Author: openjargon

  • These commodity ASX ETFs are leaving the market behind

    Miner standing in front of trucks and smiling, symbolising a rising share price.

    The best-performing ASX ETFs over the past year all have one thing in common — commodities.

    While technology and healthcare shares have struggled through bouts of volatility, commodity-linked investments have surged as investors pile into gold, critical minerals, and resource producers benefiting from inflation pressures, geopolitical uncertainty, and booming AI-driven energy demand.

    That momentum has translated into massive gains for several ASX-listed exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

    Here are three commodity-focused ASX ETFs that have exploded between 85% and 135% over the past 12 months.

    BetaShares Global Uranium ETF (ASX: MNRS)

    One of the standout performers has been the BetaShares Global Uranium ETF, which has surged an astonishing 112% over the past year.

    The ASX ETF provides investors exposure to global uranium miners and companies tied to the nuclear energy supply chain.

    Its biggest strength is clear: uranium demand is booming again. Governments around the world are increasingly embracing nuclear power as a low-emissions energy source capable of supporting AI data centres and energy-intensive infrastructure.

    That has reignited investor enthusiasm for uranium producers after years of underinvestment across the sector.

    The ETF’s largest holdings currently include Cameco Corporation (TSX: CCO) and NexGen Energy Ltd (ASX: NXG).

    However, the risks are equally significant. Uranium remains a highly volatile commodity, heavily influenced by political decisions, energy policy shifts, and investor sentiment. If uranium prices retreat sharply, the ETF could also experience large pullbacks.

    VanEck Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX)

    Another huge winner has been this VanEck gold ETF, which has climbed roughly 85% over the past 12 months.

    As global uncertainty has intensified, investors have flooded into gold as a traditional safe-haven asset. That has delivered massive gains for gold mining companies, particularly as rising gold prices can significantly boost mining margins and profitability.

    The ASX ETF provides diversified exposure to some of the world’s largest gold producers, including major holdings like Newmont Corp (ASX: NEM).

    One major strength of the ASX ETF is diversification. Rather than relying on a single miner, investors gain exposure across multiple producers and jurisdictions.

    But risks remain. Gold miners can still be highly cyclical, while operational costs, geopolitical risks, and fluctuations in gold prices can all impact earnings.

    Global X Physical Platinum ETF (ASX: ETPMAG)

    Finally, the Global X Physical Platinum ETF has skyrocketed around 132% over the past year.

    Unlike traditional mining ASX ETFs, this fund provides direct exposure to physical platinum bullion. Its main strength lies in its pure commodity exposure.

    Platinum demand has surged amid tightening global supply conditions, industrial demand recovery, and growing interest in precious metals as inflation hedges.

    Because the ETF directly tracks physical platinum, investors avoid many of the operational risks associated with mining companies. The primary holding is allocated physical platinum stored in secure vaults.

    However, commodity prices can swing wildly, and platinum remains particularly sensitive to industrial demand cycles and global economic conditions.

    The post These commodity ASX ETFs are leaving the market behind appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in BetaShares Global Gold Miners ETF – Currency Hedged right now?

    Before you buy BetaShares Global Gold Miners ETF – Currency Hedged 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 Global Gold Miners ETF – Currency Hedged 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 Marc Van Dinther has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Cameco. 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.

  • Are these ASX small-cap shares a buy, hold or sell according to Bell Potter?

    Two boys looking at each other while standing by the start line with two schoolgirls.

    As the ASX opens to a fresh week of trading, broker Bell Potter has provided updated guidance on two ASX small-cap shares. 

    While ASX small-cap shares come with increased risk and volatility, many investors may still choose to monitor smaller companies with greater potential upside.

    Here is what Bell Potter is predicting for these two. 

    Civmec Ltd (ASX: CVL)

    Civmec is an Australian, multidisciplinary heavy engineering and construction company, providing integrated services to the energy, resources, infrastructure, marine and defence sectors.

