data centre space. With liquidity levels set to reach new highs, NEXTDC says it’s well-placed for future expansion.

NEXTDC share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, NEXTDC shares have risen 13%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post NEXTDC secures $1.8bn in new senior debt to boost liquidity appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart 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 article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

Two ASX tech shares have been quietly climbing higher in recent weeks. Shares in NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT) are up 23% over the past month, while WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) has gained around 10%.

Even more interesting, brokers see significant upside ahead — in some cases as much as 165% over the next 12 months.

So, could now be the time to put $10,000 to work?

NextDC: Powering the digital boom

This roughly $10 billion ASX tech share sits at the heart of Australia’s digital infrastructure boom. As demand for cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data storage accelerates, the company’s network of data centres is becoming increasingly critical.

NextDC provides secure, high-performance facilities that allow businesses to store and process vast amounts of data. Its customer base includes major enterprises, cloud providers, and government agencies, many of which sign long-term contracts. This creates recurring revenue streams and a relatively stable earnings base.

The structural tailwinds are strong. AI workloads and cloud adoption are driving a step-change in data usage, and that plays directly into NextDC’s expansion plans. However, growth does not come cheaply. Data centres are capital-intensive, requiring significant upfront investment. This can weigh on short-term earnings and make the business sensitive to funding conditions.

Competition is another factor, as global players continue to invest heavily in the space.

Despite these risks, brokers remain upbeat. Consensus estimates point to an average 12-month price target of around $20.20, implying roughly 43% upside from current levels. At the bullish end, some forecasts suggest gains of up to 125%. Analysts at Citigroup recently retained a buy rating on the ASX tech share and lifted their price target to $19.10, signalling potential upside of about 35%.

WiseTech: Global leader in logistic software

Turning to WiseTech Global, the logistics software specialist has also endured volatility but continues to attract strong support from analysts.

WiseTech’s flagship CargoWise platform is deeply embedded in global supply chains, helping freight forwarders and logistics providers manage complex international operations. This integration creates high switching costs and supports recurring revenue growth.

The ASX tech share is also leaning into artificial intelligence, embedding it across its platform to improve automation, efficiency, and decision-making. If successful, this could enhance the value of its software and strengthen its competitive position.

Still, risks remain. Like many high-growth tech companies, WiseTech faces execution challenges as it scales, and any slowdown in global trade could impact demand.

Even so, broker sentiment remains firmly positive. Bell Potter has a buy rating and a $78.75 price target on the stock. Based on recent levels around $43.50, that implies 80% upside over the next year.

Across the market, the average price target for the ASX tech share sits near $77, suggesting around 75% upside. At the more bullish end, some forecasts climb as high as $115.85, pointing to potential gains of nearly 165%.

The post Got $10,000 to invest in May? Here are 2 ASX tech shares to buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Today, Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) and Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) announced a merger of equals via a scheme of arrangement, creating Australia’s third-largest primary ASX-listed gold producer. Key highlights include combined anticipated gold production of over 700,000 ounces per year and a pro forma market capitalisation of about $10.7 billion.

What did Regis and Vault report?

• Regis will acquire 100% of Vault shares via a scheme of arrangement, with Vault shareholders receiving 0.6947 Regis shares for each Vault share held
• Combined company forecast to produce more than 700,000 ounces of gold annually from five operating assets in Western Australia and Canada
• No drawn debt and pro forma cash and bullion holdings of $1.9 billion as at 31 March 2026
• Significant mineral endowment: 6.0 million ounces of Ore Reserves and 20.5 million ounces of Mineral Resources
• Expected annualised free cash flow of $1.7 billion and over $500 million in anticipated corporate tax benefits
• Regis and Vault shareholders will own circa 51% and 49% of the merged company respectively

What else do investors need to know?

The Vault board has unanimously recommended the scheme in the absence of a superior proposal and subject to an independent expert’s endorsement. Similarly, the Regis board has provided unanimous support, with both boards agreeing to reciprocal break fees of around $50.7 million, should the transaction not proceed under certain scenarios.

