Stock Pick

Author: openjargon

  • Tesla customer service hacks, including reaching a human and chat

    Brand new Tesla vehicles are parked outside a Tesla dealership.
    Tesla has developed a reputation for poor and unresponsive customer service and long wait times.

    Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

    • Some Tesla and Starlink customers have said service at Elon Musk's companies needs to be improved.
    • Despite Tesla's success, customers' complaints could tarnish the reputation of the business.  
    • Here's a look at how to contact a human at Tesla customer support. 

    As the carmaker ferociously grew sales, its footprint of Tesla service centers hasn't kept pace, resulting in long wait times and other customer service issues for some Tesla owners.

    It's often difficult to reach an actual person when contacting the customer support services at big companies. But chat and other hacks can help a Tesla customer get help and report a problem.

    Does Tesla have 24/7 customer service? 

    Yes, Tesla has roadside assistance that is available 24/7. 

    According to Tesla's website, you can request immediate roadside assistance from the bottom of the Tesla app home screen. In your request, include any information that may help our team locate you and best understand the condition of your vehicle.

    To request roadside assistance from your Tesla app:

    1. Open the app and select 'Roadside.'
    2. Select the issue(s) your vehicle is experiencing.
    3. Confirm any additional details related to your request.
    4. Select 'Request help.'

    Services covered include breakdowns, flat tires, lockouts, and depleted batteries. 

    How do you report a problem at Tesla?

    To chat with Tesla support directly, you can use the chat function on their site. You can also call their support line at 1 888-518-3752. Reaching a human on the support phone line can be difficult, but if you call from a number not associated with a Tesla account, the prompts will offer you options to reach a person, including charging questions, vehicle and software issues, or password and account issues.

    Does Tesla have good customer service?

    Although Tesla stock is valued at more than $600 billion and as of January 2023, SpaceX was valued at $137 billion, experts said customers' complaints could tarnish the SpaceX and Tesla's reputation.

    Tesla complaints have rolled in from customers about fixing repairs, lack of contact, and long wait times.

    A class-action lawsuit is currently underway in California regarding arduous and expensive Tesla repairs. A group of Tesla owners allege that Tesla is monopolizing the market for repairs and parts for its vehicles, forcing customers to endure extensive repair times and costly parts — all under threat of losing their warranty coverage if they sought repairs or service from companies other than Tesla.

    In court documents, Tesla denied the antitrust allegations and said its warranties and practices were "perfectly lawful."

    Twelve electric vehicle owners previously spoke to Business Insider about problems with Tesla vehicles. Some commented on how slow and unresponsive Tesla's customer service was, while others said it was quick and easy.

    Customer Steven Banks told Business Insider that simple repairs have left his car stranded at the Tesla shop for weeks. He doesn't feel like Tesla treats its customers as well as other luxury dealerships do and is frustrated that he can't get a customer service rep on the phone. Banks is a longtime Tesla fan in Massachusetts who sold his Model S and has a new Model Y on the way. 

    "The customer service is lousy," Banks said. "They get away with it because the products are fantastic."

    Tim Levin contributed to this story.

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • How to turn your savings account into a gold mine starting with $10,000

    Calculator and gold bars on Australian dollars, symbolising dividends.

    If you have $10,000 sitting in a savings account and no plans for it, then it could be worth putting it to work in the share market.

    That’s because the potential returns on offer in the share market could turn your savings into a gold mine if you are willing to be patient.

    Turn $10,000 into a gold mine

    If you leave $10,000 in a Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) saving account, it will grow. But at a much slower rate compared to what would be expected from ASX shares.

    For example, let’s imagine you are able to average a 4% interest rate on your savings account over the next 20 years. This would turn your $10,000 into approximately $22,000.

    Now let’s imagine that you also add an extra $10,000 to your account each year. Doing this for 20 years with an average 4% interest rate would lead to your savings account growing to be worth $330,000.

    That’s a bit of a gold mine itself, but just wait until you see what could happen with the share market.

    Share market vs savings accounts

    Over the long term, the share market has generated an average total return of approximately 10%.

    And while there’s no guarantee that this will happen again in the future, I think it is reasonable to base our assumptions on this return.

    If you were to invest your $10,000 into ASX shares and averaged a 10% per annum return, your investment portfolio would compound to be worth $67,000 in 20 years.

    That’s $45,000 more than if you had just left it in your savings account for two decades.

    Now let’s see what would happen if you put an additional $10,000 into the share market each year over the 20 years.

    If you did this and achieved a 10% per annum return, your investment would grow materially and become worth approximately $700,000.

    That is $370,000 greater than what would have happened if you just stayed with your savings account.

    And while it is worth remembering that savings accounts are risk free and ASX shares carry risk, I believe the potential rewards are compelling enough to justify choosing stocks.

    Which ASX shares should you buy?

    Rather than risking your money in speculative stocks, investors may want to consider buying companies that have strong business models, sustainable competitive advantages, and fair valuations.