    Like many small-cap shares, it has experienced significant volatility in 2026, however finished last Friday 12% higher than at the start of the year. 

    The company released quarterly results last week, which prompted updated guidance from Bell Potter. 

    The broker noted that revenue of $244.2m was up 54.1% and reflected an ongoing uplift in activity across the company’s core operating segments. 

    EBITDA of $27.8m grew 44.4% YoY with the margin falling to 11.4% from 12.1% in the pcp. NPAT of $13.5m grew 45.2% YoY. 

    Comparing the result to our old full year estimates implies CVL needs revenue of $232.3m in 4Q26, very achievable given the company’s elevated and diverse order book of $1.3b. EBITDA margins came in ahead of our expectations which sees us upgrade our full year EBITDA margin slightly.

    Following the results, Bell Potter retained its buy recommendation on this ASX small-cap along with a price target of $1.90. 

    This indicates an upside potential of just over 15%. 

    With a diverse $1.35b order book underpinned by increased Resources activity and defence orders, CVL is well positioned for growth.

    Avita Medical Ltd (ASX: AVH)

    Avita Medical is a healthcare company specialising in regenerative medicine. It is best known for its RECELL system, a burn treatment device that creates ‘spray-on skin’ from a patient’s own skin cells within 30 minutes, avoiding or reducing the need for skin grafts.

    Its share price is up just over 7% year to date. 

    The company also released quarterly results last week. 

    According to Bell Potter, the company reported solid 1Q26 results, with revenue rising 4% year-on-year to US$19.3m, close to its previous record quarter of US$19.4m. 

    Losses improved significantly, with EBIT loss narrowing to US$8.8m from US$15.6m a year earlier.

    Bell Potter expects 2Q26 revenue could set a new company record. Management said January was slower, but February and March were very strong, and momentum continued into April.

    Despite this, the broker sees this ASX small-cap as close to fully valued. 

    Bell Potter currently has a speculative hold recommendation and $1.20 price target, indicating just 2% upside. 

    The post Are these ASX small-cap shares a buy, hold or sell according to Bell Potter? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Avita Medical right now?

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

  • 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday

    A male investor wearing a white shirt and blue suit jacket sits at his desk looking at his laptop with his hands to his chin, waiting in anticipation.

    On Friday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) finished the week with a small decline. The benchmark index fell 0.1% to 8,630.8 points.

    Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Monday? Here are five things to watch:

    ASX 200 expected to drop

    The Australian share market looks set for a poor start to the week following a poor finish to the last one on Wall Street on Friday. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 38 points or 0.45% lower. In the United States, the Dow Jones was down 1.1%, the S&P 500 fell 1.25%, and the Nasdaq dropped 1.55%.

    Oil prices jump

    ASX 200 energy shares Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) could have a good session after oil prices charged higher on Friday night. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price was up 4.2% to US$105.42 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price was up 3.55% to US$109.26 a barrel. Oil prices jumped after Donald Trump warned that he is losing patience with Iran.

    Elders and New Hope results

    Elders Ltd (ASX: ELD) shares will be on watch today when the agribusiness company releases its half-year results. The team at Bell Potter is expecting Elders to deliver EBITDA growth of approximately 30% for FY 2026, so the market is likely to be looking for a first half performance that is run-rating towards this. Elsewhere, New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) is scheduled to release its third-quarter results this morning.

    Gold price tumbles

    ASX 200 gold shares including Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a poor start to the week after the gold price tumbled on Friday night. According to CNBC, the gold futures price was down 2.6% to US$4,561.9 an ounce. Strong oil prices have sparked fears of higher inflation and interest rate hikes.

