Author: openjargon

  • Rio Tinto just locked in a major deal. Here’s why investors are buying today

    A woman in high visibility clothing and a hard hat stands in front of an aluminium smelter.

    The Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) share price is pushing higher on Wednesday after the mining giant released a major update before market open.

    At the time of writing, Rio Tinto shares are up 2.18% to $147.56.

    Despite today’s gain, the stock remains under pressure in the short term, down close to 8% over the past month.

    Here’s what the company announced.

    Landmark deal secures smelter future

    According to the release, Rio Tinto has partnered with the Queensland and Commonwealth governments to secure the long-term future of the Boyne aluminium smelter in Gladstone.

    The agreement includes up to $2 billion in government support over 10 years through to 2040. This builds on earlier power purchase agreements (PPAs) signed by Rio Tinto, which underpin around $7.5 billion in new renewable energy projects.

    The deal is aimed at ensuring the smelter remains internationally competitive once its current power contract expires in 2029.

    Boyne Smelters is a key asset in Rio Tinto’s aluminium division and plays a central role in its broader Australian operations. The facility is one of the largest aluminium smelters in the country and supports thousands of jobs across the supply chain.

    Management noted the agreement will allow the smelter to transition towards lower-cost and lower-emissions energy over time.

    Shift towards renewable energy

    A key part of the announcement is Rio Tinto’s continued move towards renewable energy to power its aluminium operations.

    The company has already contracted more than 2.8GW of renewable energy capacity in Queensland, alongside over 600MW of storage.

    This includes projects such as the Upper Calliope solar development, the Bungaban wind project, and the Smoky Creek and Guthrie’s Gap solar and battery system.

    In addition, Rio Tinto has agreed to purchase 40% of the output from the Lower Wonga solar and battery project.

    These developments are expected to provide a more stable and potentially lower-cost energy mix over time. They also reduce exposure to fossil fuel pricing.

    What’s driving the share price higher?

    The share price gain suggests investors are reacting positively to the added long-term certainty from the agreement.

    Aluminium production is energy-intensive, and securing a reliable and competitive power supply is critical to maintaining margins.

    The deal reduces a key risk for Rio Tinto ahead of the 2029 contract expiry and supports the continued operation of a major asset within its portfolio.

    It also aligns with the company’s broader strategy to decarbonise its operations while maintaining output.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Rio Tinto’s latest agreement strengthens visibility over one of its key aluminium assets and reduces uncertainty around future energy costs.

    While the stock has pulled back in recent weeks, this morning’s update shows the company is progressing its long-term initiatives.

    The post Rio Tinto just locked in a major deal. Here’s why investors are buying today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Rio Tinto Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Rio Tinto Limited wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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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.

  • HomeCo Daily Needs REIT announces Q3 2026 distribution and DRP details

    a graphic image of three houses standing next to each other in ascending order of height.

    The HomeCo Daily Needs REIT (ASX: HDN) share price is in focus after the trust announced a quarterly distribution of 2.15 cents per unit, payable on 22 May 2026. Eligible investors have the option to participate in its Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP).

    What did HomeCo Daily Needs REIT report?

    • Quarterly distribution: 2.15 cents per unit (fully unfranked)
    • Ex-date: 30 March 2026
    • Record date: 31 March 2026
    • Payment date: 22 May 2026
    • DRP election closes: 2 April 2026, 5:00pm
    • DRP price based on 5-day VWAP, to be announced 14 April 2026

    What else do investors need to know?

    This distribution relates to the March 2026 quarter and will be paid in Australian dollars. The full amount is unfranked, meaning investors will not receive any franking credits with this payout.

    The Dividend Reinvestment Plan is in place for this distribution, allowing eligible unitholders to reinvest part or all of their distribution into additional HDN units. The DRP price will be calculated using the volume-weighted average price over five trading days from 7 to 13 April. Investors not electing to join the DRP will receive their payment in cash.

    What’s next for HomeCo Daily Needs REIT?

    Looking ahead, investors should watch for more details on the DRP issue price on 14 April 2026. Unitholders interested in reinvesting should ensure their election is lodged by 2 April 2026. The trust remains focused on providing regular income streams to investors through its quarterly distribution strategy.

    The fund will likely keep informing the market about property portfolio performance and future distribution expectations as part of its ongoing transparency.

