Author: openjargon

  • Is this ASX materials stock a buy after soaring 10% yesterday?

    Copal miner standing in front of coal.

    ASX materials stock Coronado Global Resources Inc (ASX: CRN) is in focus today after its share price jumped 10.5% higher on Tuesday. 

    It has been a clear earnings season winner as investors reacted positively to its FY25 full-year result.

    This marked a turnaround for the ASX materials stock. Even with yesterday’s big gain, its share price is down more than 44% over the last year. 

    What did the company report?

    Coronado Resources is a leading international producer of high-quality metallurgical coal, an essential element in the production of steel.

    The company operates in two of the largest and most productive metallurgical coal basins in the world, the Bowen Basin in Queensland, Australia and the central Appalachian region of the US. 

    Yesterday, it released full financial year results for 2025. 

    This included: 

    • Revenue of US$1.95 billion, down from US$2.51 billion in 2024
    • Adjusted EBITDA loss of US$144.2 million. After a positive US$115.1 million in FY24
    • Total sales volume of 15.6 million tonnes, compared with 15.8 million tonnes in 2024.

    As The Motley Fool’s Aaron Teboneras reported yesterday, it was a somewhat surprising the positive reaction after a tough year for the coal miner. 

    What is Bell Potter’s view?

    Following yesterday’s result, the team at Bell Potter released updated guidance on this ASX materials stock. 

    Commenting on yesterday’s result, the broker said the reported underlying EBITDA loss was slightly better than Bell Potter’s estimate. 

    However, the statutory net loss after tax was US$432 million, worse than expected due to higher finance costs. As expected, no dividend was declared.

    The broker also noted that although Coronado Resources is focused on reducing debt. It has flagged a potential ~2Mtpa Mammoth Phase 2 underground project, with an estimated capital cost of around US$150 million.

    This project depends on market conditions and Board approval. 

    CRN’s capital allocation framework outlines growth investment only when its available cash liquidity is above US$400m. Under our operating and coal price outlook, CRN will not materially deleverage over the forecast period.

    Price target decreases

    Based on this guidance, earnings per share forecasts have been reduced by 6% for CY26, 21% for CY27, and CY28 is now expected to record a small loss (previously a profit was forecast).

    Bell Potter has maintained its speculative hold recommendation on this ASX materials stock. 

    It lowered its price target to $0.38 (previously $0.43). 

    From yesterday’s closing price of $0.32, this revised target indicates a potential upside of approximately 20% for this ASX materials stock.

    We maintain our Speculative Hold recommendation, recognising balance sheet risks. In the near-term, operational performance should lift with the ramp-up of Mammoth underground and the Buchanan expansion projects, supporting production volumes and lower unit costs.

    The post Is this ASX materials stock a buy after soaring 10% yesterday? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Coronado Global Resources Inc. right now?

    Before you buy Coronado Global Resources Inc. 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 Coronado Global Resources Inc. 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.

  • Where to invest $10,000 in ASX 200 shares in March

    A female ASX investor looks through a magnifying glass that enlarges her eye and holds her hand to her face with her mouth open as if looking at something of great interest or surprise.

    If you have $10,000 ready to invest as we head into March, focusing on quality ASX 200 shares with clear long-term drivers could be a smart way to start the new month.

    I would be looking at businesses with strong growth potential and the ability to compound earnings over time.

    Here are three ASX 200 shares I would consider.

    Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

    The first ASX 200 share to consider is Goodman Group.

    Goodman is a global industrial property specialist with growing exposure to data centres. As ecommerce, logistics, and cloud computing continue to expand, demand for high-quality industrial space and powered data centre sites remains strong.

    One of the most compelling parts of the Goodman story is its development pipeline. The group has a substantial work in progress portfolio and continues to partner with major institutional investors to fund new projects. That capital-light partnership model allows it to scale without overextending its balance sheet.