The merged group will be led by Jim Beyer as Managing Director and CEO, and Russell Clark as Non-Executive Chairman, with equal representation on the board from both companies. Shareholders can expect continuity on capital management policies, with both parties able to pay dividends before completion, leading to an adjustment in the share exchange ratio if necessary.

What did Regis management say?

Jim Beyer, Managing Director and CEO of Regis, said:

This merger creates Australia’s third largest primary ASX-listed gold producer, which demands global recognition. Combining our high-quality assets across five Western Australian operating hubs, we expect annual production exceeding 700,000 ounces from a combined Mineral Resource base of 20.5 million ounces. With a strong balance sheet, approximately A$1.9 billion in cash and bullion, and a compelling organic growth pipeline, including the McPhillamys development project and Sugar Zone, the combined company is exceptionally well-positioned to deliver long-term value and enhanced capital returns for our shareholders.

What’s next for Regis and Vault?

Both boards will now advance the merger process, with a Scheme Booklet setting out further details and an independent expert’s opinion expected to reach Vault shareholders in coming months. The indicative timetable targets implementation in August or September 2026, subject to shareholder approval, court and regulatory consents.

If approved, the group will focus on integrating operations, progressing organic growth projects, and looking to unlock cost synergies and improved capital efficiency across its expanded portfolio. The strong, debt-free balance sheet and enhanced scale are expected to support increased market relevance and shareholder value.

Regis and Vault share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Regis shares have risen 62%, meanwhile Vault shares are also 57% higher than a year ago. Both companies have strongly outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has increased just 7% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Regis and Vault to combine, creating new ASX gold powerhouse appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart 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 article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

As more quarterly reports roll in, brokers are quickly adjusting their outlooks on plenty of ASX shares. 

Two AS healthcare shares that just received fresh guidance from the team at Morgans are Epiminder Ltd (ASX: EPI) and Saluda Medical Inc (ASX: SLD). 

Both of these ASX healthcare shares have fallen significantly in 2026, down between 48% and 60%. 

However the team at Morgans is anticipating a bounce back for both. 

Here is what the broker had to say. 

Epiminder Ltd (ASX: EPI)

Epiminder develops the Minder system, a technology currently under evaluation that aims to improve epilepsy treatment by continuously recording brain activity data to reveal previously unseen epileptic episodes.

In 2026, the ASX healthcare stock has fallen nearly 50%. 

However following its recent quarterly activities report, the team at Morgans has reiterated its speculative buy recommendation. 

The broker said momentum is building, with 3QFY26 activity highlights improving execution. Morgans also highlighted DETECT enrolment and site activation now gaining traction following a slow start.

Since 1HFY26, EPI has expanded to 18 Tier-1 US centres and increased enrolled patients to 15 (from 3 in February), remaining on track to reach 25 this month. Cash burn was lower than expected, reflecting timing of site invoicing, while runway remains intact through CY28. We adjusted FY26-28 forecasts and lowered our DCF-based target price to A$2.23 mainly on risk-free rate adjustment.

Yesterday, Epiminder shares closed trading at 54 cents per share. 

From this price, the updated target from Morgans indicates an upside potential of more than 300%. 

Saluda Medical Inc (ASX: SLD)

Saluda Medical is an ASX healthcare commercial-stage medical device company focused on developing treatments for chronic neurological conditions using its novel neuromodulation platform.

Its share price is down nearly 60% year to date. 

However a fresh price target from Morgans indicates this could rebound significantly.  

The company also released a quarterly report last week. 

Morgans said the 3QFY26 activity continued to build on strong 1H performance, with accelerating US commercial momentum underpinning another revenue upgrade. 

The broker highlighted revenue growth of 13% QoQ to US$23.8m (+34% YoY), supported by strong growth in implanted patients (+55% YoY), active physicians and utilisation. 

We view the second consecutive guidance upgrade (now US$87m, +24% YoY) as evidence of improving visibility, with salesforce scaling and physician productivity continuing to trend ahead of expectations. We update FY26 forecasts in line with guidance, with our DCF-based target price lowered to A$2.94, mainly on FX and risk-free rate adjustments. SPECULATIVE BUY maintained.

This updated price target of $2.94 indicates an upside potential of 400%. 

The post Two ASX healthcare shares that could triple in the next year appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell 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.