    HomeCo Daily Needs REIT share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, HomeCo Daily Needs REIT shares have risen 1%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post HomeCo Daily Needs REIT announces Q3 2026 distribution and DRP details appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Homeco Daily Needs REIT right now?

    Before you buy Homeco Daily Needs REIT 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 Homeco Daily Needs REIT 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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart 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 recommended HomeCo Daily Needs REIT. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • Buy, hold, sell: Breville, Goodman, and Wesfarmers shares

    A male investor sits at his desk looking at his laptop screen holding his hand to his chin pondering whether to buy Macquarie shares

    If you are on the hunt for some new portfolio additions, then it could be worth hearing what analysts at Morgans are saying about the ASX 200 shares in this article.

    Is the broker bullish, bearish, or something in between on these names? Let’s find out.

    Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

    Morgans remains very positive on this appliance manufacturer following the release of a solid half-year result last month.

    In response, the broker has put a buy rating and $40.65 price target on Breville’s shares. Morgans highlights the company’s strong operational execution and powerful medium-term tailwinds as reasons to buy. It said:

    1H26 was better-than-feared, with double-digit sales growth (+10%) largely offset by tariff costs (~130bp GM impact) to deliver a flat NPAT outcome (+1% on pcp). Crucially, FY26 EBIT growth guidance provides much-needed earnings visibility, alleviating some concerns for an extended transition year and improving our confidence for a resumption of sustainable EPS growth from FY27+.

    We continue to be impressed by BRG’s strong operational execution, green shoots in Food Prep, and powerful medium-term tailwinds (geographic expansion, espresso tailwinds, NPD, Best Buy developments). Buy maintained.

    Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

    Another ASX 200 share that Morgans has been looking at is industrial property giant Goodman.

    It highlights that the market is becoming impatient with the longer development timelines for data centres (DCs), but thinks it is worth sticking with this one. As a result, it has put a buy rating and $32.45 price target on its shares. It said:

    GMG is leaning hard into data centre (DC) development across scarce, power-enabled metro locations, backed by long-dated capital partners and a conservative balance sheet. FY26 guidance is unchanged, with near-term results reflecting longer development timeframes and a larger share of balance-sheet originated developments. Execution now hinges on converting customer negotiations into commitments across key DC campuses while holding returns.

    Whilst the company has flagged the longer development timeframe for DCs, recent share price weakness points to impatience as the market discounts the uncertainty around hyperscale demand, investor appetite and potentially the lower likelihood of an FY26 EPS upgrade.

    Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

    Finally, Wesfarmers delivered a better than expected result in February.

    However, due to its current valuation, the broker thinks Wesfarmers shares are overvalued and feels that investors should wait for a better entry point. It has put a trim rating and $80.50 price target on its shares. It explains:

    WES’s 1H26 result was better than expected with productivity and efficiency improvements a key highlight. Earnings for all divisions except Industrial & Safety were either in line or above our forecasts. WES noted that despite a modest improvement in consumer demand, higher costs continued to weigh on many households and businesses, while residential construction activity remains subdued. We adjust FY26/27/28F group EBIT by +2%/+1%/+1%.

    Our target price rises slightly to $80.50 (from $79.30) and we maintain our TRIM rating with a 12-month forecast TSR of -2%. While we continue to view WES as a core long-term portfolio holding with a diversified group of well-known retail and industrial brands, a healthy balance sheet, and an experienced leadership team, trading on 30.7x FY27F PE we continue to see the stock as overvalued in the short term.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Breville, Goodman, and Wesfarmers shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Breville 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 Breville 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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Goodman Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goodman Group and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Goodman Group and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • ASX bank stocks: Buy, sell, or hold?

    A woman wearing glasses has an uncertain look on her face as she bites her lips and holds her phone.

    ASX bank stocks have slumped across the board over the past month as geopolitical tensions, ongoing conflict in the Middle East, soaring fuel prices, and interest rate growth cause concerns about an economic slowdown.

    The Reserve Bank raised the official cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.10% this month, marking the second consecutive increase in 2026. The bank cited persistent inflationary pressures and a tight labour market for the increase. 

    Now the experts are warning that Australia’s inflation rate could keep climbing, and major banks widely predict another cash rate increase in May. 

    What’s the latest out of ASX bank stocks?

    The Australian share market is dominated by the big 4 major banks. Together, the majors – Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), and ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) – make up around a quarter of the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) by market capitalisation.

    Then there are the smaller players, Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), Bank of Queensland Ltd (ASX: BOQ), Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Ltd (ASX: BEN), and Judo Capital Holdings Ltd (ASX: JDO). 

