Author: openjargon

  • AMP shares lower amid industry ‘wave’ of superannuation payouts to baby boomers

    An older couple use a calculator to work out what money they have to spend.

    AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) shares are lower amid new figures from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) showing an 18.1% surge in superannuation benefit payments over the past year.

    AMP is one of Australia’s largest retail superannuation fund providers with $111 billion in assets under management (AUM) as of 30 June 2023. The largest provider is AustralianSuper with $300 billion AUM.

    The AMP share price is currently $1.10, down 0.9% for the day and up 0.92% over the past 12 months.

    There’s no news out of AMP today. Let’s take a look at these APRA numbers and the rising industrywide trend in higher outflows as more baby boomers enter retirement.

    Superannuation outflows grow as more baby boomers retire

    The APRA data shows greater growth in superannuation outflows than inflows over the 12 months to 31 March 2024.

    This is despite an increase in the Superannuation Guarantee — the percentage of wages employers must pay into their workers’ superannuation funds — from 10.5% in FY23 to 11% from 1 July 2023.

    In the year to 31 March 2024, $112.9 billion was paid out to superannuation holders, up 18.1% on the $95.6 billion paid out during the year to 31 March 2023.

    Inflows in the year to March 2024 totalled $177 billion, up 11.3% on the year to March 2023.

    Lump sums and pension payments rise

    According to APRA, the bump in outflows represents increased lump sum and pension payments:

    This increase was the result of lump sum payments rising by 18.4 per cent to $63.0 billion and pension payments increasing by 17.7 per cent to $49.8 billion.

    A separate report by KPMG shows five of Australia’s 13 biggest retail superannuation funds managing assets valued above $50 billion recorded negative net cash flow ratios in FY23.

    According to the Australian Financial Review (AFR) today, Mercer, Colonial First State, AMP, BT and Insignia Financial Ltd (ASX: IFL) had combined net outflows of $10.6 billion in FY23.

    KPMG partner Linda Elkins told the AFR this represented the start of a “wave” of outflows coming for industry funds.

    But she added that the point at which the retirement savings sector’s outflows would outweigh inflows was “not imminent”.

    BT had the greatest negative cash flow ratio of the 13 major funds at -5%, followed by AMP at -2.6%.

    Meantime, Hostplus, AustralianSuper and REST had the highest growth in cash flow ratios at more than 5% each.

    Among the smaller superannuation funds, Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB) and Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) recorded the highest net cash flow ratio growth at 26.7% and 15.1%, respectively.

    AMP shares fell last month after the company released its first-quarter update in which CEO Alexis George noted improvements in the company’s superannuation and investments net cash outflows.

    According to the KPMG report:

    Insignia, AMP, CFS and Mercer have again experienced net outflows, however they have gained traction from FY22 and decreased the rate of net outflows.

    This appears to have been achieved by stemming the flow of rollovers out and focusing on the core aspects of their offerings such as fees and performance.

    More people investing in superannuation

    The APRA data also shows that more people are voluntarily ploughing money into their superannuation.

    Member contributions via salary-sacrificing arrangements or personal contributions totalled $43.7 billion over the year, up 8.2%. Employer contributions totalled $133.3 billion, up 12.4%.

    Total superannuation assets in the year to March 2024 totalled $3,862.1 billion, up 11.3% on March 2023. APRA said this growth was due to continued strong contribution inflows and an average 10.9% return on investments.

    A recent survey by Findex found that 24% of Australians consider superannuation the most important type of investment for building lifetime wealth.

    Older cohorts value it most, with about 40% of baby boomers and 29% of Gen Xers ranking it their no. 1 investment option.

    Findex investment relations head Matthew Swieconek offers five key investment actions for Baby Boomers and Gen Xers to take today for an excellent future retirement.

    Another recent report found most Australians overestimate how much they need to retire comfortably.

    Meantime, my colleague Tristan recently reported on whether AMP shares are a significantly underrated buying opportunity right now.

    The post AMP shares lower amid industry ‘wave’ of superannuation payouts to baby boomers appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Maximise Your Super before June 30: Uncover 5 Strategies Most Aussies Overlook!

    With the end of the financial year almost upon us, there are some strategies that you may be able to take advantage of right now to save some tax and boost your savings…

    Download our latest free report discover 5 super strategies that most Aussies miss today!