    Industrial real estate may not be glamorous, but the structural tailwinds behind logistics and digital infrastructure could continue well into the next decade.

    ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD)

    Another ASX 200 share worth considering is ResMed.

    ResMed is a global leader in sleep and respiratory care. Ageing populations, rising obesity rates, and increased awareness of sleep health are long-term demand drivers that are unlikely to fade anytime soon.

    The company has also been investing heavily in digital health platforms, connecting devices to cloud-based software to improve patient monitoring and outcomes. This creates recurring revenue opportunities and strengthens customer relationships.

    And with a total addressable market estimated to be over 1 billion people, Resumes has a very long growth runway.

    REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

    A final ASX 200 share to consider is REA Group.

    REA operates Australia’s dominant online property listings platform, realestate.com.au. Its competitive position gives it strong pricing power and high margins. Agents and buyers gravitate toward the platform with the most listings and the largest audience, reinforcing its network effect.

    In addition, REA continues to expand its data products and premium listing services, which supports revenue growth even in softer markets.

    Over time, businesses with entrenched market leadership and scalable platforms can generate impressive compounding returns. I think REA is one of them.

    The post Where to invest $10,000 in ASX 200 shares in March appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

  • The smartest ASX growth stock to buy with $2,000 right now

    Woman in celebratory fist move looking at phone

    If I had $2,000 to put into one ASX growth stock today, I would be seriously looking at WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) shares.

    As well as being a world-class company, I think its share price is now far more attractive relative to its long-term growth potential.

    A global software leader with a huge runway

    WiseTech is the company behind CargoWise, a logistics execution platform used by freight forwarders and global supply chain operators.

    What I like about WiseTech is that it isn’t a niche domestic software provider. It’s embedded in global trade flows. Its platform handles customs, compliance, forwarding, warehousing, and increasingly adjacent services. Once a customer is onboarded, switching is disruptive and costly. That creates stickiness and pricing power.

    Global trade isn’t going away. If anything, it is becoming more complex. Compliance requirements, digital documentation, and cross-border visibility all play into WiseTech’s strengths. Over time, I think that complexity favours established platforms rather than new entrants.

    The numbers suggest serious growth ahead

    According to CommSec, consensus earnings per share estimates are:

    • 66.3 cents in FY26
    • 92.5 cents in FY27
    • $1.19 in FY28

    With the share price at $42.99, that puts WiseTech on roughly 36 times estimated FY28 earnings.

    For a mature industrial company, that would be expensive. For a global software platform that has historically grown earnings strongly and still has significant expansion opportunities, I actually think that looks reasonable.

    If the company can execute on product expansion, cross-sell into its existing customer base, and integrate recent acquisitions like e2open effectively, those FY27 and FY28 numbers could prove to be achievable.

    I believe the market is still pricing in a lot of doubt.

    Why the pullback could be an opportunity

    WiseTech’s share price has fallen sharply over the past 12 months. The decline hasn’t just been about broader tech weakness. It has also reflected company-specific issues, including slowing growth in parts of the core business, management and board upheaval, and insider trading allegations against founder Richard White.

    Those are not trivial matters. But they are also not structural breaks in the business model.

    Bell Potter recently noted that these issues are starting to subside and that focus is returning to the core business outlook, which it believes is improving with new product launches, a revised commercial model, and the integration of e2open. The broker expects a much stronger second half in FY26 compared to the first, with fuller benefits evident in FY27. It has a buy rating and a $87.50 price target on the shares.

    I don’t base my view solely on broker targets, but it does highlight how much upside analysts see if execution stabilises.

    Why I’d consider allocating $2,000

    If I were allocating $2,000 today, I would be thinking in three-to-five-year timeframes, not three months.

    At around 36 times projected FY28 earnings, I think the risk-reward is becoming more compelling than it has been in years. If WiseTech delivers on those earnings expectations and continues to scale globally, the current share price could look cheap in hindsight.