    At the time of writing on Wednesday morning, CBA shares are up 1% to $172.86; Westpac shares are up 1.3% to $40.25; NAB shares are up 1.4% to $40.31; and ANZ shares are up 1.3% to $36.93.

    Over the month, the major bank shares are down 3%, 6.2%, 11.8%, and 7%, respectively.

    Outside of the majors, Macquarie shares are 1.9% higher at the time of writing to $198.71; BOQ shares are 1% higher at $6.83 a piece; Bendigo shares are 0.6% higher at $10.11 each; and Judo shares have climbed 0.3% to $1.48.

    Over the month, the smaller bank shares are down 4%, 2%, 6.5%, and 14%, respectively.

    Which ASX bank stocks are a buy?

    Analysts are the most optimistic about the outlook for Judo Bank shares. It’s the only ASX bank stock where analysts mostly hold a strong buy rating. Its average target price is $2.25, which implies a huge 51% upside at the time of writing. Although some think this could jump even higher, by up to 68% to $2.50 per share.

    Sentiment on the outlook for Macquarie shares is mostly very positive. Most analysts have a buy or strong buy rating on the bank’s shares. The average $238.28 target price implies the shares could jump 21% from here.

    Which ASX bank stocks are a hold?

    Analysts are undecided about the outlook for NAB shares, with sentiment mostly for a hold rating. The average target price is $43.90, which implies a potential 1.88% downside at the time of writing.

    Brokers are also neutral on the outlook for ANZ shares over the next 12 months. Most have a hold rating with an average target price of $35.56, which implies a potential 0.3% downside at the time of writing.

    Sentiment is also neutral on BOQ shares, with data showing most analysts have a hold rating on the stock. However, the average $6.37 target price implies a potential 6.5% downside at the time of writing.

    Analysts also mostly have a hold rating on Bendigo shares. Although its average target price of $10.41 implies a 3% upside at the time of writing.

    Which ASX bank stocks are a sell?

    Sentiment is that CBA shares are overpriced and out of keeping with the company’s fundamentals. Most analysts have a sell or strong sell rating on CBA shares and are tipping an average downside of 23% to $133.85 a piece over the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

    Westpac is also expected to have limited growth over the next few years. Most analysts also have a sell or strong sell rating on the ASX bank’s shares and tip an average downside of 8% to $40.35.

    The post ASX bank stocks: Buy, sell, or hold? 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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    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 positions in and has recommended 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.

  • PEXA Group shares in focus as NatWest goes live on UK platform

    Magnifying glass in front of an open newspaper with paper houses.

    The PEXA Group Ltd (ASX: PXA) share price is in focus after the company announced NatWest Group PLC (LSE: NWG) has gone live on its UK digital remortgage platform—a significant step in PEXA’s international expansion. The UK integration was delivered ahead of schedule, with initial transactions already underway.

    What did PEXA Group report?

    • NatWest, one of the UK’s major banks, now live and transacting on PEXA UK’s remortgage platform
    • Implementation program completed ahead of forecast timelines
    • PEXA’s subsidiary Optima Legal acting as initial conveyancer for the digitised transactions
    • Broader roll-out to additional UK conveyancers planned following NatWest’s adoption
    • Sale & Purchase transaction capability for NatWest to follow

    What else do investors need to know?

    PEXA has flagged this as a crucial milestone in modernising the UK property market, bringing digitisation and automation to processes that were previously paper-based and slow. The integration with NatWest, one of the UK’s leading mortgage lenders, sets a strong foundation for further expansion into the UK’s digital property settlement sector.

    The company highlights collaborative efforts between PEXA UK, NatWest, and Optima Legal in delivering this launch. PEXA is now set to support more conveyancers and lenders through its scalable digital platform as market adoption grows.

    What did PEXA Group management say?

    Russell Cohen, PEXA Chief Executive Officer and Group Managing Director:

    NatWest going live on our platform marks an important step in the modernisation of the UK property market. By digitising and automating what has traditionally been a manual, paper-based process, we can enable faster settlement times, improved operational efficiency and a more seamless experience for UK property market participants. I would like to thank the teams at NatWest, PEXA and Optima Legal for their collaboration and commitment during the implementation process, and we look forward to continuing our partnership to support the ongoing digitisation of the property transaction journey for customers in the UK.

    What’s next for PEXA Group?

