Author: openjargon

  • Service Stream Limited wins two $144m Transport for Victoria contracts

    Cheerful smiling businesswoman sitting on a chair and typing business report on a laptop keyboard.

    Yesterday, Service Stream Ltd (ASX: SSM) announced it has secured two contracts with Transport for Victoria worth $144 million over their initial five-year terms.

    What did Service Stream report?

    • Secured two Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) maintenance contracts with Transport for Victoria
    • Total contract value is $144 million over initial terms
    • Each contract has a five-year initial term, with two possible two-year extensions
    • Contracts cover maintenance, program management, and network operations support

    What else do investors need to know?

    The new contracts—the Victoria West ITS Maintenance Contract and the Motorway Communications Network Contract—expand Service Stream’s work in the Victorian transport sector. Work under both contracts is expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026.

    The agreements further strengthen Service Stream’s annuity-style revenue base, boosting the company’s maintenance portfolio and providing improved visibility on future cash flows. This builds on Service Stream’s long-term customer relationships and capabilities in critical network management.

    What did Service Stream management say?

    Managing Director Leigh Mackender said:

    The award of these two long-term maintenance agreements reinforces Service Stream’s position as a leading provider of transport technology and network maintenance services. The award further strengthens the Group’s maintenance portfolio and bolsters annuity-style work-in-hand revenues.

    What’s next for Service Stream?

    Service Stream expects work on these new contracts to commence in late 2026. The company will focus on seamless delivery and operational excellence while seeking additional growth opportunities in transport and network services.

    Investors may watch for further contract wins or updates on integration and performance, as Service Stream aims to solidify its role in supporting Victoria’s critical infrastructure.

    Service Stream share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, Service Stream shares have risen 22%, outperforming the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which is flat over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Service Stream Limited wins two $144m Transport for Victoria contracts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Service Stream right now?

    Before you buy Service Stream 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 Service Stream 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 1 August 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • How much is needed in superannuation for $1500 in weekly passive income?

    Australian dollar notes in a nest, symbolising a nest egg.

    When it comes to superannuation, it pays to have a target in mind when you’re putting money away for the future.

    As the old adage says, failing to plan is planning to fail.

    The good news is that even if you start relatively late, there are strategies you can use to boost your super to a level where it will afford you a comfortable retirement.

    How much superannuation do you need for $1500 per week in passive income?

    Today we’re looking at the scenario where you are aiming to generate $1500 per week in passive income from your superannuation.

    So to start with, is this considered a comfortable retirement? The short answer is yes.

    The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia has calculated how much is needed for singles and couples to have a comfortable retirement, and the figures come out at $55,923 for singles and $78,566 per year for couples.

    These figures assume you own your own home and will draw a part pension, but they are well under the $1500 per week, or $78,000 per year level we are looking at.

    So, how much superannuation would you need to generate this amount?

    Let’s assume you can generate a 10% return on your investments. In this case, you’d need a $780,000 superannuation balance.

    If you were generating just 5% you would need a balance of $1.56 million.

    I’d argue that somewhere in the middle is achievable over time. So if you were generating a 7.5% return, you’d need a balance of $1.04 million.

    What shares might help you achieve your passive income goal?

    In terms of the shares you might want to have in your portfolio, you could look at listed investment trusts such as Charter Hall Retail REIT (ASX: CQR), which brokers expect to pay a return of better than 6% through to 2030, or Dexus Industria REIT (ASX: DXI), which is currently paying a healthy 6.97% yield.

    Alternatively, financial services company Regal Partners Ltd (ASX: RPL) is paying a fully franked 7.42%.

    Among the Wilson Asset Management funds, WAM Strategic Value Ltd (ASX: WAR) is paying a yield of 5.65%, while WAM Active Ltd (ASX: WAA), recently increased its dividend and is paying out 6.94%.

    Among the banks, Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) is paying 4.35% fully franked, while Bank of Queensland Ltd (ASX: BOQ) is paying 6.19% also fully franked.

    Among Australian blue-chip stocks, Telstra Ltd (ASX: TLS) is paying 4.39%, and miner BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) is paying 3.19%.

    How to increase your superannuation balance

    If you’re keen to increase your superannuation balance, investigate the viability of making extra concessional contributions up to the $32,500 cap, with these contributions taxed at just 15%.

