Author: openjargon

ASX defence shares have ripped since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

That event kicked off the global defence spending megatheme.

More countries, including Australia, are now committing more funding to defence as world order splinters further.

Last year, the 32 NATO nations agreed to more than double defence spending from 2% to 5% of GDP over 10 years.

In April, Australia said it would increase defence spending to 3% of GDP by 2033 by adopting NATO’s definitions of spending.

The Federal Government will spend an additional $14 billion over the next four years, and an additional $53 billion over the decade.

Since 2022, several ASX shares within the defence segment have recorded incredible share price growth.

Can they remain on the same trajectory?

In a recent article, CommSec equity strategist James Gruber said global defence spending “looks set to soar over the next decade”. 

But he also poses a key question for investors: how much of that is already factored into ASX share prices?

Gruber says:

That depends a lot on how much the ASX-listed businesses can continue to take market share and grow their order books in coming years, and that will depend on creating and maintaining superior technological products versus their peers.

With this in mind, let’s take a look at the ratings and 12-month price target ranges from the experts.

Austal Ltd (ASX: ASB)

The Austal share price has ascended 97% since June 2022, and hit an all-time high of $8.82 in January.

On Thursday, Austal shares are $3.83, down 2.7%.

Austal is an Australian defence shipbuilder that builds ships for the Australian Navy, US Navy, and others.

Gruber said:

Austal has a track record as a shipbuilder for defence forces, and it could benefit from the expected ramp up in global defence spending.

One risk is that it is the only foreign-owned contractor that builds and maintains warships for the US.

If America decides that outsourcing this function to foreigners does not make sense, then Austal may be impacted.

On the CommSec platform, the consensus rating among nine analysts rating Austal shares is a moderate buy.

On the TradingView website, three analysts have a 12-month target price range of $6.60 to $7.71.

That indicates 70% to 100% upside ahead.

Droneshield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

The Droneshield share price has soared 1,288% since 2022, and hit a record $6.71 in October.

Today, the Droneshield share price is $2.78, up 0.4%.

Droneshield is a counter-drone technology systems company.

Gruber said:

It was one of the earliest companies in counter-drone technology and that first-mover advantage has helped it grow revenue from $5m in 2020 to $227m in 2025. Most of the revenue comes from military forces in the US.

It predominantly sells hardware, but a growing number is from software as a service as the company’s AI software requires continuous updates.

The company has spent up to 20% of revenue on research and that has depressed profits. What net margins it may achieve in future is a key question.

Risks primarily revolve around competition, with big players in the market, including Leonardo from the UK. Besides competition, the other main risk is obsolescence, with the possibility of superior technology emerging.

Recently, the Chairman and CEO decided to step down from their leadership positions, resulting in a sharp, one-day drop in the share price.

Three analysts on CommSec give a consensus hold rating for Droneshield shares.

On TradingView, three analysts have a 12-month target price range of $2.28 to $4.80.

That suggests Droneshield shares could fall by nearly 20%, or may rise by up to 70%, over the next year.

Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS)

Electro Optic Systems shares are 410% higher since June 2022, and hit a peak of $12.58 in March.

On Thursday, the Electro Optic Systems share price is $9.39, down 4.2%.

The company specialises in defence technology, developing advanced weapon systems and counter-drone solutions.

Gruber said:

The company has a strong order book of $459m, up from $136m at the end of 2024. It aims to realise 40-50% of this order book in 2026.

The company is a small defence contractor on the global stage and that may be why it has continued to struggle to post underlying profits in recent years (FY25 underlying earnings were -$24m).

Nonetheless, it could benefit from the increased global spending on defence going forward.

In March, its the shares had a big drop after it was revealed that the CEO and CFO intended to sell a large portion of their stakes in the company.

Four traders on CommSec have a consensus strong buy rating on Electro Optic Systems shares.

On TradingView, four analysts have a 12-month target price range of $10.60 to $16.