    The next focus for PEXA Group will be enabling NatWest’s Sale & Purchase transactions on its UK platform, broadening the service offering. The company plans to roll out participation to more UK conveyancers, further embedding its platform in the local market.

    Looking ahead, PEXA’s UK progress is a key plank in its international growth strategy, leveraging its Australian expertise where 90% of property settlements already use its technology.

    PEXA Group share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, PEXA Group shares have risen 32%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post PEXA Group shares in focus as NatWest goes live on UK platform appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy PEXA 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 PEXA 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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart 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 PEXA Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended PEXA Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • EVT completes $750 million refinancing, focuses on hotel growth

    A smiling businessman sits at a desk with bags of mony, indicating a share price rise after funding has been approved

    The EVT Ltd (ASX: EVT) share price is in focus as the company boosts its main debt facilities to $750 million and secures improved lending terms, signalling ongoing support for its transformation toward the hotel sector.

    What did EVT report?

    • Main debt facilities increased to $750 million, up from $650 million in 2023
    • Secured three-year multi-currency loan with improved margins (1.25%–2.00% vs 1.50%–3.15%)
    • Current drawn debt: approximately $610 million; credit support facility drawn: $5 million
    • Group cash holdings exceed $90 million
    • Four major banks (CBA, HSBC, NAB, WBC) actively participated in refinancing

    What else do investors need to know?

    The refinancing, together with EVT’s non-core asset divestment program, is designed to give the business greater financial flexibility as it continues to shift its earnings profile toward its hotel and accommodation sector. The new facility is backed by guarantees from most Australian and New Zealand group entities, and secured by property mortgages covering 14 of EVT’s 34 properties, valued at around $1.1 billion.

    Interest on the new loan is set according to a leverage ratio grid, with EVT anticipating a current weighted average margin of approximately 1.59% per year. This will be reassessed every six months based on updated earnings and debt levels.

    What did EVT management say?

    Ms Jane Hastings, EVT CEO, said:

    EVT extends its appreciation to NAB, CBA, HSBC and WBC for their strong support and desire to participate as lenders for our Group. We look forward to working with all our banking partners as we continue to progress our growth plans.

    What’s next for EVT?

    With new banking facilities in place and ample cash on hand, EVT is well-positioned to continue evolving its portfolio and investing in its growing hotel operations. Management highlighted the refinancing as a key foundation for future growth and flexibility, supporting the group’s long-term strategic direction. Investors can expect further updates as EVT progresses its divestment program and seeks new opportunities within the hotel sector.

    EVT share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, EVT shares have declined 7%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post EVT completes $750 million refinancing, focuses on hotel growth appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Evt right now?

    Before you buy Evt 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 Evt 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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart 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. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • Why is this ASX rare earths stock storming 7% higher today?

    Overjoyed man celebrating success with yes gesture after getting some good news on mobile.

    Brazilian Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: BRE) shares are catching the eye on Wednesday.

    At the time of writing, the ASX rare earths stock is up 7% to $4.37.

    Why is this ASX rare earths stock storming higher?

    The rare earths developer’s shares are charging higher today following the release of an announcement revealing a key regulatory milestone for its Monte Alto project in Brazil.

    According to the release, Brazilian Rare Earths has secured a Trial Mining Licence from Brazil’s National Mining Agency for the project in Bahia.

    Management believes this is a significant step forward in advancing the project from exploration toward staged development and ultimately commercial-scale mining.

    What the licence allows

    The release reveals that the licence authorises the extraction of up to 2,000 tonnes per annum of material from the Monte Alto deposit.

    This will allow the company to produce bulk samples for potential customers and strategic partners, as well as support metallurgical testing.

    Importantly, the material will also supply feedstock to the company’s pilot plant at the Camaçari Petrochemical Complex, which is currently under construction and expected to begin operations in the third quarter of 2026.

    Advancing toward commercial production

    The ASX rare earths stock also highlights that the approval is a major step in its permitting pathway.

    The next milestone will be the submission of an Economic Development Plan in the second quarter of 2026, which is expected to support the transition toward a full mining concession.

    Brazilian Rare Earths’ managing director and CEO, Bernardo da Veiga, said the licence represents a major step forward for the project and the company’s broader strategy. He said:

    Securing the Trial Mining Licence is a significant milestone for Monte Alto and a major step forward in BRE’s integrated ore-to-oxides development pathway in Brazil. This approval reflects the strength of our permitting work, the quality of our engagement with local communities and government stakeholders, and the advantages of Monte Alto’s deliberately low-impact development model. With ultra-high-grade mineralisation, dry processing and a quarry-scale operating model, Monte Alto has been designed from the outset to support a staged, capital-efficient path through permitting and development.