    The $32,500 cap includes any contributions from your employer and amounts contributed through salary sacrifice.

    If your superannuation balance was under $500,000 in the last financial year, you can also carry forward up to five years’ worth of unused concessional contribution amounts. You can find out how much you can contribute under this rule by logging in to your myGov account.

    Non-concessional contributions of up to a further $130,000 can be made each year also.

    The post How much is needed in superannuation for $1500 in weekly passive income? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Westpac Banking Corporation right now?

    Before you buy Westpac Banking 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 Westpac Banking 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 1 August 2026

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    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 Charter Hall Retail REIT and Telstra Group. 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.

  • Vault Minerals share price in focus after record FY26 earnings

    Two smiling work colleagues discuss an investment at their office.

    The Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) share price will be in focus on Friday after the company delivered a record 54% jump in underlying EBITDA to $953.3 million, with gold production reaching 336,540 ounces for FY26.

    What did Vault Minerals report?

    • Group gold production: 336,540 ounces; gold sales: 334,904 ounces
    • Revenue from metal sales: $1,880.2 million (up 31% on prior year)
    • Underlying EBITDA: $953.3 million (up 54%)
    • Statutory net profit after tax: $278.4 million
    • Free cash flow: $487.8 million
    • Maiden interim dividend: 7 cents per share declared in February 2026 and paid in April 2026

    What else do investors need to know?

    Vault Minerals ended FY26 with cash and bullion of $841.6 million and no debt, an increase of $155.7 million over the year. The company internally funded the early settlement of all remaining gold hedges, removing fixed price exposure and giving full upside to the prevailing gold price going forward.

    Investment in strategic growth continued, including the King of the Hills (KoTH) processing plant upgrade, which remains on budget and ahead of schedule. Vault also returned $126.8 million to shareholders via share buybacks and the maiden interim dividend. No final dividend was declared due to the proposed merger with Genesis Minerals, with eligible shareholders to receive a cash component as part of the merger consideration.

    What’s next for Vault Minerals?

    Vault has provided standalone FY27 guidance for gold production of 355,000 to 375,000 ounces at an AISC of A$3,150 to A$3,350 per ounce, with further growth targeted for FY28. The KoTH processing plant upgrade is expected to support a 50% increase in throughput and a 34% uplift in Leonora gold production by September 2026.

    Meanwhile, the proposed merger with Genesis Minerals remains on track for completion in November 2026, aimed at creating a leading Australian gold company poised to benefit from operational synergies and scale.

    Vault Minerals share price snapshot

    The Vault Minerals share price has been among the best performers on the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the past 12 months with a gain of around 140%.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Vault Minerals share price in focus after record FY26 earnings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Vault Minerals right now?

    Before you buy Vault Minerals 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 Vault Minerals 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 1 August 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

    Girl with painted hands.

    It was a happy Thursday session for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and many ASX shares this Thursday. A welcome development for investors, no doubt, after six straight days of selling.

    After opening in the green this morning, the ASX 200 spent the entire day in positive territory. Despite some bumpiness, the index ended up closing 0.33% higher at 9,083.8 points.

    This happy session for ASX shares followed a similarly optimistic night over on Wall Street.

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in a good mood, managing to rise 0.22%.

    The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared similarly, gaining 0.16%.

    But let’s get back to today and our local markets for a closer look at what was going on amongst the various ASX sectors this session.

    Winners and losers

    Despite today’s good mood across the broader market, there were still a few sectors that went backwards.

    Leading those losers were financial stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) was hit hard today, tanking by 1.93%.

    Consumer staples shares were left out in the cold as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) sinking 1.17%.

    Industrial stocks were also unlucky. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) slumped 1.05% this session.

    Communications shares didn’t find many buyers either, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)’s 0.71% dive.

    Next came consumer discretionary stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) copped a 0.27% slide this Thursday.

    Our last losers this session were utilities shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) getting a 0.05% reduction.

    Let’s get to the winners now, though. Leading the green sectors today were gold stocks. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) had an absolute blowout, rocketing up a huge 8.39%.

    Broader mining shares were also on fire, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ)’s 3.52% surge.

    Tech stocks had a day to remember, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) had roared 2.54% higher by the closing bell.

