Author: openjargon

If you are seeking big returns, then it could be worth checking out the ASX shares in this article.

That’s because the team at Bell Potter believes these shares could rise at least 90% over the next 12 months.

Here’s what the broker is recommending to clients:

Falcon Metals Ltd (ASX: FAL)

Bell Potter sees significant value in this gold explorer’s shares. In response to its latest drilling results, the broker has retained its speculative buy rating and $1.10 price target on the ASX share.

Based on its current share price of 36.5 cents, this suggests that upside of 201% is possible between now and this time next year.

Its analysts are very optimistic on Falcon Metals’ Blue Moon project in Victoria. They commented:

Blue Moon continues to shape as a potentially district-scale orogenic gold system, with these results defining a fifth mineralised zone with the system remaining open at depth and along strike. Each successive step-out has validated the geological model generated by FAL’s exploration team, which continues to identify additional stacked reefs where predicted, building our confidence in both the targeting and the scale on offer. 

Magnolia Zone does not form part of our Blue Moon NDS, offering valuation upside once the zone becomes derisked through further exploration. We maintain our Valuation of $1.10 and Speculative Buy recommendation.

Fenix Resources Ltd (ASX: FEX)

This iron ore miner’s shares could be deeply undervalued according to Bell Potter. In response to its fourth-quarter update, the broker has retained its buy rating on the ASX share with a trimmed price target of 54 cents.

Based on its current share price of 28 cents, this implies potential upside of approximately 93% for investors.

Bell Potter was pleased with its performance in the fourth quarter and is positive on the company’s production growth outlook. Commenting on its outlook, the broker said:

FEX’s FY27 guidance points to sales of 4.7-5.3Mt, up 14% YoY at the midpoint. Notably, C1 cash cost guidance is consistent with FY26 at A$70-80/t, demonstrating strong cost discipline during a highly inflationary environment.

FEX has outlined a clear pathway to incrementally grow iron ore production to 10Mtpa at significantly lower unit costs, leveraging its integrated logistics network to underpin cash flows and fund its substantial organic growth outlook. FEX holds the largest storage position at the strategic and fast-growing Geraldton Port.

The post Bell Potter says these ASX shares could rise 90% to 200% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 2 ASX shares highly recommended to buy: Experts
• How many Wesfarmers shares do I need to buy for $10,000 of passive income?
• Why I’d buy Qantas, Woolworths, and ResMed shares
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday
• BHP shares have tripled in the past 10 years. Could history repeat itself over the next decade?

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.

Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN), Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW), and ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD) shares are popular with Aussie investors.

It isn’t hard to see why. All three have strong market positions and well-known brands.

But could they be good investments today? I think they could. Here is why I would buy them.

Qantas shares

Airlines can make even confident investors nervous. Fuel prices, competition, economic conditions, weather, and operational problems can quickly disrupt forecasts. I would never approach Qantas shares expecting a perfectly smooth journey.

But the company still has advantages that would be extremely difficult for a new competitor to reproduce.

Its domestic network, airport slots, Qantas brand, Jetstar operations, and frequent flyer ecosystem have been built over decades. The loyalty division is especially appealing because it earns money through credit cards, retail partners, points, and travel rewards without depending entirely on ticket sales.

Fleet renewal could also reshape the business. Newer aircraft can improve fuel efficiency, reduce maintenance requirements, open new routes, and provide a better passenger experience. The investment bill will be substantial, but I think Qantas has a genuine opportunity to emerge with a more efficient and flexible fleet.

The sector will remain volatile, so I would keep my position sensible. Even so, I think the airline’s competitive position and range of earnings streams make Qantas shares worth buying.

Woolworths shares

Woolworths appeals to me for a completely different reason.

Groceries sit close to the centre of household spending. Customers may change brands, hunt harder for value, or reduce discretionary purchases, but they still need food and everyday essentials.

That dependable demand gives Woolworths a strong base.

The company also has more to work with than a large store network. Online shopping, loyalty data, automated distribution, delivery services, and personalised offers can all shape how Woolworths competes over the next decade.