    There are risks. Guidance could be trimmed. AI could be disruptive. Growth could slow. Integration could disappoint. But for a long-term growth investor, I believe the balance of probabilities is shifting.

    For me, WiseTech stands out as one of the smartest ASX growth stocks to consider with $2,000 right now.

    The post The smartest ASX growth stock to buy with $2,000 right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy WiseTech Global shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global. 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.

  • Should you buy South32 and Fortescue shares amid strong commodity prices?

    Miner and company person analysing results of a mining company.

    South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) and Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) shares have both been enjoying tailwinds over the past months from strong global commodity prices.

    Although iron ore prices dipped back below US$100 per tonne last week, currently at around US$96 per tonne, the industrial metal has held up far better than most analysts have been predicting.

    And metals including copper and aluminium have also been trading at lofty levels.

    Atop the two fully franked dividends both S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) mining stocks paid over the past 12 months, this has also helped them deliver solid share price performance.

    As at Tuesday’s close, Fortescue shares have gained 9.7% in a year. And the South32 share price has surged 22.8% over this time.

    Which brings us back to our headline question…

    Should you buy South32 and Fortescue shares today?

    Shaw and Partners’ Jed Richards recently analysed the outlook for South32 and Fortescue shares (courtesy of The Bull).

    Commenting on South32 shares, Richards said, “The miner is benefiting from strength across several of its key commodity markets, particularly aluminium, alumina, manganese and nickel.

    He added:

    Increasing global investment in energy transition infrastructure continues to support demand for these metals, while tighter supplies in aluminium and manganese assists in keeping prices elevated. Nickel markets remain volatile, but long-term demand linked to battery production provides an underlying support theme.

    But with potential future volatility in mind, Richards issued a hold recommendation on South32 shares. He concluded:

    Despite these positive conditions, commodity markets can shift quickly, and the next phase of the cycle will depend heavily on global industrial activity and continuing momentum in electrification. For now, the outlook remains encouraging, but given the inherent volatility across these commodities, I believe it’s prudent to hold existing positions rather than add further exposure until we see increasing clarity in pricing trends and broader macroeconomic conditions.

    Turning to Fortescue shares, Richards noted, “The miner continues to benefit from iron ore prices, which are holding up better than many expected.”

    He said, “The company’s low-cost position and large-scale operations support strong profitability. But similar to my commentary on S32, the commodities and iron ore markets are cyclical.”

    However, Richards also issued a hold recommendation for Fortescue shares. He concluded:

    Movements in iron ore prices are influenced by global demand and particularly China’s steel production. For that reason, I’m comfortable maintaining current exposure without leaning in further just yet.

    The buy case for South32 shares

    MPC Markets Jonathan Tacadena has a more optimistic outlook on South32 shares.

    “Mining operations include aluminium, copper, zinc, lead, manganese and silver,” he said (quoted by The Bull).

    Tacadena noted:

    The company delivered a solid first half year result in fiscal year 2026, with earnings largely in line with expectations, a better-than-expected dividend and an expanded share buy-back, which is usually a good sign.

    Summarising his buy recommendation on South32, Tacadena said

    Extending the Cannington mine life adds value amid upside potential at Sierra Gorda and Hermosa. S32 has a quality portfolio with improving margins. We believe the company is a solid long-term buy, particularly on any temporary dips.

    South32 shares closed yesterday trading for $4.50 each.

    Fortescue shares closed the day at $20.28.

    The post Should you buy South32 and Fortescue shares amid strong commodity prices? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Fortescue Metals 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 Fortescue Metals 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 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.

  • Which ASX tech share is the smarter buy: Hub24 or Netwealth?

    Woman using a pen on a digital stock market chart in an office.

    Rival ASX tech shares Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB) and Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) have lit up the ASX.

    Both heavyweight trading platform providers have surged on the back of strong half-year results, climbing 16% and 10% respectively over the past 7 days.