That indicates about 10% to 70% upside ahead.

The post ASX defence shares like Droneshield have soared since 2022. Is there any growth left? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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 DroneShield and Electro Optic Systems. 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.

There are many Vanguard exchange-traded funds (ETFs) available on the ASX.

Some are designed for broad global exposure. Others focus on Australia, bonds, high growth portfolios, or diversified all-in-one investing.

But if I had to choose one Vanguard ETF for long-term growth, I think there is a very strong candidate.

The Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF (ASX: V500) could be the best Vanguard ETF money can buy.

Why this Vanguard ETF stands out

The appeal of the V500 ETF is its simplicity.

It gives investors exposure to the S&P 500 index, which is made up of 500 of the largest listed companies in the United States. That means investors can buy one ASX ETF and gain access to a large group of businesses across different industries.

I think that is a powerful starting point.

The S&P 500 has delivered an average annual return of around 10% over the very long term. There is no guarantee that future returns will match the past, and there will always be difficult periods along the way.

But I believe the index can continue to perform well over the long term because of the quality of the companies inside it.

The US market has an unusually deep collection of global leaders. Many of these businesses do not only serve American customers. They sell products, software, services, medicines, food, payments, entertainment, and infrastructure across the world.

That gives the V500 ETF a much broader feel than a simple US-only investment.

A collection of world-class companies

The technology exposure is the part many investors think about first.

Through V500, investors gain exposure to companies such as Microsoft, Apple, NVIDIA, and Alphabet. These businesses are central to cloud computing, artificial intelligence, smartphones, software, digital advertising, and data infrastructure.

But the ETF is not only a technology fund.

It also owns major banks such as JPMorgan Chase & Co and Bank of America, which gives investors exposure to the US financial system. These are large institutions tied to lending, deposits, payments, markets, and corporate activity.

There is also exposure to resources and materials businesses, including Freeport-McMoRan and Newmont Corp. These companies connect the index to copper, gold, and the raw materials needed across parts of the global economy.

On the consumer side, this Vanguard ETF owns businesses such as Amazon.com, Walmart, and Costco. These are very different retailers, but each has built scale, customer loyalty, and deep logistics capability.

The food and beverage exposure is also useful. Companies such as Coca-Cola, Starbucks, and McDonald’s show how the index includes businesses with global brands and repeat customer demand.

Healthcare adds another layer. Eli Lilly and Co, Johnson & Johnson, and UnitedHealth give the V500 ETF exposure to medicines, medical products, healthcare services, and long-term demand from ageing populations.

That mix is why I rate the ETF highly.

Low cost and easy to own

Another reason I like V500 is the cost. The ETF has a very low management fee of 0.07% per annum. Over long periods, low fees can make a meaningful difference because more of the return stays with investors.

I also like that it is easy to understand. Investors are not relying on one fund manager picking stocks. They are buying broad exposure to many of the largest companies in the US market.

There are risks. The US market can become expensive, the index is heavily influenced by large technology companies, and currency movements can affect returns for Australian investors.

But I think those risks are worth accepting for investors who want long-term exposure to global corporate leaders.

Foolish takeaway

I would not say V500 is the perfect ETF for every investor.

Some people may prefer an all-in-one fund. Others may want more Australian exposure, more defensive assets, or a wider global spread.

But for investors seeking simple, low-cost exposure to many of the world’s most important businesses, I think this Vanguard ETF has a very strong claim.

The post Is this the best Vanguard ETF money can buy? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Bank of America is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Costco Wholesale, Eli Lilly, JPMorgan Chase, Microsoft, Nvidia, Starbucks, and Walmart. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Johnson & Johnson and UnitedHealth Group and has recommended the following options: long January 2028 $320 calls on McDonald’s and short January 2028 $340 calls on McDonald’s. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Starbucks. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is trading lower again on Thursday as investors weigh another difficult session from Wall Street.

At the time of writing, the ASX 200 is down 0.15% to 8,640 points.