    This is a strategy that Warren Buffett has used for decades. And given that he has smashed the market return since the 1950s, it’s fair to say the strategy has its merits.

    The post How to turn your savings account into a gold mine starting with $10,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Commonwealth Bank Of Australia right now?

    Before you buy Commonwealth Bank Of Australia 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 Commonwealth Bank Of Australia 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 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 Woolworths share price is down 16%: Time to buy the stock?

    A man in a supermarket strikes an unlikely pose while pushing a trolley, lifting both legs sideways off the ground and looking mildly rattled with a wide-mouthed expression.

    The Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) share price has fallen significantly over the past year, as the chart below shows. Currently, it has declined 16% over the past 12 months.  

    However, the Woolworths share price has lifted more than 10% since I called it out as a solid buy in early May.

    I believe it’s still an attractive opportunity, with more upside in its recovery and longer-term growth.

    Ongoing sales growth

    The strong sales tailwinds of COVID-19 demand and inflation appear to have subsided. However, the company continues to deliver revenue growth.

    In the third quarter of FY24, Australian food sales increased 1.5% to $12.6 billion, while Australian business-to-business (B2B) sales rose 3.2% to $1.1 billion. Total third-quarter sales (including New Zealand and BIG W) sales rose 2.8% to $16.8 billion.

    Despite cycling against a very strong FY23 third quarter, where Australian food sales rose 7.6%, Woolworths’ supermarkets were still able to report growth.

    It also reported that adjusted’ sales growth in April was “broadly in line” with the third quarter, with inflation continuing to moderate and the number of items sold showing “ongoing modest growth”.

    Considering the current economic conditions, I think Woolworths’ recent resilient sales performance has demonstrated its strong market position.

    Strong e-commerce results

    Woolworths is achieving excellent growth with its e-commerce sales, and if this growth could continue, it could play a more significant role in accelerating growth and helping support the Woolworths share price.

    In the FY24 third quarter, WooliesX (which includes e-commerce) grew 17.8% to $1.63 billion.

    Woolworths said its e-commerce sales penetration reached 12.4%, an increase of 178 basis points (1.78%) over the prior year.

    With the ongoing digitalisation of the economy, Woolworths is leading the way when it comes to online food shopping. Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) reported $856 million of e-commerce sales in the FY24 third quarter, much less than Woolworths.  

    I think Woolworths’ digital sales can be an important driver of earnings in the coming years.

    Solid long-term earnings growth projected

    I don’t believe Woolworths is the type of business that will deliver extraordinary earnings growth — supermarket retailing is usually consistent year to year. However, Woolworths is projected to deliver net profit after tax (NPAT) of $1.63 billion in FY24 and $1.64 billion in FY25.

    However, after FY25, the broker UBS predicts that Woolworths’ earnings will rise at a good pace in the next few years.

    UBS suggests the company’s net profit could rise 7.4% to $1.76 billion in FY26, lift 11.6% to $1.96 billion in FY27 and then rise 10.8% to $2.18 billion.

    Those numbers suggest the Woolworths share price is valued at 25x FY24’s estimated earnings and 19x FY28’s estimated earnings.

    It’s also projected to pay a grossed-up dividend yield of 4% in FY24 and 5.5% in FY28.

    With good profit growth projected in the coming years, I’d say the Woolworths share price is a solid buy at the current level.  

    The post The Woolworths share price is down 16%: Time to buy the stock? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Woolworths 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 Woolworths 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 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.

  • One year after Titan tragedy, another billionaire wants to prove deep-sea exploration is safe

    A year after the Titan submersible imploded, killing five people, an Ohio real estate investor aims to prove that exploring Titanic-level depths is safe.

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • I took a 30-hour train from New York to Miami, and the motion sickness and terrible sleep were too much for me

    The author is seen relaxing in a chair on the left and a bed on the right — both photos are in the romette of an Amtrak car
    A Business Insider reporter took an overnight Amtrak train from New York City to Miami.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    • I recently spent 30 hours on an Amtrak train traveling from New York City to Miami in 2021.
    • I found the ride to be rough and bumpy, with far too much time spent in a cramped space.
    • But if you value the journey as much as the destination, you might enjoy the ride.

    I've traveled on several overnight trains, but I'll never forget my first time.

    As a travel reporter who doesn't particularly enjoy flying, I thought I'd try an alternative mode of transportation for a trip from NYC to Miami in 2021.

    Even though the train ride was more expensive than a typical economy flight to Miami and took 10 times longer, I booked a private room with two beds and a toilet on an Amtrak sleeper train for $500.

    But I didn't anticipate how poorly the constant motion and length of the trip would make me feel.

    My journey began at Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station in NYC.
    People wait in line to board at Penn Station
    A view of a line to board a 3:15 p.m. Amtrak train to Miami.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    Waiting at the train station felt a lot like waiting in an airport but with less security. My train ticket got me into the waiting room, where I sat until it was time to board.

