Author: openjargon

Last week was a rollercoaster for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

Australia’s benchmark index swung heavily throughout the week, ultimately finishing 2.95% lower on Friday’s close than Monday’s open. 

Three ASX shares in particular that bounced around were: 

• Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW)
• Domino’s Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP)
• 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX)

When stocks crash and recover on a daily basis, it can be difficult for investors to pinpoint true value. 

Here’s what experts are saying about these ASX shares. 

Light & Wonder

Light & Wonder shares crashed more than 7% at the start of last week. They then recovered by Thursday, before falling again on Friday. 

All in all, they finished the week down 1.35%. 

It’s been a rough start to the year for the game developer, down 28% since the middle of January. 

Holders of this ASX 200 stock will be pleased to know that analysts have a positive outlook, meaning there is the possibility of a larger recovery. 

Last week, Morgans had a buy rating and $195 price target on the company. 

Unlike other sectors, the broker thinks AI disruption will strengthen its competitive edge. 

From Friday’s closing price of $129.97, the Morgans price target indicates an upside of 50%. 

Elsewhere, Bell Potter is tipping even more upside for the ASX 200 stock. 

The broker has a $220 price target on Light and Wonder shares. 

Domino’s Pizza Enterprises

It was also a turbulent week for Domino’s shares. 

The ASX 200 stock initially dropped 12% before recovering significantly. 

It finished the week 3.74% lower than Monday’s open. 

This is a snapshot of what Domino’s shareholders have endured over the last year. 

The share price is ultimately down 29% for the last 12 months. 

Outlook is mixed amongst experts moving forward. 

Morgans currently has a buy rating and $25 price target on Domino’s shares. 

Meanwhile, Morgan Stanley has a sell rating on Domino’s Pizza shares with a target of just $15.20.

The ASX 200 company closed last week in between these targets at $19.07. 

4DMedical

This ASX stock was another up-and-down company last week. 

It endured heavy rises and falls but finished the week more than 13% above Monday’s open. 

The medical technology company is up an astounding 1000% in the last year. 

Following such a run, there are now questions on valuation vs revenue. 

Meanwhile, Bell Potter is optimistic that the growth can continue. 

The broker set a $4.50 price target and issued a buy recommendation.  

That indicates an upside of roughly 4% from last week’s close. 

The post What to make of these volatile ASX shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 3 shares dumped from the ASX 200 index (and 3 new additions)
• Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy next week
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• Broker names 3 ASX 200 shares to buy in March
• Morgans names 3 ASX shares to buy in March

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell has positions in Domino’s Pizza Enterprises. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Domino’s Pizza Enterprises and Light & Wonder Inc. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Domino’s Pizza Enterprises and Light & Wonder Inc. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Market sell-offs are never comfortable, but they are a normal part of investing.

The share market moves in cycles, and even strong companies can see their share prices fall sharply when sentiment turns negative. While it can feel unsettling in the moment, those periods often create some of the best long-term buying opportunities.

If the ASX share market were to crash, my approach wouldn’t be to panic or rush for the exit. Instead, I’d be looking for high-quality businesses whose long-term outlook remains intact but whose share prices have been dragged down with the broader market.

Here are three types of investments I’d be paying close attention to.

High-quality compounders

One of the first places I’d look during a market crash is high-quality ASX growth shares that have strong long-term track records.

Businesses like Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) and Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) have built global platforms and operate in industries with long growth runways. These are the kinds of companies that can grow earnings for many years, but their share prices can still fall heavily during broad market sell-offs.

When that happens, the underlying businesses don’t suddenly lose their competitive advantages. What changes is the price investors are asked to pay for them.

If a crash pushed these types of companies to more attractive valuations, I would see that as a chance to build a position in businesses I already admire.

Market leaders with durable earnings

I would also look for dominant companies with resilient earnings and strong balance sheets.

Businesses like Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) and Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) have established leadership positions in their industries and generate significant cash flow through economic cycles.