Keep in mind, the index recovered from a much steeper fall earlier in the day. It dropped as low as 8,555.3 points before clawing back ground in afternoon trade.

Still, the benchmark remains under pressure. It is now down 1.65% over the past week, 1.19% over the past month, and 0.85% since the start of 2026.

So, what’s weighing on the market today?

Why the ASX 200 is falling

The weakness followed a rough night on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) fell 953 points, or 1.9%. The Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) dropped 2%, while the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) lost 1.6%.

The selloff came as investors reacted to renewed Middle East tensions, higher oil prices, and stronger inflation data.

According to Reuters, oil prices rose again as skirmishes between the United States and Iran put more attention on the Strait of Hormuz.

Brent crude is trading near US$94.58 a barrel, while WTI crude is fetching US$91.57.

US inflation is also back in focus after May CPI rose 4.25% over the year, according to reports. This has added to concerns that interest rates may need to stay higher for a bit longer.

Big stocks are holding the market back

A few major ASX 200 shares are weighing on the index today.

Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) shares are down 1.7% to $19.33, while Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares are 1.6% lower at $157.75.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) is also under pressure, with its shares down 1.5% to $18.26 after another update from activist investor Elliott.

The technology sector is also under pressure. WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) shares are down 2.7% to $37.02, following overnight weakness in US tech stocks.

Nonetheless, there are still some pockets of strength.

Lendlease Group (ASX: LLC) shares are also up 2.3% to $2.68, while Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) shares are 1.6% higher at $31.52.

What happens next?

The ASX 200 has managed to recover from its lows today, but the market is still being pulled in different directions.

Oil is helping one corner of the market, while creating problems for others. If crude prices keep pushing higher, investors are going to keep worrying about what it means for inflation and interest rates.

Clearly there are still buyers around, but after last night’s Wall Street selloff, it may take some time for nerves to settle.

The post ASX 200 slips as oil shock puts investors on edge appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Why Lendlease, Meteoric Resources, Super Retail, and Woodside shares are rising today
• Why I’d put $2,000 into CBA and these blue-chip ASX shares this month
• 2 ASX tech shares I’d buy that aren’t Xero or WiseTech
• Down 53% in a year, guess which $1.8 billion ASX 200 stock is jumping today on big leadership news
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Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Like a dormant volcano, the war in the Middle East between the United States, Israel and Iran has erupted with tragic vengeance this week. And the ASX stock market has certainly taken notice.

As it currently stands, the US and Iran have been trading strikes, and the Strait of Hormuz is once again completely closed, if it wasn’t already for all intents and purposes. Oil hasn’t been flowing through the Strait for months now, at least at anywhere near the volumes that it was in February. But now that this vital spigot of the world’s economy looks less likely than ever to stage its grand reopening, it seems prudent to discuss the implications for the ASX stock market and Australian investors.

So, could another oil stock tank the ASX stock market?

Oil and the ASX stock market

Well, that’s the $64 trillion question. The short answer is yes. As you can imagine, there is arguably no economic input more important to any economy than oil. It is what enables the arteries of commerce to flow, powering everything from logistics to manufacturing.

If oil rises in price, it becomes more expensive for Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) to ship food and household essentials from supplier to warehouse to store, for Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) to dispatch installation and repair teams to internet connections, and for BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) to drive its mining trucks and equipment. And that’s just a few of millions of examples.

There’s also the inflationary impacts to consider, which probably don’t need much elaboration.

There would be few winners and many losers if a severe oil shock hits the global economy. We got a taste of it a few months ago, and if the Strait does not reopen, things could get even more severe.

That all sounds rather bleak, and I apologise for it. However, I always try and let the maxim of ‘hope for the best, prepare for the worst’ guide my investing decisions.

So what should investors do? Well, I think that nothing is the safest path. Hear me out.

This too shall pass

We invest in the ASX stock market and buy shares and index funds to build long-term wealth. Hopefully, we only buy shares of the best companies Australia can offer, companies that sell goods and services that we either need, or desire so passionately that we feel we need.