    Buy TechnologyOne shares

    Bell Potter thinks TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE) shares are good value. Ahead of its half-year results this week, the broker has retained its buy rating on the enterprise technology company’s shares with an improved price target of $32.25 (from $31.75). It said: “We believe, however, there is some chance of ARR growth exceeding $45m in H1 due to in part to the release of Plus – Technology One’s agentic AI product – and the impact this is having on product uptake by customers (e.g. James Cook University) which is driving up both NRR and ARR.”

    The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Elders 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 Elders 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 Technology One and Woodside Energy Group Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Technology One. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Elders and Technology One. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Meet the ASX small-cap healthcare company which could triple this year

    A woman's hair is blown back and her face is in shock at this big news.

    Investing in ASX small-cap stocks should always come with a side of caution. 

    Many small-cap companies experience significant volatility because of limited liquidity, narrower customer bases, and greater sensitivity to market sentiment and economic changes.

    However when one receives broker estimates of more than 300% upside potential, it’s worth taking note. 

    That’s exactly the case for ASX small-cap stock Saluda Medical Inc (ASX: SLD). 

    Company overview

    Saluda Medical is a commercial-stage medical device company commercialising spinal cord stimulation (SCS) therapy. Saluda is currently a single product company, centred around its differentiated SCS product called the ‘Evoke System’. 

    The company has been commercialising the Evoke System for roughly three years in the US, and approximately five years in Europe and Australia, for the treatment of patients with chronic pain of the trunk and/or limbs.

    ASX small-cap healthcare stocks such as Saluda Medical can have high upside because successful clinical results, regulatory approvals, or commercial partnerships can rapidly increase their valuation from a low base. 

    They are also more volatile because they often rely on future growth expectations, limited funding, and investor sentiment rather than stable earnings.

    While the optimism around this small-cap is exciting, its 66% year to date share price decline illustrates this volatility.

    Bell Potter optimistic on market share

    In the latest report from Bell Potter, the broker said the US spinal cord stimulator market is worth about US$2.3 billion and is growing steadily. 

    A major industry shift is toward “closed-loop” technology, which automatically adjusts stimulation levels, and Bell Potter believes this is becoming the new standard.

    Although competitors already have a closed-loop product, Bell Potter believes Saluda’s technology is stronger and helping it grow quickly in the US market. 

    Saluda’s recent growth rates have significantly outpaced the broader industry, leading Bell Potter to view the company as an emerging disruptor and a possible takeover target for larger competitors seeking faster growth.

    A natural conclusion is competitors without closed-loop technology risk being left behind, and with the best available offering and little evidence of others developing their own, SLD is emerging as a formidable disruptor.

    More than 300% potential upside

    Based on this guidance, Bell Potter has retained its speculative buy recommendation and $2.00 price target on this ASX small-cap. 

    From last week’s closing price of 48 cents, this indicates an upside potential of 316%. 

    SLD is gaining considerable commercial traction, and with >150 US sales reps now on board, there’s little reason to expect any slowdown in the quarters ahead.

    The post Meet the ASX small-cap healthcare company which could triple this year appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Saluda Medical right now?

    Before you buy Saluda Medical 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 Saluda Medical 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.

  • What is Bell Potter’s updated view on TechnologyOne shares?

    Woman at computer in office with a view

    TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE) shares closed last week with an impressive 3% gain. 

    TechnologyOne is one of the largest publicly listed software companies in Australia, with offices across six countries. It develops user-friendly enterprise software products that are deeply integrated into customers’ information technology, or IT, infrastructure.

    Like many software and technology companies, it experienced a heavy sell-off during the start of 2026 due to AI replacement fears. 

    It has since steadied over the last month, and brokers are now viewing TechnologyOne shares as a buy-low candidate. 

    Last week, the team at Bell Potter issued updated guidance on the company. 

    Here’s the latest from the broker. 

    All eyes on first half results 

    TechnologyOne will report its first-half FY26 results on Tuesday, 19 May. 

    Bell Potter expects profit before tax (PBT) growth to match the company’s earlier guidance of “high single-digit” growth.