I particularly like the potential of Everyday Rewards. A deeper understanding of customer behaviour can help Woolworths improve promotions, stock the right products, and build stronger relationships with shoppers.

Supermarket retail is intensely competitive, and the company must keep earning customer trust on price, availability, and service. Margins are also relatively thin, which means poor execution can have an outsized effect on profits. But I think it has a strong management team with the capabilities to deliver.

For me, Woolworths remains a leading Australian retailer with the scale and resources to improve, making the shares an attractive long-term buy.

ResMed shares

ResMed gives investors exposure to a healthcare need that remains far from fully addressed.

Millions of people live with sleep apnoea and other breathing disorders, while many remain undiagnosed or untreated. Better awareness, wider testing, and growing acceptance of home-based care could help ResMed reach many more patients.

Its relationship with customers can also continue well beyond the original device sale.

Patients need masks, replacement parts, monitoring, support, and software that helps them remain engaged with treatment. That recurring demand can make each new patient increasingly valuable over time.

Competition and changing treatment options deserve attention. However, ResMed has spent years building its brand, distribution, connected devices, and expertise in sleep health.

I think those strengths can support continued growth even as the treatment market evolves.

Foolish takeaway

I would buy Qantas, Woolworths, and ResMed because their long-term opportunities are supported by positions that have taken years to establish.

Each company still has work ahead of it, but with patient ownership and sensible position sizes, I think all three ASX shares could become more valuable over the years ahead.

The post Why I’d buy Qantas, Woolworths, and ResMed shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• How to build an ASX dividend portfolio that keeps paying you for decades
• Here’s the dividend forecast out to 2028 for Woolworths shares
• Experts say these ASX 200 shares have great potential
• Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy next week
• Coles vs. Woolworths. Which ASX consumer staples stock is the best buy?

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

On Tuesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fought back from a poor start to end the day flat a fraction higher at 8,793.3 points.

Will the market be able to push on from this on Wednesday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 to rise

The Australian share market looks set for a good session on Wednesday following a strong night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 22 points or 0.25% higher. In the United States, the Dow Jones rose 0.75%, the S&P 500 climbed 0.9%, and the Nasdaq stormed 1.3% higher.

Oil prices rise again

ASX 200 energy shares including Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have another good session on Wednesday after oil prices charged higher again overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 2.1% to US$84.99 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 2.6% to US$91.51 a barrel. Traders bid oil prices to five-week highs following reports of more US-Iran attacks.

Buy Hub24 shares 

Bell Potter sees lots of value in Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB) shares following the release of its quarterly update. This morning, the broker retained its buy rating and $110.00 price target on the investment platform provider’s shares. This implies potential upside of 35% for investors. It commented: “Our Buy recommendation is unchanged. Class is improving, with superannuation net inflows growing as a share, and boosting the result. The addition of retirement income streams (TAL) should support this trend and the result leaves FY27 target parts intact.”

Gold price rebounds

ASX 200 gold shares Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a good session on Wednesday after the gold price rebounded. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up 1.8% to US$4,088.5 an ounce. The precious metal climbed amid hopes that there could be a de-escalation in Middle East tensions.

Quarterly updates

There are a number of ASX 200 shares that are scheduled to release quarterly updates on Wednesday. This includes gold miner Westgold Resources, rare earths producer Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC), and uranium producer Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN).

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

More reading

• BHP shares have tripled in the past 10 years. Could history repeat itself over the next decade?
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• This ASX financial services company has just reported a 20% jump in funds under management
• HUB24 earnings: Record $18.9bn net inflows lift FUA
• Contact Energy June 2026 earnings: Sales rise, renewables progress

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 positions in and has recommended Hub24. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Lynas Rare Earths Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Hub24. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares have created significant wealth for long-term investors. Over the past decade, the mining giant’s share price has surged almost 235%, comfortably outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which gained around 60% over the same period.

