Category: Stock Market

The Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) share price has seen lots of volatility in the past several months, as the chart below shows, though it hasn’t moved too much since the start of the year.

But, the ASX mining share has seen a significant rise over the past 12 months, as the chart below also shows.

It’s very difficult to predict what’s going to happen with ASX iron ore shares because of how much they rely on the iron ore price. Both global demand and supply can shift quite significantly, partly because of Chinese demand and because of uncertainty related to supply shifts from Africa and South America.

While I’d love to invest at a Fortescue share price below $15 (seen less than a year ago), I think the company still has multiple positives.

Strong iron ore price

The iron ore price plays a massive role in how much profit Fortescue makes each year, both positively and negatively, due to operating leverage.

When the iron ore price goes up, most of those extra revenue dollars can turn into net profit dollars, aside from paying more to the government. Its production costs don’t typically change much month to month.

The iron ore price was expected to be weaker by now due to concern over the Chinese economy’s demand and increasing iron ore supply from Africa. Despite that, the iron ore price has been resilient amid all of the global economic uncertainty.

According to Trading Economics, at the time of writing, the iron ore price is currently sitting at around US$110 per tonne, which allows it to deliver significant profit generation. The market may be underestimating how much profit the company can make in the foreseeable future.

Copper expansion

I don’t know what the long-term iron ore price is going to be. It could still fall from here.

So, I think it’s a smart idea that the business is looking to build exposure to copper. Only a small part of the company’s underlying value relates to copper at this stage. But, not only is diversification a good idea, but copper also has a pleasing outlook due to electrification, decarbonisation, energy grid expansion, data centre growth and so on.

Fortescue said that copper is a “core pillar” of its “growth and diversification strategy”. It recently completed the acquisition of Alta Copper, securing ownership of its portfolio of exploration assets, including the Canariaco Copper project in Northern Peru.

In the long-term, copper could be a very useful contributor to the overall earnings picture.

Pleasing dividend yield

Fortescue is known for paying large dividends and it could continue providing a solid dividend yield for investors.

According to the projection on Commsec, the business could pay an annual dividend per share of 80 cents in FY27. That translates into a grossed-up dividend yield of 5.4%, including franking credits, at the time of writing. The FY26 grossed-up dividend yield is forecast to be almost 7%, including franking credits.

Combine the passive income with the potential for increasing copper earnings and solid iron ore profits – that’s an appealing mix.

But, there may be many other ASX shares that could be even better buys today.

The post 3 reasons why the Fortescue share price could be a buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• ASX 200 mining shares smash multi-year highs as key commodity prices rise
• The ASX 200 just suffered its biggest fall in 7 weeks. Here’s what’s going on
• Buy, hold, sell: Mineral Resources, Fortescue, Champion Iron shares
• Why the ASX 200 is charging higher today
• How I’d aim for a 7% dividend yield in a SMSF

Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison 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.

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) and Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) are two of the most closely watched dividend shares on the ASX.

That is not surprising.

Supermarkets are defensive businesses, they generate large amounts of cash, and they sell products that households need in almost every economic environment.

But they are not identical investments. Their growth profiles, margins, valuations, and dividend outlooks can move in different directions.

So, how big could their dividends be in 2027?

Coles dividend forecasts

Coles shares ended Monday at $21.53.

According to CommSec, consensus estimates are for Coles to generate earnings per share of 90 cents in FY26, 96.6 cents in FY27, and $1.12 in FY28.

On the dividend front, analysts are forecasting fully franked dividends per share of 75.5 cents in FY26, 82 cents in FY27, and 95.3 cents in FY28.

Based on Monday’s closing share price, the FY27 forecast dividend of 82 cents per share would represent a forward dividend yield of approximately 3.8%.

That is not the highest yield on the ASX, but I think it looks respectable for a supermarket business with defensive qualities.

What I like about Coles is the simplicity of the story. It is a major grocery retailer with scale, brand recognition, and everyday customer traffic. In tougher economic conditions, households may cut back on discretionary spending, but grocery demand tends to be much more resilient.

The challenge is that supermarket margins can be thin. Wage costs, supply chain costs, competition, and price investment can all affect profitability.