    They forecast PBT to rise 9% to $89.4 million, slightly above market consensus of 8% growth to $88.4 million.

    The key area that could outperform expectations is annual recurring revenue (ARR). There is no official first-half ARR guidance, but Bell Potter and the broader market both expect ARR to grow 17% year-on-year to around $600 million.

    Bell Potter assumes TechnologyOne will add about $100 million in ARR during FY26, which would match the top end of management’s 16–18% growth guidance. They expect this increase to be weighted toward the second half, with roughly $45 million added in H1 and $55 million in H2.

    We believe, however, there is some chance of ARR growth exceeding $45m in H1 due to in part to the release of Plus – Technology One’s agentic AI product – and the impact this is having on product uptake by customers (e.g. James Cook University) which is driving up both NRR and ARR. 

    If ARR growth does exceed $45m in H1 then this would suggest growth for the full year above $100m – given the typical H2 skew – and so could potentially lead to an upgrade of the full year guidance of 16-18% growth.

    Buy rating retained for TechnologyOne shares

    Based on this guidance, Bell Potter has retained its buy recommendation on TechnologyOne shares. 

    The broker has also increased its target price to $32.25 (previously $31.75). 

    From last week’s closing price of $28.36, this indicates an upside potential of almost 14%. 

    We see the result next week as a potential catalyst given the possible positive surprise in ARR.

    The post What is Bell Potter’s updated view on TechnologyOne shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Technology One right now?

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

  • 1 ASX 200 share I’d buy while the market is distracted

    A woman standing on the street looks through binoculars.

    The ASX 200 has plenty going on right now.

    Inflation is back in focus, interest rates could rise further, oil prices have been volatile, and investors are trying to work out whether the artificial intelligence (AI) trade has gone too far.

    In that kind of market, some good businesses can be overlooked.

    One ASX 200 share I think deserves more attention is in this article.

    REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

    I think REA Group is one of the highest-quality digital businesses on the ASX.

    The company owns realestate.com.au, which is the dominant property listings platform in Australia. That gives it a very strong position in one of the country’s most important markets.

    Australians care deeply about property. Buyers browse even when they are not ready to buy. Sellers want maximum exposure. Real estate agents need leads, visibility, and data. Advertisers want access to a large, engaged audience.

    REA sits at the centre of that activity.

    That is why I think the business has such a powerful model. It does not need to own houses, take development risk, or lend money to buyers. It provides the marketplace and the digital tools around it.

    Why I like the long-term opportunity

    The property market can be cyclical.

    Higher interest rates, weak consumer confidence, and uncertainty around housing policy can all affect listings and transaction volumes.

    But I think REA’s long-term position remains very strong.

    If someone is selling a home, they usually want it listed where the buyers are. If buyers are searching, they usually go where the listings are. That loop is hard for competitors to break.

    Over time, REA can also do more than just show listings.

    It can help agents market properties more effectively, give consumers better insights, provide data tools, and capture more value from the enormous amount of attention that flows through its platform.

    This is the kind of business where scale can keep reinforcing itself.

    A premium worth considering

    This ASX 200 share is rarely cheap.

    That is the main challenge. Investors usually have to pay a premium for the company’s market position, margins, and growth record.

    REA shares currently trade at 29 times estimated FY27 earnings based on consensus estimates.

    But I do not think a premium valuation automatically makes a stock unattractive.

    Some businesses deserve to trade above the market because they have stronger competitive advantages and better long-term economics.

    REA fits that category for me.

    It is not immune to downturns, and the share price can fall if property conditions weaken or investors become less willing to pay for growth. But if I were thinking in terms of five to 10 years, I would be more focused on the strength of the platform than short-term listing volumes.

    Foolish takeaway

    Some ASX 200 shares need a perfect economic backdrop to look attractive.

    REA does not fall into that category for me.