Retail spending may fluctuate, but these companies operate essential businesses with strong brands and extensive distribution networks.

During market downturns, even these kinds of blue-chip companies can be sold off alongside everything else. That can create opportunities to buy reliable, long-established businesses at prices that may not normally be available.

Broad ETFs

Finally, I would likely look to add to broad market exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

Funds such as the iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) or the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) provide exposure to large numbers of companies across different sectors and regions.

Buying diversified ETFs during periods of market weakness can be a straightforward way to increase exposure to the market without needing to pick individual winners.

Over long periods of time, markets have historically recovered from downturns and gone on to reach new highs. Adding to diversified funds during those weaker periods can help investors benefit from that recovery.

Foolish Takeaway

If the ASX share market crashes, my focus wouldn’t be on trying to predict how far prices might fall.

Instead, I’d be looking for opportunities to buy strong businesses and diversified ETFs at more attractive prices. Market downturns can be uncomfortable in the short term, but they can also provide the chance to build a portfolio of high-quality investments for the long run.

The post What I’d buy if the ASX share market crashes appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Pro Medicus shares fall after market selloff overshadows $40 million contract news
• Here’s the dividend forecast out to 2030 for Wesfarmers shares
• 2 ETFs I’d buy and hold for the next 20 years
• If I wanted to outperform the ASX 200 over the next 10 years, I’d focus here
• Why I’d invest $5,000 in these ASX dividend shares

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Wesfarmers, Xero, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Woolworths Group and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Pro Medicus, Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF, Wesfarmers, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Now could be the time to pounce on the ASX biotech stock in this article according to analysts at Bell Potter.

That’s because it believes the speculative stock could generate very big returns over the next 12 months if everything goes to plan.

Which ASX biotech stock?

The stock in question is Anteris Technologies Global Corp (ASX: AVR).

It is developing the DurAVR device, a class III medical device in the class of transcatheter aortic heart valves used for the treatment of severe aortic stenosis.

Bell Potter notes that the condition affects ~12 million people globally with an estimated ~150,000 procedures completed each year via the minimally invasive TAVR (transarterial valve replacement) procedure.

What is the broker saying?

Bell Potter notes that the ASX biotech stock is making a lot of progress towards getting its DurAVR product approved. It said:

Anteris continues to make excellent progress towards approval of the DurAVR by virtue of the recent opening of the Investigative Device Exemption (IDE) in the US followed by the US$320m capital raise to fund the pivotal study.

Any suggestion that DurAVR is not a serious a threat to the market leaders in the TAVR space should now be extinguished. The opening of an IDE is a seriously impressive achievement for any company, let alone AVR with no significant history at the FDA and no previous product approval. Secondly, the $90m placement (included in the $320m) to Medtronic (MDT) provides it with an effective right of last refusal on future M&A. It also amounts to a validation of the multiple features with the DurAVR technology which make it an appealing alternative to both the Edwards Life Science SAPIEN or the Medtronic’s Evolut and CoreValve TAVR devices. AVR represents Special Value for MDT, which is now well positioned for a potential acquisition.

Big potential returns

According to the release, the broker has retained its speculative buy rating with an improved price target of $13.00 (from $10.00).

Based on its current share price of $8.76, this implies potential upside of 48% for investors over the next 12 months.

Commenting on its recommendation, the broker said:

The opening on the IDE and completion of the funding round substantially de-risk the pathway to approval and subsequent revenue stream. The key risk now remains the not insignificant task of successful completion of the phase 3 trial. Being a medical device of a mechanical nature, the certainty of outcome from the trial is far higher than for a drug as evidenced by data from the ongoing clinical program. As the path to revenue is substantially de-risked, our valuation is increased from A$10 to A$13 and we maintain our Buy (Speculative) rating.

The post Broker says this exciting ASX biotech stock could rise almost 50% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Oil rockets past US$100 as Iran war escalates. This ASX oil ETF is surging
• Buy, hold, sell: NextDC, WiseTech Global, and CBA shares
• Pro Medicus shares fall after market selloff overshadows $40 million contract news
• What to make of these volatile ASX shares
• What I’d buy if the ASX share market crashes

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.