    Once it was time to board, I learned that sleeper cars are at the back of the train.
    Side by side photos show the Amtrak on the right side of the platform
    A view of an Amtrak train on the platform at Penn Station.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    The sleeper cars are right behind the dining car.

    Once on the train, I walked down the narrow corridor of three sleeper cars to find my room.
    A narrow hallway of roomettes on an Amtrak
    A view of a hallway in a sleeper car on an Amtrak train.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    The corridor was so narrow that you could only walk down it single file.

    Called a Roomette, this tiny, private suite is the cheapest way to travel by Amtrak if you want a bed.
    A view of an empty roomette across from the author's on an Amtrak.
    A view of an empty Roomette across the way.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    A step up from sitting in coach, where you get a regular train seat, a roomette is a private space with a door and blinds to cover up the windows.

    Inside, there are two seats across from each other, a table that folds out in between, and a bed above the seats that pulls down. The seats also pull out into a bed.

    In some Roomettes (mine included), there's a side table that swings open to reveal a toilet. Above, there's a folding sink and mirror.
    Side-by-side photos show the toilet seat opened and closed inside the Amtrak roomette.
    The bathroom is shown opened and closed.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    With the seat down and the sink folded up, you'd never know there was a bathroom in the room.

    With two seats to a Roomette and no privacy curtain around the toilet, I was grateful to be a solo traveler.
    The author sits on the toilet in the roomette
    The author sits on the toilet in her Roomette.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    There was no privacy for those traveling in pairs.

    I recommend bringing Poo Pouri with you if you plan to take a similar trip.
    The author holds Poopouri on the toilet
    The author poses with a bottle of Poo Pouri.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    A decade ago, I may have had a bigger problem with the toilet situation next to my bed in the Roomette. But, thankfully, I had packed some Poo Pourri, a spray that goes in the toilet just before you poop to eliminate odors.

    Due to availability when I booked my ticket, I had to switch to another Roomette that didn't have a toilet but still had a sink partway through my trip.
    Left: The author takes a selfie in front of the Amtrak bathroom mirror. Right: The author brushing her teeth in the mirror of her roomette
    The author in the bathroom on the left and in her Roomette on the right.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    There was a bathroom at the back of the sleeper car where I could use the toilet.

    The room had storage features that reminded me of a tiny home, like a pullout table between the chairs.
    An aerial view of the fold-out table with leaves
    The table is seen pulled out.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    The table had two foldout leaves, too, for more space. 

    One thing that surprised me about the Roomette was the variety of lighting options, which seemed to be more than what you'd get in economy on a flight.
    The author's finger presses a button turning on a light in her roomette
    The author turns on the reading light on her chair.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    In addition to the ceiling light, each seat had its own area light, reading light, and night light. I counted 11 light switches in my Roomette.

    I was also surprised to be able to control the temperature inside my Roomette.
    Controls on the wall allow you to modify the temperature.
    A view of a temperature dial and air conditioning vent in a Roomette.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    My Roomette had a temperature dial and air conditioning vents, and I kept it cool in my room, around 66 degrees Fahrenheit.

    When the train started moving, I noticed it was a bumpy ride, like a flight when the seat belt sign is on. I figured this was temporary, but I thought the whole ride was shaky.
    A photo showing outside the train window
    A view out of the window while the train was in motion.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    When I stood up to walk through the train cars, I felt like I was on an airplane during turbulence. It felt like this the whole journey, and I ended up feeling motion sickness for the majority of the trip. 

    Since my train ride felt bumpy, I tried not to leave my room too much. But come dinner time, I decided to head to the dining cart.
    The diner car on the train with a man sitting in the next booth
    A view of the dining car.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    Even though eating in my room was an option, I didn't want it to smell like food in my bunk all night. 

    Since I got a Roomette, my ticket came with a meal, and I thought it wasn't too bad.
    The author sits in the dining car with her meal
    The author dines on the train.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    I had braised short ribs, mashed potatoes, and a hard roll. While I didn't love the meal as it came, I made a little sandwich out of the ingredients, which tasted better to me. 

    When it was time for bed, I chose to sleep on the top bunk to experience what it was like.
    The author sits on the bed in the roomette
    The author gets ready for bed.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    The room's seats fold out into a bed on the bottom level, but I wanted to try sleeping up top. 

    The bed was suspended in the air, and there were blankets wrapped in plastic that I found surprisingly soft and comfortable. 

    I thought the bed was comfy enough, but throughout the day, the shaking was much worse on the top bunk than in the seats.
    The author lays in the train bed looking out the window on the left side
    The author tries to sleep.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    As I nestled into a sleeping position, I listened to the choo choo of the train whistle and pretended I was on the Polar Express until I finally fell asleep. 

    I woke up a few times in the night feeling disoriented, and I had to remind myself where I was. There were also times when I was worried I might fall out of bed.