    Healthcare shares lived up to their name as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) lifting 1.39%.

    Energy stocks enjoyed another positive session. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) put on another 0.45%.

    Finally, real estate investment trusts (REITs) got over the line, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)’s 0.13% jump.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    It’s very rare that we see ten ASX 200 shares all gain more than 10% in one day, but here we are. Today’s winner did much better than 10%, though. Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) shares exploded 18.22% higher this session to finish at $3.05 each.

    This followed the financial stock’s latest earnings, which clearly made an impression.

    Here’s how the other top stocks tied up at the dock:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) $3.05 18.22%
    Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL) $14.45 15.05%
    Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX: OBM) $1.59 14.03%
    Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA) $48.88 12.42%
    Alkane Resources Ltd (ASX: ALK) $1.77 10.97%
    Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) $8.23 10.92%
    Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA) $6.66 10.82%
    Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) $8.01 10.33%
    Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) $17.59 10.28%
    Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) $15.07 10.16%

    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 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 1 August 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 positions in and has recommended Super Retail Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Super Retail 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: SRG Global, Cochlear, NAB shares

    A woman studying share market stats on a computer while writing a report.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are 0.2% higher at 9,073.3 points on Thursday.

    As earnings season continues, Morgans has updated its ratings and 12-month price targets following company reports.

    Let’s take a look at the broker’s assessment of these ASX shares post-results.

    SRG Global Ltd (ASX: SRG)

    The SRG Global share price is $3.99, down 2.8% today and up 115% over 12 months. 

    Over the past month, this ASX 200 industrial share has risen 13%.

    Morgans kept a buy rating on this ASX 200 industrial share after reviewing the company’s FY26 report.

    SRG delivered a strong FY26 with EPSA growth of +30%, largely consistent with its 5-year EPSA CAGR of +32%.

    FY27 guidance was upgraded, and the momentum looks set to continue.

    Organic growth is strong (2H EBITA +19%) and the order book has risen sharply (+20% in 6 months), providing robust visibility into FY27 and beyond.

    Although SRG has re-rated, earnings momentum via organic and inorganic growth could see the company continue to compound +30% EPS growth over the next 3 years.

    The broker raised its share price target from $4.20 to $4.70.

    This implies a potential 15% upside from here.

    Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH)

    The Cochlear share price is $137.26, down 0.1% today and down 55% over 12 months. 

    Over the past month, this ASX 200 healthcare share has increased 15%.

    Morgans retained a hold rating on this healthcare heavyweight share after its FY26 report.

    FY26 result was mixed, with underlying NPAT of A$322m, 6% above our forecast, despite revenue of A$2,348m being broadly in line.

    The result benefited from a stronger 2H, particularly Services and cochlear implant (CI) volumes, although margins remained under pressure.

    Notably, Nexa adoption has been solid, capturing >95% of developed-market (DM) implants, but has yet to translate into an acceleration in underlying market growth.

    FY27 NPAT guidance of A$330-350m implies only modest growth and not yet a material earnings inflection.

    Morgans has a share price target of $138.42, which implies just 1% growth ahead.

    National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB)

    The NAB share price is $38.33, down 1.5% today and down 9% over 12 months. 

    Over the past month, this ASX 200 bank share has fallen 3%.

    Morgans maintained a trim rating on the ASX 200 bank share after NAB’s 3Q FY26 update.

    The broker said:

    3Q26 cash profit growth trailed 2H26 consensus expectations, driven by slower revenue growth (particularly the relatively higher quality net interest income).

    No change to FY26F EPS, but FY27/28F moderated on lower net interest income growth outlook.

    DCF valuation declines -3% to $35.19/sh.

    TRIM retained. Potential TSR c.-5% at current prices (including c.4.4% yield).

    Morgans has a 12-month target of $35.19 on NAB shares.

    This implies a potential 8% downside ahead.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: SRG Global, Cochlear, NAB shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy National Australia Bank 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 National Australia Bank 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 1 August 2026

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

  • Buy, hold, sell: Car Group, Baby Bunting, Hub24 shares

    A young woman holds her hand to her ear and leans sideways as if to listen to something that's surprising her as her eyes and her mouth are wide open.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are 0.2% higher at 9,075.1 points on Thursday.

    As earnings season continues, three experts give us their views on three ASX shares.