    The property market will have good years and bad years, and the share price will move with sentiment. But the company’s position at the centre of Australia’s property search market is extremely valuable.

    If the market becomes more focused on inflation, interest rates, and short-term housing uncertainty, I think long-term investors may get opportunities to buy REA at better prices.

    That is when I would want to be paying attention.

    The post 1 ASX 200 share I’d buy while the market is distracted appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy REA 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 REA 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 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.

  • Three unique ASX ETFs to target the ASX 200 

    ETF spelt out with a piggybank.

    In Australia, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is the benchmark index. 

    It includes the 200 largest companies in Australia weighted by market capitalisation. 

    Many investors have a portion of their portfolio dedicated to an ASX ETF that tracks the performance of this index. 

    However, many investors might not be aware of concentration risk. 

    Concentration: the case against traditional funds 

    Some investors may be unaware that the ASX 200 index is weighted towards just a couple of holdings and sectors because it is market capitalisation based.

    A small number of very large companies – especially banks like Commonwealth Bank Of Australia (ASX: CBA) and miners like BHP Group (ASX: BHP) – make up a disproportionately large share of the index due to market-cap weighting. 

    This means the performance of the “Australian market” is often driven more by a handful of companies than by the broader Australian economy.

    A recent report from VanEck highlights this issue.

    Investors buying a diversified Australian equity strategy would think it is unlikely that two stocks would be 22% of the portfolio, nor would they think two sectors represent over 50% of the portfolio. This is a risk: Concentration risk.

    Nothing highlighted this more than the post-budget fall of CBA. Australia’s 2nd largest company fell by over 10% on Wednesday.

    So how do investors combat this? 

    There are several ASX ETFs that use unique strategies to provide a more balanced profile of the ASX 200. 

    Here are three options to consider. 

    VanEck Australian Equal Weight ETF (ASX: MVW)

    This ASX ETF includes only the largest and most liquid companies on ASX.

    It currently includes 76 equally weighted stocks, that are rebalanced on a quarterly basis.

    Due to the MVW Index’s equal weight construction methodology, at the last rebalance, no company was more than 1.3%. Therefore, MVW, which tracks this index has less stock concentration risk than the ASX 200.

    BetaShares Ftse Rafi Australia 200 ETF (ASX: QOZ)

    QOZ ETF is another option to target the ASX 200.

    It tracks the performance an index that comprises the top 200 companies listed on the ASX. However they are measured by fundamental size.

    QOZ is weighted in a way that is reflective of the economic importance rather than the market capitalisation of its constituents.

    Constituent weighting is based on accounting values and is known as “Fundamental indexing”.

    BetaShares Australian Ex-20 Portfolio Diversifier ETF (ASX: EX20)

    Many portfolios having a heavy bias towards the big banks and miners. However, EX20 helps diversify exposure away from those stocks and sectors.

    It aims to track the performance of an index comprising the 180 largest stocks listed on the ASX, after excluding the 20 largest, based on their market capitalisation.

    The post Three unique ASX ETFs to target the ASX 200  appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in VanEck Australian Equal Weight ETF right now?

    Before you buy VanEck Australian Equal Weight 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 VanEck Australian Equal Weight 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 Aaron Bell has positions in BetaShares Ftse Rafi Australia 200 ETF. 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.

  • Is now the time to buy ASX travel shares with brokers tipping up to 100% upside?

    Person pretends to types on laptop drawn in sand.

    For the most part, travel shares have been an ASX loser in 2026. 

    Investors have grown increasingly concerned that persistent inflation, elevated interest rates and the ongoing conflict involving Iran will weigh on global travel demand. 

    Rising oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East have also pushed up airline fuel costs and increased airfares, while higher borrowing costs and cost-of-living pressures have made consumers more cautious about discretionary spending such as holidays and business travel. 

    The conflict has also created broader uncertainty around global economic growth and disrupted some flight routes and travel patterns, prompting investors to reassess earnings expectations across the tourism and aviation sectors. 