    While I didn't sleep well, I enjoyed waking up to the sun rising over Georgia.
    The author lays in the train bed looking out the window on the left side
    The author wakes up in the morning.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    Even though I didn't sleep well, I'm glad I went with the top bunk because of the views I had in the morning. 

    I woke up at around 8 a.m. with about 11 hours left on my journey.
    The author works on a laptop in a train car
    The author works on a laptop.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    I passed a lot of the time working. 

    I used my Nintendo Switch, watched movies I had previously downloaded, and did work to fill the time.
    The author plays a Nintendo Switch on the train
    The author plays Mario Kart.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    While the train had internet, I found the connection to be unreliable. So I was glad I had downloaded movies, TV shows, and podcasts to my phone and iPad before my trip.

    I was so grateful when I finally arrived in Miami and decided that long train journeys weren't for the faint of heart.
    The author takes a selfie as she arrives in Miami
    The author takes a selfie when she arrives in Miami.

    Joey Hadden/Business Insider

    Since 2021, I've gotten more comfortable on overnight trains and have learned to appreciate them.

    In my opinion, taking a long train journey is a lot like taking a road trip — if you consider the ride a part of the vacation, then maybe it would be worth it for you. 

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • The 11 best things to stream this weekend, from a new ‘Orphan Black’ spinoff to a doc about a real ‘Gone Girl’ case

    The best things to watch this weekend.

    Orphan Black/BBC America, Abanti Chowdhury/BI

    • Check out the "Perfect Match" finale or the "Orphan Black: Echoes" premiere this weekend.
    • Documentaries like "Tell Them You Love Me" and "Black Barbie" are newly streaming.
    • You can also catch up on new episodes of "Hart to Heart" and "My Life Is Murder."

    There are a lot of new documentaries to watch if you're looking for a true story to dive into.

    Netflix has a few titles to add to your watch list, including "Black Barbie," a doc produced by Shonda Rhimes about the creation of the first Black Barbie doll. Over on Hulu, there's "Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini," about an apparent kidnapping with a twist.

    But if you'd rather indulge in something fictional, you can check out the premiere of "Orphan Black: Echoes," a spinoff of the beloved sci-fi series, or the new season of the mystery-dramedy "My Life is Murder."

    Here's a complete rundown of all the best movies, shows, and documentaries to stream this weekend, broken down by what kind of entertainment you're looking for.

    For an uplifting history lesson, watch "Black Barbie"…
    Black Barbie dolls
    Black Barbie dolls weren't released until 1980.

    Courtesy of Netflix

    "Black Barbie," produced by Shonda Rhimes and directed by Lagueria Davis, explores how three Black women working at Mattel — Beulah Mae Mitchell, Kitty Black Perkins, and Stacey McBride-Irby — were responsible for the debut of the groundbreaking doll in 1980. The new Barbie ultimately paved the way for the representation of all identities.

    Streaming on: Netflix

    …or "Outstanding: A Comedy Revolution."
    Stand Out: An LGBTQ+ Celebration. Trixie Mattel, Rosie O'Donnell at The Greek Theatre for Netflix Is A Joke Fest. C
    "Outstanding: A Comedy Revolution."

    Beth Dubber/Netflix

    Comic-turned-director Page Hurwitz's new doc, which recently premiered at Tribeca before streaming on Netflix, looks back at the history of LGBTQ+ stand-up comedy as a form of resistance. It features comedians including Lily Tomlin, Margaret Cho, and Rosie O'Donnell.

    Streaming on: Netflix

    Tennis fans should watch "Federer: 12 Final Days."
    A still from "Federer: Twelve Final Days"
    Roger Federer.

    Courtesy of Prime

    Particularly if you're a Federer fan, this doc is a must-watch. But really, any sports fan will appreciate this look into the final days of the superstar athlete's career, from his retirement announcement in 2022 to his last match.

    Streaming on: Prime Video

    For some messy reality TV drama, check out the "Perfect Match" finale.
    Stevan Ditter and Alara Taneri in a matching red outfit in "Perfect Match" season two, episode nine.
    Did Stevan and Alara win "Perfect Match"?

    Courtesy of Netflix

    Netflix's messiest reality dating show dropped its finale this week. It featured a surprising winning couple and more last-minute drama for Harry Jowsey and "Love Is Blind" alum Jessica Vestal.

    Streaming on: Netflix

    For a true-crime fix, tune into "Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini"…
    Photos featured in "Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini"
    Photos of Sherri and Keith Papini.

    Hulu

    This three-part docuseries tells the story of Sherri Papini's kidnapping hoax and its aftermath.

    Unlike the disturbing tale at the heart of Netflix's "American Nightmare," Papini's actually was a real-life "Gone Girl" case.

    Streaming on: Hulu

    …or "Tell Them You Love Me."
    Tell Them You Love Me key art
    Key art from "Tell Them You Love Me."