    Download Free Report
    *Returns 28 May 2024

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Hub24 and Netwealth Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Netwealth Group. 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.

  • Are Netwealth shares a compelling buy for dividends?

    Woman with $50 notes in her hand thinking, symbolising dividends.

    The Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) share price has jumped over 50% in the past year, as shown on the chart below. The company has demonstrated its ability to deliver capital growth and dividend income.

    The company provides a platform that enables financial intermediaries and clients to invest and manage a wide array of domestic and international products.

    Netwealth’s offering includes non-custodial administration and reporting services, self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF) administration, managed funds, managed accounts, investor-directed portfolio services, and superannuation products.

    The company has achieved earnings growth since it was listed in late 2017, which has enabled excellent dividend growth.

    Growing dividends

    Netwealth has grown its annual dividend every year since it first started paying one in 2018, which is a commendable record.

    The 2023 financial year saw the annual payout increase by 20% to 24 cents per share. The FY23 annual dividend was around double the size of the FY19 payout of 12.1 cents per share.

    Netwealth’s excellent dividend growth has continued in FY24, with the interim dividend hiked by 27% year over year.

    The last two declared dividends come to 27 cents per share, translating to a fully franked dividend yield of 1.3% and a grossed-up dividend yield of 1.9%.

    At a time when the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) cash rate is above 4%, the Netwealth dividend yield is not particularly appealing, so I wouldn’t call Netwealth shares a buy purely for the passive income.

    But we should consider other elements of the investment thesis, not just its dividend potential.

    Strong operational performance and margins

    Netwealth is delivering strongly on growing its core metrics.

    The update for the three months to 31 March 2024 showed funds under administration (FUA) had reached $84.7 billion, an increase of $6.7 billion over the quarter. The FUA growth over 12 months was 28.5%.

    It reported FUA inflows of $5.2 billion for the three months to March 2024, which was 40.7% higher than the prior corresponding period. The FUA net inflows for the quarter were $2.7 billion, up 62.2% year over year.

    Netwealth also reported its funds under management (FUM) reached $19.7 billion at 31 March 2024, an increase of $1.6 billion for the quarter. FUM net inflows for the quarter were $0.6 billion.

    This level of FUA and FUM growth can help drive the company’s earnings higher because it contributes to revenue growth. As a digital platform business, Netwealth can benefit from operating leverage, leading to profit rising faster than revenue.

    Netwealth says it’s highly profitable, with a strong earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) margin of 47.6% in the HY24 result. It also has “strong cash generation” and a very high level of recurring revenue, resulting in predictable revenue.

    The broker UBS currently rates Netwealth as a buy because of the “strong” quarterly FUA and inflow numbers. The broker has a price target of $22.50 on Netwealth shares, implying a possible rise of more than 10% over the next 12 months.

    The post Are Netwealth shares a compelling buy for dividends? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Netwealth Group 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 Netwealth Group 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

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

  • Safeguarding against inflation: A defensive share strategy

    A banker uses his hands to protects a pile of coins on his desk, indicating a possible inflation hedge

    Australia’s inflation rate has experienced notable fluctuations over the last couple of years. It has been significantly influenced by global disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions. These factors, coupled with supply chain constraints and rising commodity prices, have escalated costs across various sectors. This poses a challenge for investors looking to maintain the real value of their portfolio returns.

    Impact of inflation on real returns

    Inflation erodes the purchasing power of money, directly impacting the real returns of investments. For investors in the stock market, this means that nominal gains can be offset by the rising cost of living, leading to diminished actual wealth accumulation. This underscores the importance of strategic investment choices that can outpace inflation and preserve capital.

    Defensive share investment strategies

    In response to inflationary pressures, one strategy is to focus on defensive stocks in sectors less sensitive to economic cycles. Think consumer staples and utilities. These sectors are considered defensive because they provide essential goods or services that remain in demand, regardless of economic conditions.

    Companies like Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) and Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) play a critical role in everyday life by providing necessary goods. Despite economic downturns, demand for products from these companies tends to remain stable, making them resilient investment choices during inflationary times. 

