Category: Stock Market

  • Should you buy Telstra shares amid the $1.25 billion share buyback?

    A cute little kid in a suit pulls a shocked face as he talks on his smartphone.

    Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) shares are edging lower today.

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) telco provider closed on Friday trading for $5.31. During the Monday lunch hour, shares are swapping hands for $5.30 apiece, down 0.3%.

    For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.8% at this same time.

    Longer-term, Telstra shares have gained 15.5% over the past 12 months, or almost three times the 5.5% one-year gains posted by the benchmark index.

    And that doesn’t include the two fully franked dividends the telco giant paid out over the full year. Telstra stock currently trades on a 3.8% fully franked trailing dividend yield.

    Atop its own operational successes, which drove solid first half year earnings growth, Telstra has also been catching headwinds from its recently increased $1.25 billion share buyback program.

    When a company buys back its shares, it reduces the amount available on the market, which often helps support the share price.

    As of last Friday, the company had repurchased around 214 million shares, the buyback currently scheduled to run through 30 June.

    Which brings us back to our headline question…

    Telstra shares: Buy, hold or sell?

    Catapult Wealth’s Blake Halligan recently ran his slide rule over the ASX 200 telco (courtesy of The Bull).

    Halligan noted:

    The telecommunications giant recently reaffirmed its 2026 fiscal year outlook, guiding to cash earnings per share growth amid maintaining capital discipline as it progresses its on-market share buyback of up to $1.25 billion.

    Looking ahead, Halligan added, “Mobile price rises are expected to support revenue growth in full year 2026.”

    But despite these potential tailwinds, he issued a hold recommendation for Telstra shares.

    According to Halligan:

    However, regulatory uncertainty around proposed higher spectrum licence fees remains a medium-term headwind. Investors can expect a fully franked dividend of 21 cents a share for full year 2026, but near‑term upside appears limited, in our view.

    Why did the ASX 200 telco beef up its billion-dollar share buyback?

    Telstra released its half year results (H1 FY 2026) on 19 February.

    The company initially announced its share buyback program in August last year, reporting its intention to buyback up to $1.0 billion in stock.

    But, following the half year results, that buyback was ramped up to $1.25 billion.

    Commenting on the extra $250 million in potential share repurchases at the time, Telstra CEO Vicki Brady said:

    Today, we are also announcing an increase in our current on market share buyback from up to $1 billion to up to $1.25 billion. This increase is supported by strong progress in completing $637 million of the buyback in the half, earnings growth, and the strength of our balance sheet.

    Telstra shares closed up 3.6% on the day of the results release.

    The post Should you buy Telstra shares amid the $1.25 billion share buyback? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Telstra 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 Telstra 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

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

    More reading

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

  • Why Dyno Nobel, Inghams, Metcash, and Strike Energy shares are charging higher today

    Woman with an amazed expression has her hands and arms out with a laptop in front of her.

    In afternoon trade, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to start the week with a decline. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is down 0.7% to 8,683.2 points.

    Four ASX shares that are not letting that hold them back are listed below. Here’s why they are rising:

    Dyno Nobel Ltd (ASX: DNL)

    The Dyno Nobel share price is up 10% to $3.66. Investors have been buying the explosives manufacturer’s shares following the release of a strong half-year result. The company revealed that net profit after tax excluding individually material items increased 83.3% to $160.9 million. This allowed the Dyno Nobel board to increase its interim dividend by 91.7% to 4.6 cents per share. Commenting on the result, the company’s CEO, Mauro Neves, said: “1H26 marks the beginning of a new era for Dyno Nobel as we concluded our separation from the Fertilisers business and move forward as a pureplay global explosives leader.”

    Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

    The Inghams share price is up 5% to $1.78. This follows the release of a trading update from the poultry producer which revealed that volumes were up 1.1% for the first nine months of FY 2026. As a result, management has reaffirmed its guidance for underlying EBITDA of $180 million to $200 million. Inghams’ CEO and managing director, Ed Alexander, said: “We are seeing improved operational performance and positive momentum from initiatives already delivered, while reaffirming our FY26 guidance in a challenging environment.”

    Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS)

    The Metcash share price is up 6% to $2.90. This is in response to the release of a trading update from the wholesale distributor this morning. Metcash revealed that it expects to report revenue growth of 0.7% for FY 2026 with underlying net profit after tax in the region of $268 million to $270 million. Looking ahead, management advised that its ongoing cost initiatives are targeting at least ~$25 million in annualised savings in FY 2027. Metcash’s CEO, Doug Jones, said: “We have delivered a solid result supported by the resilience of our Food and Liquor businesses, our diversified portfolio and disciplined execution.”

    Strike Energy Ltd (ASX: STX)

    The Strike Energy share price is up 4.5% to 11.5 cents. This morning, the energy company announced the exit of its CEO, Peter Stokes. He will be replaced by Shelley Robertson, effective 1 June. The release notes that Ms Robertson is a highly respected and influential leader in the Australian resource and energy sector. She was previously the chief operating officer at Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG).

    The post Why Dyno Nobel, Inghams, Metcash, and Strike Energy shares are charging higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Dyno Nobel right now?

    Before you buy Dyno Nobel 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 Dyno Nobel 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

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

    More reading

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

  • Why the ASX 200 is being smashed today

    Red line going down on an ASX market chart, symbolising a falling share price.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is having a rough start to the week.

    At the time of writing, the benchmark index is down 0.93% to 8,663 points.

    That leaves the ASX 200 on track for its second straight decline, after falling 1.51% on Friday.

    Across the Pacific, US markets ended last week on a much stronger note. The S&P 500 hit a fresh record high, while the Nasdaq also pushed higher after another strong session for chip stocks.

    Locally, though, investors have had plenty to digest this morning.

    Here’s what is driving the sell-off.

    CSL weighs heavily on the index

    The biggest drag today is CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL).

    The healthcare giant is having a brutal session after cutting its FY26 outlook and flagging large impairments.

    CSL shares are currently down 16.82% to $99.715. Earlier in the session, the stock was down more than 20% and trading near a decade low.

    Given CSL’s size in the index, today’s fall is doing a lot of the damage by itself.

    According to The Australian, CSL has shaved about 31 points from the benchmark. The sell-off follows the company’s warning that it will recognise around US$5 billion in impairments and lower its earnings expectations.

    The damage has also spread across the healthcare sector, with Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) trading 1.34% lower as well.

    Banks and tech names add pressure

    Unfortunately, the selling is not just limited to CSL.

    Several major banks are also weighing on the index.

    Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) is down 1.6%, while Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) and National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) are also in the red.

    ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) is down 3.15% as it trades ex-dividend.

    Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) is another drag, falling 2.4%.

    Technology names are also under pressure, with Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO), and Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA), down 0.54% and 2.55%, respectively.

    Oil prices hit sentiment

    Brent crude has jumped after US President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s latest response to a US peace proposal. Trading Economics shows Brent crude hit above US$104 a barrel earlier today.

    That helps explain why Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) is holding up better than many other large-cap names, up 1.08%.

    Resources stocks are also offering some support, with BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) among the stronger performers.

    Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS) is also 6.02% higher after releasing stronger profit guidance.

    The post Why the ASX 200 is being smashed today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL, Macquarie Group, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group, CSL, and Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Looking to buy CBA shares? Here’s the dividend yield you’ll get today

    Happy young woman saving money in a piggy bank.

    Like any ASX 200 bank stock, investors who buy Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares with the expectation of receiving fat, and preferably fully franked, dividends.

    CBA has been a source of reliable, regular and robust dividend payments for decades. But what kind of dividend yield could one expect from buying this ASX bank right now? That’s what we’ll be discussing today.

    What dividends have CBA shares been paying?

