Author: openjargon

  • $10,000 invested in Zip shares 12 months ago is now worth…

    Woman looks amazed and shocked as she looks at her laptop.

    Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) shares climbed 2.3% higher to $2.25 a piece, at the time of writing. The latest uptick means the stock is now down 33% for the year-to-date.

    The digital financial services company has suffered a volatile start to 2026 so far, with its share price swinging anywhere between $1.45 and $3.56 a piece.

    After crashing over 40% from a multi-year high late last year, Zip shares continued to consistently tumble through the first through months of 2026.

    By mid-March, the stock had lost another 56% of its value. 

    The tech shares then staged a u-turn and quickly climbed 57% higher in April alone. While the market was optimistic the price climb would continue, the share price softened again through March.

    What caused the sharp share price selloff over the past seven months?

    Zip shares have lost 31% of their value between peaking at a multi-year high in October last year and the end of 2025.

    The company was caught up in a tech sector-wide sell-off and this was likely exacerbated by investors taking gains off the table after a strong share price rally.

    The shares also suffered pressure from short sellers in late-2025. 

    In 2026, the headwinds continued. The company’s first-half FY26 results in February missed expectations and its value crashed quickly as investors fled from their shares. 

    Investors were spooked by concerns about rising competition, slowing growth and margin compression.

    More recently, a softer share price is likely down to slumping sentiment. Technology and growth shares have been under pressure again this month as investors reassess valuations and risk appetite. 

    Meanwhile, concerns about higher interest rates, global uncertainty, and concerns around consumer spending have all weighed on the sector.

    So, if I bought $10,000 of Zip shares 12 months ago, what are they worth now?

    While the share price fell quickly through early-2026, a recent rebound means the shares are still 18% higher than 12 months ago, at the time of writing.

    That means that $10,000 invested in Zip shares a year ago is worth $11,800.

    What’s next for Zip shares?

    It looks like analysts are unanimous that Zip shares are now oversold and undervalued. 

    Brokers widely expect strong upside for the buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) provider over the next 12 months, too.

    Market Index data shows that brokers have a strong buy consensus on the shares. They tip an average 70% upside to $3.83 over the next 12 months.

    TradingView data shows a very similar sentiment. The data also shows a consensus buy rating and an average target price of $3.83 implies a 70% upside, at the time of writing. But others are even more bullish and are tipping the shares to soar another 140% to $5.40 each.

    Why are Zip shares expected to fly higher?

    Zip’s financial results have been robust over the past few quarters. Its latest third-quarter FY26 results announcement in mid-April showed that growth has started to accelerate.

    Zip reported a 22.4% year-on-year increase in its total translation volume (TTV). The company also confirmed a 20.2% increase in total income, a higher operating margin of 19.4% and confirmed it has grown its active customer base by another 3.5%.

    The fintech business also upgraded its FY26 group cash EBTDA guidance to at least $260 million, from previous guidance of around $248.6 million.

    The company is aggressively expanding in the US too. Its US transaction volume is forecast to rise over 40% in FY26. Meanwhile group operating margins are expected to remain above 18%.

    Zip is also pursuing a dual sharemarket listing on the Nasdaq in the US. This could also help to drive even opportunity for business expansion in the area.

    The post $10,000 invested in Zip shares 12 months ago is now worth… appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Zip Co right now?

    Before you buy Zip Co 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 Zip Co 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 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.

  • Xero shares vs WiseTech shares: Which ASX tech share would I buy today?

    A woman holds up hands to compare two things with question marks above her hands.

    Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) and WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) have both been hit hard.

    Xero shares are down around 60% from their high, while WiseTech Global Ltd shares are down almost 70% from their high.

    Falls that large can make investors nervous, but they can also create opportunity when the underlying businesses remain strong.

    I rate both of these ASX tech shares highly. In fact, I would be happy to own both in a long-term portfolio. But if I had to choose only one today, this becomes a much harder decision.

    Why I like Xero shares

    Xero is one of the best software businesses on the ASX in my view.