    Coles reported robust results for 3QFY24. Supermarket sales revenue was up 5.1% to $9,065 million. Woolworths has also demonstrated strong financial performance recently, with group sales up 2.8% over the same period to $16,800 million. Despite these results, both companies’ share prices fell on the day of the quarterly updates.

    Both supermarkets have seen their earnings increase year on year since 2020, but their share prices have been heading in the opposite direction. The Coles share price is down 10% over the past year while the Woolworths share price is down 17%. Both companies, however, have the potential to bounce back speedily following corrections in the share price which could serve savvy investors well.

    Utilities are another pillar of defensive investing. Companies like AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL) supply essential services like electricity and gas. Utilities are indispensable, which can provide a buffer against economic swings. AGL recently raised its earnings guidance for FY24, with net profit after tax (NPAT) expected to be between $760 million and $810 million, up from $680 million and $780 million. 

    The AGL share price is down 14% from its peak in July 2023 but has been trending upwards since February 2024, when it announced a quadrupling of interim profit.

    Foolish takeaway

    Investing in defensive stocks, such as those in the consumer staples and utilities sectors, can present a prudent approach to safeguarding your portfolio against inflation. These sectors offer the dual benefits of stability and consistent demand, which are crucial during times of economic uncertainty and rising prices.

    By strategically incorporating such stocks, investors can protect their portfolios and possibly achieve real growth in value. This makes defensive share strategies essential to a well-rounded investment approach during inflationary periods.

    The post Safeguarding against inflation: A defensive share strategy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Agl Energy 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 Agl Energy 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Katherine O’Brien 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 positions in and has recommended Coles Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Will ASX copper shares keep surging from here? (Plus: 2 top picks for exposure)

    Two young male miners wearing red hardhats stand inside a mine and shake hands

    ASX copper shares have risen strongly over the last few months. For example, since the start of 2024, the Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR) share price has surged almost 30%, as can be seen below. Meanwhile, fellow ASX copper miner Aeris Resources Ltd (ASX: AIS) has seen its share price almost double in 2024 to date.

    Various resources are required to decarbonise the world, including copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, and rare earths. But arguably copper may be one of the most vital commodities on the path to a greener future because of its importance to electrification. Copper is essential for wind and solar renewable energy generation, energy storage, electricity transmission, and electric vehicles.

    In fact, Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) recently highlighted that just one 1MW wind turbine uses 3 tonnes of copper, while an electric vehicle uses four times more copper than a traditional vehicle.

    Also according to Rio Tinto, global demand for copper is set to grow between 1.5% to 2.5% per year. This comes at a time when good copper deposits are becoming harder to find.

    Those are the long-term dynamics, but with the copper price recently soaring to record highs of more than US$11,000 per tonne, is now the right time to invest?

    Macquarie names two ASX copper shares

    According to the Australian Financial Review (AFR), Macquarie is still pretty bullish on copper, despite prices recently soaring.

    Macquarie’s analysts increased their copper price forecast for the 2024 calendar year by 7% to US$9,671 per tonne and for the 2025 calendar year by 9% to US$9,575 per tonne. While those numbers are lower than this week’s record highs, according to Statista, they would still represent stronger prices than have been seen over most of the past decade.

    So why is the investment banking giant still optimistic on copper? Per AFR, Macquarie believes that slower Chinese demand for copper due to a weak property sector will be partially offset by a boost in demand outside of China.

    However, Macquarie expects a copper surplus in 2026, leading to a price forecast of US$8,500 per tonne for that year.

    Of the diversified miners, AFR reported Macquarie’s preferred pick as South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) while from a copper pure-play perspective, the broker favours Sandfire.

    More positivity on Sandfire shares

    Macquarie isn’t the only top broker that likes Sandfire for the longer term

    AFR also reported broker Wilsons likes the ASX copper share after visiting its Botswana operations, but remains cautious about the recent strength of the copper price. Wilsons forecasts that in FY25, Sandfire can generate revenue of US$1.14 billion and earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of US$332.5 million.

    Wilsons said:

    We stress that we are positively predisposed toward Sandfire (and to structurally strong copper markets over the medium/longer term), but at this stage downgrade our rating to market weight, given our view that copper prices might give up some recent gains in the near term.

    Wilsons has a price target of $9.90 on Sandfire shares, suggesting possible upside of 4.1% over the current share price in the next year.