    Netflix

    This is one of the most disturbing documentaries I've seen in a minute.

    "Tell Them You Love Me" explores the complex and controversial story of Anna Stubblefield, a married white professor of ethics at Rutgers University-Newark, and Derrick Johnson, the nonverbal Black man with cerebral palsy she was convicted of sexually assaulting.

    Streaming on: Netflix

    If you're into cult history, watch "Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown."
    Former People's Temple member Yulanda Williams posing for a portrait
    Former Peoples Temple member Yulanda Williams.

    Xiao Hou/National Geographic

    Long before NXIVM and Twin Flames, there was Peoples Temple.

    Arguably the most famous cult in American history, it was founded by Jim Jones in the 1950s in Indianapolis and culminated in the horrific Jonestown massacre of 1978, in which the cult leader ordered his followers to drink Kool-Aid laced with cyanine. In total, 918 people died, including more than 300 kids.

    The new Hulu documentary features interviews with several survivors of the event, some of whom argue that the tragedy should be seen as a mass murder, not a mass suicide as it's commonly been labeled.

    Streaming on: Hulu

    The new season of "Hart to Heart" is out now.
    Kevin Hart and Ben Afflect on "Hart to Heart"
    Kevin Hart and Ben Affleck.

    Peacock

    The fourth season of Kevin Hart's talk show kicks off with the comedian's interview with Ben Affleck.

    Streaming on: Peacock

    For a mystery fix, watch "My Life Is Murder."
    Lucy Lawless in "My Life is Murder"
    Lucy Lawless plays Alexa Crowe.

    Davide Zerilli/AcornTV

    Lucy Lawless stars in this Australian-New Zealand dramedy as private investigator Alexa Crowe, a former detective who solves mysteries and has a bread-baking business in her spare time.

    Streaming on: Acorn TV

    Sci-fi fans should check out "Orphan Black: Echoes."
    Krysten Ritter as Lucy "Orphan Black: Echoes"
    Krysten Ritter in "Orphan Black: Echoes."

    Sophie Giraud/AMC

    If you were a fan of the original "Orphan Black," the Canadian sci-fi thriller that starred Tatiana Maslany as several genetically identical human clones, this one is a no-brainer.

    But even if you weren't familiar with the earlier series and just like the genre, "Echoes" is worth checking out. It stars Keeley Hawes as an older version of Kira Manning, the daughter of Maslany's character Sarah from the original show, and Krysten Ritter as Lucy, a woman with amnesia who finds herself at the center of her own clone mystery.

    Streaming on: AMC+

    The latest episode of "The Boys" is a must-watch.
    Antony Starr as Homelander in season four, episode four of "The Boys."
    Antony Starr as Homelander in season four, episode four of "The Boys."

    Prime Video

    The fourth episode of the satirical superhero drama's new season is a standout, largely thanks to Antony Starr's stunning performance as Homelander, who returns to the lab where he was raised.

    Seriously, just give the man an Emmy already. We only have one season left to do it after this!

    Streaming on: Prime Video

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • I worked at Disney World and still visit weekly. Here are 8 things I’m not buying at the parks right now.

    kayleigh posing in front of big top souvenirs at magic kingdom
    I used to work a Disney World in Florida.

    Kayleigh Price

    • I worked at Disney World for several years, and now I visit the theme parks once a week.
    • Over the years, I've learned not to buy Genie+ or dessert party tickets at the parks.
    • I also don't tend to waste money on chicken nuggets or Loungefly bags. 

    As an Orlando local and former Disney World employee, I visit the parks at least once a week.

    But without the free admission and plentiful discounts that came with my employee status, visiting has become incredibly expensive. According to FinanceBuzz, concession prices alone have gone up by 61% since 2014.

    Like many people, I've had to cut down on my spending over the years. Here are eight things I'm no longer buying at Disney World.

    Spirit jerseys should be left in the 2010s.
    racks of figment spirit jerseys at a disney world gift shop
    The long-sleeve spirit jerseys are wildly expensive.

    OLGA THOMPSON/Walt Disney World

    I remember when spirit jerseys were all the rage back in 2017 — you could barely get your hands on one before they sold out.

    But as they've gained popularity, they've also increased in price.

    As cute as they may be, I can't fathom spending upwards of $90 on a long-sleeve T-shirt.

    I don't need any more Mickey ears.
    wall of minnie ears at disneyland
    The parks release new Minnie and Mickey ears every year.

    Carly Terzigni

    Every Disney adult loves accessorizing their outfits with some Mickey ears.

    It can be tempting to browse the new and seasonal releases in the shops. But after going to the parks my whole life, I already have a stellar ear collection.

    I don't see the point of spending $35 to $40 on another pair — especially because they were closer to $20 to $25 just a few years ago.

    Genie+ isn't worth it for me.
    closeup photo of the lightning lane sign at seven dwarfs mine train in disney world
    I visit so often that I don't mind waiting in a few lines.