    The company started with accounting software, but I think the bigger opportunity is becoming a broader financial operating system for small businesses.

    Small business owners need help with invoicing, payroll, payments, tax, reporting, cash flow, and financial decision-making. Xero sits close to those daily workflows, which can make the platform very sticky once customers rely on it.

    The US opportunity is a key reason I rate Xero highly. It will not be easy, given the competitive landscape, but even modest success in that market could add meaningfully to the company’s long-term growth runway.

    The risk is valuation and execution. Xero still needs to keep growing, improving margins, and proving it can win outside its strongest markets.

    But I think the share price fall has made a high-quality software business look very attractive.

    Why I like WiseTech shares

    WiseTech is also a world-class ASX technology share.

    Its CargoWise platform is used in complex global logistics and freight forwarding workflows. This is not light, optional software. Global trade involves documentation, customs, compliance, routing, pricing, transport, and endless exceptions.

    That complexity is why I like the business. When software becomes deeply embedded in a customer’s operations, it can be difficult to replace. WiseTech has built a strong position in a specialised industry where domain knowledge is very important.

    I also think AI could be genuinely useful for WiseTech. Logistics still involves a lot of manual data entry, document checking, compliance work, and exception handling. If AI agents can reduce some of that workload, WiseTech’s platform could become even more valuable to customers.

    The acquisition of e2open also gives WiseTech a broader opportunity across trade, supply, demand, and connected supply chain networks. That adds complexity, but it also expands the possible prize.

    Which would I buy?

    This is close, because I think both businesses have strong long-term potential.

    But if I had to buy only one today, I would choose WiseTech.

    The main reason is the combination of share price weakness and embedded industry position. A fall of almost 70% from its high is not something to ignore, and there are clearly risks around execution, integration, valuation, and investor confidence.

    But I think WiseTech’s role in global trade software is extremely hard to replicate. The business operates in a complex market, serves mission-critical workflows, and has a practical AI opportunity that could help customers save time and reduce errors.

    Xero remains a share I would happily buy as well. Its small business platform opportunity is excellent. But at today’s prices, WiseTech edges ahead for me because the risk/reward looks slightly more compelling.

    Foolish takeaway

    This is not a case of one good ASX tech share and one bad one.

    I think Xero and WiseTech are both high-quality businesses with long growth runways. Both could be much larger in a decade if management executes well.

    But if I had to make the difficult choice today, I would buy WiseTech first. The sell-off has been severe, the business remains deeply embedded in global logistics, and the AI opportunity looks directly tied to real customer pain points. 

    For patient investors, I think that makes it the more compelling buy right now.

    The post Xero shares vs WiseTech shares: Which ASX tech share would I buy today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in WiseTech Global right now?

    Before you buy WiseTech Global 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 WiseTech Global 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 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 WiseTech Global and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global and Xero. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Don’t want to rely on your wage? Build a second income with these ASX shares

    A woman wearing glasses and a black top smiles broadly as she stares at a money yarn full of coins representing the rising JB Hi-Fi share price and rising dividends over the past five years

    At a time when inflation is higher and there has been a shift in the taxation system, I think it could be a good idea to look at ASX dividend shares as a way to build a second income.

    I’m building a second income myself, and I’m focusing on businesses I believe can provide pleasing and growing payouts.

    Rising payouts are appealing because we don’t need to invest as much to achieve passive income growth.

    The below two are among my favourites for investing in dividend-paying businesses.  

    Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd (ASX: SOL)

    I’d call this business the king of dividend payments in Australia. It has increased its payout every year since 1998, which is the longest growth streak on the ASX.

    It has been listed on the ASX for more than 120 years and it has paid a dividend in every one of those years, including through the wars, global pandemics, recessions and so on.

    The investment conglomerate has a diversified investment portfolio across a wide range of sectors including telecommunications, energy, swimming schools, agriculture, water entitlements, industrial properties, and plenty more.

    Soul Patts is a single company, but it has a variety of assets, so it’s not reliant on one area.

