Author: openjargon

  • Why A2 Milk, Calix, CSL, and Ioneer shares are charging higher today

    a man in a business suite throws his arms open wide above his head and raises his face with his mouth open in celebration in front of a background of an illuminated board tracking stock market movements.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is having a mildly positive session on Tuesday. In afternoon trade, the benchmark index is up slightly to 8,822.7 points.

    Four ASX shares that are rising more than most today are listed below. Here’s why they are climbing:

    A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M)

    The A2 Milk share price is up 3% to $6.97. Investors have been buying this infant formula company’s shares this week after it received approval from the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) to transition two China label infant milk formula (IMF) product registrations. A2 Milk’s CEO, David Bortolussi, said: “SAMR approval marks a significant milestone in our China growth strategy and Supply Chain transformation. It supports long-term growth in our core IMF business through market access and innovation, accelerates the development of advanced nutritional manufacturing capability, and captures attractive financial returns through incremental brand contribution and vertical margin capture.”

    Calix Ltd (ASX: CXL)

    The Calix share price is up 9.5% to 40 cents. This morning, this industrial technology company announced a joint development agreement (JDA) with Ambuja Cements Limited (Ambuja Cements). It is a subsidiary of the Adani Group. The two parties will work together on a commercial scale project at the Sanghi cement plant in Gujarat, India. Ambuja Cements’ director, Karan Adani, said: “The cement industry’s transition to a lower-carbon future will require bold thinking, technological innovation and collaboration across the value chain. Our partnership with [Calix subsidiary] Leilac reflects our commitment to evaluating next-generation technologies that can reduce process emissions while improving energy efficiency and supporting long-term sustainable growth. This initiative aligns with our vision of building world-class manufacturing operations for the future.”

    CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

    The CSL share price is up 2.5% to $115.66. This is despite there being no news out of the biotechnology giant on Tuesday. However, it is worth noting that CSL’s shares have been rebounding from their multi-year low this month. So much so, CSL shares have risen by 22% since the start of the month.

    Ioneer Ltd (ASX: INR)

    The Ioneer share price is up 18% to 16.5 cents. This morning, the lithium developer announced strategic non-binding letters of intent (LOIs) with the Korea Overseas Infrastructure & Urban Development Corporation and Hyundai Engineering Co. These will see the parties work together to advance the development of the Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project. Ioneer’s managing director, Bernard Rowe, said: “Rhyolite Ridge has been a decade in the making — through ongoing partnerships, permitting, and financing. Working with trusted Korean partners with a track record of on-time and on-budget delivery brings us closer to breaking ground and delivering urgently needed lithium and boron. We’re delighted to work with KIND and Hyundai Engineering and look forward to what we’ll accomplish together.”

    The post Why A2 Milk, Calix, CSL, and Ioneer shares are charging higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in A2 Milk right now?

    Before you buy A2 Milk 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 A2 Milk 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

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

  • Why Centuria Capital, Iluka, Metcash, and Reliance Worldwide shares are falling today

    A man sits in despair at his computer with his hands either side of his head, staring into the screen with a pained and anguished look on his face, in a home office setting.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is fighting hard to stay in positive territory. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is up a fraction to 8,821 points.

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

    Centuria Capital Group (ASX: CNI)

    The Centuria Capital share price is down over 6% to $2.04. This follows the successful completion of an institutional placement and entitlement offer. Centuria Capital has raised $265 million at $2.00 per new share. This represents a discount of 8.25% to its last close price. Centuria’s joint CEOs, John McBain and Jason Huljich, commented: “The Centuria and ResetData combination has created a differentiated NVIDIA neocloud partner with scalable sovereign AI Factories and access to Centuria’s real estate, land and potential 200MW+ power pipeline. ResetData is one of three Australian NVIDIA Cloud Partners and is uniquely placed to take advantage of an upswing in international demand for the establishment of Australian-based AI Factory capacity uptake. It is worth noting that comparable neocloud platforms in Australia have experienced rapid re-ratings as contracts and scale have emerged and we have this firmly in mind as we respond to increased AI demand and build out our capability in this area.”

    Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU)

    The Iluka Resources share price is down 11% to $7.24. This is despite the mineral sands and rare earths company announcing a major offtake agreement this morning. Iluka revealed that it has signed a binding, multi-year agreement for the supply of magnet rare earth oxides to a global automotive company. The agreement sets pricing at the higher of minimum and market-linked prices for each product to balance the dual risks of downside price volatility and security of supply. Iluka advised that its minimum revenue over the contract period is US$155 million. But assuming industry forecast pricing, Iluka’s revenue over the contract period would be US$172 million.

    Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS)

    The Metcash share price is down 3% to $3.02. This may have been driven by a broker note out of Ord Minnett this morning. The broker has downgraded the wholesale distributor’s shares to a hold rating (from buy) with a reduced price target of $3.50 (from $3.70). While Metcash’s FY 2026 result was in line with expectations, Ord Minnett was disappointed with its trading update for the first seven weeks of FY 2027.

    Reliance Worldwide Corporation Ltd (ASX: RWC)

    The Reliance Worldwide share price is down 2.5% to $3.58. Investors have been selling the plumbing parts company’s shares after it revealed that it is closing its brass casting, forging, and machining operations in Melbourne, along with additional smaller sites. This is part of its ongoing optimisation of its global manufacturing operations. Management revealed that it expects to recognise a one-off net charge of US$100 million to US$110 million in FY 2026.

    The post Why Centuria Capital, Iluka, Metcash, and Reliance Worldwide shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Centuria Capital 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 Centuria Capital 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

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

  • With oil prices falling, should I still buy Santos shares now?

    An oil refinery worker checks her laptop computer in front of a backdrop of oil refinery infrastructure.

    Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) shares are pushing higher today.

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) energy stock closed yesterday trading for $7.30. As we eye the Tuesday lunch hour, shares are swapping hands for $7.33 apiece, up 0.4%.

    For some context, the ASX 200 is just about flat at this same time.

    Taking a step back, Santos shares have gained 19.4% in 2026, smashing the 1.1% year-to-date gains posted by the benchmark index.

    And that’s not including the 14.5 cents per share in unfranked dividends Santos paid out to eligible stockholders on 25 March. If we add that back into the current share price, the stock’s cumulative value has risen 21.6% this year.

    Santos trades on a 4.8% partly-franked trailing dividend yield.

    One of the bigger tailwinds for the Aussie energy giant has been the surging oil price. Currently trading for US$78 per barrel, the Brent crude oil price is up 28% since 1 January

    As you’re likely aware, global oil and gas prices have been spurred by the conflict in the Middle East and resultant closure of the vital Strait of Hormuz shipping lane.

    But with global oil prices coming off the boil – the Brent crude oil price is down more than 34% since 29 April – is Santos still a good buy today?

    Santos shares: Buy, hold, or sell?

    Peak Asset Management’s Niv Dagan recently analysed the outlook for Santos’ outperforming stock (courtesy of The Bull).

    “Santos is a global energy company,” he said. “Much of the near-term upside depends on successful execution of major projects.”

    Commenting on those projects, Dagan noted, “Barossa is online and ramping up, while the Pikka phase 1 in Alaska has started production, with both expected to materially increase free cash flow at plateau rates.”

    Dagan added that the ASX 200 energy stock is also aiming to materially deleverage over the next three to four years.

    “Management is also targeting at least 60% of free cash flow for shareholder returns and a $2.5 billion reduction in net debt by 2030,” he said.

    Summarising his hold recommendation on Santos shares, Dagan concluded:

    However, the investment case still relies on commodity prices, capital discipline and the delivery of a large multi-year development pipeline across Australia, Papua New Guinea and Alaska.

    What’s the latest from the ASX 200 oil and gas stock?

    Santos shares may be getting a lift today, with the company announcing this morning that it has commenced continuous production operations at the Pikka Phase 1 oil project in Alaska.