Owning Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) shares could be a great idea for investors looking for a resilient business in these uncertain times. As a bonus, the Wesfarmers dividend is steadily increasing over time for shareholders.

Wesfarmers may not be a name we see at a shopping centre or on our streets, but it owns a few of Australia’s most recognised retailing businesses. Bunnings, Kmart, Officeworks, Priceline and Target are all under the Wesfarmers umbrella.

Additionally, the business has other segments that help diversify earnings – the chemicals, energy and fertiliser (WesCEF) division (which includes lithium mining), a number of healthcare businesses, and an industrial and safety division.

After seeing the numbers in the recent FY26 half-year result, analysts are forecasting encouraging trends for the Wesfarmers dividend in the coming years.

FY26

Following its FY26 half-year result, the experts at UBS said that Bunnings enjoys strong revenue growth options across categories, channels (with digital growth) and customers. The commercial segment represents half of the market, but only 38% of sales. These growth options are capital-light.

Kmart Group’s revenue slowed after the annual general market (AGM) because of Target, which suffered from weaker apparel sales and the unplanned closure of the Queensland distribution centre.

Kmart’s growth options include “driving greater category participation from existing customers & ongoing product development to gain share in more categories.”

Officeworks is investing in a transformation that should reset its cost base, improve its technology and service.

UBS said that WesCEF was the key source of positive surprise in the first half of FY26 thanks to strong ammonia nitrate and fertiliser, as well as lithium (though Mt Holland production and higher lithium pricing).

Overall, HY26 saw the company report revenue growth of 3.1% to $24.2 billion, operating profit (EBIT) growth of 8.4% to $2.5 billion and net profit after tax (NPAT) growth of 9.3% to $1.6 billion.

The solid performance helped earnings per share (EPS) climb 93% to $1.41 and the dividend per share jumped by 7.4% to $1.02.  

UBS predicts that the business could deliver an annual dividend per share for FY26 of $2.13. That would be a grossed-up dividend yield of 4%, including franking credits, at the time of writing.

FY27

The business is expected to increase its payouts in the subsequent years, which is great news for investors wanting passive income.

In the 2027 financial year, the business is projected to pay an annual dividend per share of $2.31.

FY28

A further dividend increase is forecast for the 2028 financial year, with owners of Wesfarmers shares expected to receive an annual dividend per share of $2.56.

FY29

The 2029 financial year is projected to see Wesfarmers pay an annual dividend of $2.85 per share.

FY30

The last year of this series of projections is the 2030 financial year, which could see the business pay an annual dividend per share of $3, which would be a 41% rise from FY26.

In terms of the outlook for the consumer, UBS said:

The Australian consumer is supported by population growth, a resilient labour market (employment growth continues albeit slowing recently), household wealth and rising retirement incomes.

Cost of living pressures are not worsening but are not easing, with consumers adjusting spend in food (trading down to private label & promotions), liquor (consuming less, trading down) and general merchandise & apparel, while the hoped for recovery in big ticket items has been slowed as further interest rate cuts have been replaced by interest rate rises given elevated CPI (UBS Economics [forecast] another 25bps in May26).

Given this backdrop, which remains robust but not as buoyant as 6mths ago, retailers with a strong value offering (e.g. Bunnings & Kmart)…appear best positioned.

The outlook seems positive for owners of Wesfarmers shares, in my view.

The post Here’s the dividend forecast out to 2030 for Wesfarmers shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• What I’d buy if the ASX share market crashes
• How I’d invest $20,000 in the ASX share market right now
• Sell alert! Why this expert is calling time on Wesfarmers and CBA shares
• 3 must-own ASX blue-chip dividend stocks for Aussie investors
• Why Wesfarmers shares are a retiree’s dream in 2026

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

One of the biggest advantages of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) is how simple they can make long-term investing.