But if Coles can keep improving efficiency, investing in its supply chain, and growing earnings gradually, I think the dividend has a reasonable path higher.

Woolworths dividend forecasts

Woolworths shares closed Monday at $33.50.

According to CommSec, consensus estimates are for Woolworths to generate earnings per share of $1.30 in FY26, $1.48 in FY27, and $1.64 in FY28.

Its dividend is also expected to grow. Consensus estimates point to fully franked dividends per share of 99.5 cents in FY26, $1.13 in FY27, and $1.28 in FY28.

Based on Monday’s closing price, the FY27 forecast dividend of $1.13 per share would represent a forward dividend yield of approximately 3.4%.

That is slightly lower than the forecast yield for Coles, but I do not think income investors should look only at the headline yield.

Woolworths remains a high-quality defensive business with a strong market position. It has a large supermarket network, a significant customer base, and a digital and loyalty ecosystem that can help deepen customer relationships over time.

The business has faced its share of challenges, including pressure on margins, competition, and cost inflation. But I think its scale and brand strength remain valuable advantages.

If earnings recover as expected, the dividend could continue moving higher into FY28.

Which dividend looks better?

From a pure forecast yield perspective, Coles looks slightly ahead for FY27.

At current prices, Coles’ forecast FY27 dividend yield is around 3.8%, compared with approximately 3.4% for Woolworths.

But I would not make the decision on that difference alone.

Both companies operate in defensive industries, both are expected to grow dividends over the next few years, and both could appeal to investors looking for steady income rather than high-risk yield.

The more important question is which business can deliver better earnings growth, protect margins, and manage cost pressures over time.

Foolish takeaway

Consensus estimates imply forecast FY27 dividend yields of about 3.8% for Coles and 3.4% for Woolworths.

Those yields may not be spectacular, but I think both shares can still have a place in an income-focused portfolio.

For investors who value defensive earnings, familiar brands, and the potential for rising dividends, Coles and Woolworths remain two ASX dividend shares worth watching closely.

The post How big will the Coles and Woolworths dividends be in 2027? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Buy, hold, sell: ANZ, Eagers, and Woolworths shares
• 3 ASX retail shares exposed to a drop in consumer spending
• Money to invest? I’d follow Warren Buffett to get rich
• How to build a $1,000 a month passive income from the ASX
• 5 ASX 200 shares downgraded by experts this week

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

The RBA has already hiked the cash rate three times in 2026, pushing it to 4.35% in its latest move.

With the RBA back in hiking mode, the financial services sector should stand to benefit.

However, not all banks are created equal.

For investors, this raises an obvious question: which ASX banks are best positioned to profit?

Judo Capital Holdings Limited (ASX: JDO): The Standout Beneficiary

Judo is uniquely positioned to thrive in an interest-heavy environment.  

Unlike the mortgage-heavy big four banks, Judo lends almost exclusively to SMEs on floating-rate terms, meaning its income rises almost immediately after an RBA hike.

The latest numbers show this.

In Q3 FY26, Judo’s net interest margin improved to approximately 3.15%, up from 3.03% in the first half, while most Australian banks saw their margins shrink due to fierce competition.

To back this up, analysts are very optimistic about Judo’s outlook across any ASX bank stock, with an average target price of $2.25.

Bendigo & Adelaide Bank Ltd (ASX: BEN): Quietly Gaining Ground

Bendigo Bank is the regional bank that rarely gets attention, but it has been delivering.

In Q3 FY26, net interest income grew 4.1% year on year, operating profit before credit charges surged 10.9%, and net interest margin rose 6 basis points to 1.98%.

With a pledge to keep expenses no higher than inflation throughout the cycle, meaning real-term costs may reduce in the current environment, Bendigo is well positioned to deliver on margin expansion.

Westpac Banking Corporation (ASX: WBC): Scale With Some Strings Attached

As one of Australia’s major banks, Westpac benefits from rising rates through improved spreads between deposit costs and lending rates, as deposit pricing typically adjusts more slowly than lending rates.

In H1 FY26, statutory net profit grew 3% to $3.4 billion, driven by balance sheet growth and stronger Treasury performance.

Importantly, total lending and deposits growth were both up 7% YoY, meaning Westpac has an even larger lending base which may benefit from higher interest rates.