But could Australia’s largest mining company repeat that performance and triple in value again by 2036? While predicting a decade of share price returns is impossible, BHP has several powerful long-term trends working in its favour.

Here are three reasons the mining giant could potentially deliver another market-beating run.

Demand for copper could drive the next growth phase

BHP has historically been known as a major iron ore producer, with its Western Australian operations generating billions of dollars in profits during periods of strong steel demand.

However, the future growth story of BHP shares is increasingly linked to copper. Copper is a critical commodity for electrification, renewable energy, electric vehicles, artificial intelligence infrastructure, and global power networks. As economies transition towards lower-carbon energy systems, demand for copper is expected to rise significantly.

The mining giant has been positioning itself for this trend, including its acquisition of OZ Minerals in 2023, which strengthened its exposure to copper and other future-facing commodities.

If copper prices remain elevated and BHP successfully expands production, the commodity could become a major earnings driver over the next decade.

The asset base could keep generating cash

One of BHP’s biggest advantages is the quality and scale of its global operations. The company owns some of the world’s largest and lowest-cost mining assets, including its Western Australian iron ore operations, Olympic Dam copper-gold project, and Jansen potash development in Canada.

Low-cost producers typically have a major advantage through commodity cycles because they can remain profitable when weaker competitors struggle.

That financial strength has allowed BHP shares to consistently return billions of dollars to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks.

If commodity demand remains healthy, BHP’s ability to generate strong free cash flow could continue supporting shareholder returns well into the future.

Long-term resource demand could provide a tailwind

The world is becoming increasingly resource-intensive. Population growth, urbanisation, infrastructure investment, artificial intelligence, and energy security are all expected to support demand for commodities.

Even as the global economy changes, the need for raw materials remains essential. Data centres require enormous amounts of electricity and copper wiring, while renewable energy projects require significant quantities of metals. BHP’s scale means it is positioned to benefit from these long-term structural trends.

Of course, there are risks. Commodity prices are cyclical, China remains a major source of demand uncertainty, and large mining projects require significant capital investment.

A threefold return over 10 years would also require strong execution from management and favourable commodity conditions.

However, BHP has already demonstrated its ability to create substantial shareholder wealth over long periods. If copper demand accelerates, its growth projects deliver, and commodity markets remain supportive, another decade of strong returns may not be out of the question.

The post BHP shares have tripled in the past 10 years. Could history repeat itself over the next decade? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• HUB24 earnings: Record $18.9bn net inflows lift FUA
• Contact Energy June 2026 earnings: Sales rise, renewables progress
• Telix Pharmaceuticals: Q2 2026 revenue jumps 21%

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in BHP 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 recommended BHP Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

ASX All Ords healthcare share Cogstate Ltd (ASX: CGS) has raced ahead of the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) over the past year.

In late trading on Tuesday, Cogstate shares were changing hands for $2.73 apiece. That sees the share price up 53.4% since market close on 21 June 2025, smashing the 0.7% 12-month gains posted by the benchmark index.

And according to Ellerston Capital Australian equities portfolio manager James Barker, the ASX All Ords healthcare share is well-positioned to deliver more outsized gains in the year ahead (courtesy of The Australian Financial Review).

Here’s why.

ASX All Ords healthcare share on the growth path

Commenting on Cogstate, a stock his fund owns, Barker said, “This is a relatively undiscovered business as most of its operations are in the US with large global pharma.”

As for what the company does, Barker explained:

The company has a digital cognitive assessment platform used in clinical trials for medicines targeting the central nervous system.

The business was historically focused on Alzheimer’s disease trials, but it has recently been expanding into other indications such as mood, sleep, psychiatry and rare diseases.

And Barker noted that the ASX All Ords healthcare share has been on the growth path.

“Last week [8 July] it gave an update that showed total contracts signed were up 116% on the prior year, with US$89 million (AU$127 million) of contracts sold for the year,” he said.

Summing up his bullish outlook on Cogstate shares, Barker concluded, “We see this as validation that the business is executing well; it’s profitable, generating cash and has a share buyback in place.”