    The business has grown its dividend at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9% over the last five years, which is an excellent pace of improvement.

    On top of that, the company’s portfolio value has steadily increased over the years as its existing investments grow organically and it regularly makes new investments.

    As the cash flow from its portfolio grows, it can fund larger dividend payments. In the FY26 half-year result, it reported cash flow growth of 15.4% to $334 million, funding a 9.1% increase of the interim dividend.

    Its latest two half-year dividends come to a grossed-up dividend yield of 3.6%, including franking credits.

    MFF Capital Investments Ltd (ASX: MFF)

    The other ASX dividend share I really want to highlight as an option for a second income is MFF, which is best known as a listed investment company (LIC) that focuses on international shares.

    MFF aims to invest in competitively advantaged businesses that have strong economic moats, great profit growth potential and are priced attractively. Its portfolio has performed and I think the US blue-chips it owns are very appealing options.

    But, the LIC can provide good diversification with a single investment – we don’t need to monitor the entire share market.

    MFF has committed to raising the passive income payments for shareholders, which I think makes it an appealing option for passive income.

    The ASX dividend share expects to grow its FY26 annual dividend by 23.5% – that’s a great increase, in my opinion.

    At the time of writing, it offers a grossed-up dividend yield of 6%, including franking credits. I think this is a great time to invest for the long-term and for a second income.

    The post Don’t want to rely on your wage? Build a second income with these ASX shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited right now?

    Before you buy Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company 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 Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company 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 Tristan Harrison has positions in Mff Capital Investments and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Mff Capital Investments. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • This ASX industrials stock could be set to race 20% higher: Expert

    A man in his office leans back in his chair with his hands behind his head looking out his window at the city.

    ASX industrials stock SGH Ltd (ASX: SGH) has been attracting broker attention recently after the company’s investor day last week. 

    SGH is a leading Australian diversified operating and investment Group with market leading businesses and investments in Industrial Services, Energy and Media sectors. 

    The company has seen its share price slip almost 12% year to date, however brokers are anticipating a recovery throughout the next 12 months. 

    What did the company report at its investor day?

    According to the release, FY26 EBIT growth is expected to be within the range of low to mid single-digit. 

    The company also reported HY26 EBIT up 22% on 2H FY25.

    Bell Potter noted that the company also plans to generate $100m in benefits from AI initiatives over FY26–27.

    The company also aims to grow earnings steadily over time, maintain strong returns on investments, and eventually increase its market value to $30bn and join the ASX50.

    Management remains positive on long-term demand from Australian infrastructure spending, mining growth, ageing mining equipment needing maintenance, and stronger gas and LNG markets. 

    Other updates included a new property development joint venture for Boral, plans for better equipment utilisation at Coates, and continued focus on improving Boral’s profit margins.

    Bell Potter slightly lowered its earnings forecasts for SGH because it now expects weaker revenue growth and margins across some divisions.

    Updated targets from Bell Potter

    Based on this guidance, the team at Bell Potter lowered its price target to $50.00 (previously $56.00). 

    However, from yesterday’s closing price of $41.30, this indicates roughly 21% upside. 

    We view SGH’s market valuation as undemanding. SGH has articulated a robust medium and long-term valuation creation framework at its FY26 Investor Day, underpinned by reasonable operational targets. Any forthcoming M&A activity would likely be well received by the market.

    It’s worth noting that Bell Potter isn’t the only broker with a positive outlook for this ASX industrials stock. 

    The team at Macquarie increased its price target on SGH shares to $50.40 following the investor day. 

    Macquarie said while macroeconomic conditions remained complex, SGH’s execution remains strong, “and Boral likely continues to support the majority of near-term growth”.

    Additionally, RBC Capital Markets also recently released a report on SGH, with a price target of $47.

    These targets all indicate an upside hovering around 20% for this ASX industrials stock. 

    The post This ASX industrials stock could be set to race 20% higher: Expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in SGH Ltd right now?

    Before you buy SGH Ltd 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 SGH Ltd 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 Bell 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.