    The post Will ASX copper shares keep surging from here? (Plus: 2 top picks for exposure) appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Rio Tinto 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 Rio Tinto 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

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

  • 4 ASX 200 shares being scooped up by insiders

    Modern accountant woman in a light business suit in modern green office with documents and laptop.

    When directors, officers, or executives purchase shares in their own companies, it can send a powerful message about the business’s underlying health and future prospects. Insider buying can serve as a grassroots indicator of potential, sometimes preceding positive developments that lead to stock price appreciation. For investors, these moves offer a hint to look beyond the noise of the market and consider where insiders are putting their own money.

    Recently, insiders at four S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) companies — ALS Ltd (ASX: ALQ), Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL), Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL), and Gold Road Resources Ltd (ASX: GOR) — have made notable purchases, suggesting value that others may have overlooked.

    ALS

    ALS is a global testing, inspection, and certification company. It delivered its FY24 results last week, recording a 6.8% increase in revenue and a final dividend of 19.6 cents. The company has undertaken eight acquisitions over the past 12 months which are expected to add $152 million to revenue on a full year basis. It is targeting mid single digit organic revenue growth in FY25. 

    Super Retail Group 

    Super Retail Group is a leading retailer specialising in auto, outdoor, and sports products in Australia. The company operates through several well-known retail brands including Supercheap Auto, BCF, and Rebel. Despite current inflation and interest rate challenges, the retailer managed to record total sales growth of 2% for the first 43 weeks of FY24. It expects to open 27 stores total in FY 24 and close 4 stores. 

    Sonic Healthcare

    Sonic Healthcare is a global company providing laboratory medicine/pathology and radiology services across multiple countries. In its most recent earnings update Sonic Healthcare reported strong organic revenue growth with earnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) forecast to be approximately $1.6 billion in FY24. Inflationary pressures are weighing on profit growth; however, the company is set to reap the benefits of FY24’s investments in the form of synergies and enhanced returns from FY25 onward. 

    Gold Road Resources 

    Gold Road Resources is an Australian gold production and exploration company primarily focused on the Gruyere Gold Mine, one of Australia’s largest and lowest-cost gold mining operations. The company produced 64,323 ounces of gold in the March quarter with production sold at a strong spot gold price of $3,137 an ounce. Analysts have recently revised forecast gold prices upwards driven by expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts and a weakening US dollar. 

    Foolish takeaway 

    Insider buying can not only strengthen investor confidence but also provide a compelling narrative about latent value in ASX-listed companies. When company leaders invest their own money into their operations, it can be a strong endorsement of the business’ current health and future prospects. Whether it’s ALS’s strategic acquisitions poised to boost revenue, Super Retail Group’s expansion despite economic headwinds, Sonic Healthcare’s robust growth trajectory, or Gold Road Resources capitalising on favourable gold prices, these insider purchases signal a bullish outlook for these ASX 200 shares.

    The post 4 ASX 200 shares being scooped up by insiders appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Als 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 Als 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Katherine O’Brien 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 Super Retail Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Super Retail Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Sonic Healthcare. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • How to set up and customize Google Alerts: Track the search terms and topics you’re interested in

    A businessman in a suit works in an office at a computer, holding his chin looking thoughtful.
    Google launched Google Alerts over 20 years ago to monitor new mentions of specific search terms.

    • Google Alerts monitors the internet for new mentions of search terms you're trying to target.
    • You can set up a Google Alert for any search term, and customize or delete it anytime.
    • Google Alerts can be delivered to you immediately, or at specific times of the day or week.

    When you want the latest updates on a trending news story, to know who won the game you couldn't missed live, or see what new shows are dropping onto Netflix this week, chances are that you turn to a Google search.

    But what if you didn't even have to spend time searching because Google had already sent the exact information you wanted right to your inbox?

    Google Alerts proactively searches the web for specific terms you've selected and delivers relevant content to you as often as you'd like, be it once a day, once a week, or just as soon as that search term pops up in a new article, blog post, or in the description of some new video content.

    Google launched Google Alerts in 2003 after one of the company's first engineers, Naga Kataru, brought the idea directly to Google's founders. The very first keywords used to test the alerts were "Google" and "Larry Page."