What’s the latest from Cogstate?

Cogstate released its half-year results (H1 FY 2026) on 19 February.

Highlights for the six months to 31 December included a 12% year-on-year increase in revenue to $26.9 million. And earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $6.5 million were up 5% from H1 FY 2025.

On the bottom line, the ASX All Ords healthcare share reported a net profit after tax (NPAT) of $4.5 million, up 16% year on year.

As for the balance sheet, Cogstate held $34.1 million in cash as at 31 December.

“These results demonstrate Cogstate’s growing momentum and the increasing strength of our competitive position,” Cogstate CEO Brad O’Connor said on the day.

O’Connor added:

We’re seeing record levels of sales opportunities from an expanded customer base across more therapeutic indications, and those opportunities are converting into meaningful contract wins.

The post Up 53%, here’s why this ASX All Ords healthcare share is tipped for more outperformance appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Top broker tips 37% upside for this exciting ASX healthcare stock

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 positions in and has recommended Cogstate. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Cogstate. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

A $200,000 portfolio could produce a welcome stream of retirement income.

The harder task is choosing how much income to take today without leaving the portfolio with too little growth for the years ahead.

Here is how I would approach it if I were retiring.

Set a realistic income target

I would begin with an annual dividend yield target of around 4% to 5%.

A 4% yield on $200,000 would generate approximately $8,000 a year before tax and franking credits. At 5%, the annual income would rise to $10,000.

I would aim near the middle of that range and focus on sustainable payments.

Pushing the portfolio towards a 7% or 8% yield could lead to excessive exposure to indebted businesses, cyclical dividends, or companies with limited growth. A slightly lower starting income can be worthwhile when the underlying holdings have scope to raise their payments over time.

Build the income base

I would place around $100,000 across established ASX dividend shares.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) could provide fully franked dividends and exposure to a high-quality banking franchise.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) would add defensive earnings from mobile and telecommunications services, while Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) could provide another relatively steady source of cash flow through essential grocery spending.

I would also consider Transurban Group (ASX: TCL) and APA Group (ASX: APA). Their infrastructure assets offer income tied to toll-road traffic and energy networks rather than bank profits or household retail spending.

Spreading the allocation across several earnings drivers can make the income stream less dependent on one sector.

Add some property income

I would invest another $40,000 across selected real estate investment trusts.

HomeCo Daily Needs REIT (ASX: HDN) provides exposure to properties linked to supermarkets, pharmacies, and other everyday services. Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW) owns properties supported by long leases, which can give investors greater visibility over rental income.

REIT distributions can be attractive, although debt levels and interest costs deserve close attention. I would keep this allocation diversified and avoid letting property become the dominant source of retirement income.

Keep some growth in the portfolio

I would place $40,000 into the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS).

A broad global ETF may initially produce less income than the ASX dividend shares, but it can help the portfolio grow and reduce reliance on the Australian economy.

That growth can support future withdrawals and protect spending power against inflation.

I would treat the global allocation as a source of future income rather than judge it solely by the distributions paid today. During strong market periods, an investor could also sell a small number of units to supplement dividends.

Hold a cash reserve

The final $20,000 would remain in cash or a short-term deposit.

That reserve could cover withdrawals during a market downturn and reduce the pressure to sell shares after prices have fallen.

Dividends and distributions could gradually refill the cash allocation, while excess cash could be reinvested when attractive opportunities appear.

Foolish takeaway

I would expect a portfolio structured this way to begin closer to the lower end of the 4% to 5% income range, producing roughly $8,000 to $9,000 a year before tax and franking credits.

The aim would be a retirement income stream with room to rise, supported by dividend-paying shares, property income, global growth, and a cash buffer.

That approach gives the portfolio several ways to support spending while preserving enough growth for a retirement that may last decades.