    Commenting on the milestone, Santos CEO Kevin Gallagher said:

    The first production wells are now online and delivering continuous production. We will commence pressure support through seawater injection and bring more wells online progressively, building production toward our plateau target of approximately 80,000 barrels per day in the third quarter of this year.

    The post With oil prices falling, should I still buy Santos shares now? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Santos 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 Santos 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

    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.

  • Buy, hold, sell: Flight Centre, Supply Network, Lottery Corporation shares

    Two ASX share investors sharing a secret.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are barely in the green on Tuesday as investors wait for more news about US-Iran negotiations.

    Trading Economics analysts say there are signs of progress from talks between American and Iranian officials in Switzerland.

    The analysts said:

    In a key development, Washington granted Iran a 60-day license to sell oil on international markets, raising expectations of a quicker recovery in global supply.

    Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has also picked up, with producers including Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates finding alternative routes to export energy, while Iran shipped more than 30 million barrels over the past week. 

    Meanwhile, two experts give us their views on three ASX shares.

    Let’s check them out. 

    Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)

    The Flight Centre share price is $11.85, down 0.75% today and down 21% in the calendar year to date (YTD). 

    Belinda Moore from Morgans has a buy rating on this ASX 200 consumer discretionary share. 

    Moore was not surprised after the company downgraded its guidance because of the Iran war.

    Due to strong cash reserves and a depressed share price, Flight Centre also announced a new buyback of up to $200 million.

    Moore said: 

    Given recent downgrades from other travel industry peers due to the conflict in the Middle East, FLT’s downgrade wasn’t a surprise.

    While a peace agreement and eased travel restrictions are positive, we think 1H27 will still be challenging.

    We forecast a strong recovery in 2H27. If it wasn’t for this conflict, FLT would have had a great year given its results for the first nine months were strong.

    We are buyers of FLT because when operating conditions ultimately improve, both its earnings and share price will be materially higher.

    Lottery Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLC)

    The Lottery Corporation share price is $5.55, down 0.2% today and up 7% YTD. 

    Toby Grimm from Baker Young has a hold rating on Lottery Corporation shares.

    On The Bull this week, Grimm explained:

    Securing a 40-year extension as Victoria’s exclusive lottery operator adds certainty given the importance of the contract and its longer than expected duration.

    However, operating performance has been subdued amid challenging consumer conditions and unfavourable jackpot outcomes.

    The company continues to identify cost savings, which will help fund digital investment.

    The stock is trading at fair value, but we believe the stock appeals in the longer term, supported by a fully franked dividend yield.

    Supply Network Ltd (ASX: SNL)

    The Supply Network share price is $32.74, down 0.6% today and up 2% YTD. 

    Grimm has a sell rating on this ASX 300 consumer discretionary share. 

    He said: 

    The truck and bus parts supplier has built a leading position in an industry benefiting from an ageing fleet on our roads. Group sales revenue of $200.1 million in the first half of 2026 was up 16.9 per cent on the prior corresponding period.

    However, in our view, the stock screens as expensive given it was recently trading on about 33 times estimated earnings in 2026.

    Current fuel price uncertainties present another challenge and may impact freight demand in the near term.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Flight Centre, Supply Network, Lottery Corporation shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in The Lottery Corporation right now?

    Before you buy The Lottery Corporation 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 The Lottery Corporation 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Supply Network Ltd and The Lottery Corporation. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Flight Centre Travel Group, Supply Network Ltd, and The Lottery Corporation. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 3 companies to own for a dividend yield above 5%

    Male hands holding Australian dollar banknotes, symbolising dividends.

    Buying stocks with a strong dividend yield is a good strategy for some investors, but you want to be confident that they’re going to be around for the long haul.

    I’ve had a look through recent broker reports and selected three major Australian companies that are paying a dividend yield of at least 5% and are forecast to do so in the coming years.

    Let’s have a look at the companies that made the grade.

    Amcor Plc (ASX: AMC)

    Broker Morgans has this week issued a new research report on Amcor, tipping the company’s shares will increase to $65.40 over the next 12 months, up from $57.99 currently.