    With structural tailwinds from Australia’s growing superannuation pool and ongoing market share gains, the outlook for both ASX tech shares remains firmly geared toward growth.

    Let’s have a look which rival takes up pole position.

    Hub24: Growth powerhouse with a big runway

    Hub24 has been firing on all cylinders. Its 1H FY26 result showed record net inflows of around $10.7 billion, revenue up 26% to $245.9 million, and underlying net profit surging around 60% as scale kicks in.

    Total funds under administration (FUM) hit $152.3 billion, and the board boosted its interim dividend by 50%. That kind of growth paired with operating leverage that expanded margins, is exactly what investors love to see in a platform stock.

    The strength here isn’t just numbers, it’s structural momentum. Adviser uptake is rising, with over 5,200 advisers now on the platform and a growing trend toward “platform monogamy” where advisers consolidate their book with one provider.

    Weaknesses? Valuation is a potential fly in the ointment. The $7.5 billion ASX stock has ripped higher – at times more than doubling – and trades on premium multiples. That leaves little room for a misstep. Fee and margin pressure also looms, and competition from legacy players upgrading their tech stacks can’t be ignored.

    Bottom line: A high-growth, high-quality platform play with strong inflows and adviser momentum. But at current valuations, investors need conviction that market share gains continue and operating leverage holds.

    Bell Potter recently retained their buy rating on the ASX tech shares with a trimmed price target of $120.00. This points to a potential gain of 29.6% over the next 12 months.

    Netwealth: Profitable performer with resilience

    Netwealth’s first-half FY26 numbers underscored its place near the top of the platform pack. Platform revenue climbed 25%, and FUM reached a record $125.6 billion, lifted by strong custodial inflows.

    Managed accounts and FUM also posted double-digit growth, and the company hiked its interim dividend by about 20%.

    What sets this ASX tech share apart is profitability and efficiency. Its recurring fee model, strong adviser retention and deep client stickiness underpin stable margins and predictable cash flows. Traits that appeal to long-term investors.

    Risks here include competitive fee pressures. And like Hub24, intense rivalry for adviser mindshare and product sophistication means Netwealth can’t afford to stand still.

    Bottom line: This $6 billion ASX share is a more mature, profitable platform operator that tends to trade at a slightly more conservative valuation than Hub24. It’s a slower burner but offers solid recurring income and growth through adviser momentum and FUA expansion.

    Morgans was pleased with this ASX tech share’s half-year results, noting that its profit was ahead of expectations

    In response, the broker retained its accumulate rating with a $29.00 price target. This suggests a 20% upside at the current share price of $24.20.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Both Hub24 and Netwealth are riding structural tailwinds. The two ASX tech shares are central to Australia’s platform oligopoly story.

    Hub24 looks like the rocket ship with rapid inflows and scale effects kicking in. Netwealth on the other hand feels like the steady, profitable runner benefitting from sticky clients and recurring fees.

    Investors keen on growth may favour Hub24’s momentum, while income-oriented long-term holders might lean more toward Netwealth’s stability.

    The post Which ASX tech share is the smarter buy: Hub24 or Netwealth? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in HUB24 Limited right now?

    Before you buy HUB24 Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and HUB24 Limited wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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

  • Buy Telstra and these ASX dividend stocks for passive income

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

    Are you wanting to give your income portfolio a boost?

    If you are, then it could be worth checking out the three ASX dividend stocks in this article.

    That’s because they have been rated as buys by analysts and are being tipped to offer attractive dividend yields in the near term. Here’s what you need to know about them:

    Centuria Industrial REIT (ASX: CIP)

    The team at UBS thinks that Centuria Industrial REIT could be an ASX dividend stock to buy.

    It is a leading industrial property company that owns a portfolio of high-quality industrial assets. These assets are situated in urban infill locations throughout Australia where demand is strong.