The post How I would turn $200,000 into an ASX retirement income portfolio appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• The FY26 tax return deadline is around the corner. How can I minimise my tax?
• How much do I need in my superannuation to earn $7k per month in passive income?
• 5 ASX ETFs for beginner investors in July
• What’s not to love about these discounted ASX shares with big dividend yields?
• These ASX shares could generate $12,000 per year in passive income

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Commonwealth Bank Of Australia and Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Apa Group, Telstra Group, and Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended HomeCo Daily Needs REIT and 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.

With the FY26 tax return deadline fast approaching, many Australians are asking how they can legally minimise their tax.

The good news is that you still have several options.

The catch is that some of the most useful doors have already closed.

The financial year ended on 30 June 2026, which means a handful of tax-planning moves for FY26 are now locked in.

Plenty can still be done at lodgement time, however.

When is the FY26 tax return deadline?

If you lodge your own return, the deadline is 31 October 2026.

Because that date falls on a weekend this year, the effective cut-off shifts to the next business day. Miss it, and the ATO can apply late-lodgement penalties.

If you use a registered tax agent instead, you may have until 15 May 2027, although you must be on that agent’s books before 31 October to qualify for the extension.

Any bill from a self-lodged return is generally due by 21 November 2026.

Claim every deduction you are entitled to

The simplest way to cut your tax is to claim everything you are owed.

Work-related expenses are the most common deductions of all. These can include tools, uniforms, self-education and working-from-home costs.

Investment expenses, such as certain adviser fees, may also be deductible.

So can donations to registered charities made before 30 June.

Good record-keeping is absolutely essential, because the ATO expects evidence for every claim you make.

Use franking credits to lower your tax

ASX dividend shares come with a valuable and often overlooked tax benefit.

When a company like Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) pays a fully franked dividend, it has already paid company tax on those profits.

Each $100 of fully franked dividends carries around $43 in franking credits, which are applied directly against your tax bill.

If those credits exceed the tax you owe, the difference is refunded to you in cash.

For retirees on low marginal rates, that can mean a welcome refund each year.

As a result, franking credits are one of the most powerful tax tools available to Australian investors.

Don’t forget the capital gains discount

Selling shares at a profit will trigger capital gains tax. But if you held the asset for more than 12 months, only half the gain is taxable.

This 50% discount can dramatically reduce the tax you pay on a sale.

Therefore, timing your disposals matters enormously, although the deadline of the 30^th of June 2026 has come and past.  

Super contributions and planning ahead

Personal deductible super contributions can also reduce your tax.

For FY26, the concessional contributions cap was $30,000.

However, contributions had to reach your fund before 30 June 2026 to count toward the FY26 return.

If you made one, be sure to lodge a notice of intent to claim it as a deduction.

Looking ahead, the cap rose to $32,500 from 1 July 2026, which gives you more room to plan for next year well in advance.

Foolish takeaway

The FY26 tax return deadline is a hard stop, so it pays not to leave things late.

Claim every deduction, use your franking credits, and apply the capital gains discount where you can.

Together, these steps can meaningfully and legally lower your tax bill.

The post The FY26 tax return deadline is around the corner. How can I minimise my tax? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• How I would turn $200,000 into an ASX retirement income portfolio
• Buy, hold, sell: Sigma Healthcare, Wisetech Global, CBA shares
• If I invest $10,000 in Westpac shares, how much passive income will I receive in 2027?
• Buy, hold, sell: BHP, CBA, and Rio Tinto shares
• How to make $50,000 of passive income from ASX shares like CBA

Motley Fool contributor Mark Verhoeven 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.

Buying an exchange-traded fund (ETF) is easy. Holding it through rising markets, falling markets, and changing headlines is usually the harder part.

I think the best buy-and-hold ETFs make that decision easier by giving investors exposure they can remain confident in for years.

For that reason, the three Betashares ETFs below would be high on my list.

Betashares Global Shares ETF (ASX: BGBL)

I would begin with a broad international holding. The BGBL ETF invests in approximately 1,000 stocks across more than 20 developed markets outside Australia. That gives investors access to many of the businesses shaping how the world spends, communicates, travels, receives healthcare, and adopts new technology.