  • 4 reasons to buy CBA shares today

    Red buy button on an Apple keyboard with a finger on it.

    After getting hammered in the wake of the Federal Budget release, Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares have staged a strong comeback.

    If you own the big four S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) bank stock, you’ll likely remember the 10.4% share price crash suffered on 13 May.

    That historic selling pressure followed CBA’s own March quarter (Q3 FY 2026) update, which coincided with numerous analyst forecasts of the potential negative impacts the Federal budget could have on CommBank’s loan book.

    But since market close on 13 May, CBA shares have gained 7.11%, closing on Monday trading for $164.60 apiece.

    For some context, the ASX 200 has gained 0.71% over this same period.

    And looking ahead, Investor Pulse’s Mark Elzayed believes that Australia’s biggest bank could continue to outshine the wider market (courtesy of The Bull).

    Here’s why.

    Should you buy CBA shares today?

    “CBA remains Australia’s dominant retail bank,” Elzayed noted.

    Citing the first reason you might want to buy CBA shares today, he said, “The recent sharp sell-off has created a more attractive entry point for long term investors.”

    Indeed, despite the sizeable rebound since the recent closing low on 13 May, CBA shares remain down 5% over the past 12 months. And shares in the ASX 200 bank stock are still down 14% since hitting their all-time closing highs of $191.40 apiece on 25 June.

    But, as Elzayed, noted, profits are still rolling in.

    “The bank generated unaudited cash net profit after tax of $2.7 billion in the third quarter of fiscal year 2026, up 4% on the prior corresponding period,” he said, citing the second reason he’s bullish on the big four bank.

    As for the third reason the bank stock could outperform, Elzayed said, “Lending and deposits continued to grow despite a softer economic backdrop.”

    At its recent Q3 results, CBA reported:

    Home loan new funding remained strong with $45 billion funded in the quarter. For the 12 months to March 2026, home loan balances grew $41 billion at 1.0x system, while household deposits grew $38 billion at 1.1x system.

    Which brings us to the fourth reason you may wish to buy CBA shares today, namely the bank’s solid risk profile and reliable passive income.

    “CBA also maintains strong capital levels and recently paid a fully franked interim dividend of $2.35 a share for the first half of fiscal year 2026,” Elzayed said.

    Summing up his bullish outlook on CommBank shares, he concluded, “The shares fell heavily following housing concerns flowing from the Federal Budget. We see scope for a recovery once sentiment stabilises.”

    The post 4 reasons to buy CBA shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Commonwealth Bank Of Australia shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben 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.

  • I would buy these world-class ASX shares for an SMSF

    Two elderly people smiling with their fists pumping and with a cape on.

    A self-managed super fund (SMSF) can have a very long investment horizon.

    That is why I think quality should sit at the centre of the portfolio.

    Three ASX shares I think could suit that role are named in this article.

    ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD)

    ResMed is an ASX healthcare share I would be happy to own in an SMSF.

    The company is a global leader in sleep apnoea treatment and connected respiratory care. Its devices help patients start therapy, while masks, accessories, software, and data tools support ongoing treatment.

    I like that model for a long-term portfolio. The initial device sale is only part of the story. Patients often need replacement masks, cushions, tubing, and other supplies. That creates a recurring element that can support high margins and long-term earnings growth.

    The sleep health market also remains underpenetrated. Many people with sleep apnoea have not been diagnosed or treated, which gives ResMed a long runway if awareness and testing continue to improve.

    There are risks from competition and new treatment options, but I think ResMed’s brand, scale, and patient ecosystem remain valuable.

    Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

    Xero is another world-class business I would consider for an SMSF.

    This ASX share provides cloud accounting and financial software for small businesses, accountants, and bookkeepers.

    What I like is that Xero can become part of the operation of a small business. Invoicing, payroll, payments, tax, reporting, and cash flow are not occasional tasks. They are central to how a business runs.

    That gives the platform a strong position if it continues improving.

    Xero also has a large international opportunity. Australia and New Zealand are strong markets, but the UK and US could provide a much longer runway if management executes well.