Instead of trying to pick individual winners, investors can gain access to hundreds of stocks through a single fund. Over long timeframes, that diversification can make it much easier to stay invested through market cycles.

For investors thinking about the next couple of decades rather than the next couple of months, I think broad ETFs could be a very effective foundation for a portfolio.

Here are two ASX ETFs I believe could be worth buying and holding for the next 20 years.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

One ETF I would want in a long-term portfolio is the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF.

This fund provides exposure to a large portfolio of companies across major developed markets, including the United States, Europe, and parts of Asia.

That means investors gain access to many of the world’s largest and most influential businesses, such as Microsoft, Apple, and Nvidia.

What I like about this ETF is that it gives investors exposure to global economic growth rather than relying solely on the Australian market. Over the long run, global diversification can help smooth out the impact of regional market cycles.

For investors building wealth over decades, I think having exposure to the world’s biggest companies through a fund like VGS makes a lot of sense.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

While global diversification is important, I also think there’s value in maintaining exposure to the Australian share market.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF tracks the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) and holds a broad portfolio of Australian companies across many industries.

This includes major banks like Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), resource companies like BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), healthcare businesses like CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), and consumer companies like Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN) that collectively represent a large portion of the Australian economy.

One reason Australian equities are popular with income-focused investors is their dividend culture. Many companies listed on the ASX pay relatively attractive dividends, often accompanied by franking credits.

For long-term investors, this combination of income and exposure to the domestic economy can complement international investments nicely.

Foolish Takeaway

Investing for the next 20 years doesn’t require complicated strategies. Sometimes the simplest approach is to build a diversified portfolio and let it grow over time.

By combining global exposure through the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF with Australian market exposure through the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF, investors can gain access to hundreds of companies across multiple industries.

The post 2 ETFs I’d buy and hold for the next 20 years appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• What I’d buy if the ASX share market crashes
• 4 reasons not to panic-sell ASX shares during March
• The easy way to build a diversified ASX share portfolio
• 3 ASX shares perfect for beginners
• 5 simple ASX ETFs to build a long-term portfolio around

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in CSL, Commonwealth Bank Of Australia, and Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Apple, CSL, Microsoft, and Nvidia and is short shares of Apple. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Harvey Norman. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Apple, BHP Group, CSL, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) shares have gained 36% in value over 12 months and 11% in 2026.  

Most brokers believe the $143 billion banking giant is trading above fair value at its current share price of $46.82.

As such, investors might want to shift their focus to a smaller ASX fintech stock: Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP). The buy now pay later (BNPL) provider finished last week with a 3.7% rise to $1.85.

More importantly, brokers tip explosive upside for this BNPL stock, while downside appears more likely for NAB shares. Let’s find out why.

Profitable growth is finally arriving

The ASX growth stock is now delivering the kind of results investors have been waiting for. Over the past few years, the company has deliberately shifted away from a ‘growth at any cost’ strategy and focused on expanding while improving profitability. That change is now showing up clearly in the numbers.

In its latest half-year results, the company delivered record cash EBITDA of $124.3 million, jumping 85.6% compared to the previous year. Total income rose 29% to $664 million, while total transaction volume climbed 34% to $8.4 billion.

Just as importantly, bad debts remain well controlled at around 1.7% of transaction volume. That suggests the company is successfully managing credit risk even as it continues to grow its lending book.

For investors who previously questioned the business model’s sustainability, the rapid improvement in profitability marks a major turning point.

Expansion runway in the US

The US business is now driving Zip’s growth story. Transaction volumes, revenue and customer engagement are all rising as the platform signs new merchants and rolls out additional payment products.

The US market already generates the majority of the company’s earnings, and growth there continues at a strong pace. Analysts note the business is benefiting from rising consumer demand for flexible payment options and partnerships with large merchants.

If the company continues to build momentum in the world’s largest consumer market, its long-term growth opportunity could be significantly larger than the Australian buy now, pay later market alone.

What next for Zip and NAB shares?