If that is the case, then these companies will adapt to adverse conditions, survive, and then eventually thrive once more. That’s what happened in the global financial crisis, and the COVID pandemic, and what will happen again if there is indeed another oil shock.

Selling these shares on the chance of what will be a painful, but ultimately temporary, oil shock, is folly, and likely to backfire.

If an investor just sticks to buying index funds, they should arguably hold the fort too. As our Chief Investment Officer, Scott Phillips, points out every year, the Australian share market has historically endured everything that the world has thrown at it, including the catastrophic events above, and come out the other side to hit new record highs. I think there’s no reason to believe that won’t happen again in the event of another oil shock.

Whenever a frightening event like an oil shock hits the economy, it can be difficult to remain clear-eyed and level-headed. However, I think that if investors keep in mind that the markets have always historically recovered from everything the world has put on their path, they can get through whatever happens in the Strait of Hormuz in the coming weeks and months.

The post Could another oil shock tank the ASX stock market? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Is this the best Vanguard ETF money can buy?
• ASX 200 slips as oil shock puts investors on edge
• Why Larvotto, Newmont, Qantas, and Steadfast shares are dropping today
• Why Lendlease, Meteoric Resources, Super Retail, and Woodside shares are rising today
• 8 ASX 200 shares with renewed buy ratings this week

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

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has fought back from a poor start and is in positive territory. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is up 0.2% to 8,668.6 points.

Four ASX shares that have failed to follow the market higher today are listed below. Here’s why they are falling:

Larvotto Resources Ltd (ASX: LRV)

The Larvotto Resources share price is down 16% to $1.12. Investors have been selling the company’s shares after it announced a binding agreement to acquire 100% of Hammer Metals by way of a Board recommended scheme of arrangement. Hammer shareholders will receive 1 Larvotto share for every 22 Hammer shares held. This implies an equity value of approximately $54 million. Management believes the acquisition advances Larvotto’s strategy to build a leading, Australian critical minerals and precious metals company with a focus on antimony, gold, and copper production. Based on the share price reaction, it seems that some investors are not keen on the deal.

Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM)

The Newmont share price is down almost 4% to $132.11. Investors have been selling the gold miner’s shares today after the price of the precious metal tumbled in response to surging oil prices. There are concerns that high fuel prices could push inflation higher and lead to rate hikes from central banks. The S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Gold index is down 1% at the time of writing.

Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN)

The Qantas share price is down 3% to $9.02. This may have also been driven by a jump in oil prices overnight. As fuel is usually an airline’s biggest expense, higher oil prices are bad news for them. And given how tensions are escalating in the Middle East again this week, it seems that some investors believe that oil prices could remain higher for longer.

Steadfast Group Ltd (ASX: SDF)

The Steadfast share price is down 2% to $5.28. It is possible that some investors are taking profit today after the insurance brokerage company’s shares rocketed on Wednesday following the receipt of a takeover proposal. Steadfast received a conditional, non-binding and indicative offer from Amwins Group and Dragoneer Investment Group to acquire it at a price of $6.00 cash per share (less any dividends declared or paid). The company responded, stating: “The Steadfast Board confirms that, subject to reaching agreement on acceptable terms of a binding scheme implementation deed, it intends to unanimously recommend that Steadfast shareholders vote in favour of the Potential Transaction, in the absence of a superior proposal and subject to an independent expert concluding, and continuing to conclude, that the Potential Transaction is in the best interests of Steadfast shareholders.”

The post Why Larvotto, Newmont, Qantas, and Steadfast shares are dropping today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is having a subdued session on Thursday. In afternoon trade, the benchmark index is down slightly to 8,651.9 points.