    Artificial intelligence (AI) could add another growth engine. Small business owners often spend too much time on admin. If Xero can automate more of that work, its software could become even more valuable.

    For an SMSF, I think Xero offers exposure to a global software business with many years of growth still ahead.

    Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG)

    Macquarie Group would give an SMSF a very different type of world-class exposure.

    It is not a traditional Australian bank. Macquarie has operations across asset management, commodities and global markets, banking, financial services, and investment banking.

    That variety is one reason I like it. The group can benefit from infrastructure investment, energy transition, commodities volatility, private markets, capital flows, and specialist financing.

    Earnings can be uneven from year to year. That is part of owning a business exposed to markets and investment activity.

    But over long periods, Macquarie has shown an impressive ability to adapt and find attractive areas to deploy capital.

    I think that adaptability is valuable for an SMSF with a long horizon.

    Foolish Takeaway

    An SMSF portfolio does not need to be filled with only defensive assets. I think there is room for high-quality growth shares that can compound over many years.

    ResMed, Xero, and Macquarie share one useful trait: they have built strong positions that would be difficult for competitors to copy quickly.

    That is the kind of business I would want working inside a super portfolio for the long term.

    The post I would buy these world-class ASX shares for an SMSF appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

  • 2 ASX growth shares that could be long-term winners

    Playful parents having fun while pushing their small kids in cardboard box as they move into their new home.

    The ASX has no shortage of companies with strong long-term growth outlooks.

    But which ones could be buys this week?

    Let’s take a look at two ASX growth shares with bright prospects that could be worth considering for a balanced portfolio. They are as follows:

    Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

    Goodman Group has become one of the ASX’s most important property businesses, but it is no ordinary landlord.

    It owns, develops, and manages high-quality logistics and industrial assets in major markets around the world. These are the types of properties that sit at the centre of modern supply chains, ecommerce networks, and data-heavy economies.

    What makes Goodman attractive is the way its business has evolved. It is not just collecting rent from warehouses. It is using its global platform, development expertise, and landbank to meet demand from some of the world’s largest companies.

    That includes customers looking for well-located logistics space close to major cities, ports, and transport corridors. It also includes growing demand for data centre infrastructure, which has become a major opportunity as artificial intelligence and cloud computing drive huge requirements for power and capacity.

    For patient investors, Goodman’s combination of global scale, scarce assets, and exposure to structural demand could keep it relevant for many years.

    Life360 (ASX: 360)

    Another ASX growth share that could be a top long-term buy is family safety and location technology company Life360.

    Its app helps people stay connected through location sharing, driving safety features, emergency support, and other family-focused services. That kind of engagement is important. A software platform becomes far more valuable when it is part of a regular routine rather than something customers use only occasionally.

    The company has also been improving the way it turns its large user base into revenue. Subscription products, advertising, and connected device opportunities all give Life360 multiple paths for growth.

    There is also a network effect element. The product becomes more useful when more family members and close contacts are on it. That can make it harder for competitors to displace, provided Life360 continues to invest in trust, safety, and product quality.

    Like many ASX growth shares, Life360’s share price can be volatile. Expectations can move quickly when investors are paying for future earnings rather than today’s profits.

    Even so, the company has a large addressable market and a clear consumer use case. If management keeps executing successfully, Life360 could remain one of the ASX’s standout technology stories.

    The post 2 ASX growth shares that could be long-term winners appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Life360 right now?

    Before you buy Life360 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 Life360 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 and Life360. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goodman Group and Life360. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Life360. 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.

  • How to start investing in ASX shares in 2026

    A group of tech people gather around a computer operated by a young woman while the group looks on in support.

    Starting to invest in ASX shares can seem harder than it needs to be.

    There are thousands of companies, daily market moves, broker opinions, dividend forecasts, interest rate headlines, and economic data points.

    But I think the best starting point is much simpler.

    A beginner does not need to know everything on day one. The goal is to build a sensible process, buy quality assets, and let time do some of the heavy lifting.