    Though Google Alerts is still around more than two decades later, the software has drawn criticism from users over time. Users have said the alerts are too limited, inaccurate, or irrelevant. Dozens of media monitoring companies, such as Awari, Meltwater, Talkwalker, Muck Rack, Cision, and Prowly, have cropped up in the last decade to offer alternatives to Google Alerts.

    One advantage of Google Alerts, however, is that it's completely free to use. And while brands and high-profile figures may need a more sophisticated software to monitor their media mentions, Google Alerts can work just fine for the average everyday user.

    Here's how to set up, customize, and delete a Google Alert.

    How to set up Google Alerts

    To set up a Google Alert, first make sure you are logged into your Google account, then navigate to the Google Alerts page, which is simply www.google.com/alerts.

    1. Type the search term you want to follow into the bar reading "Create an alert about…" and search for it. For instance, if you're interested in news about job cuts in the tech industry, you might want to create an alert about "Google layoffs."

    2. Click the blue box that reads "Create Alert."

    A screenshot of the Google Alerts page shows the term "Google layoffs" in the search bar, with a red box and red arrow emphasizing the "Create Alert" button.
    Google Alerts get delivered right to your email inbox.

    That's it! You just created a Google alert. You can access and edit your alerts from the Google Alerts homepage or via the alerts Google sends to your email inbox.

    Though Google Alerts doesn't have its own dedicated app, you can still set up alerts for yourself on your iPhone or other smartphone. Simply visit the Google Alerts page using your phone's browser and follow the above steps.

    If you're expecting to pop up in the news anytime soon, you might want to consider setting up a Google Alert for your own name. And though there's no way to find out if anyone in particular is Googling you, you can always run a search for your name on Google Trends to see if there's any significant search interest.

    But even when you've set up all your Google Alerts, your work isn't quite done. By default, Google will send you updates about your alert (or alerts) once every day. If you'd like your alerts to be sent more or less often, here's how you'll do it.

    How to customize Google Alerts

    Go to the Alerts page and find the Google Alert you want to customize.

    1. Click on the pencil icon to the right of the alert to open its settings.

    2. On the next page, you can set how often you get alerts, what language they need to be in, from what region they are sourced (you can geo-fence to a specific country or from "Any Region"), what sources you want your alerts to come from (news, blogs, and web, e.g.), and more.

    A screenshot shows the customization options for Google Alerts, with a red box and red arrow emphasizing dropdown menus for alert frequency, sources, language, region, and amount.
    You can decide how often you want to receive Google Alerts.

    3. Hit the blue "Update alert" box.

    If you want all your alerts delivered at a specific time, hit the gear icon to the right of "My alerts" and choose a delivery time. You can limit your alert updates to once daily or even once weekly.

    You can also ask that Google send all your alert updates in a single email rather than sending each one individually.

    How to delete a Google Alert

    Deleting a Google alert is even simpler than creating one.

    1. Go to your Google Alerts page.

    2. Locate the trash can icon to the right of the alert you want to delete and click it.

    A screenshot of Google Alerts shows a trash can icon emphasized by a red box and red arrow to delete a Google Alert.
    You can edit or delete Google Alerts right from the alerts homepage.

    That's that — the alert is gone. A taskbar at the top of the page will pop up reading "Your alert on 'Google layoffs' has been deleted" and giving you the option to "Undo" that action or "Dismiss" the alert, which permanently deletes it, as does simply closing the Google Alerts page.

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • Recent South Dakota policy threatens professors who include their pronouns or tribal affiliations over email. It’s part of a concerning ‘longer-term agenda’ overtaking the US.

    University of South Dakota
    The University of South Dakota is enacting a discriminatory policy against professors who choose to express their pronouns and tribal affiliations via email signature.

    • A policy in South Dakota prevents some professors from listing certain details in email signatures.
    • Public university faculty are prohibited from sharing gender pronouns or tribal affiliations. 
    • Experts say it's part of a broader attempt to roll back rights for protected groups.

    South Dakota has joined a group of right-leaning states trying to curtail expressions of personal identity in the US.

    In December, the South Dakota Board of Regents issued a policy prohibiting professors at public universities in the state from including their designated gender pronouns or tribal affiliations in their email signatures, the Associated Press reported on Friday.