Four ASX shares that are not letting that hold them back are named below. Here’s why they are rising:

Lendlease Group (ASX: LLC)

The Lendlease share price is up over 2% to $2.68. This follows the announcement of its new CEO and the release of a trading update. With respect to the latter, Lendlease reaffirmed its Investments, Development and Construction segment FY 2026 earnings per share guidance of 28 cents to 34 cents. This is subject to targeted completions. In addition, it revealed that underlying group gearing is expected in the mid-30% range. Earlier in the day, the company revealed that Nick O’Neil will become its new CEO from 10 September. Lendlease chair, John Gillam, said: “With our strategy reset, portfolio simplification and foundations firmly in place, Nick is ideally positioned to lead the next phase of revitalising and strengthening Lendlease. He brings deep real asset management experience, a strong track record in global investment and innovation in aligning capital to market opportunities, as well as the leadership experience needed to drive execution and growth.”

Meteoric Resources NL (ASX: MEI)

The Meteoric Resources share price is up 7% to 15.5 cents. This morning, the rare earths developer released an update on its Caldeira Rare Earth Project in Brazil. It revealed that its pilot plant achieved outstanding MREO recoveries of 80% during May. Meteoric’s managing director and CEO, Stuart Gale, said: “Results from our first five months of Pilot Plant operation have been excellent and exceed our expectations. It has validated the investment Meteoric has made in metallurgical and process testwork, along with the assumptions made in our studies to date.”

Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL)

The Super Retail share price is up 1.5% to $12.44. This follows the unveiling of a new strategy from the retail conglomerate this morning. Super Retail’s new strategy outlines how it intends to capture a greater share of its $65 billion addressable market opportunity across automotive, sport, and outdoor. This will be through growth in its core categories and expansion into adjacent categories within those markets. The company’s CEO, Paul Bradshaw, said: “Our new Group Strategy puts the customer at the centre of everything we do as we build our business for its next phase of growth. We are determined to be closer to our customers than ever before – understanding and meeting their needs as they continue to evolve. Together, our four brands capture $4 billion of a $65 billion market opportunity in Australia and New Zealand. We have an incredible opportunity to pursue growth across our core auto, sport and outdoor markets, both in traditional and adjacent categories.”

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

The Woodside Energy share price is up 1.5% to $31.53. Investors have been buying the energy giant’s shares after oil prices jumped in response to an escalation in tensions in the Middle East. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy index is up 1.5% at the time of writing.

The post Why Lendlease, Meteoric Resources, Super Retail, and Woodside shares are rising today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Woodside Energy Group Ltd. 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 has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are down 0.4% to 8,614.8 points on Thursday.

Meanwhile, brokers have indicated continuing confidence in several ASX 200 shares with refreshed buy calls this week.

Here are some examples.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

The CSL share price is $107.34, up 4.3% today.

The ASX 200’s largest healthcare share is having a strong week despite no price-sensitive announcements.

Since last Friday’s close, CSL shares have spiked 9.6% while the S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) has lifted just 3.6%.

CSL shares have fallen 63% over two years, but perhaps a turnaround is afoot?

UBS reiterated its buy rating on CSL shares on Tuesday.

However, the broker lowered its target price from $175 to $158.

This still implies potential capital gains of 47% ahead.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)

The South32 share price is $4.35, down 2.9% today.

Over the past six months, this ASX 200 mining share has risen 27%.

Citi reaffirmed its buy rating on South32 shares on Tuesday.

The broker increased its 12-month price target from $5.40 to $6.10.

This suggests a potential 40% upside ahead.

Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)

The Flight Centre share price is $10.97, down 3.1%.

This ASX 200 travel share has fallen 26% over six months.

But UBS is confident of a turnaround, reiterating its buy rating this week.

The broker has a $14.50 target on the ASX 200 consumer discretionary share.

This suggests a 32% upside from here.

ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ)

The ANZ share price is $34.02, down 1.6% today.

This ASX 200 bank share has fallen 5.3% over the past month.

Citi reiterated its buy rating on ANZ shares with a price target of $39.25 on Tuesday.