To note, however, with 69% of its loan book in residential mortgages, Westpac’s earnings are heavily dependent on Australian property prices remaining stable.

The Foolish Takeaway

In the current environment, Judo Capital offers the most direct exposure to rising rates, with a fast-growing SME loan book that is expected to generate higher levels of revenue.

All three stocks, however, can be expected to deliver higher net interest income in the short-term.

The post Which Australian banks will benefit the most from rising interest rates? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why the ASX 200 is being smashed today
• If I invest $8,000 in Westpac shares, how much passive income will I receive in 2027?
• Here’s what Westpac says the RBA will do with interest rates next
• ASX share volatility is rising, are you making this mistake?
• Why Macquarie, QBE, Tabcorp, and Westpac shares are dropping today

Motley Fool contributor Mark Verhoeven 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 Bendigo And Adelaide Bank. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The ASX has been strong in some areas, but plenty of quality shares are still well below their former highs.

That is where I think investors can find opportunities.

I am looking for a business with a strong market position, a long runway, and a share price that already reflects plenty of disappointment.

One ASX share that fits that description for me is WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC).

A business built for complexity

WiseTech is one of those companies that can look complicated from the outside.

It does not sell a product most consumers see. It does not have stores on high streets. It does not make headlines in the way banks, miners, or retailers often do.

But behind the scenes, WiseTech plays an important role in global trade.

Its software helps logistics companies manage freight, customs, compliance, warehousing, transport, and cross-border operations. These are areas where mistakes can be costly and delays can frustrate customers.

That is why I think this is such an interesting market.

The world still needs goods to move across borders. Businesses still need supply chains to function. Freight forwarders and logistics operators still need systems that can help them manage more moving parts, more regulation, and more customer expectations.

WiseTech is trying to be one of the key software platforms behind that activity.

Why the sell-off has my attention

WiseTech shares have fallen a long way from their highs. They are down 56% over the past 12 months.

Some of that reflects broader pressure on ASX technology shares. Some reflects company-specific concerns. Investors have had plenty to think about, including valuation, acquisition strategy, leadership questions, and the potential impact of artificial intelligence on software businesses.

I do not think those issues should be brushed aside.

But I also think the share price fall has changed the opportunity.

When a quality growth stock is priced for perfection, investors have little room for disappointment. When the same stock is priced with more scepticism built in, the risk-reward can become more appealing.

That is where I think WiseTech now sits.

It still has a strong position in a large global market. It still serves customers with complex operational needs. And it still has the chance to keep increasing its relevance across global logistics over time.

The long-term prize

What interests me most about WiseTech is the size of the opportunity ahead.

Logistics is not a small niche. It is a huge global industry that still has plenty of room for better software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.

If WiseTech can continue expanding what CargoWise does for customers, it may be able to capture more value from existing clients and win more business across the industry.

That could happen through new modules, deeper product adoption, better workflow automation, and more sophisticated tools for managing global trade.

This is where I think AI could become useful. Rather than thinking about AI only as a threat, I think it is worth asking how it could improve logistics software. Smarter systems may help users handle exceptions, process documents, identify compliance issues, manage workflows, and make faster decisions.

WiseTech already has deep knowledge of the industry it serves. If it can embed AI in ways that make the platform more useful, I think that could support the long-term investment case.

Foolish takeaway

WiseTech shares may remain volatile in the short term, especially while investors are still debating technology valuations and AI disruption.

But I think the bigger story remains attractive. This is a global ASX software business operating in an industry that needs better systems, more automation, and stronger execution tools.

The share price has already absorbed a lot of disappointment. If confidence in the business starts to rebuild, I think WiseTech could be one of the ASX growth shares to recover strongly.

The post 1 smashed-up ASX share I’d buy before it rebounds appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Are these the 3 most undervalued ASX 200 shares right now?
• Where to invest $20,000 in ASX 200 shares this week
• Is this the best ASX 200 stock to buy in May?
• Money to invest? I’d follow Warren Buffett to get rich
• Down 55%, why WiseTech shares could be a bargain hiding in plain sight

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.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) dividend share space looks very attractive for passive income, in my view.

I like to focus on businesses which I believe can consistently raise their payouts over the long-term due to underlying earnings growth. Rising profit can also justify a higher share price, so I view that as an essential factor to consider.