    The Morgans team said since Amcor’s merger with Berry in April 2025, it had identified a range of non-core businesses, which are expected to be sold off over time.

    Morgans has estimated, conservatively, that these businesses are worth about US$1.8 billion, and to date, Amcor has sold off six businesses for about US$500 million.

    On the business more broadly, Morgans said Amcor is a “highly defensive” business with a leading market position and an experienced management team.

    They added:

    We expect the combination with Berry, along with potential divestments of non-core, lower-quality assets, to enhance AMC’s growth outlook and strengthen its balance sheet over the medium term. While execution of synergy targets will be key, AMC has a strong track record of integrating large scale transactions.

    Morgans has forecast Amcor will pay a dividend yield of 6.3% this year, rising to 6.6% by FY28.

    Regal Partners Ltd (ASX: RPL)

    As well as forecasting a strong dividend yield, Bell Potter has a bullish share price target of $4.70 for Regal Partners, compared to its current price of $2.92.

    Regal Partners is an alternative investment manager with eight primary brands, the broker said.

    Bell Potter said:

    The Group controls $21bn in funds under management. We see further growth, driven by positive net inflows, investment performance, acquisitions and exposure to secular asset classes. This is supported by an aspirational blueprint to double offshore client capital. Successful execution, in our view, provides a pathway to teens growth over the medium term, enhanced through operating leverage.

    As well as having the potential for strong capital returns, Bell Potter said Regal Partners was expected to pay a dividend yield of 6.2% this year, with that increasing to 7.6% by 2028.

    Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS)

    This grocery company reported its FY26 results this week, which came in line with guidance.

    The team at Macquarie said the update on the first seven weeks of the company’s current trading year was mixed, with food below consensus but hardware ahead.

    Macquarie maintained its neutral rating on the stock, with a price target of $3.20 compared to $3.01 currently.

    The Macquarie team said:

    Management is executing well against its strategic priorities. However, broader conditions suggest a mixed outlook. In particular, supplier inflation implies difficulty in maintaining the “IGA Price Gap” and conditions likely to weaken in Hardware due to lower housing turnover.

    The company’s dividend yield for 2026 was 5.8%, and this was expected to dip to 5.4% next year, then rise to 5.9% by FY 2029.  

    The post 3 companies to own for a dividend yield above 5% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Amcor Plc right now?

    Before you buy Amcor Plc 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 Amcor Plc 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

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

  • This ASX energy stock is sliding despite a major refinery restart

    an oil refinery worker checks her laptop computer in front of a backdrop of oil refinery infrastructure. The woman has a serious look on her face.

    Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) shares are slipping on Tuesday despite the company announcing progress at its Geelong Refinery.

    At the time of writing, the Viva Energy share price is down 2.82% to $2.07. By comparison, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is 0.1% to 8,811 points.

    When zooming out, the ASX energy stock has fallen 10% over the past month but remains up about 1% since the start of 2026.

    Here’s what the company told the market today.

    What did Viva Energy announce?

    In a statement to the ASX, Viva Energy said work to restart the Residue Catalytic Cracking Unit at its Geelong Refinery has been completed.

    The unit, known as the RCCU, was damaged by a fire at the refinery on 15 April.

    Viva Energy said the RCCU and related units are returning to operation this week. This is expected to lift the refinery back to more than 90% of normal capacity.

    However, the update wasn’t all good news.

    The company said another part of the refinery, the Alkylation unit, will stay offline while it decides whether to repair or replace it.

    This means the refinery will have less ability to turn LPG into petrol. Even so, Viva Energy still expects the Geelong Refinery to operate at more than 90% of normal capacity through 2027.

    Why is the Viva Energy share price down?

    While the refinery restart is positive, the market may still have some concerns about the update.

    The Alkylation unit helps convert LPG produced during refining into gasoline, so having it offline will limit some flexibility at the refinery.

    While production is expected to return to more than 90% of normal capacity, one part of the refinery could still be out of action for a long time.