    Just as importantly, trial mining can now supply high-grade material for customer evaluation and for our fully permitted pilot plant at Camaçari, linking upstream production with downstream processing capability in Brazil. That integrated model is central to our strategy to rebuild a leading Brazilian rare earths and critical minerals supply chain. Together with our existing export approvals, this licence materially advances commercial engagement, reduces development risk and brings Monte Alto closer to staged commercial operations.

    The post Why is this ASX rare earths stock storming 7% higher today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Brazilian Rare Earths right now?

    Before you buy Brazilian Rare Earths 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 Brazilian Rare Earths 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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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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 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.

  • Why is this ASX 300 energy share crashing 42% on Wednesday?

    A rueful woman tucks into a sweet pie as she contemplates a decision with regret.

    S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) energy share Amplitude Energy Ltd (ASX: AEL) is having a day to forget. As are its stockholders.

    Amplitude Energy shares closed yesterday trading for $2.67. In early morning trade on Wednesday, shares are changing hands for $1.55 apiece, down 42%.

    For some context, the ASX 300 is up 1.2% at this same time.

    Here’s what’s got investors reaching for their sell buttons today.

    What’s pressuring the ASX 300 energy stock?

    Amplitude Energy shares are taking a tumble after the company released a disappointing update on the drilling operations at its Isabella prospect in the Offshore Otway Basin, located in Victoria.

    Amplitude Energy is the operator and 50% interest holder in the joint venture prospect. O.G. Energy holds the remaining 50% interest.

    The ASX 300 energy share is drilling the Isabella field as a planned sidetrack from the earlier Elanora-1 well.

    Today, the company revealed that pressure depletion during the testing period does not support a commercial development of the Isabella field. The well will now be plugged and abandoned. The company expects to complete that process within the next few days.

    On a positive note, Amplitude Energy said that as the project is well-advanced, its East Coast Supply Project (ECSP) plans remain unchanged. The drilling program remains within budget, with the ASX 300 Energy share expecting the next well to be drilled in the second half of calendar year 2026.

    A final investment decision (FID) for the development phase of the ECSP will now be deferred until after the new wells are drilled. The company is still targeting first gas from the project in 2028.

    What did management say?

    Commenting on the abandoned well that’s pressuring the ASX 300 energy share today, Amplitude managing director and CEO Jane Norman said, “The result at Isabella is disappointing but geological data from this well will help inform our future exploration prospects.”

    Norman added:

    Isabella was a large and prospective target for the ECSP, however its size also corresponded with reservoir complexity, meaning it will require time to interpret the drilling information received. The result at Isabella does not impact our view on the probability of success of other Otway Basin exploration prospects, which have simpler geology.

    How has the ASX 300 energy share been tracking?

    With today’s huge fall factored in, the Amplitude Energy share price is down 36% since this time last year, well behind the 6.6% 12-month gains delivered by the ASX 300.

    The post Why is this ASX 300 energy share crashing 42% on Wednesday? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Wondering where you should invest $1,000 right now?

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  • ASX 300 stock rockets 38% on ‘landmark moment’

    A man has a surprised and relieved expression on his face.

    4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX) shares are rocketing on Wednesday morning.

    In early trade, the ASX 300 stock is up a massive 38% to a record-high of $6.40.

    Why is this ASX 300 stock rising today?

    Investors have been buying the respiratory imaging technology company’s shares following the release of a big announcement this morning.

    According to the release, 4DMedical’s CT:VQ technology has been deployed at the Mayo Clinic in the United States.

    The release reveals that the Mayo Clinic, which is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading hospitals, has entered into an agreement to use CT:VQ for ventilation and perfusion analysis.

    The deployment will initially focus on integrating the technology into clinical workflows and allowing clinicians to evaluate its capabilities across a range of use cases.

    Management highlights that the Mayo Clinic’s adoption represents one of the most significant endorsements of its technology to date.

    Building strong commercial momentum

    The ASX 300 stock notes that it has achieved six major deployments for CT:VQ within approximately seven months of receiving FDA clearance in September 2025.