I like this fund because it does not require investors to predict which country or industry will lead the next decade.

The United States represents a large part of the portfolio, but the ETF also reaches into Europe, Japan, Canada, and other developed markets. Its holdings span technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer goods, industrials, and more.

That breadth allows the portfolio to change naturally as companies rise and fall in importance.

There will be periods when international shares struggle or the Australian dollar weighs on returns. But over a long holding period, I think the BGBL ETF provides a straightforward way to participate in the growth of global businesses that are largely absent from the ASX.

Betashares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200)

Australian investors may already earn their income, own property, and hold superannuation assets locally. Even so, I think Australian shares can still deserve a place in a balanced portfolio.

The A200 ETF owns 200 of the largest companies listed on the ASX.

This gives investors exposure to the businesses financing Australian homes, supplying commodities to global markets, operating supermarkets, building infrastructure, providing healthcare, and paying many of the market’s largest dividends.

The local market has a sizeable weighting towards banks and resources companies, so the A200 ETF will move with interest rates, commodity prices, and the health of the Australian economy. That concentration is one reason I would hold it alongside international shares rather than rely on it alone.

For someone who wants broad local exposure without choosing between individual banks, miners, retailers, and healthcare companies, I think this fund is an attractive long-term holding.

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY)

The final Betashares ETF takes a more selective approach.

The QLTY ETF holds 150 global stocks outside Australia that rank highly on measures linked to quality, including profitability, balance sheet strength, and earnings stability.

I see this as a way to lean a portfolio towards businesses that have already shown an ability to manage capital well.

Strong companies can often keep investing when weaker competitors are forced to retreat. They may have loyal customers, healthier margins, lower debt, or products that remain in demand through changing economic conditions.

A quality screen will not protect investors from every fall. These companies can still become expensive, disappoint the market, or struggle when investors favour more speculative areas.

But for money I wanted to leave invested for many years, I would be comfortable placing greater weight on businesses with strong financial foundations.

Foolish takeaway

Buy-and-hold investing works best when the portfolio does not need constant repair.

The BGBL ETF could provide broad access to global growth, the A200 ETF can keep investors connected to Australian earnings and dividends, while the QLTY ETF offers exposure to financially strong international businesses.

Combined, I think this makes these Betashares ETFs great buy and hold options for Australian investors.

The post Why these Betashares ETFs could be strong buy and hold investments appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Best money-saving techniques to build long-term wealth
• Where to invest $20,000 in ASX ETFs for 10 years
• Do you want to earn passive income from your superannuation? Here’s a guide to get you started
• Your FY27 tax return will look different. Here’s what changed and how to prepare
• How should I invest my money in FY27?

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has 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 average age of retirement in Australia is 65. At this point, you can access your superannuation regardless of whether you’ve started work or not, and you’re just two years from potentially receiving the Age Pension.

But just because age 65 is the average doesn’t mean you have to wait until then if you don’t want to.

Perhaps you want to retire a little earlier at age 63? That’s predictably doable, but only if you have enough in your superannuation to support yourself.

Let’s break down what retirement at age 63 might look like, and how much you’ll need to make it happen.

What could a comfortable retirement look like?

The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) splits retirement into two broad categories: comfortable and modest.

ASFA defines a comfortable retirement as one that gives retirees a good standard of living well beyond the age pension. It budgets for expenses beyond a modest retirement, including top-tier private health insurance and regular leisure activities. It allocates funds for home repairs or renovations, and perhaps even an annual holiday.

Meanwhile, a modest retirement is defined as being able to cover expenses just slightly above what the full Centrelink Age Pension would provide from age 67.

How much will a comfortable retirement cost?

According to ASFA, a comfortable retirement is expected to cost around $55,923 per year for single Australians and roughly $78,566 per year for a couple living together.

But the catch is that these figures assume you’ll be retiring at age 67, will need to fund roughly 10 years of retirement, will be eligible to receive a part Age Pension, own your home in full, and already have an emergency fund set aside.

How much superannuation do I need to fund that?