    Viva Energy also said it is still investigating the cause of the incident and working with insurers on property damage and business interruption claims.

    Early findings suggest the fire was caused by the failure of a section of piping within the Alkylation unit, which released fuel that later ignited.

    Refining margins remain strong

    One part of the update that may interest shareholders is the refining margin.

    Viva Energy said its Geelong Refining Margin was US$23.90 a barrel for April and May. This was based on refining intake of 6.5 million barrels.

    The company said the result was helped by strong market conditions and lower fuel oil production after the incident.

    Nonetheless, the extended Alkylation outage means there is still some uncertainty around how the plant performs from here.

    The post This ASX energy stock is sliding despite a major refinery restart appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Viva Energy 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 Viva Energy 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

    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.

  • $5,000 invested in BHP shares 12 months ago is now worth….

    A group of people in suits and hard hats celebrate the rising share price with champagne.

    BHP Group (ASX: BHP) shares have had an incredible run throughout the first six months of 2026.

    At the time of writing, the ASX mining giant’s shares have climbed further into the green, up around 1% to $60.73 a piece.

    It’s good news for investors after a bumpy ride throughout June where the share price has fluctuated between $60.08 and an all-time high of $65.59 a week ago. Since hitting that peak, BHP shares have since lost over 7% of their value.

    Despite the past week’s decrease, BHP shares are still up around 33% for the year to date and nearly 71% higher than 12 months ago.

    For context, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is up around 0.1% at the time of writing, and around 1% higher for the year-to-date.

    So, if I bought $5,000 of BHP shares 12 months ago, what would it be worth today?

    BHP shares were trading at just $35.64 a piece this time last year, and have since climbed 71% higher.

    That means that your $5,000 investment in the mining giant 12 months ago would be worth $8,550 today.

    Can the share price keep climbing?

    After a strong rally over the past year, it looks like BHP shares are now considered to be trading at fair value.

    Market Index data shows the majority of brokers have a hold rating on the shares. The $61.66 average target price implies a potential 1% upside, at the time of writing.

    TradingView data shows something very similar. Out of 18 analysts, 13 have a hold rating on the mining giant’s shares. Another four rate the stock as a strong buy.

    The average $63.75 target price implies a 5% potential upside at the time of writing. However, the range of forecasts is huge. Some expect the shares to fall 34% to a minimum target price of $40.31. Others think BHP shares have the potential to climb 53% higher to $92.99. 

    The good news about BHP is even if investors are on the fence about the outlook for its share price, the stock is still a strong passive income play.

    Are BHP shares a good buy for passive income?

    BHP is a premier blue-chip ASX 200 stock with a market capitalisation of around $309 billion and a strong operational history. At the time of writing, BHP is the largest company trading on the Australia share market.

    BHP is a cyclical stock, primarily exposed to iron ore, copper, and other key commodities. The downside is its cyclical nature means BHP is at risk from value fluctuations. But the benefit is that it usually outperforms during periods of economic recovery.

    The large-scale but low-cost miner has a long history of regular dividend payments, dating back to around 2006. And its commodity exposure is diversified, too. This means it is able to maintain its dividend payouts even when commodity prices fluctuate.

    The miner most recently paid a fully-fanked interim dividend of $1.0385 to shareholders in March. Analysts forecast BHP to pay an annual dividend of $1.91 per share in FY26, and a slightly lower $1.80 per share in FY27. That translates to a forward dividend yield of around 3.1% and 3% respectively, at the time of writing. That’s some decent passive income.

    The post $5,000 invested in BHP shares 12 months ago is now worth…. appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy BHP 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 BHP 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

    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 recommended BHP Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Buy, hold, sell: Charter Hall, Northern Star, Cochlear shares

    Six smiling health workers pose for a selfie.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are 0.14% higher at 8,828.7 points on Tuesday. 

    The fastest rising ASX 200 share today is WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), which has recovered 4% after yesterday’s smashing.