This implies potential capital gains of 15% ahead.

GQG Partners Inc (ASX: GQG)

The GQG Partners share price is $1.46, up 0.3% today.

Over the past six months, this ASX 200 financial share has fallen 17%.

Morgans renewed its accumulate rating on GQG Partners shares yesterday.

The broker lowered its 12-month price target from $2.03 to $1.64.

This suggests a potential 12% upside ahead.

Morgans commented:

While the near-term operating environment remains difficult, we continue to see long-term value in the GQG franchise, trading at ~9x FY1 PE with a ~10% dividend yield.

Life360 Inc (ASX: 360)

The Life360 share price is $21.21, down 1.6% today.

Over the past month, this ASX tech share has recovered 5.6%.

Life360 has lost 33% of its valuation over the past 12 months.

Citi reaffirmed its buy rating on Life360 shares on Tuesday.

The broker modified its target from $32.10 to $28.25, suggesting a potential 33% increase from here.

SRG Global Ltd (ASX: SRG)

The SRG Global share price is $3.69, down 3.5% today.

This ASX 200 industrials share has ascended 32% over six months.

Morgans renewed its buy call on SRG Global shares this week.

The broker also lifted its target price from $3.20 to $4.20.

This implies potential capital growth of 13% over the next year.

Morgans said:

SRG has upgraded FY26 EBITDA guidance to the upper end of its $164-168m range (~$168m) and, unusually early, provided FY27 EBITDA guidance of $190-200m. This underlines the group’s strong earnings visibility, which is arguably unparalleled in the services sector.

We forecast SRG reaches net cash in FY26 and, on that basis, expect it to resume acquisitions. We believe SRG may be able to continue to compound +20-30% EPS growth over the next few years as robust organic growth is supplemented by strategic acquisitive growth. 

Centuria Capital Group (ASX: CNI)

The Centuria Capital share price is $2.02, up 2.5% today and down 4.3% over six months.

Centuria Capital Group is a funds manager specialising in property investment and investment bonds.

Morgan Stanley renewed its buy rating on this ASX 200 real estate share on Tuesday.

The broker lifted its 12-month price target from $2.05 to $2.35.

This suggests a potential 16% upside ahead.

The post 8 ASX 200 shares with renewed buy ratings this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• NAB and ANZ shares: One I’d hold and one I’d sell
• Morgans says these ASX shares could deliver 23% to 60% returns
• How much does UBS think CSL will bounce back?
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• 3 ASX growth shares I’d buy to build long-term wealth

Citigroup is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. 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 CSL and Life360. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Life360. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL, Flight Centre Travel Group, Gqg Partners, and Srg Global. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) shares are having another strong session on Thursday.

At the time of writing, the QBE share price is up 4.61% to $24.50.

Earlier today, the ASX 200 financial share climbed as high as $24.57. That’s its highest level in more than a decade, last seen during the post-GFC recovery period in December 2009.

The move adds to what has already been a solid year for QBE shareholders. The stock is now up more than 20% in 2026.

So, what is driving the rally, and should investors still be interested after such a big run?

Why QBE shares are rising

QBE has been getting support from a stronger insurance earnings backdrop and higher premiums in its latest full-year numbers.

The company reported statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) of US$2.16 billion for FY 2025, up from US$1.78 billion a year earlier. Adjusted NPAT also rose to US$2.13 billion, while adjusted return on equity (ROE) came in at 19.8%.

Its combined operating ratio improved to 91.9%, from 93.1% in the prior year, pointing to a better underwriting result and tighter control of claims and costs.

QBE also lifted its full-year dividend to $1.09 per share, which was 25% higher than the prior year.

Based on the current share price, the stock is still offering a dividend yield of about 4.5%.

QBE holds its guidance

The more recent first-quarter update gave investors another reason to stay positive.

QBE said gross written premium growth was 11% compared with the prior corresponding period, or 7% on a constant currency basis.