    Let’s check them out. 

    Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB)

    The Hub24 share price is $76.47, down 4.1% today and down 27% over 12 months. 

    Morgans has an accumulate rating on this ASX 200 financial share after reviewing the company’s FY26 report.

    The broker said: 

    HUB’s FY26 Group result was largely in line with expectations with underlying EBITDA of A$211.4m, up 30% on pcp, consistent with MorgansF/Consensus A$212m, and underlying NPAT of A$137.3m slightly ahead of MorgansF A$131.9m.

    Platform EBITDA however fell short of expectations due to slower revenue momentum in 2H26, which was outpaced by 2H26 Platform Opex growth.

    HUB’s FY28 FUA target of A$186-200bn points to FY28 net flows of ~A$18-19bn, however momentum through to Aug’26 appears to be running behind this due to elevated discretionary gross outflows.

    Whilst the timing of this roll-off remains uncertain, we see this as a near-term headwind and likely to abate, although it does suggest FY27 flows will track lower than FY26 (particularly vs. 1H26).

    Car Group Ltd (ASX: CAR)

    The Car share price is $28.40, down 2.1% today and down 31% over 12 months. 

    On The Bull this week, Tom Fairchild from Lazarus Capital Partners gives Car shares a hold rating.

    After reviewing Car Group’s FY26 report, Fairchild said: 

    This global digital car market business enjoys first mover advantage.

    Investors reacted positively to the company’s full year results. Reported revenue of $A1.253 billion was up 6 per cent on the prior corresponding period. Reported net profit after tax of $A314 million was up 14 per cent.

    The company expects to generate high single digit revenue growth in Australia in fiscal year 2027 and double digit revenue growth in constant currency in North America and Latin America.

    The company is resilient through economic cycles and offers excellent brand value.

    Baby Bunting Group Ltd (ASX: BBN)

    The Baby Bunting share price is $1.30, up 3.4% today and down 47% over 12 months. 

    Andrew Wielandt from DP Wealth Advisory has a sell rating on this ASX consumer discretionary share. 

    Wielandt said: 

    In June 2026, the specialty baby retailer downgraded full year guidance, citing softer trading in the fourth quarter of 2026.

    Three interest rate rises in the second half of 2026 and higher fuel prices weighed on consumer spending and lifted distribution costs.

    Also, the company is up against fierce competition.

    Given industry and retail trends, I expect BBN to face challenging times moving forward, at least in the short term.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Car Group, Baby Bunting, Hub24 shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Hub24 right now?

    Before you buy Hub24 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 Hub24 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 1 August 2026

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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 positions in and has recommended Hub24. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CAR Group Ltd and Hub24. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • IDP shares crash 24% to historic low on Thursday: What happened?

    A man with his back to the camera holds his hands to his head as he looks to a jagged red line trending sharply downward.

    IDP Education Ltd (ASX: IEL) shares have crashed 24% to an all-time low of $1.64 in Thursday afternoon trade.

    At one point earlier this morning, the shares dropped as low as $1.55 a piece.

    The global education company’s shares are now down 71% for the year-to-date and 65% lower than 12 months ago.

    What happened today?

    It looks like the catalyst for today’s sell-off is IDP’s FY26 results update, which the company posted to the ASX ahead of the market open this morning.

    The company posted a steep decline in NPAT, down 74% from last year. It also announced a 11% decline in revenue and an 18% decline in adjusted NPAT.

    IDP said its earnings decline was caused by weaker international student demand. This is mostly a result of ongoing policy changes and tighter migration settings in key markets. 

    Student Placement volumes tumbled by 27% and IELTS English Language Testing volumes dropped by 8%. 

    But it’s not all bad news. Despite the headwinds, IDP still delivered a $32 million underlying reduction in overhead costs, exceeding its transformation target. It also continued to generate strong cash flow, bringing net debt down by 29% to $118.6 million.

    IDP also launched a share buy-back program of up to $50 million, suggesting confidence in its transformation strategy. 

    But looking ahead to FY27, the company said it expects challenging market conditions to persist, with tighter migration and student visa policies continuing to weigh on volumes.

    The company’s shares also crashed in late 2025. And its dismal performance led to the stock being removed from the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) amid a reshuffle in September last year. IDP Education is now among the worst-performing shares in the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) over the past 12 months. 