    As a result, travel-related stocks have faced sustained selling pressure amid fears that demand could weaken further. 

    While the bear case is clear, these headwinds are likely to prove temporary if inflation moderates, interest rates begin to ease and geopolitical tensions stabilise over the medium term.

    This has created a value opportunity for ASX travel shares. 

    While these headwinds are likely to persist in the short term, here are three options to consider for a long-term recovery. 

    Qantas Airways (ASX: QAN)

    Qantas shares currently sit close to a 52-week low. 

    They are now down more than 18% year to date. 

    While rising fuel costs are a threat to the bottom line this year, the airline’s dominant market share that has made it a blue-chip stock remains unchanged. 

    As the Motley Fool’s Samantha Menzies laid out last week, Qantas’ market share, expanding offshore routes and AI adoption all are green flags for the company. 

    Brokers have placed an average price of $11.04 on Qantas shares. 

    From current levels, this indicates an upside of almost 30%. 

    Helloworld Travel (ASX: HLO)

    Helloworld Travel is another example of heavily sold off travel shares. 

    Year to date, its share price is down roughly 25%. 

    The company consists of a wide array of travel brands across three key pillars of its business: retail, wholesale, and inbound.

    Recent analysis from brokers indicates it also could be a long-term value play. 

    Recently, Shaw and Partners placed a buy rating on this ASX All Ords travel share with a 12-month target of $2.80.

    This implies 95% upside. 

    Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

    Web Travel Group could be another long-term focus amongst ASX travel shares. 

    Its share price has crashed almost 50% year to date. 

    However, it did report some solid 1H26 results recently:

    • TTV up 22% on the prior corresponding period (PCP)
    • Above guidance TTV margin
    • WebBeds EBITDA up 21% on PCP
    • Solid cash position with $481 million cash, $699 million available liquidity and a $200 million undrawn revolving credit facility. 

    12 analysts offering a one year forecast on these ASX travel shares have an average target of $5.21. This indicate more than 100% upside from the current share price of $2.44.

    The post Is now the time to buy ASX travel shares with brokers tipping up to 100% upside? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Qantas Airways right now?

    Before you buy Qantas Airways 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 Qantas Airways 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.

  • ASX 200 energy shares rise as global oil shock drags on

    An oil worker on a tablet with an oil rig in the background.

    ASX 200 energy shares outperformed last week, rising 2.66%, as the oil shock continued to plague the global economy.

    Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fell 1.3% to finish the week at 8,630.8 points.

    The market turned pessimistic after changes to investment taxes were announced in the Federal Budget on Tuesday.

    The changes contributed to the largest one-day fall in history for Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares on Wednesday.

    Five of the 11 market sectors finished the week in the red.

    Let’s review.

    What happened with ASX 200 energy shares last week?

    The Brent Crude oil price shot 5.5% higher to US$107 per barrel last week as negotiations to end the Iran war stalled.

    The Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s gas and oil supply is shipped, remained effectively shut down.

    On Friday, Trading Economics analysts said:

    The key shipping route remains under a dual blockade that has emerged as a central obstacle in negotiations, with President Donald Trump saying the current ceasefire was on “massive life support” after dismissing Tehran’s latest response to his peace proposal.

    Meanwhile, the IEA reported that crude and fuel flows through the Strait of Hormuz dropped by around 4 million barrels per day in March and April, warning that the global oil market could stay materially undersupplied through October even if the conflict is resolved next month.

    Meanwhile on the market, the Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price rose 3.99% to close at $31.25 on Friday.

    The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price lifted 4.79% to $7.88.

    The Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) share price rose 2.49% to $35.05.

    The Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) share price lifted 2.7% to $2.28.

    Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) shares ascended 6.63% to close the week at $2.09.

    Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) shares swung 2.31% higher to $1.11 apiece.