    Kent Phillips/Walt Disney World

    I remember the good old days when I would go to Disney World and automatically get three FastPasses for the day. It was glorious.

    Now you have to pay $20 to $30 a person daily for those same three line-skipping passes through a system called Genie+.

    As a local who has ridden every attraction at Disney World dozens of times, I don't see why I'd ever splurge on that.

    The ice-cream bars aren't a good value.
    hand holding mickey ice cream bar at disney world
    I used to always order the simple Mickey ice-cream bars.

    Jill Robbins

    The Mickey ice-cream bar was one of my go-to park snacks as a kid. It's such a Disney staple — super tasty and good for any Instagram photos.

    But they currently cost about $6. I'd rather spend that money on a bigger portion of ice cream, like a Dole Whip or a sundae, to get more bang for my buck.

    I avoid the Loungefly section of the gift shops.
    small world loungefly bag from disney parks
    There are Loungefly bags themed after rides like It's a Small World.

    Fiona Clair

    Like the spirit jerseys, I'm no longer spending money on Disney Loungeflys. No small backpack should cost over $100 — no matter how creative or cute the design is.

    It's so easy for me to go into a Disney merchandise store and get sucked into this section, but I've recently realized that these prices are ridiculous.

    I worked at the dessert parties, so I don't feel the need to buy the extra ticket.
    fireworks over cinderella castle at disney world
    I don't need to pay over $100 to get a good spot for the fireworks.

    Walt Disney World

    I used to work at the Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Party back in 2018, when it cost about $80 to $90 a person. That's still a pretty expensive ticket add-on, but I genuinely thought it was worth the price.

    The experience includes unlimited appetizers, treats, and drinks, along with a premiere viewing of the fireworks show from Tomorrowland Terrace.

    But now the price for one adult is $130, which is almost the same as park admission.

    Alternatively, I recommend paying $70 a person for a delicious three-course dinner at Be Our Guest restaurant. Then just go to hub lawns in front of the castle about an hour before the fireworks show to secure an amazing spot.

    The annual Christmas party has gotten too expensive for me.
    mickey minnie and dancers performing on stage at the magic kingdom Christmas party event
    Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is held at Magic Kingdom each year.

    Harrison Cooney/Walt Disney World

    I've always been such a big fan of the seasonal events at Disney World. I used to go to the Christmas and Halloween parties at Magic Kingdom every year.

    But that was when the tickets cost about $100. In 2023, tickets sold for up to $220 apiece, which is more expensive than the average full-day ticket to Magic Kingdom.

    As sad as it was to cut this out of my holiday celebrations last year, I had to. I can't rationalize spending over $200 for a six-hour event in the parks.

    I can get something better than chicken nuggets.
    basket of three chicken tenders and a side of fries served on red checkered paper
    Standard theme-park chicken tenders aren't worth it, in my opinion.

    Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock

    Almost every quick-service restaurant at Disney World has a chicken-finger meal, and it used to be one of my go-to orders.

    But as an adult, I'm realizing that it's kind of a waste of my money — especially since prices across the parks have been creeping up over the last couple of years.

    I'd rather spend my money on specialty treats or seasonal foods that I can't get outside the parks and grab Chick-fil-A on the way home.

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • Can the good times keep rolling for ASX 200 bank shares in FY25?

    a female bank teller smiles warmly as she hands over a piece of paper to a female customer while a large vase of tulips rests on the bank counter.

    ASX 200 bank shares have had a ripper six months of share price growth. This period has included new multi-year highs for all bank stocks except one and a new all-time peak for the biggest of the bunch.

    Australia’s biggest bank, Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), once again reset its record high on Friday, reaching $128.25 per share.

    This put it within striking distance of overtaking mining behemoth BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) as the most valuable company on the ASX 200 by market capitalisation.

    BHP is the biggest mining company in the world, with a market cap of $218.5 billion at its intraday high on Friday. At CBA’s peak share price yesterday, its market cap was approximately $214.6 billion.

    Also this week, National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) shares reached a nine-year high of $36.42, and Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Ltd (ASX: BEN) soared to its highest price in almost five years at $11.42.

    All of the Big Four ASX 200 bank shares, along with Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) and Bendigo Bank, have hit multi-year peaks this year. The Bank of Queensland Ltd (ASX: BOQ) is the only exception.

    As shown below, talk of interest rates nearing their peaks back in November set off this run of price growth.

    Such a sustained run is a bit unusual, given ASX 200 bank shares are traditionally seen as dividend shares, not growth stocks (with the exception of CBA and Macquarie).

    So, can the good times keep rolling in FY25? Let’s find out.

    What the experts expect from ASX 200 bank shares in FY25

    In a note this month, Goldman Sachs said ASX 200 bank shares valuations are “skewed to the downside” from here.