    Investors are clearly disappointed with the update, and many have decided to sell up their shares ahead of a further downturn.

    So, what can we expect next from IDP shares?

    Is it time to buy in the dip? Or is more downside coming?

    Some analysts said they think visa caps and declines in student volume may have bottomed out, particularly in key markets like Canada and Australia. 

    This suggests student placement volume could start rebounding, and it could lift revenue and the company’s share price.

    But there isn’t much evidence of this translating to higher revenue just yet. I think we could see some adjustments to analysts and broker forecasts in the coming days as they digest the latest update.

    But at the time of writing, Market Index data shows the majority of brokers have a buy rating on the ASX education shares. The $4 average target price is unchanged, which implies the shares have the potential to jump 140% higher, at the time of writing.

    The post IDP shares crash 24% to historic low on Thursday: What happened? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Idp Education right now?

    Before you buy Idp Education 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 Idp Education 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 1 August 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.

  • Buy, hold, sell: Premier Investments, Hansen Technologies, Santos shares

    Man working on his tablet with hologram of a world map and financial-related charts.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are just inside the green at 9,062 points as earnings season continues today.

    Among the 11 market sectors, information technology is in the lead, up 3.4%, followed by materials and miners, up 3.1%.

    The financials sector is the laggard, down 2.2%, amid the market’s disappointment with Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL), down 9%.

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

    Let’s review. 

    Premier Investments Ltd (ASX: PMV)

    The Premier Investments share price is $11.67, up 1.3% today and down 48% over 12 months. 

    Bell Potter has a buy rating on this ASX 200 consumer discretionary share following a trading update.

    Analyst Chami Ratnapala said: 

    While we expect a period of slow growth for PMV near to medium term, we view PMV’s forward multiple as attractive considering the
    Premier Retail division together with PMV’s equity investments, land bank and cash position while retaining a strong balance sheet supportive of M&A.

    Santos Ltd (ASX: STO)

    The Santos share price is $8.42, up 1.3% today and up 11% over 12 months. 

    Morgans maintained a hold rating on Santos shares after the oil and gas company’s 1H FY26 report.

    The broker said: 

    A healthy 1H26 result from STO, beating estimates with management confident following the start-up of Barossa and Pikka.

    The interim dividend will be funded out of debt, but is entirely reasonable given the 25:75 skew we expect in CY26 earnings as operations ramp up and lagged oil increases flow through.

    It is impossible to quantify the risks posed by the Federal Government’s gas reservation policy ahead of its release, but we hope it offers support for new gas supply growth that will be needed by the energy market in the coming years.

    Hansen Technologies Ltd (ASX: HSN)

    The Hansen Technologies share price is $3.18, down 5.1% today and down 43% over 12 months. 

    Andrew Wielandt from DP Wealth Advisory put a sell rating on this S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) tech share ahead of its FY26 report this week.

    On The Bull, this week, Wielandt said: 

    HSN has been subjected to a broader technology sell-off in response to investor fears that software-as-a-service firms may be impacted by large language model businesses, such as OpenAI, Anthropic and Alphabet.

    HSN shares have fallen from $6.14 on August 13, 2025 to trade at $4.30 on August 13, 2026.

    HSN is a quality company, but we prefer to sit on the sidelines at this point given a volatile technology sector.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Premier Investments, Hansen Technologies, Santos shares 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 1 August 2026

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

  • Westpac shares tumble to 52-week low on Thursday: Can they rebound?

    A woman with her hands over her face splits her fingers over one eye so she can peep through it.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is trending higher on Thursday as a run of bumper FY26 results draws investors back into the market. But Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) shares are travelling in the other direction.

    At the time of writing on Thursday afternoon, Westpac shares are down around 2% to $33.86 a piece. It’s not a significant daily decline, but it comes off the back of a string of share price falls following the bank’s quarterly update earlier this month.

    On Monday last week, Westpac shares fell around 6% after it announced third-quarter net profit of $1.8 billion, excluding notable items. Its net interest margin was stable at 1.89%.

    The banking giant also reported moderate loan and deposit growth, but noted that mortgage application volumes declined thanks to stronger competition and interest rate uncertainty.

    Westpac also said it expects margins to come under more pressure in the near term.