Normally, I write about Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd (ASX: SOL) when it comes to excellent ASX 200 dividend share ideas, but there are other names I want to highlight in this article. If I were to invest $10,000 for a combination of stability and yield, the two below would be top picks for me.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

Telstra is Australia’s leading telecommunications business, with the largest network coverage, the most subscribers, the most valuable spectrum assets and a reputation for reliability.

The company has hiked its annual payout each year for the last few years and the FY26 half-year result saw Telstra increase its interim dividend payment by 10.5% to 10.5 cents per share. I expect it will deliver another 10.5 cents per share dividend with the FY26 result, leading to a grossed-up dividend yield of approximately 5.6%, including franking credits, at the time of writing.

I expect it can grow earnings in the coming years due to Australia’s rising population and growing demand for an internet connection from various devices, vehicles and other electronics.

Telstra’s market position gives it the confidence to regularly increase prices, which is a great tailwind for revenue and profit. It’s one of the few major ASX 200 dividend shares I’m confident will generate materially stronger profit in FY30 compared to FY26.

Centuria Industrial REIT (ASX: CIP)

This is Australia’s largest pure play industrial property real estate investment trust (REIT).

The subsector of the REIT world is very appealing because of the strong demand for industrial space. Some of the demand growth is coming from e-commerce adoption, some of it is data centres, refrigerated facilities is another element of demand (due to food and medicine requirements) and so on.

When you put all of that together, it has led to a very low vacancy rate in Australia’s cities and this is leading to excellent rental growth (with strong re-leasing spreads).

The business reported like-for-like net operating income (NOI) growth of 5.1% in the FY26 first-half period. That’s one of the strongest rental growth rates in the REIT sector currently, which is a key reason why I think it’s a top ASX 200 share to buy today, particularly as it’s trading at a large discount to the net tangible assets (NTA) of $3.95 as of December 2025.

It expects to pay a distribution yield of 5.6%.

The post Where I’d invest $10,000 into ASX 200 dividend shares right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• Should you buy Telstra shares amid the $1.25 billion share buyback?
• Why the ASX 200 is being smashed today
• Here’s the dividend forecast out to 2028 for Telstra shares

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

Three of the ASX 200’s most recognisable names on the ASX are currently hovering around 52-week lows following a soft start to 2026. 

• CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) are down 57% in the past 12 months and are trading at $101
• Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN) have fallen 17% to $4.46
• Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) have dropped 9% to $72.56. 

When well-known equities fall to yearly lows, many investors may consider buying in at the discount.

However there’s no guarantee that these stocks won’t fall even further. 

Here is the latest commentary from experts on these ASX 200 shares hitting fresh 52-week lows. 

CSL endures historical crash

CSL shares were making headlines yesterday as the company opened the week by crashing 16%. 

As Aaron Teboneras reported yesterday, the crash flirted with the company’s biggest one-day loss on record. 

The drop came after CSL lowered its FY26 outlook, now expecting FY26 revenue of about US$15.2 billion. 

The company also expects NPATA of about US$3.1 billion, excluding restructuring costs and impairments.

That is a drop from FY25, when CSL reported revenue of US$15.6 billion and profit of US$3.3 billion on a constant currency basis.

Following yesterday’s crash, CSL shares have now hit a new 52-week low, and are down 57% from a year ago. 

Ambitious investors may want to buy the dip, but continued guidance cuts have proven there is no guarantee the ASX 200 company has hit rock bottom. 

UBS recently placed a price target of $205 on CSL shares, however this was before the most recent guidance cut. 

Interest rates weigh on Harvey Norman 

As the RBA has ramped up interest rates this year, discretionary shares such as Harvey Norman have struggled. 

When mortgage repayments and loan costs rise, households often delay discretionary purchases, which can lower sales growth for the company.

Higher borrowing costs can reduce consumer spending on big-ticket household items like furniture, electronics, and appliances – all key items sold by the retailer. 

Harvey Norman shares are now hovering close to 52-week lows, down 36% year to date. 

While these headwinds are likely to persist in the short term, investors with a long-term outlook may be considering this stock, especially for its historically strong dividend yield.