    ASX 200 healthcare shares Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) and Mesoblast Ltd (ASX: MSB) are also among the top risers today.

    Both stocks are up by more than 3.5%.

    Meanwhile, let’s check out 3 ASX 200 shares with new ratings from the experts (courtesy The Bull).

    Charter Hall Group (ASX: CHC)

    The Charter Hall share price is $22.73, down 0.5% today and down 7% in the calendar year to date (YTD). 

    Toby Grimm from Baker Young has a buy rating on this real estate investment trust (REIT).

    The analyst said: 

    Australia’s leading diversified property group has benefited from a strong funds management performance driving multiple earnings upgrades in the past financial year.

    With the strong operational trend continuing amid a potential respite in interest rates, the stock offers compelling exposure in a lagging sector that may be a beneficiary of a swing against banks.

    The shares have been enjoying favourable momentum since May 20, increasing from $18.80 to trade at $23.15 on June 18.

    Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH)

    The Cochlear share price is $112.38, down 0.5% today and down 57% YTD.

    Christopher Watt from Bell Potter has a hold rating on this ASX 200 healthcare share. 

    Watt explained: 

    The long term opportunity for this hearing implants maker remains compelling, supported by a large addressable market, strong brand position and an attractive product pipeline.

    However, near term trading conditions have softened in response to weaker referral activity in the US, hospital capacity constraints in Europe and reimbursement changes in China.

    Until there’s clearer evidence that volumes are stabilising, a more balanced stance is appropriate.

    The long term growth story and product pipeline remain intact.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) fell to a 9-year low on 3 June due to many industry headwinds over the past year.

    Since then, ASX 200 healthcare shares have been on a comeback, rising 11.5% compared to a 0.4% bump for the broader ASX 200.

    Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

    The Northern Resources share price is $20.93, down 1.3% on Tuesday and down 14% YTD. 

    Grimm has a sell rating on this ASX 200 gold mining share.

    He explained:

    The emergence of prominent US based activist investor Elliott Investment Management has prompted optimism surrounding the gold miner.

    However, in our view, it doesn’t alter the underperformance of NST’s asset base involving production volumes, costs and capital expenditure requirements.

    A new management team will likely rebase expectations. But we would seek alternative gold exposure for those still playing the theme.

    The shares have fallen from $31.73 on March 2 to trade at $21.44 on June 18.

    Elliot Investment recently disclosed it has a 3% to 4% stake in Northern Star shares.

    It also suggested ways that Northern Star management could improve returns for shareholders.

    You can read Northern Star’s response here.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Charter Hall, Northern Star, Cochlear shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Cochlear 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 Cochlear 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

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

  • Down 53%, is it time to throw in the towel on CSL shares?

    Buy, hold, and sell ratings written on signs on a wooden pole.

    CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares are enjoying a welcome day of outperformance today.

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) biotech giant closed yesterday trading for $112.88. In morning trade on Tuesday, shares are changing hands for $113.38, up 0.4%.

    For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.1% at this same time.

    I mention today’s outperformance as ‘welcome’ because, longer term, the ASX healthcare share has been having a tough time of it.

    How tough?

    Well, despite today’s uptick, shares remain down a steep 52.9% over the past 12 months. A capital loss that will have only been very modestly eased by the two unfranked dividends the company paid out to eligible stockholders over the last year.

    CSL shares trade on a 3.8% unfranked trailing dividend yield.

    And if Peak Asset Management’s Niv Dagan has it right, the Aussie biotech company isn’t out of the woods just yet (courtesy of The Bull).

    Here’s why.

    Time to sell CSL shares?

    “A sell rating is justified as this biotechnology giant has materially downgraded its fiscal year 2026 outlook while announcing about $5 billion of additional non-cash pre-tax impairments across fiscal years 2026 and 2027,” Dagan noted.

    “Revenue expectations have been reduced due to US immunoglobulin channel normalisation and weaker albumin prices in China,” he added.