    Westpac is the most mortgage-exposed of the big four bank shares, with approximately 69% of its loan book in residential mortgages. So, the news has raised concerns about the bank’s financial future.

    Investors were spooked by the update, quickly selling off their shares in the bank. And the sell-off has continued through to the time of writing.

    Westpac shares are now down around 11% since it posted its quarterly update, and down 13% since early August. The latest sell-off in Westpac shares has also left the stock down around 13% for the year to date and 12% lower than this time last year.

    Now investors are questioning whether the ASX bank shares can rebound or whether another share price crash is coming.

    Here’s what the experts think.

    Analyst outlook for Westpac shares over the next 12 months

    Analyst sentiment is pretty bearish on Westpac shares, and it looks like, after the latest share price tumble, the shares are now considered to be trading around fair value.

    Market Index data shows the majority of brokers have sell ratings on the shares. The $33.91 average target price now implies a potential 0.5% downside over the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

    Sentiment is similar on TradingView data. Despite the 11% drop in the share price over the past 10 days, brokers still forecast further downside.

    Out of 16 analysts, nine have a sell/strong sell rating on Westpac shares, and another six have a hold rating. The average $33.38 target price implies a potential 1% downside at the time of writing. Although there is a huge range between the maximum and minimum target prices. 

    Some tip the shares to fall another 16% to $28.41, while the more bearish of the bunch still think Westpac shares could climb another 33% to $45 a piece over the next 12 months.

    The post Westpac shares tumble to 52-week low on Thursday: Can they rebound? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Westpac Banking Corporation right now?

    Before you buy Westpac Banking 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 Westpac Banking 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 1 August 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.

  • 7 ASX 200 shares with reaffirmed buy ratings this week

    Happy female accountant looking at her tablet.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are 0.25% higher at 9,075.3 points on Thursday.

    As earnings season continues, brokers have signalled continuing confidence in several ASX 200 shares this week.

    Let’s take a look.

    Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

    The Zip share price is $2.85, up 10.5% today and down 6% over 12 months.

    Citi reiterated its buy rating on Zip shares after the buy now, pay later company’s FY26 report.

    The broker has a price target of $3.55.

    This implies potential capital gains of 25% ahead for the ASX 200 financial share.

    BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

    The BHP share price is $65.26, up 2.4% today and up 56% over 12 months. 

    Morgan Stanley renewed its buy rating on BHP shares after the miner’s FY26 report.

    The broker increased its 12-month price target from $67 to $67.50.

    This suggests a potential 3% upside ahead.

    Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB)

    The Hub24 share price is $76.22, down 4.4% today and down 27% over 12 months.

    Morgan Stanley renewed its buy rating on Hub24 shares after the company’s FY26 report.

    The broker has a $121 target, which suggests a potential 58% upside ahead.

    Santos Ltd (ASX: STO)

    The Santos share price is $8.45, up 1.7% today and up 12% over 12 months.

    Citi reaffirmed its buy rating on the ASX 200 energy share yesterday.

    This followed Santos’ 1H FY26 report.

    The broker raised its 12-month target from $8.30 to $9.

    This suggests a potential 6% upside ahead.

    Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)

    The Coles share price is $23.07, down 0.9% today and up 8% over 12 months.

    Citi renewed its buy rating on Coles shares this week.

    The broker has a $23 target on the ASX 200 consumer staples share.

    This implies the stock is already fully valued.

    Coles will report its FY26 earnings next Tuesday 25 August.

    Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX)

    The Telix Pharmaceuticals share price is $17.54, up 4% today and up 4% over 12 months.

    Bell Potter reiterated its buy call on the ASX 200 healthcare share after reviewing the company’s 1H FY26 report.

    The broker has a price target of $19, which implies a potential 8% upside ahead.

    Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG)

    The IAG share price is $7.86, down 3.6% today and down 14% over 12 months. 

    Jefferies renewed its buy rating on IAG shares after reviewing the insurer’s FY26 report.

    The broker shaved its 12-month price target from $9.45 to $9.25.

    This suggests a potential 17% upside ahead.

    The post 7 ASX 200 shares with reaffirmed buy ratings this week 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 1 August 2026

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    Citigroup is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has positions in Zip Co. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Hub24, Jefferies Financial Group, and Telix Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group, Hub24, and Telix Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.