    UBS believes the company is positioned to pay dividends per share of 17 cents in FY 2026 and then 18 cents in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $3.22, this would mean dividend yields of 5.3% and 5.6%, respectively.

    The broker currently has a buy rating and $3.78 price target on its shares.

    Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

    Another ASX dividend share that analysts are tipping as a buy is Telstra.

    It is of course Australia’s largest telecommunications provider, with leadership positions in mobile, fixed-line, and enterprise services. Its scale and network investments continue to support recurring revenue and cash generation.

    The team at Macquarie is positive on the company following its half-year results. In response to the release, the broker has put an outperform rating and $5.44 price target on its shares.

    With respect to dividends, Macquarie is forecasting fully franked payouts of 21 cents per share in FY 2026 and then 21.5 cents per share in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $5.25, this would mean dividend yields of 4% and 4.1%, respectively.

    Universal Store Holdings Ltd (ASX: UNI)

    A third and final ASX dividend stock that analysts are tipping as a buy for income investors is Universal Store.

    It is a growing youth fashion retailer behind the Universal Store, Thrills, and Perfect Stranger brands.

    The team at Morgans is bullish on the company. It recently put a buy rating and $10.60 price target on its shares.

    As for income, the broker expects fully franked dividends of 41 cents per share in FY 2026 and then 46 cents per share in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $9.03, this equates to dividend yields of 4.5% and 5.1%, respectively.

    The post Buy Telstra and these ASX dividend stocks for passive income 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 James Mickleboro has positions in Universal Store. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Telstra Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Universal Store. 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 Long WALE, ASX, Aussie Broadband shares

    A young woman in a red polka-dot dress holds an old-fashioned green telephone set in one hand and raises the phone to her ear representing the Telstra share price and the opportunity for investors in FY23

    As earnings season continues, the experts are busy reviewing company reports and re-rating shares a buy, hold, or sell.

    Here are three new opinions published on The Bull this week.

    Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW)

    The Charter Hall Long WALE REIT has fallen 4.6% over the past 12 months.

    The ASX REIT reported operating earnings of $90.6 million, up 2%, for 1H FY26.

    Dylan Evans from Catapult Wealth has a buy rating on this ASX real estate investment trust (REIT).

    Evans said:

    This Australian real estate investment trust reported solid first half results in fiscal year 2026, which were in line with expectations.

    Statutory earnings of $153.6 million increased 209 per cent compared to the prior corresponding period.

    Net tangible assets of $4.68 per security were up 2 per cent from June 30, 2025.

    CLW’s share price has declined due to the re-emergence of inflation and its impact on interest rates and bond yields.

    CLW appeals for its reliable income stream. It was recently trading on a dividend yield above 6.5 per cent, supported by a high quality property portfolio with occupancy of 99.9 per cent and a weighted average lease length of more than nine years.

    ASX Ltd (ASX: ASX)

    The ASX share price has fallen 21.1% over the past 12 months.

    The company reported an 11.2% increase in revenue to $602.8 million for 1H FY26.

    Statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) was $263.6 million, up 8.3%, and total expenses were $264.3 million, up 20%.

    Evans has a hold rating on this ASX financial share.

    He explains:

    The financial markets operator has struggled for several years. It continues to face regulatory scrutiny after technology issues.

    Total expenses of $264.4 million in the first half of 2026 were up 20 per cent, partly as a result of costs associated with the inquiry by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, which cited ASX operational and governance issues in its interim report.

    However, Evans thinks the outlook for ASX Ltd is improving.

    It has consistently grown its revenues, courtesy of a near monopoly position.

    If the company can reduce costs and sustain revenue growth, earnings should benefit moving forward.

    Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB)

    The Aussie Broadband share price has increased 28.4% over the past 12 months.

    Aussie Broadband reported a 13.5% increase in underlying EBITDA to $74.7 million for 1H FY26.

    Earlier this month, the telco announced it intends to buy the telecommunications business of AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL).