    Start with the purpose

    The first question I would ask is: What am I investing for?

    Some investors want long-term growth. Others want passive income. Some want a mix of both.

    That answer can shape the types of ASX shares that make sense.

    For long-term growth, I would focus on companies with strong market positions and room to expand. For income, I would look for businesses with reliable earnings and dividends that appear sustainable.

    A beginner could also use exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to get started, but individual ASX shares can play an important role if chosen carefully.

    Keep the first few choices simple

    When starting out, I think it is worth looking at businesses that are easy to understand.

    Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) is one example. The group owns brands that reach across everyday Australian spending, including Bunnings, Kmart, Officeworks, and Priceline. It also has exposure to industrial earnings and lithium through Mt Holland.

    That mix gives investors exposure to several parts of the economy in one company.

    Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) is another ASX share I think beginners could understand quickly. Mobile and internet services are part of daily life, giving the company a defensive advantage. The dividend can also appeal to investors wanting income.

    For healthcare exposure, ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD) could be worth considering. It is a global sleep health business with devices, masks, accessories, and software. I like that it has a recurring revenue element because patients often need replacement products over time.

    Do not try to be perfect

    One of the biggest mistakes beginners can make is waiting for the perfect entry point. The market rarely makes things obvious.

    If prices fall, investors worry they will fall further. If prices rise, investors worry they have missed the opportunity.

    That is why I recommend investing gradually. A beginner might invest a set amount each month or quarter. This reduces the pressure of trying to time the market and helps build the habit of investing.

    Focus on quality and patience

    The ASX will always have speculative shares promising huge upside.

    Some will succeed, but many (or most) will disappoint.

    For a beginner, I think quality should come first. That means strong brands, useful products, recurring revenue, healthy balance sheets, and management teams with a record of execution.

    The returns may not be exciting every month. But over many years, owning better businesses can make a huge difference.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Starting in 2026 requires a first step and a plan that is easy to keep following.

    I think beginners can do well by starting with understandable businesses, investing gradually, and giving compounding time to work.

    There will be corrections, bad headlines, and moments when cash feels safer. That is part of the journey.

    But the investors who keep buying quality through those periods give themselves a real chance of building wealth over time.

    The post How to start investing in ASX shares in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy ResMed 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 ResMed 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 Grace Alvino has positions in Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended ResMed and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended ResMed and Telstra Group. 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.

  • Where to invest $10,000 in ASX ETFs in June

    ETF written in yellow with a yellow underline and the full word spelt out in white underneath.

    June is almost here, and investors may be wondering where to put fresh money to work.

    The good news is that ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs) continue to make this simple.

    With one trade, investors can gain exposure to a diversified group of companies, sectors, or investment styles without having to pick every individual winner.

    For someone looking to invest $10,000, the three ASX ETFs below could be worth a closer look.

    Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

    The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF offers exposure to some of Asia’s leading technology companies.

    This is a region with enormous growth potential. Across Asia, consumers are using online platforms for shopping, payments, entertainment, cloud services, gaming, and communication. Many of these trends still have room to run as incomes rise and businesses continue investing in technology.

    The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF gives investors a way to access this opportunity through a single ASX ETF. It comprises companies involved in areas such as ecommerce, semiconductors, online services, and digital platforms. This includes Tencent (SEHK: 700) and Baidu (NASDAQ: BIDU).

    This is not a low-risk option. Asian technology shares can be volatile, particularly when sentiment turns against growth assets or regulatory concerns weigh on the sector. Currency movements can also influence returns for Australian investors.

    But for those comfortable with a more targeted growth exposure, this ASX ETF offers something different from the usual US-heavy technology ETFs. It provides access to a part of the global market that could remain an important source of innovation and digital growth over the next decade.

    This fund was recently recommended by the team at Betashares.

    Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC)

    Another ASX ETF that could be worth considering in June is the Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF.

    It has been hit hard following weakness across the technology sector. That may make it attractive for investors who believe the selloff has created an opportunity to buy quality local tech exposure at lower levels.