    And it didn't take long for the board – which governs the state's six public universities — to take action.

    Two University of South Dakota professors — Megan Red Shirt-Shaw and Red Shirt-Shaw's husband, John Little — recently told the AP they'd received written warnings to remove those details from their signatures.

    On X, formerly Twitter, the two said they'd received their warnings in mid-March. The consequence, Little told the AP, could be as severe as losing their jobs.

    "I was told that I had 5 days to remove my tribal affiliation and pronouns," Little wrote in an email to the AP. "I believe the exact wording was that I had '5 days to correct the behavior.'"

    Little added that if the request wasn't met, administrators would evaluate whether or not to invoke suspension or even termination as punishment.

    On X, Red Shirt-Shaw said she "made the difficult decision" to comply with the warnings, removing her tribal affiliation and gender pronouns from her email signature, "so I would not miss the remainder of the academic year."

    That said, Red Shirt-Shaw found a workaround: She has continued to place those details "in the body of each email that I send," which she said on X "will not be challenged (for now)." Little has done the same.

    For Red Shirt-Shaw, including those details is personal. As director of Native Student Services at the university, she wrote, "I feel I have an ethical responsibility to claim the tribal nations that make me who I am."

    The American Civil Liberties Union's South Dakota chapter also weighed in on X. The group called the Board of Regents' policy an effort by the state's leadership "to shove queer identities out of public life."

    Other experts agree that the South Dakota Board of Regents' guidelines are an escalation of a larger movement sweeping the US.

    Larger efforts at play

    South Dakota's flashpoint over email signatures comes as a national discourse rages about rights for LGBTQ+ Americans and members of diverse and protected groups.

    "Quite frankly, this is the first time I've heard of a state university choosing to use branding standards to eliminate what obviously has become a practice of including pronouns and tribal affiliations to emails," Paulette Grandberry Russell, president of the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education, told the AP.

    "But I'm not surprised, given the current climate we're in," she added, calling the decision by the state's Board of Regents a "steady progression" in a broader push.

    Grandberry Russell told the AP she thinks that such early-stage measures in conservative states could be used as a "testing ground" to determine if more severe laws could take hold.

    Kelly Benjamin, a spokesperson for the American Association of University Professors, an advocacy group for academics in higher education, told the AP that it's the latest step in "a longer-term agenda" aimed at limiting diversity, equity, and inclusion measures to protect LGBTQ+ Americans.

    Benjamin pointed to recent efforts in states like Florida and Arkansas. Florida lawmakers, for example, have passed bills that have limited or prevented access to services for transgender individuals, including gender-affirming care or even the ability to update their correct gender on their driver's license.

    Though LGBTQ+ Americans benefited from legal strides in the 2010s like a landmark Supreme Court decision upholding the legality of gay marriage in 2015, more recent actions by some Republican state leaders have raised the specter of threats to similar protections. South Dakota's recent policy is just one example.

    Meanwhile, violence against members of the LGBTQ+ communities has also increased as these debates have raged in the background. A 2022 Business Insider investigation found that homicides of transgender people, for instance, doubled between 2019 and 2021.

    The University of South Dakota did not immediately respond to a request for comment sent outside of normal working hours.

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • An influx of new residents to GOP-leaning Montana could be the key voting bloc that decides the state’s hotly-contested Senate race

    Aerial View of Downtown Bozeman, Montana, in Summer.
    Bozeman, Montana.

    • The Montana US Senate race is set to be one of the most competitive races in the country.
    • Now there's a new layer to the race: recent transplants who could sway the election.
    • An influx of new residents has driven up home prices and shined a light on housing affordability.

    Montana's US Senate race is shaping up to be one of the marquee races of 2024 as three-term Democrat Jon Tester hopes to fend off an aggressive challenge from his likely GOP opponent, Tim Sheehy.

    The contest has huge national implications. A win for Tester in Montana would give Democrats a fighting chance to retain control of the Senate, while a GOP victory would be the culmination of a long road to regaining a critical seat in the conservative-leaning state.

    With former President Donald Trump highly likely to win Montana in November, many Republicans believe he'll be able to aid down-ballot candidates like Sheehy.

    But it's not that simple.