The ASX growth stock has lost significant ground recently. Although Zip shares closed 14% higher on Thursday and Friday, they are still down 44% year to date.

That sharp decline has caught the attention of analysts. Most brokers now rate the stock as a strong buy, reflecting confidence in the company’s improving profitability and expanding US business.

According to analyst estimates, the Zip stock has an average 12-month price target of about $4.21. Forecasts range from roughly $3.35 to $5.27. From current trading levels, that suggests potential upside of around 82% to 186%.

Brokers are a lot less enthusiastic about NAB shares. Despite delivering a solid quarterly update, Morgans believes NAB’s shares are overvalued at current levels. The broker just placed a sell rating on the big four banks’ shares with a price target of $37.27.

This suggests a potential downside of 20.3% for investors at current levels. The most bearish analyst sees the maximum downside at 36%, while the most optimistic broker predicts an 8% upside for NAB shares.

The post Forget NAB shares, this ASX fintech stock could double in value appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 2 ASX stocks to buy and 1 to sell
• How I’d invest $20,000 in the ASX share market right now
• 3 reasons to buy this oversold ASX growth stock today
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• 3 ASX growth stocks primed to rocket in 2026

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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 my goal was simply to match the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), I could just buy an index exchange-traded fund (ETF) and call it a day.

But if I genuinely want to outperform over the next decade, I think I need exposure to businesses with structural tailwinds, pricing power, and the ability to reinvest capital at high returns.

For me, that means leaning into quality, not speculation.

Here’s where I’d focus.

Structural growth in wealth management

One of the clearest long-term trends in Australia is the shift toward professional financial advice and platform-based wealth management.

That’s why I’d want exposure to Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB).

Funds under administration continue to grow as advisers migrate to more modern, feature-rich platforms. What excites me is the operating leverage. As scale builds, margins expand. Incremental flows are highly profitable.

If the company keeps executing, I believe earnings growth could exceed the broader market for years.

Global healthcare compounding

Healthcare is another area where I think long-term outperformance is possible.

ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD) gives exposure to global demand for sleep and respiratory care. Ageing populations and increasing diagnosis rates create a long runway.

What I like most is the mix of hardware and high-margin software. Its cloud-connected ecosystem adds recurring revenue and stickiness.

If earnings keep compounding at attractive rates, I think the market will eventually reward that consistency.

High-margin niche technology

I also like niche technology leaders with strong competitive moats.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) is a good example. Its imaging software platform is used by leading hospitals globally, and switching costs are significant.

Concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) disruption have weighed on sentiment. But I think leading providers are more likely to integrate AI into their platforms than be displaced by it.

With long-term contracts, global expansion, and premium margins, this is the type of company I’d back to grow faster than the market over a decade.

Selective exposure to cyclicals with leverage

Outperformance of the ASX 200 index can also come from well-positioned cyclicals.

Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN) is one I’d consider for this bucket. Capacity discipline, a newer fleet, and strong loyalty economics have reshaped the business.

If management continues to execute well, earnings could remain strong even if conditions normalise.

The mindset that matters

For me, outperforming the ASX 200 is about owning businesses with durable advantages, letting them compound, adding capital during volatility rather than panicking.

There will be drawdowns. Some years will disappoint. But over 10 years, I think quality growth tends to win.

Foolish takeaway

If I genuinely want to beat the ASX 200 over the next decade, I’d focus on structural growth, global reach, and strong competitive positions.

Hub24, ResMed, Pro Medicus, and even selective cyclicals like Qantas represent the kind of mix I believe can outperform. Not every year, but over time.

The post If I wanted to outperform the ASX 200 over the next 10 years, I’d focus here appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Pro Medicus shares fall after market selloff overshadows $40 million contract news
• What I’d buy if the ASX share market crashes
• 3 amazing Australian shares for beginners to buy in March
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• Is this the most underrated ASX 200 growth share right now?

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Hub24. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Hub24 and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Hub24 and Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

ASX dividend shares can play an important role in many portfolios. Beyond the potential for capital growth, they offer investors the chance to generate a steady stream of income along the way.