    The broker notes that Aussie banks’ return on tangible equity (ROTE) was the world’s second-highest on average in 2015. Today, the banks’ ROTE is the lowest of comparable global banks. This is due to compressed net interest margins (NIMs) and reduced low capital-intensive non-interest income.

    Despite this, ASX 200 bank shares remain the most expensive in the world. The broker notes that “this valuation discrepancy has expanded in recent times, despite weaker relative profitability”.

    The broker said: “We recently took a more negative view on Australian banks, reflecting absolute and domestic relative valuations being heavily skewed to the downside.”

    Philip King, CIO at Regal Funds Management, said Australian banks are being “attacked from all angles” by new competitors.

    They include buy now, pay later operators, non-bank lenders, and the burgeoning private credit sector.

    King is holding a short position on CBA shares. He expects earnings per share (EPS) to fall over the next 10 years.

    Schroders head of Australian equities Martin Conlon says ASX 200 bank shares’ profits will be “flat at best” unless they can wind back costs, which is difficult for any business to do in today’s economy.

    Conlon said: “We have very indebted consumers already. Getting them more indebted is tricky.”

    Asset Management portfolio manager Dominic Mlcek says ASX 200 bank shares are facing a “negative environment”. He questions their “lofty valuations” today.

    “Given the lack of growth outlook in our view, we’re maintaining an underweight exposure towards the big four,” Mlcek said.

    In light of all this, let’s take a look at some 12-month share price targets for the ASX 200 bank shares and compare them to where they are trading today.

    Bank share prices compared to FY25 targets

    On Friday, Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd (ASX: ANZ) shares closed at $28.94, down 0.86% (see our FY25 outlook article). UBS has a price target of $30. Goldman has a buy rating and target of $28.15.

    Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) shares finished at $27.24 on Friday, down 0.037% (see our FY25 outlook article). Goldman Sachs has a sell rating and target of $24.10. Morgans has a hold rating and target of $24.15. Citi has a sell rating and a $24.75 target. Morgan Stanley has an underperform rating and a $24.50 target.

    NAB shares closed at $36.21 on Friday, up 0.055% (see our FY25 outlook article). UBS has a sell rating on NAB shares due to a “fully valued” price. Its 12-month target is $30.

    The CBA share price ended the session at $127.68 on Friday, down 0.055% (see our FY25 outlook article). UBS has a $105 price target on CBA shares. Goldman Sachs has a sell rating and a 12-month price target of $82.61.

    Macquarie shares closed at $199.03 on Friday, up 1.29%. Morgan Stanley has a buy rating on Macquarie shares with a price target of $215.

    Bank of Queensland shares closed at $5.83 on Friday, down 0.17%. Goldman Sachs has a sell rating on BOQ shares and a 12-month share price target of $5.44.

    Bendigo Bank shares finished the week at $11.33 per share, down 0.088% on Friday. Goldman Sachs has a neutral rating and a 12-month price target of $10.51.

    The post Can the good times keep rolling for ASX 200 bank shares in FY25? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Australia And New Zealand Banking Group right now?

    Before you buy Australia And New Zealand Banking Group shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Australia And New Zealand Banking Group wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

    Citigroup is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has positions in Anz Group, BHP Group, Commonwealth Bank Of Australia, and Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group and Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Bendigo And Adelaide Bank and Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 1 ASX dividend stock to buy for growth and stay for a 5% yield

    A young woman wearing a silver bracelet raises her sunglasses in amazement, indicating positive share price movement in jewellery shares.

    The ASX dividend stock Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) could be an excellent long-term idea for dividends because of its willingness to pay out excess capital and deliver solid passive income.

    Lovisa is a retailer of affordable jewellery for younger shoppers around the world.

    It is becoming a true global retailer with its presence in so many countries.

    Lovisa operates in Australia, New Zealand and Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, and Vietnam. It also has stores in the African countries of South Africa, Namibia and Botswana; the United Kingdom and Europe, as well as the UAE, the United States, Canada and Mexico.

    The business also has franchise arrangements in the Middle East and African region, and in South America.

    That global growth is helping fund larger dividend payments from the ASX dividend stock.

    Strong store growth unlocking passive income

    Due to the low cost of its products, Lovisa is able to open new stores fairly cheaply and quickly. In the FY24 first-half result, Lovisa revealed its global store network increased by 19% year over year to 854 locations.

    The FY24 first-half result saw net profit after tax (NPAT) increase 12% to $53.5 million, and the dividend per share was hiked by 31% to 50 cents per share.

    The Lovisa HY21 half-year dividend was 20 cents per share, compared to 13 cents per share in the HY18 result. Thus, the dividend has grown by 150% in three years and by 285% in six years.

    I’m not expecting as much dividend growth in the next three years, but the payouts could continue to grow at a pleasing rate.

    Dividend growth expected to continue

    The broker UBS has forecast that the Lovisa annual dividend per share could be 75 cents in FY24 (up 8.7%) year over year, which would have a dividend yield of around 3%, including the franking credits.