    Tester, a moderate Democrat, has established a political brand that has defied the state's GOP orientation for nearly 20 years. And it's about to be tested even further due to the state's recent population surge, with transplants from Western states like California, Oregon, and Washington poised to be an electoral wild card in a contest that was already set to be competitive.

    Montana has always drawn people who are attracted to the outdoors. During the coronavirus pandemic, many transplants found refuge in the state as they worked remotely. With many of these new residents possessing higher incomes — coupled with the demand for housing — home prices have gone through the roof in recent years.

    The median home price in Montana hit $425,000 in late 2023, a 75% increase from 2018, The New York Times reported.

    In Bozeman, which has become a hot spot for affluent transplants, the median home price has risen to an astonishing $770,000, according to the newspaper.

    According to the US Census Bureau, Bozeman's population jumped from roughly 37,000 to more than 53,000 from 2010 to 2020. In 2022, the city's population grew even further to 56,000.

    The rising prices have shined a brighter light on housing affordability, as many native Montanans have been priced out by ever-increasing rents. Outside of Bozeman, some longtime residents are now residing in RVs due to the heightened costs.

    With strong support from GOP Gov. Greg Gianforte, the Montana legislature passed housing and land-use reform bills that overhauled the construction process — and now permit more housing density.

    The issue is sure to be a major issue for Tester — as well as the eventual GOP Senate nominee — for a state in transition.

    In 2018, Tester won reelection to a third term by roughly 18,000 votes out of nearly 505,000 ballots cast.

    National Republicans see Montana as one of their best opportunities to win a "red" seat, especially as many transplants left Democratic-dominated coastal states for a more rustic environment.

    But the Senate race is projected to be incredibly close. And for Democrats and Republicans, the newest Montanans will likely be an unpredictable voting bloc.

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • ASX 200 uranium stock dives 10% amid $26 million insiders sell-off

    Frustrated stock trader screaming while looking at mobile phone, symbolising a falling share price.

    ASX 200 uranium stock Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE) is the biggest faller of the ASX 200 so far today.

    The Boss Energy share price tumbled 9.73% shortly after the market open amid news of a major collective insiders’ sell-off. After hitting and of $4.82 per share, the uranium miner has partially recovered to $4.87.

    Just after 5pm yesterday, the company announced that Boss Energy CEO and managing director Duncan Craib, chair Wyatt Buck, and director Bryn Jones had sold a significant portion of their personal holdings.

    The statement included details of each sale and commentary from Buck as to why the sell-off occurred.

    Let’s look at the details.

    Major insiders sell-off of ASX 200 uranium stock

    Firstly, let’s look at the details of the sales.

    Boss Energy CEO and managing director Duncan Craib sold 3.75 million shares at an average price of $5.63 per share between Tuesday and Friday last week. The on-market sale totalled just over $21 million.

    Additionally, Craib exercised an option yesterday to acquire 250,938 Boss Energy shares at a zero exercise price. The 250,983 short-term unquoted options had an expiry date of 30 June 2025.

    His holdings now total 741,673 shares in the ASX 200 uranium stock, plus almost 300,000 long-term unquoted options and more than 390,000 long-term performance rights.

    Chair Wyatt Buck sold 291,777 Boss Energy shares last Tuesday, also at $5.63 per share. The on-market sale totalled just over $1.64 million.

    The sell-down represented 63% of Buck’s holdings. He retains 170,000 shares in the ASX 200 uranium stock.

    Director Bryn Jones also sold 600,000 Boss Energy shares last Tuesday at $5.63 per share. The on-market sale totalled just under $3.38 million.

    Like Buck’s sale, this also represented 63% of his total holdings. Jones retains just under 345,000 shares in the ASX 200 uranium stock.

    What did management say?

    In the statement, Buck explained that several years ago, the board of directors made personal commitments not to sell any shares until Boss Energy’s 100%-owned Honeymoon mine began production.

    The company acquired the Honeymoon mine in December 2015. The first drum of uranium was produced last month, making Boss Energy Australia’s first new uranium producer in a decade.

    Buck specifically addressed the largest sale among the three directors — that of CEO Duncan Craib.

    He said:

    Mr Craib joined Boss in January 2017 and was tasked, personally invested, and incentivised with taking the Honeymoon mine toward production.