    Aussie Broadband will pay AGL $115 million worth of scrip upfront, with a further $10 million in scrip to be paid in tranches.

    Jonathan Tacadena from MPC Markets has a sell rating on the ASX telecommunications share.

    He says:

    ABB’s acquisition of AGL Energy’s telecommunications business looks like a genuinely good deal.

    It adds an estimated 350,000 broadband services and mobile connections to ABB’s customer base.

    The acquisition is expected to be completed in June 2026. Migration is expected to be completed in the first half of fiscal year 2027.

    ABB shares soared sharply on the news, but then retreated. Technically, that’s a bearish sign.

    We believe good news from the AGL deal is priced into the stock, so we would be inclined to cash in some gains.

    The Aussie Broadband share price has fallen from $6.09 on 22 October to $5.11 at yesterday’s close.   

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Charter Hall Long WALE, ASX, Aussie Broadband shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Aussie Broadband Limited right now?

    Before you buy Aussie Broadband Limited shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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

  • 3 top ASX ETFs to buy and hold for 10 years or more

    A businessman looking at his digital tablet or strategy planning in hotel conference lobby. He is happy at achieving financial goals.

    I believe that buy and hold investing is one of the best ways to build wealth.

    But don’t worry if you’re not a fan of stock-picking, because exchange traded funds (ETFs) are here to save the day.

    They offer simple access to large groups of stocks in one fell swoop, which removes the need to pick individual stocks.

    With that in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that I would buy for the long term:

    Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF (ASX: CFLO)

    The Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF could be a great buy and hold option.

    Rather than focusing on hype or short-term market momentum, this fund focuses on profitability, operational discipline, and financial resilience. It includes stocks like Palantir (NASDAQ: PLTR), Visa (NYSE: V), and Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOGL).

    Companies that consistently generate strong cash flow can reinvest in growth, buy back shares, acquire competitors, or raise dividends. Over decades, that creates an enormous wealth-building effect, making this fund a potentially powerful foundation for generational portfolios.

    It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

    Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

    Cybersecurity has become one of the most essential industries in the digital economy, and the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF provides simple access to the world leaders in the space.

    This includes the likes of CrowdStrike Holdings (NASDAQ: CRWD), Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), and Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT). These are companies using advanced AI-powered tools to protect governments, corporations, and consumers from increasingly complex cyber threats.

    With cyberattacks rising globally and businesses moving more systems into the cloud, cybersecurity spending is expected to grow steadily for years to come.

    Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY)

    Another top buy and hold option could be the Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF.

    This ASX ETF invests in global stocks with strong balance sheets, consistent profitability, and high returns on capital.

    Its portfolio currently includes high-quality stocks such as Visa (NYSE: V), Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ), Accenture (NYSE: ACN), and L’Oreal (FRA: LOR). These are market leaders with pricing power and resilient earnings.

    For buy and hold investors, the Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF could be attractive because it emphasises a focus on quality. It aims to smooth out some of the bumps that come with growth investing, making it a solid core holding for those who want steadier long-term returns.

    It was also recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

    The post 3 top ASX ETFs to buy and hold for 10 years or more appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF right now?

    Before you buy Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has 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 Accenture Plc, Alphabet, BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF, CrowdStrike, Fortinet, Palantir Technologies, and Visa. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Johnson & Johnson and Palo Alto Networks and has recommended the following options: long January 2028 $260 calls on Accenture Plc and short January 2028 $280 calls on Accenture Plc. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Alphabet, CrowdStrike, and Visa. 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 Wednesday

    A male ASX 200 broker wearing a blue shirt and black tie holds one hand to his chin with the other arm crossed across his body as he watches stock prices on a digital screen while deep in thought

    On Tuesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) had a subdued session and edged into the red. The benchmark index fell slightly to 9,022.3 points.