Analysts forecasts via TradingView indicate the current price is 28% below fair value, however prospective investors should be aware this likely won’t be an overnight turnaround. 

Inflation showing up on supermarket shelves

Part of the reason the RBA raised the cash rate for a third consecutive time was due to inflation.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose from 3.7% over the 12 months to February to 4.6% in March, according to the Bureau of Statistics.

This has weighed on retail shares like Wesfarmers, which owns Bunnings, Kmart, Priceline, and Officeworks. 

Its share price is now down 18% since February, and sits close to a 52-week low. 

However targets from experts indicate it is hovering close to fair value. 

14 analyst forecasts via TradingView have an average one year target price of $76.88 on Wesfarmers shares. 

This is roughly 5% above current levels. 

The post What are experts saying about these shares hitting 52-week lows  appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday
• I’d buy these ASX income stocks to beat inflation
• Fast-track your retirement with these ASX shares and ETFs
• Why ANZ, CSL, Dateline, and DroneShield shares are sinking today
• Why the ASX 200 is being smashed today

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

On Monday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was out of form and ended the day lower again. The benchmark index fell 0.5% to 8,701.8 points.

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

ASX 200 expected to edge higher

The Australian share market looks set to rise slightly on Tuesday following a relatively positive night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 13 points or 0.15% higher. In the United States, the Dow Jones rose 0.2%, the S&P 500 climbed 0.2%, and the Nasdaq edged 0.1% higher.

Oil prices jump

ASX 200 energy shares including Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have a good session after oil prices pushed higher overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 3.3% to US$98.58 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 3.2% to US$104.54 a barrel. This follows comments from Donald Trump suggesting that the US and Iran ceasefire is on thin ice.

Life360 quarterly results

All eyes will be on Life360 Inc. (ASX: 360) shares on Tuesday when the family safety technology company releases its quarterly update. Commenting on expectations, Bell Potter said: “Our key forecasts for Q1 are global MAUs of 98.4m (equates to a q-o-q increase of 2.6m or y-o-y growth of 17.6%), total paying circles of 2.93m (q-o-q increase of 99k), revenue of US$137.5m (y-o-y growth of 33%) and adjusted EBITDA of US$14.5m (equates to a margin of 10.5%). Our view is that our Q1 forecasts are consistent with or slightly below the market so importantly both we and the market are at a level where there is probably now more upside than downside risk to the result.”

Gold price rises

ASX 200 gold shares Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a decent session on Tuesday after the gold price edged higher overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up 0.3% to US$4,744.2 an ounce. Gold ticked up as the market worked through US-Iran updates and awaits US inflation data.

CSL shares given hold rating

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares started the week with a hugely disappointing 16% decline after another guidance downgrade. In response, this morning Bell Potter has retained its hold rating with a reduced price target of $100.00 (from $155.00). It said: “We think a discount is warranted for CSL considering the declining underlying earnings outlook across FY26-27, the lack of stable management, and series of credibility hits following several disappointing results/trading updates. CSL is trading on ~12x our forecast NPATA for FY27.”

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

More reading

• What are experts saying about these shares hitting 52-week lows 
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• Leading brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today
• Why ANZ, CSL, Dateline, and DroneShield shares are sinking today
• Why the ASX 200 is being smashed today

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in CSL and Life360. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL and Life360. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Life360. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Global conflict, rising interest rates and inflation have all contributed to a volatile year for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO). 

Australia’s benchmark index dipped again yesterday to start the week in the red. 

It is now down 2.5% over the last month. 

History tells us that we can expect annual returns of between 7% and 9% for the ASX 200 on an average year. 

However it’s important to understand this isn’t a consistent, year to year return. 

Some years the ASX 200 has rocketed almost 20%, like back in 2019. 

Meanwhile, other years it will drop over a 12 month period. 

This is why it’s important for investors to geographically diversify their portfolio by also investing in equities outside Australia.

While certain Australian equities lag, companies in other countries are performing well. 

One way to do this is through ASX listed ETFs. 

Here are three funds that have raced past the ASX 200 this year

Global X Semiconductor ETF (ASX: SEMI)

This ASX ETF enjoyed a 5% gain yesterday, taking its year to date rise to 60%. 