    UBS has predicted passive income growth for the ASX dividend stock in each of the subsequent financial years.

    • In FY25, the annual dividend could increase another 12% to 84 cents per share.
    • In FY26, it could rise 18% to 99 cents per share.
    • In FY27, it may increase another 19% to $1.18 per share.
    • In FY28, the annual payout could jump 14% to $1.35 per share.

    If that FY28 payout happens, the Lovisa grossed-up dividend yield could be getting close to 5%.

    It’s possible Lovisa may keep the dividend payout ratio at close to 100% of its net profit, in which case the FY28 grossed-up dividend yield could actually be something like 5.4%, based on the UBS projection for profit.

    I’m optimistic about Lovisa’s growth prospects and the potential dividend payouts.

    The post 1 ASX dividend stock to buy for growth and stay for a 5% yield appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Lovisa Holdings 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 Lovisa Holdings 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 positions in Lovisa. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Lovisa. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Lovisa. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Satellite images show apparent mock-ups of US fifth-gen fighter jets and a runway with blast marks and craters in a Chinese desert

    A satellite image of Chinese mockups of US aircraft in the Taklamakan Desert.
    Satellite image from April 19, 2024, show Chinese mock-ups of what appear to be US aircraft in the Taklamakan Desert.

    Planet Labs PBC

    • China built mock-ups of US aircraft out in the Taklamakan Desert, satellite images show. 
    • Apparent blast marks and craters suggest China may be using the area for target practice. 
    • China has previously built mock-ups of US warships and carriers, likely for similar purposes.

    Satellite images show what appear to be mock-ups of fifth-generation US aircraft, among other aircraft, out in a Chinese desert.

    The airplanes, along with the suspected runway covered in apparent scorch marks and craters, suggest that China may be using the mock aircraft and area for target practice. It would not be the first time that this sort of thing has been observed in China.

    The satellite image of the mock-ups, captured April 19, 2024 by Planet Labs PBC and then obtained by Business Insider, show both covered and uncovered aircraft by a runway at a site in the Taklamakan Desert. There looks to be around 20 aircraft near a building and three more planes near the runway.

    A satellite image of Chinese mockups of US aircraft in the Taklamakan Desert.
    Satellite image from April 19, 2024, show Chinese mock-ups of US aircraft in the Taklamakan Desert.

    Planet Labs PBC

    Brady Africk, an open-source-intelligence analyst and an associate at the American Enterprise Institute think tank, said that the mock aircraft appear to be targets for some sort of training, not unlike other mock-ups China has made.

    While most of the aircraft in the image are covered up, nine look to be exposed. Six of the uncovered aircraft strongly resemble the US Air Force's F-22, the first fifth-generation fighter. As for the other aircraft, they look a bit like the P-8A Poseidon and the U-2 reconnaissance plane, though it is difficult to say for certain.

    More recent satellite images from late May surfaced on social media this week, showing apparent F-35 mock-ups among the fighters.

    https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

    Those satellite images, like the image from April, also appear to indicate that China has been using the aircraft and the area for target practice. Scorch marks and craters are evident at one end of the apparent runway, and some of the aircraft mock-ups appear wrecked. Those marks were not visible in an earlier image from a few years ago.

    A satellite image of Chinese mockups of US aircraft in the Taklamakan Desert.
    Satellite image from June 28, 2021, show Chinese mock-ups of US aircraft in the Taklamakan Desert.

    Planet Labs PBC

    That satellite image from June 28, 2021, also courtesy of Planet Labs PBC, shows the same site but with only seven aircraft and an unscathed runway area.

    Satellite image of a new carrier target in China's Taklamakan Desert.
    Satellite image of a new carrier target in China's Taklamakan Desert.

    Image © Planet Labs PBC

    China has previously built mock-ups of American assets for target practice.

    In January of this year, satellite images showed what appeared to be a mockup of the Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and a US Arleigh Burke-class destroyer also in the Taklamakan Desert. The mock-ups are believed to be targets and may be part of China's efforts to further develop its missile force against naval targets.

    In a war with China, the US would likely turn to its carrier strike groups for combat power projection.

    One expert previously told BI that these mock-ups potentially allowed China to refine seekers with image-recognition capabilities and help it develop the ability to accurately target particular ships or even specific parts of ships where a missile could do the most damage.

    A satellite image of an apparent US Arleigh Burke class destroyer in the Taklamakan Desert, photographed January 1, 2024.
    A satellite image of an apparent US Arleigh Burke class destroyer in the Taklamakan Desert, photographed January 1, 2024.

    Image © Planet Labs PBC

    China has much to gain from practicing with mock-ups of US aircraft and ships. China has also built a mockup of Taiwan's capital city, including its presidential office and government buildings, out in the desert of the Alxa League area. Such a facility could be used for training to prepare it for conflict.

    Read the original article on Business Insider