Australia’s share market has a strong dividend culture, with many companies returning a large portion of their profits to shareholders each year. For investors focused on income, that creates plenty of opportunities across different sectors.

If I were looking to put $5,000 into dividend shares today, here are a few ASX shares I think are worth considering.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

Telstra has become one of the more dependable dividend payers on the ASX in recent years.

The telecommunications giant benefits from the essential nature of its services. Mobile connectivity and internet access have become necessities for both households and businesses, which helps support steady demand for Telstra’s network.

The company has also been strengthening its competitive position through continued investment in its mobile network and digital infrastructure.

With strong cash flow and a clear focus on shareholder returns, Telstra’s dividend continues to be an appealing feature for income investors.

Transurban Group (ASX: TCL)

Transurban offers exposure to a very different type of income stream.

The company owns and operates major toll roads across Australia and North America. These infrastructure assets generate revenue as motorists travel on key transport routes.

One of the attractive aspects of Transurban’s business model is the long-term nature of its concession agreements. Many of its toll roads operate under contracts that last decades, which provides strong visibility over future cash flow.

In many cases, toll prices also increase each year in line with inflation or predetermined escalation formulas. That can help support gradually rising revenue and distributions over time.

For investors looking for relatively stable income backed by infrastructure assets, Transurban remains an appealing option.

Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG)

Macquarie brings a different dimension to an income-focused portfolio.

It has built a global financial services and asset management business that spans infrastructure, renewable energy, commodities, and investment banking.

While Macquarie’s earnings can move around more than some traditional dividend stocks, the company has a long track record of generating strong profits across market cycles.

That has allowed it to return meaningful dividends to shareholders over time while still reinvesting in new growth opportunities.

Investors seeking a combination of income and exposure to a world-class financial services business may find Macquarie an interesting option.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

Woolworths is another ASX dividend share that many income investors gravitate toward.

As Australia’s largest supermarket operator, it sells essential goods that households continue to buy regardless of economic conditions. That makes its earnings more defensive compared with many other sectors.

The company’s nationwide store network and supply chain scale give it a strong competitive position in the grocery market.

While the dividend yield may not always be the highest on the ASX, Woolworths has a long history of paying reliable dividends backed by consistent earnings.

Foolish takeaway

Dividend investing doesn’t need to be complicated. Some of the most effective income portfolios are built around companies with strong cash flow, durable business models, and a history of returning capital to shareholders.

Telstra, Transurban, Macquarie, and Woolworths all operate in very different industries, but each offers characteristics that many dividend investors value.

The post Why I’d invest $5,000 in these ASX dividend shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Worried about a bear market in 2026? 3 ASX shares for peace of mind
• 3 amazing Australian shares for beginners to buy in March
• Could this really be the turning point for Woolworths shares?
• This would be my $1 million ASX retirement portfolio
• What’s happening with Telstra’s dividend?

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group, Telstra Group, Transurban Group, and Woolworths Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

These 2 ASX dividend stocks may appeal to long-term income investors.

Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN) and Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL) operate well-known retail brands across Australia and overseas. Both ASX dividend stocks have also built reputations for returning consistent cash to shareholders.

Harvey Norman: retail and freehold property

Harvey Norman is one of Australia’s most recognisable retail businesses. It sells electronics, furniture, bedding and appliances through a network of franchised stores.

But this ASX dividend stock is not just a retailer. A key strength of the business is its significant property portfolio. Many of its stores are located on freehold land owned by the group.

This real estate portfolio has become an important source of value and income for the company. In recent years it has also helped underpin profitability, alongside the core retail operations. In first half year results 2026, Harvey Norman reported a 15% increase in net profit after tax to about $322 million as sales rose 7% to $5.16 billion.

Another attraction for income investors is the dividend track record 0f the ASX dividend stock. The payout ratio is around 58%, suggesting the dividend is reasonably supported by earnings.