The fund invests in companies that stand to potentially benefit from the broader adoption of tech-enabled devices that require semiconductors. This includes the development and manufacturing of semiconductors.

Semiconductors, essential for AI, are strategic assets due to their ability to control electricity and power modern electronics, likened to “brains and nerves” of devices.

Geographically, the companies that make up the fund are mostly from: 

• United States (66.55%)
• Taiwan (11.38%)
• Netherlands (8.30%). 

Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers Etf (ASX: ASIA)

This ASX ETF tracks the performance of an index (before fees and expenses) comprising the 50 largest technology and online retail stocks in Asia (ex-Japan). 

ASIA ETF provides diversified exposure to a high-growth sector that is under-represented in the Australian sharemarket, and a complement to investors with U.S. technology exposure.

This fund is up an impressive 38% year to date. 

It is up more than 90% over the last 12 months.

iShares Msci Emerging Markets Ex China ETF (ASX: EMXC)

This ASX ETF aims to provide investors with the performance of the MSCI Emerging Markets ex China Index, before fees and expenses. 

The index is designed to measure the equity market performance in global emerging markets, excluding China.

It includes a large exposure to information technology and financials shares. 

Its top geographic exposure is to: 

• Taiwan (32.6%)
• South Korea (23.9%)
• India (15.4%). 

Since the start of 2026, the fund has risen more than 21%. 

The post 3 ASX ETFs that have raced ahead this year appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• These ASX ETFs just hit 52-week highs but I’d still buy them
• 3 incredible ASX ETFs to buy to supercharge your portfolio
• How to tap into Asia’s growth using ASX ETFs
• 3 exciting ASX ETFs for growth investors to watch in May
• 2 ASX ETFs up 35% or more in 2026

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell has positions in Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers 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.

When investors think about ASX financial shares, the big four banks usually get most of the attention.

That is understandable. They are large, profitable, and familiar to most Australian investors.

But if I were choosing one ASX financial stock to buy for the long term, I would be looking very closely at Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG).

It is not the cheapest financial stock on the market. It is not the simplest either. But I think it may be one of the highest quality.

More than a bank

The first thing I like about Macquarie is that it is much broader than a traditional bank.

Yes, it has a fast-growing retail banking operation. But it also has major businesses in asset management, commodities, global markets, investment banking, private credit, infrastructure, and specialist investing.

That gives Macquarie a very different earnings profile to the major banks.

A traditional bank is heavily exposed to mortgages, deposits, net interest margins, credit growth, and bad debts. Macquarie has exposure to those things through Banking and Financial Services, but it also has several other engines that can contribute in different market environments.

For me, that is the main attraction.

Macquarie is a financial stock with genuine global reach and multiple ways to grow.

The latest result supports the quality case

I would not buy Macquarie purely because of one result, but its recent FY26 numbers do support the long-term thesis.

The group reported a net profit of $4.85 billion for FY26, up 30% on FY25. Its second-half profit of $3.19 billion was a record half-year result.

That shows the business still has plenty of earnings power.

What I find particularly attractive is the spread of contributions across the group. Macquarie Asset Management, Banking and Financial Services, Commodities and Global Markets, and Macquarie Capital all delivered higher net profit contributions in FY26.

That does not mean every year will be smooth. Macquarie’s earnings can move around, especially in its market-facing businesses. But I would rather own a company with several growth engines than one relying on a single source of profit.

Structural growth themes

Another reason I like Macquarie is its exposure to long-term trends.

The company is active in areas such as private markets, infrastructure, energy, commodities, digital banking, private credit, and specialist financing.

These are not small themes.

Infrastructure investment remains important globally. Energy markets are becoming more complex. Private capital continues to grow. Digital banking is taking share from older models. Companies still need specialist advice, capital, risk management, and financing solutions.

Macquarie is positioned across many of these areas.

That gives it a chance to keep finding opportunities over the long term, even as conditions change.

The balance sheet matters

Financial stocks can look attractive when markets are strong, but balance sheet strength is what matters when conditions become more difficult.

This is another area where Macquarie stands out to me.

At the end of FY26, the group reported a Bank Group CET1 ratio of 12.8%, a liquidity coverage ratio of 173%, and a net stable funding ratio of 116%. It also reported total deposits of $221.5 billion, up 25% over the year.