    Summarising his other potential headwinds facing CSL shares, Dagan concluded:

    The CSL Vifor acquisition has under-performed. Also, government healthcare cost pressures and a higher interest rate environment present ongoing challenges for the biotechnology sector, further weighing on sentiment.

    What did the ASX 200 healthcare share report?

    CSL shares closed down a precipitous 16% on 11 May, the day the company reported on the downgraded FY 2026 outlook Dagan mentioned above.

    Investors were overheating their sell buttons after the company cut its FY 2026 revenue guidance to around $15.2 billion, in constant currency. That would represent a 2.5% decline from FY 2025 revenue.

    CSL also reduced its full-year net profit after tax and amortisation (NPATA) forecast to approximately $3.1 billion. That’s down 6% from the prior year.

    Commenting on the revised forecasts on the day, CSL managing director and CEO Gordon Naylor said, “Our growth initiatives are working, but the financial benefits will take longer than previously anticipated to materialise.”

    Naylor added:

    As a result, we have now revised down our 2026 financial year guidance.

    CSL’s culture and people continue to be first class, the industry is stable and growing, and the company has evident strengths in plasma collections and influenza vaccines. I am confident that the company can be returned to profitable growth and my work is to position the business and the next CEO for success.

    The post Down 53%, is it time to throw in the towel on CSL shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy CSL 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 CSL 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

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

  • WiseTech shares rebound 5%, responds to media reports: Is it time for investors to buy back in?

    Children excitedly watching an ASX share price movement on a computer.

    WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) shares have rebounded strongly in early morning trade on Tuesday.

    At the time of writing, WiseTech shares are up over 5% and changing hands for $31.60 a piece.

    It’s good news for investors after the stock crashed around 18% to a five-year low on Monday.

    It’s been a steep and sustained share price crash for WiseTech shares, driven mostly by a tech-sector-wide sell-off and an investor rotation to more stable assets amid global volatility earlier this year. 

    Even after today’s increase, WiseTech shares are still down around 54% for the year to date. They’re also over 70% lower than this time last year.

    What happened to WiseTech shares this week?

    WiseTech shares fell sharply on Monday after media reports that the Australian Federal Police is investigating founder Richard White over alleged trafficking matters. The matters relate to a former cleaner at WiseTech.

    It has been claimed that White exploited a former cleaner’s immigration status and financial position and provided false information on a visa application. 

    Investors reacted quickly and rushed to the exits.

    Why is the share price climbing higher again today?

    In a note to the ASX ahead of the market open this morning, WiseTech has responded to the media reports.

    WiseTech said that it notes there was media commentary yesterday alleging an investigation into Richard White, reportedly relating to a visa application. The company said:

    The media reports that the alleged investigation relates to Richard White in a personal capacity. There is no suggestion in this media commentary of an investigation into WiseTech.

    The Company is not aware of any investigation as outlined in the article. The Executive Chair has provided assurance to the Board that he is not aware of any such investigation and also confirmed that he emphatically and unequivocally denies any involvement in or with human trafficking.

    The Company will keep the market updated in accordance with its continuous disclosure obligations.

    It looks like the update has helped put investors at ease, and many are buying back into the technology company’s shares this morning.

    Should investors buy in the dip or stay clear of WiseTech shares?

    The outlook for WiseTech shares is largely unchanged at the time of writing. Brokers and analysts are still very bullish on where we’ll see the share price travel from here.

    Market Index shows that the majority of brokers (six out of seven) are very bullish on the ASX tech stock and hold a strong buy rating. The average $72.39 target price implies a potential 130% upside over the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

    TradingView data shows something similar. Out of 14 analysts, 11 have a buy or strong buy rating on WiseTech shares. Another three have a hold rating. 

    Their average target price is a little lower, at $67.17, but that still implies a potential 113% upside, at the time of writing. The more bullish analysts are tipping an enormous 280% upside to a maximum target price of $119.62.

    It looks like it’s time for investors to snap up the shares while they’re at a rock-bottom price.

    The post WiseTech shares rebound 5%, responds to media reports: Is it time for investors to buy back in? 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

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