The company also maintained its FY 2026 outlook, pointing to mid-single-digit gross written premium growth and a group combined operating ratio of around 92.5%.

That suggests management still expects the business to remain profitable. This is despite premium growth potentially slowing from the very strong figures seen across the industry in recent years.

Is it too late to buy?

QBE is in much better shape than it was a few years ago. Earnings have improved, the dividend has been lifted, and the first-quarter update showed the business has started 2026 well.

But investors are no longer buying the stock at a cheap-looking price. After a move to a decade-high, much of the good news is already reflected in the share price.

There are also risks to watch. UBS has previously raised concerns about a softer insurance pricing backdrop heading into 2027, particularly if premium rate growth loses pace more quickly than expected.

After today’s push to decade highs, I’d be inclined to wait for a better entry point rather than chase the rally.

The post QBE shares just hit a decade high. Is it too late to buy? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

ASX bank stocks are being smashed again on Thursday.

At the time of writing, ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) shares are down around 2% and changing hands at $33.96. The banking giant’s shares are now down 17% from an all-time high recorded in mid-February, and 7% lower for the year to date.

National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) shares are also down around 2% today, and trading at $35.69 at the time of writing. NAB shares are now down over 27% from an all-time high in late February and are around 16% lower for the year to date.

Many ASX 200 bank shares have slumped recently as concerns around the Federal Budget’s property tax changes, higher interest rates, disappointing quarterly updates, and ongoing global volatility continue to spook investors. And many are rushing to sell up their holdings.

But when it comes to two of the big four banks, ANZ and NAB, there is one I’d sell and one I’d hold onto.

Here’s why.

I’d hold ANZ shares

ANZ was one of the few banking giants that actually posted a positive first-half FY26 update last month.

In early May, ANZ reported a 70% jump in its cash profit for the first half of FY26. Statutory profit was also up 62%, operating income was up 3%, and the bank’s operating expenses were 22% lower.

The bank also confirmed it has now achieved 49% of its gross cost-savings target of $800 million for FY26.

It’s clear that the bank has been working hard to reduce costs and simplify its operations, and its results last month suggest all its efforts have paid off. 

If profit continues to grow, there could be a glimmer of hope ahead for ANZ shares over the next 12 months.

Brokers look to have become more positive on the stock, too.

TradingView data shows that half of its analysts (eight out of 16) have a hold rating on ANZ shares, but another six have a buy or strong buy rating. 

The average $34.98 target price implies a potential 3% upside at the time of writing. But more bullish analysts think ANZ shares could climb 19% to a maximum target price of $40.50 over the next 12 months.

Citi is one of the more bullish brokers. The team has a buy rating on ANZ shares and a $40 price target.

UBS is slightly more bearish and rates ANZ shares as a hold. But its $36.50 price target is still higher than the average.

I’d sell NAB shares

NAB was one of the worst performers among the big four major banks last month. Its disappointing half-year FY26 results didn’t help. 

In early May, the bank posted a modest earnings growth, including a 6.4% increase in underlying profit and a 3.1% increase in revenue. But the results were a miss versus expectations, and investors weren’t pleased.

Unlike ANZ, NAB’s outlook is much less positive. The bank is facing continued headwinds over the next 12 months, including margin pressure and slower profit growth.

Weaker sentiment is shown in analyst outlooks, too.

TradingView data shows that 10 of 16 analysts have a hold rating on NAB shares. Another four rate the banking giant as a sell. 

The average $37.53 target price currently implies a potential 5% upside at the time of writing. Although some think the shares could fall up to 19% to $29 each in the next 12 months.

Mark Gardner from MPC Markets said his team is bearish on NAB shares. He said they believe the bank’s near-term earnings outlook is under pressure. The broker recently said that while its dividend remains attractive, valuation support is less convincing if earnings momentum continues softening. Gardner has a sell recommendation on NAB shares.