I think that conservative positioning is important.

It gives Macquarie flexibility to support growth, manage volatility, and move when attractive opportunities appear.

Is it the best ASX financial stock to buy?

I think Macquarie has a strong claim.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) is arguably the highest-quality traditional bank on the ASX. But Macquarie offers something different.

It gives investors exposure to a global financial platform, not just an Australian banking franchise.

The trade-off is that Macquarie can be harder to value, and its earnings may be less predictable from year to year. The shares also rarely look obviously cheap when investors are confident in the business. But quality doesn’t usually come at a bargain price.

The post Could Macquarie shares be the best ASX financial stock to buy? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Why the ASX 200 is being smashed today
• 2 high-quality ASX 200 shares experts rate as buys
• 3 key takeaways from the Macquarie results
• Why Macquarie, QBE, Tabcorp, and Westpac shares are dropping today
• New Macquarie dividend: Here’s everything you need to know

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Commonwealth Bank Of Australia. 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. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

With the ASX 200 experiencing significant volatility this year, investors may be shifting their attention away from growth, towards more reliable returns. 

One such strategy to consider is dividend investing. 

According to S&P Global, Australia has historically been one of the highest-yielding equity markets in the world. 

However, this has shifted in the last few years. 

Data shows the trailing 12-month dividend yield of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) sits at approximately 3.5%.

This still outpaced other markets in Europe, Canada and the US. 

However it’s significantly lower than its long-term average of approximately 4.5%.

Why turn to dividend shares now?

Even though dividends are shrinking, dividend shares can be particularly attractive during periods of market volatility because they provide investors with a steady stream of income even when share prices fluctuate. 

Companies that consistently pay dividends are often well-established, financially stable businesses with reliable cash flow, which can make them more resilient during economic uncertainty. 

Regular dividend income can help offset capital losses during market downturns and provide investors with greater confidence to hold their investments long term. 

In addition, reinvesting dividends during weaker markets allows investors to purchase more shares at lower prices, potentially enhancing long-term returns once market conditions improve.

With that in mind, here are several ASX dividend shares with comparably high yields. 

IVE Group Ltd (ASX: IGL)

IVE Group provides communication solutions. Its services includes creative services, personalised communications, print production, retail display, promotional merchandising, third party sourcing, logistics and fulfilment and managed solutions.

Recently, Bell Potter released updated guidance. 

The broker is expecting the company to pay fully franked dividends of 18 cents per share in FY 2026 followed by 20 cents per share in FY 2027. 

Based on its current share price, this would equate to yields of 6.8% and 7.6%, respectively, well above the ASX benchmark of 3.5%.

Australian Foundation Investment Company (ASX: AFI)

Another ASX dividend stock offering market beating yields is Australian Foundation Investment Company. 

The self-managed investment company is currently offering a grossed-up dividend yield of approximately 5.8%. 

Furthermore, it has a strong track record of bumping up its yield over the last decade. 

Plato Income Maximiser (ASX: PL8)

Plato Income Maximiser provides investors with the opportunity to benefit from an indirect investment in actively managed well-diversified Australian listed equities portfolio that aims to generate both income and a total return in excess of the benchmark. 

It also aims to make regular monthly dividends once it has sufficient profit reserves.

In some ways, this is similar to an ASX ETF. 

It holds an underlying portfolio of investments that it manages on behalf of its shareholders. 

This dividend stock currently offers a yield of roughly 4.85%.

Betashares Australian Dividend Harvester Fund (ASX: HVST)

For investors looking to diversify beyond individual dividend shares, this ASX ETF could be another option. 

The fund’s share portfolio is generally selected from the largest 100 Australian shares on the ASX, and screened for high dividend and franking outcomes based upon expected future gross dividend payments.

It currently offers a 12 month gross distribution yield of 7.4%. 

The post Is now the time to turn to high yield dividend shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Expert names 2 ASX dividend shares to buy
• 1 ASX dividend stock down 25% I’d buy right now
• Build the ultimate retirement portfolio with these 2 monthly ASX dividend stocks
• 2 ASX blue-chip shares offering big dividend yields
• These 3 ASX dividend shares yield 5% (or more) with monthly payouts

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.