    The fund gives investors access to a basket of ASX technology stocks across areas such as software, payments, online marketplaces, digital infrastructure, and IT services. This includes WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) and Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO).

    This can be useful because picking individual technology winners is not easy. Some companies will execute well and grow strongly. Others may struggle with margins, competition, or changing market conditions. The Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF spreads that risk across a group of local tech names.

    For investors willing to ride out volatility, this ETF offers a simple way to back the long-term digitisation of the Australian economy. It was also recently recommended by the team at Betashares.

    VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF (ASX: GOAT)

    Finally, the VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF takes a very different approach.

    Rather than focusing on one sector or region, it invests in international companies that have sustainable competitive advantages such as Novo Nordisk (NYSE: NVO) and Dassault Systemes (FRA: DSY).

    These advantages can include strong brands, cost leadership, network effects, valuable intellectual property, or high switching costs. In simple terms, the fund looks for businesses that may be difficult for competitors to attack.

    This quality focus could make this ASX ETF a useful option for investors who want global exposure but do not want to rely purely on market-cap weighting.

    The ETF also adds a valuation discipline by targeting companies that appear attractively priced relative to fair value estimates. That combination of quality and valuation could be valuable in uncertain markets.

    The post Where to invest $10,000 in ASX ETFs in June appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers Etf right now?

    Before you buy Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers Etf 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 Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers Etf 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 Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers Etf, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Baidu, Dassault Systèmes Se, Tencent, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Novo Nordisk. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Dassault Systèmes Se and VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

    Girl with painted hands.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) enjoyed a confident return to trading after the weekend this Monday. After a shaky week last week, investors seemed to come back refreshed.

    After an early wobble this morning, the market found its footing and spent most of the session in positive territory. By the time the markets wrapped up today, the ASX 200 had advanced 0.4% and finished at a flat 8,692 points.

    This happy start to the Australian trading week came after a similarly upbeat end to the American trading week on Friday night (our time).

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) fared well, managing a 0.58% gain and resetting its record high.

    The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) charted a similar trajectory, rising 0.19%.

    But let’s get back to this week and our local markets now and check out what was happening amongst the different ASX sectors this session.

    Winners and losers

    Despite the market’s good mood, there were still a few sectors that lost out this Monday.

    Leading those losers were energy stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) was shunned today, cratering 2.41%.

    Communications shares were unlucky too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) diving 1.32%.

    Healthcare stocks missed out as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) saw its value dip 0.67%.

    As did financial shares, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)’s unlucky 0.13% slide.

    Utilities stocks were our last losers this Monday. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) slipped 0.08% lower today.

    Let’s turn to the green sectors now. Convincingly leading the pack were gold shares, with the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) rocketing a massive 4.93%.

    Broader mining stocks weren’t quite as enthusiastic. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) still managed a 1.84% surge, though.

    Consumer discretionary shares ran hot too, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ)’s 1.02% pop.

    Tech stocks were equally fiery. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) also surged by 1.02%.

    Industrial shares were in demand as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) jumping 0.61%.

    Next came real estate investment trusts (REITs). The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) managed a 0.39% bounce this session.

    Finally, consumer staples stocks got over the line, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)’s 0.06% bump.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    Beating out several of its peers to claim top spot this Monday was gold stock Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG). Resolute shares exploded 9.39% higher this session to finish at $1.34 each.

    With no news out from the company, this looks like an outlier to the gold buying that was going on today (as you can see below).

    Here’s the rest of today’s best:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG) $1.34 9.39%
    Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC) $8.87 8.70%
    Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) $6.40 8.47%
    IperionX Ltd (ASX: IPX) $5.56 8.38%
    Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL) $7.04 7.48%
    Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) $13.92 6.75%
    Charter Hall Group (ASX: CHC) $20.62 6.67%
    Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) $3.41 6.56%
    Alcoa Corporation (ASX: AAI) $99.09 6.19%
    Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU) $14.50 6.07%

    Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

    The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Resolute Mining right now?

    Before you buy Resolute Mining 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 Resolute Mining 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 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 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.