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

    ASX 200 to rebound

    The Australian share market looks set to rebound on Wednesday after a stronger night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 60 points or 0.65% higher this morning. In late trade in the United States, the Dow Jones is up 0.85%, the S&P 500 is up 0.75% and the Nasdaq is 1% higher.

    Oil prices fall

    ASX 200 energy shares Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have a poor session on Wednesday after oil prices fell overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 0.6% to US$65.89 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 0.6% to US$71.06 a barrel. Traders were selling oil after US-Iran talks continued.

    WiseTech shares on watch

    WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) shares will be on watch on Wednesday when the logistics solutions technology company releases its eagerly anticipated half-year results. According to a note out of Morgans, its analysts are expecting revenue of $660.6 million and EBITDA of $248 million. This will be a 73.4% and 28.9% increase over the prior corresponding period. Underlying NPATA is expected to be down 10.7% to $100.1 million.

    Gold price falls

    ASX 200 gold shares Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a tough session on Wednesday after the gold price fell overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is down 0.8% to US$5,184 an ounce. This was driven by a stronger US dollar.

    Buy Monadelphous shares

    Monadelphous Group Ltd (ASX: MND) shares could be in the buy zone according to Bell Potter. In response to its half-year results, the broker has retained its buy rating with an improved price target of $37.00. It said: “We retain the Buy recommendation. We expect MND can sustain current strong operating momentum across the Group in the short-term given its contracted position and further work package awards likely to land in 2H FY26. MND’s increasing liquidity gives the company optionality to lean aggressively on M&A or return excess capital to shareholders.”

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

    Should you invest $1,000 in Beach Energy Limited right now?

    Before you buy Beach Energy Limited shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in WiseTech Global. 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.

  • 3 excellent ASX dividend shares to buy this month

    Man holding out $50 and $100 notes in his hands, symbolising ex dividend.

    The Australian share market is a great place to generate an income.

    That’s because the ASX boards are filled to the brim with shares that provide investors with dividends every three to six months.

    But with so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide which ones to buy over others.

    To narrow things down, I have picked out three ASX dividend shares that analysts are bullish on at present.

    Here’s what they are recommending and the sort of dividend yields you can expect from them in the near term:

    APA Group (ASX: APA)

    The first ASX dividend share to consider is APA Group. It owns and operates critical energy infrastructure across Australia, including gas pipelines, storage facilities, and power assets. These assets are usually long life and regulated or contracted, which helps provide steady and visible cash flows.

    Macquarie is positive on APA’s outlook and currently has an outperform rating and $9.58 price target on its shares.

    As for income, Macquarie is forecasting dividends of 58 cents per share in FY 2026 and then 59 cents per share in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $9.15, that equates to very attractive dividend yields of 6.3% and 6.4%, respectively.

    Elders Ltd (ASX: ELD)

    The team at Macquarie is also positive on Elders and sees it as an ASX dividend stock to buy now.

    Elders is an agribusiness company that provides rural and livestock services, agricultural inputs, and real estate services to Australia’s farming sector.

    The broker is expecting Elders to pay fully franked dividends of 36 cents per share in FY 2026 and then 37 cents per share in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $7.13, this would mean dividend yields of 5% and 5.2%, respectively.

    Macquarie has an outperform rating and $8.40 price target on its shares.

    Rural Funds Group (ASX: RFF)

    A third ASX dividend share analysts like is Rural Funds Group.

    It provides exposure to high-quality Australian agricultural assets, including cattle properties, cropping farms, and almond orchards. These assets are leased to high-quality operators under long-term agreements, which helps smooth income over time.

    Bell Potter is forecasting dividends of 11.7 cents per share in both FY 2026 and FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $2.10, this would mean generous dividend yields of 5.6% in each year.

    Bell Potter currently has a buy rating and a $2.45 price target on the company’s shares.

    The post 3 excellent ASX dividend shares to buy this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy APA 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 APA 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 James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Apa Group, Macquarie Group, and Rural Funds Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Elders. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.