Macquarie remains positive on the retailer. It believes the company is positioned to pay fully franked dividends per share of 27.8 cents in FY 2026 and 31.2 cents in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $5.46, this represents dividend yields of 5.1% and 5.7%, respectively.

The broker has a buy rating and $6.60 price target on the ASX dividend stock. This points to a 21% upside at current price levels.

Super Retail Group: diverse retail brands

Super Retail Group is another well-known Australian retailer, operating brands such as Supercheap Auto, Rebel, BCF and Macpac. These brands focus on automotive, sports and outdoor recreation products, giving the company exposure to several popular consumer categories.

One of the company’s biggest strengths is its diversified portfolio of retail brands. This helps spread risk across different consumer segments and has supported steady revenue growth.

The ASX dividend stock posted solid revenue growth, supported by resilient demand across auto and leisure categories and continued online traction. The group generates strong operating cash flow, which reached more than $400 million in the past year.

Super Retail Group is also known for its generous dividend policy. The company aims to pay out around 60% of underlying net profit. The retailer pays shareholders twice a year and has built a reputation for consistent, largely fully franked payouts.

In stronger years, the ASX dividend stock has also delivered special dividends. The current yield is attractive at 4.2% compared to the market.

Most analysts rate the ASX dividend stock a buy. They have set the average 12-month price target at $16.66, implying an 8% upside. This could bring total earnings for the year to 12%.

The post 2 ASX dividend stocks to buy and hold for 10 years appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• 5 ASX dividend shares to hold for the next decade
• 3 ASX dividend shares to buy with $5,000
• Passive income: How much would I need to invest in ASX shares to earn $1,000 every month?
• 32 ASX shares about to go ex-dividend

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

It’s not a good feeling to see our ASX share portfolios decline in value. Our brains are supposedly wired to feel the pain of a loss more than the joy of a gain.

But selling in March could be a bad decision.

I think investors should hang on for a few different reasons, even if the market declines further.

The pessimists may be wrong

Share prices fall during a bear market because investors expect earnings to decline. These are certainly troubling times with what’s happening in the Middle East.

I don’t know what’s going to happen or how long it will take to play out. But, I certainly don’t think it’s going to last forever, and the oil (price) picture may not be as negative as the market is thinking (either how bad it could get or the length of the time it takes to come to a resolution).

At some point, this should pass.

The long-term returns include the declines

I believe it’s very important to think with a long-term mindset, both when making an investment and during times like this.

When we talk about how big the returns are – such as how the ASX share market has returned an average of roughly 10% per year over the past decade – that return includes periods of market decline. I’m thinking of the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) when I think of the ASX share market.

In other words, it’s normal for declines to happen occasionally, and it’s the ‘price’ of being able to invest in something that can go up in value. It can go down, too. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t hold ASX shares – we should just accept it’s part of the journey.

Locking in the lower price

Share prices change all the time. Sometimes they go up, sometimes they go down. Occasionally, they fall by a lot.

‘On paper’ gains or losses can change. Declines can recover from widespread market selling, but only if we’re still holding that investment.

If someone panic-sells their ASX shares, then they’ll miss out on a possible rebound. That could start happening as early as tomorrow, next week or even next month. It could take longer to recover, but I’d rather hold my ASX share investment (if I’m confident about the long term) than lock in a loss.

It’s an opportunity to buy more ASX shares

I don’t look at sell-offs like this as a terrible time, but as an opportunity to invest in great businesses at lower prices.

I try to invest only in ASX shares I’d be excited to buy more of during a downturn.

I’m excited by lower share prices because of the better valuations (and dividend yields) that come with them. Investing at a lower price can unlock bigger long-term returns and give us a stronger margin of safety.

The post 4 reasons not to panic-sell ASX shares during March appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• The easy way to build a diversified ASX share portfolio
• 3 ASX shares perfect for beginners
• 5 simple ASX ETFs to build a long-term portfolio around
• 5 fantastic ASX ETFs to buy and hold for 10 years
• The lazy investor’s guide to ASX ETFs

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 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.