In order to fund a comfortable retirement, ASFA calculates that at age 67, single Australians will need around $630,000. Meanwhile, couples will need a superannuation balance of around $730,000.

But, if I want to retire earlier at around age 63, how much extra will I need?

If you’re planning to retire earlier, at age 63, you’ll need to factor in those four additional years.

I’ve done a quick calculation using ASFA’s figures to work out the sum you actually need in your superannuation to be able to retire at age 63 and have the same lifestyle quality.

At age 63, singles will need to have closer to $854,000 in their superannuation. 

Meanwhile, couples will need a combined balance of around $1.05 million at age 63. 

These figures assume you’ll need to fund the additional four years of retirement between the ages of 63 and 67.

But remember, if you don’t own your home outright, you’ll also need to consider how you’ll pay your mortgage or rent, along with your other bills, and budget accordingly.

How does your superannuation balance compare? Are you on track?

The post How much superannuation do I need to retire comfortably at age 63? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• How much do I need in my superannuation to earn $60k annual passive income?
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• AMP shares have surged 80% since March. What’s next?
• Buying South32 shares? Here’s the dividend yield you’ll get right now
• Why this undervalued ASX All Ords tech stock is tipped for ‘significant growth’

Motley Fool contributor Samantha Menzies has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has 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.

It was a wild, but ultimately positive, session for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and many ASX shares this Tuesday.

After opening sharply lower and spending most of the session in red territory, the ASX 200 ended up staging a late afternoon recovery, closing with a minuscule 0.023% rise. That leaves the index at 8,793.3 points.

This bumpy day for ASX investors followed a rough start to the American trading week on Wall Street’s boards last night.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) started the week on a sour note, falling 0.59%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared slightly better, though, dropping by 0.048%.

But let’s return to the local markets now and take stock of what the various ASX sectors were up to this Tuesday.

Winners and losers

Despite the broader market’s nominal lift, green sectors outnumbered red sectors this session.

Leading those red sectors were healthcare stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) crashed 1.05% lower today.

Communications shares were on the nose as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) tumbling 0.88%.

Consumer discretionary stocks weren’t popular either. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) saw its value tank 0.83%.

We could say the same for financial shares, as you can verify by the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)’s 0.71% dive.

Next up were industrial stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) had dipped 0.34% by the closing bell.

Our last losers were consumer staples shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) slipping 0.08%.

Turning to the green sectors now, these were led by gold stocks. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) soared 3.64% higher this Tuesday.

Tech shares ran hot as well, evident from the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ)’s 3.26% surge.

Mining stocks were also in demand. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) jumped 1.33% today.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) were next, with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) leaping 0.61%.

Then we had energy shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) saw a 0.4% increase this session.

Finally, utilities stocks got over the winner’s line, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)’s 0.22% lift.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Gold miner Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6) took out today’s top spot. Minerals 260 shares spiked 7.69% higher this Tuesday to close at 64 cents apiece.

There wasn’t any news out from the company, but most gold shares had a strong session.

Here’s how the other winners landed their planes: 

ASX-listed company	Share price	Price change
Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6)	$0.63	7.69%
NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT)	$14.06	7.74%
South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)	$4.35	6.62%
Predictive Discovery Ltd (ASX: PDI)	$0.66	6.45%
Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)	$10.89	5.63%
Bellevue Gold Ltd (ASX: BGL)	$1.26	5.46%
Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1)	$18.95	5.10%
Emerald Resorces Ltd (ASX: EMR)	$5.23	5.02%
Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU)	$4.82	4.78%
Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS)	$3.02	4.50%

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.

More reading

• Buying South32 shares? Here’s the dividend yield you’ll get right now
• HUB24 earnings: Record $18.9bn net inflows lift FUA
• NEXTDC share price on watch as contracted utilisation rises and forward order book grows
• Contact Energy June 2026 earnings: Sales rise, renewables progress
• Telix Pharmaceuticals: Q2 2026 revenue jumps 21%

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 Megaport. 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.