    ASX 200 market sector snapshot

    Here’s how the 11 market sectors stacked up last week, according to CommSec data.

    Over the five trading days:

    S&P/ASX 200 market sector Change last week
    Energy (ASX: XEJ) 2.66%
    Materials (ASX: XMJ) 1.75%
    A-REIT (ASX: XPJ) 1.49%
    Utilities (ASX: XUJ) 1.35%
    Consumer Discretionary (ASX: XDJ) 0.75%
    Industrials (ASX: XNJ) 0.07%
    Communication (ASX: XTJ) (0.18%)
    Information Technology (ASX: XIJ) (2.3%)
    Consumer Staples (ASX: XSJ) (2.54%)
    Financials (ASX: XFJ) (4.32%)
    Healthcare (ASX: XHJ) (8.06%)

    The post ASX 200 energy shares rise as global oil shock drags on appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for over ten years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    Scott just revealed what he believes could be the ‘five best ASX stocks’ for investors to buy right now. We believe these stocks are trading at attractive prices and Scott thinks they could be great buys right now…

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    Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has 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.

  • How to invest $15,000 for passive income in superannuation?

    Australian dollar notes around a piggy bank.

    It makes a lot of sense to invest for passive income in superannuation because of the lower tax rate compared to normal individual tax rates for full-time workers.

    There are a number of attractive ASX dividend shares that are driving their underlying values higher and delivering bigger payments to shareholders.

    The two businesses below are trading at good prices and offer great dividend yields. I’d be very happy to invest $15,000 across these two names today.

    Centuria Industrial REIT (ASX: CIP)

    This business is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that owns a portfolio of commercial properties – there’s no negative gearing involved in this real estate.

    Its industrial properties are spread across Australia’s cities, in areas where there is limited supply, significant demand and a very low vacancy rate. This combination is helping drive the underlying rental value of the properties, boosting their earnings power and the value of the real estate.

    In the FY26 third-quarter update, the business reported that its FY26 year-to-date re-leasing spreads were 36% – that’s a big jump of rental income on the new leases.

    The business is expecting to grow its FY26 annual distribution per year by 3% to 16.8 cents per unit, which translates into a distribution yield of 5.75%. I think it’s a solid starting yield for passive income in superannuation.

    Grant Nichols, the fund manager of the REIT, said:

    Looking ahead, we foresee the domestic infill industrial market’s supply-demand imbalance to persist with limited construction of new warehouses coupled with consistently high occupier demand as tenants look to strengthen their delivery times and reduce transport costs. Current macroeconomic uncertainty, resultant of the Middle East conflicts and global oil constraints, is impacting inflation and construction price pressures. These factors are expected to curtail future industrial market supply. The value of high-quality, existing infill industrial assets is expected to increase as the disconnect to replacement cost continues to escalate.

    This bodes well for long-term returns, in my view.

    Future Generation Global Ltd (ASX: FGG)

    The other ASX share I want to highlight is Future Generation Global, a listed investment company (LIC) that invests in global shares.

    But, unlike many other LICs, this one doesn’t charge any management fees or performance fees. Instead, it donates 1% of its net assets to youth mental health charities.

    Additionally, it’s not one fund manager that controls the portfolio. Instead, there are 16 different funds in the portfolio – there are more than 3,700 underlying shares, enabling Future Generation Global to give investors significant diversification.

    On the dividend side of things, the business has increased its annual dividend per share each year since FY19. So, it has already given investors several years of regular dividend increases and I’m expecting more to come.

    At the end of April 2026, it had a profit reserve of 71.5 cents per share and (excluding the special dividend) a grossed-up dividend yield of 7%, including franking credits.

    I think it’s a great option for passive income in superannuation with that large and growing dividend, plus the diversification.

    The post How to invest $15,000 for passive income in superannuation? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Centuria Industrial REIT right now?

    Before you buy Centuria Industrial REIT shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has positions in Future Generation Global. 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.