    The others are Stanford, Cleveland Clinic, UC San Diego Health, University of Chicago Medicine, and the University of Miami.

    This rapid adoption highlights growing demand for its technology, which offers advantages such as eliminating the need for radioisotopes and contrast agents, while providing high-resolution imaging and integration into existing CT workflows.

    While the initial agreement with Mayo Clinic is not financially material, the company emphasised its strategic importance. Management believes that as clinicians gain confidence in the technology, the hospital could become a key reference site, supporting broader commercial adoption.

    ‘A landmark moment’

    The ASX 300 stock’s managing director and CEO, Andreas Fouras, described the deployment as a landmark moment for the company. He said:

    Mayo Clinic is, unquestionably, one of the most respected healthcare institutions in the world. Their decision to deploy CT:VQ is a landmark moment for 4DMedical and a powerful testament to the clinical significance of our technology. In just seven months since FDA clearance we have established CT:VQ at six of America’s leading AMCs: Stanford, University of Miami, Cleveland Clinic, UC San Diego Health, University of Chicago Medicine, and now Mayo Clinic. No other technology in our space has achieved this level of clinical adoption in such a short timeframe.

    Mayo’s deployment is uniquely significant. When the world’s number one hospital chooses to use your technology, it sends the strongest possible signal to the entire U.S. healthcare market about the clinical value and readiness of CT:VQ.

    Fouras believes this leaves the company well-placed for the future. He concludes:

    Combined with our existing network of elite AMC reference sites, and the Philips partnership, we are building an unassailable platform for CT:VQ adoption. CT:VQ continues to accelerate. Our sales pipeline has never looked stronger, and I look forward to sharing further progress soon.

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  • Guess which ASX 200 telco stock is jumping 7% today

    Two male ASX investors and executives wearing dark coloured suits sit at a table holding their mobile phones discussing the highest trading ASX 200 shares today

    Tuas Ltd (ASX: TUA) shares are on the move on Wednesday morning.

    In early trade, the ASX 200 telco stock is up 7% to $6.42.

    This follows the release of its half-year results for FY 2026.

    Why is this ASX 200 telco stock rising?

    The company’s shares are gaining after Tuas reported strong growth across its key financial metrics for the first half of FY 2026.

    Management advised that this was driven by the continued expansion of its subscriber base in Singapore.

    According to the release, revenue increased to S$91.9 million, representing an increase of 25.5% on the prior corresponding period.

    Also growing strongly were its underlying earnings. The ASX 200 telco stock’s underlying EBITDA came in 27.2% higher year on year at S$42.1 million. However, statutory EBITDA was down slightly to S$31.6 million.

    Net profit after tax rose to S$8.2 million on a statutory basis and by over 500% to S$18.7 million on an underlying basis.

    Management highlighted that the result reflects sustained improvement across all key financial metrics, supported by disciplined cost management and operating leverage.

    Subscriber growth

    Tuas’ strong performance was underpinned by rapid growth in its mobile and broadband subscriber base.

    It revealed that active mobile services increased 21.7% to over 1.4 million, continuing a strong upward trend over recent periods.

    Meanwhile, broadband subscribers surged to more than 46,000, highlighting strong traction in this newer segment.

    Management also noted that average revenue per user remained stable at S$9.61, indicating that growth is being driven primarily by customer additions rather than pricing changes.

    Strong balance sheet

    The company ended the period with a significantly strengthened balance sheet following a capital raising.

    Tuas reported cash and term deposits of S$477.9 million at the end of the half, boosted by approximately A$430 million raised through an equity issue.

    This provides the ASX 200 telco stock with substantial financial flexibility to fund future growth initiatives.

    Business update

    Tuas continues to make progress in its core Singapore market.

    The company revealed that it has exceeded its 5G coverage obligations ahead of schedule, positioning it strongly in the competitive mobile market.

    It also highlighted leadership in fibre broadband service quality and hardware, supporting continued growth in that segment.

    Outlook

    Looking ahead, management expects to continue strengthening its position across both mobile and broadband markets.

    The company has guided to capital expenditure of between S$50 million and S$55 million for FY 2026 as it invests in further network expansion and capability.

    In addition, Tuas provided an update on its proposed M1 acquisition, noting that both parties are progressing positively and engaging with regulators as part of the approval process. The combination will make Tuas the second-largest mobile operator in Singapore.

    Overall, the result highlights strong momentum for the business as it continues to scale its operations and grow its market share in Singapore.

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