Catapult Wealth’s Dylan Evans also has a sell recommendation on NAB shares. He said that recent changes announced in the Federal budget, coupled with households pressured by rising interest rates, could create new headwinds for the bank.

The post NAB and ANZ shares: One I’d hold and one I’d sell appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 8 ASX 200 shares with renewed buy ratings this week
• Sell alert! Why this expert is calling time on NAB and Westpac shares
• Hedge funds are shorting the big four bank shares. Should investors be worried?
• What are the big 4 banks worth as the housing market falters?
• Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy now

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

If I had $2,000 to invest in blue-chip ASX shares, my focus would be on businesses that can remain useful in different economic conditions.

With that in mind, these are three ASX shares I would consider buying this month.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

CBA is the first blue-chip ASX share I would consider.

This bank stock regularly trades at a premium to the other major banks, so investors need to be comfortable paying up for quality.

But I think CBA justifies its valuation. What stands out to me is how deeply embedded it is in Australian financial life. It is not just a mortgage lender. It touches transaction accounts, deposits, credit cards, business banking, home loans, merchant services, apps, payments, and financial tools.

That breadth gives it a very strong view of the customer. In banking, that can be a major advantage. Customer relationships, data, funding strength, and trust are all useful when competition is intense. CBA’s digital capability also helps keep customers engaged in ways that go beyond a branch network.

There are risks to consider. Bad debts could increase if higher interest rates put more pressure on borrowers, margins can move around, and regulation is always part of the banking sector. But I think CBA is one of the highest-quality financial institutions in the world and well-placed to handle these risks.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

Woolworths is the second ASX share I would consider buying.

I like Woolworths because it operates in one of the most repeatable spending categories in the economy.

Households can delay many purchases when budgets are tight. But groceries remain part of the weekly routine. That gives Woolworths a defensive quality that can be useful in a portfolio.

The company is also more than a collection of supermarkets. Its scale gives it purchasing power, supply chain reach, data, loyalty benefits, and the ability to invest in online shopping, store formats, and customer convenience.

I think that is important. Supermarket retailing looks simple from the outside, but execution is demanding. Customers notice prices, freshness, availability, checkout experience, delivery reliability, and promotions. Small differences can influence where they shop.

Woolworths needs to keep working hard on value, service, and trust. Competition from Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), Aldi, Costco, and other retailers remains real.

Even so, I think this is the type of blue-chip share that can provide stability when other parts of the market are more volatile.

Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

Goodman is the third blue-chip ASX share I would consider.

It is often grouped with property companies, but I think that label understates what makes the business interesting.

Goodman owns, develops, and manages industrial property in important global locations. These assets sit close to supply chains, consumers, cities, transport routes, and major economic hubs.

That alone is attractive. Modern businesses need efficient logistics space, and good locations can be hard to replace.

But Goodman’s opportunity has also expanded as data centre demand has grown. Cloud computing, artificial intelligence, streaming, cybersecurity, and enterprise software all need physical infrastructure behind them.

Goodman is one of the ASX companies positioned to benefit from that shift.

What I like most is the mix of property discipline and technology-driven demand. This is not just a story about warehouses. It is about land, power, customer relationships, development capability, and the ability to allocate capital into areas where demand is strong.

Foolish takeaway

A $2,000 investment does not need to chase the most speculative opportunity on the market. I think it can make sense to put money into businesses that already have scale, strong customer positions, and reasons to remain important over the next decade.

For investors looking for blue-chip ASX shares, I think these three are worth considering.

The post Why I’d put $2,000 into CBA and these blue-chip ASX shares this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Time to cash out? Why this expert is bearish on Goodman and BHP shares
• How I’d aim to build $10,000 a year in passive income from ASX shares
• Hedge funds are shorting the big four bank shares. Should investors be worried?
• What are the big 4 banks worth as the housing market falters?
• Sell alert! Why this expert is calling time on Westpac and CBA shares

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Commonwealth Bank Of Australia. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Costco Wholesale and Goodman Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Goodman Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.