    Having achieved that milestone event Mr Craib has sold 3.75 million securities and retains 1.43 million securities after the change.

    Mr Craib remains a significant long-term shareholder of the Company and has no intention to sell any further shares in the medium term.

    Buck added that Craib remains committed to driving Boss Energy’s growth.

    He said the board was acting to ensure Craib and the executive team were incentivised and aligned for the company’s next stage of expansion.

    As at 31 March, Boss Energy has no debt and $298 million of liquid assets (cash, equity investments and physical uranium).

    What’s happening with the Boss Energy share price?

    The ASX 200 uranium stock has soared in recent years as the world warms up to the idea of nuclear energy being part of the green energy transition.

    The Boss Energy share price is up 75% over the past 12 months and 9,560% over the past five years. (You read that right!)

    As we recently reported, the ASX 200 uranium stock has also been one of the top 5 risers since the COVID crash.

    The new demand for uranium emerged amid constrained supply, leading to extraordinary growth in the uranium price.

    The uranium price is currently at a 16-year high of US$91.65 per pound, up 68% over the past 12 months.

    The uranium price cracked the US$100 per pound watermark in January before retracing to where it is today.

    Established uranium mining companies around the globe have rushed to restart mines that have been on care and maintenance for years to feed this growing worldwide demand.

    According to Trading Economics, the United States and 20 other countries have announced plans to triple their nuclear power by 2050.

    Of the 58 global nuclear reactors under construction, China is building 22 of them.

    The post ASX 200 uranium stock dives 10% amid $26 million insiders sell-off appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Boss Resources 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 Boss Resources 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

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

  • ASX growth stock on the cusp of profitability: My multibagger pick

    Kid on a skateboard with cardboard wings soars along the road.

    Rarely will an ASX growth stock look ‘cheap’ if it is close to printing money for its shareholders. No one wants to sell an ordinary goose as it evolves into a golden one. As such, it’s often extremely difficult to locate a company with multibagger potential before it skyrockets.

    Patience and perseverance can go a long way in this lifelong endeavour. If you turn over enough stones, you’ll eventually find those rare companies — the misunderstood, underappreciated, or simply ignored businesses primed for success.

    This month, I’ve uncovered a little ASX growth stock that is now high on my buy list.

    Profits could send this soaring

    Companies that are not yet profitable can be difficult to value. As onlookers haphazardly speculate on the future, this can lead to wildly exuberant or sunken share prices. Fortunately, this wayward estimation can also give rise to undervalued opportunities.

    Sometimes, the mood among a company’s shareholders falls into a rut. Good news becomes bad news, and bad news becomes terrible news. The despair stage can narrow investors’ vision, clouding genuine positive signs.

    Enter Eroad Ltd (ASX: ERD): A fleet management technology company attempting to traverse the gap between cash burner and cash earner. If successful, sentiment can quickly shift. A recent example is Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO), with shares now up 19% year-to-date after achieving profitability in FY24.

    High revenue growth and profitability are powerful combinations. The New Zealand-based vehicle telematics company Eroad is already reaping revenue growth. In the last three years, its revenue has increased 98.7% to NZ$182 million — a compounding annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.7% per annum.

    On 23 May 2024, this ASX growth stock announced it had achieved a positive free cash flow of $1.3 million in FY24.

    Furthermore, according to analyst forecasts, FY26 net profit after tax (NPAT) could be around NZ$10.6 million. Those estimates then expand to NZ$24.4 million in FY27.

    If Eroad were to trade on a 30 times price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio, the company’s market capitalisation could be A$676.6 million. Right now, Eroad is valued at $162.3 million — leading me to believe this ASX growth stock could be a four-bagger in three years.

    Why is this ASX growth stock being ignored?

    I’m guessing you’re already asking: “Mitchell, why hasn’t the share price rallied if the future is so bright?”

    It’s a good question. Eroad is not without its risks.

    My biggest worry is the company’s rate of share dilution. Since 2020, the number of shares outstanding has more than doubled (shown below), effectively more than halving the value of each slice of ownership a shareholder owns.

    Data by Trading View

    I’ll be keeping a close eye on it, although I’m optimistic, given Eroad is now free cash flow positive.

    The post ASX growth stock on the cusp of profitability: My multibagger pick appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Eroad 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 Eroad 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

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