    CBA has certainly kept to its reputation as a reliable source of rising income for dividend investors in recent years. After the pandemic-induced drought of 2020, Commonwealth Bank has rebuilt its payouts steadily ever since, delivering a rising dividend each year since 2021. That year saw CBA fork out an annual total of $3.50 per share in dividends, fully franked. But by last year, that had risen to $4.85 per share. That was up from 2024’s total of $4.65 per share, and $4.50 in the prior year.

    CBA’s first dividend of 2026 continued this trend. Back in late March, CBA paid out an interim dividend worth $2.35 per share (also fully franked). That represented a 4.44% hike over 2025’s interim dividend of $2.25 per share.

    So what kind of yield can investors expect from CBA shares if they buy today? Well, adding that interim dividend of $2.35 to last year’s final dividend of $2.60, we get a 12-month total of $4.95. At the current (at the time of writing) CBA share price of $173.15, that works out to be worth a trailing dividend yield of 2.86%.

    Only 2.86% from an ASX bank stock?

    Some investors may be dismayed with that kind of yield, particularly from an ASX bank stock. and especially when considering that some of CBA’s banking peers, such as National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), currently have fully franked trailing yields over 4.5% today. Unfortunately, this is the consequence of CBA’s popularity.

    Most investors know that this bank stock has had an incredible run in recent years, leaping almost 40% higher in 2024 alone. Although CBA has only climbed about 3.3% over the past 12 months, its banking peers have fared far worse. NAB, for instance, has lost almost a quarter of its value since February, while CBA has treaded water.

    This has had the effect of raising the dividend yields for CBA’s peers, whilst leaving CBA’s already low yield intact.

    If you’re after an ASX bank share for an income portfolio today, you can either have CBA or a high-yielding investment. But sadly, you can’t have both.

    The post Looking to buy CBA shares? Here’s the dividend yield you’ll get today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Commonwealth Bank Of Australia 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 Commonwealth Bank Of Australia 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

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

    More reading

    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 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.

  • Sell alert! Why this expert is calling time on Metcash and A2 Milk shares

    Buy and sell on yellow paper with pins on them and several share price lines.

    It may be time to sell Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS) and A2 Milk Co Ltd (ASX: A2M) shares.

    That’s according to Catapult Wealth’s Blake Halligan (courtesy of The Bull).

    As we head into the Monday lunch hour, A2 Milk shares are down 0.5%, trading for $6.51 each, outpacing the 0.8% losses posted by the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) at this same time.

    Longer-term, shares in the ASX 200 dairy company have tumbled 21.5% over the past year, underperforming the 5.3% 12-month gains delivered by the benchmark index.

    Those losses will have only been modestly eased by A2 Milk’s 2.6% fully franked trailing dividend yield.

    Turning to Metcash, shares in the ASX 200 wholesale food, liquor and hardware distributor are storming higher today, up 5.1% at $2.88 apiece.

    Despite that strong performance, Metcash shares remain down 13.5% over 12 months. Metcash shares trade one a 6.3% fully franked trailing dividend yield.

    Metcash is enjoying a strong runt today following the release of an unaudited first half trading update.

    Metcash said it expects to achieve underlying profit after tax between $268 million and $270 million for the 12 months to 30 April. Management is forecasting revenue growth of 0.7%.

    Which brings us back to…

    Time to sell A2 Milk shares?

    “A recent trading update revealed supply chain disruptions are constraining product availability despite strong underlying demand,” Catapult Wealth’s Halligan said.

    He noted:

    The company downgraded guidance in full year 2026, with revenue growth downgraded to low-to-mid double digits, with cash conversion falling to 50%. It expects lower infant milk formula sales, mostly related to Chinese labels.

    Summarising his sell recommendation on A2 Milk shares, Halligan concluded:

    The EBITDA percentage margin is forecast to decline from previous guidance of between 15.5% to 16% to between 14% to 14.5%. The shares have fallen from $9.24 on April 10 to trade at $6.67 on May 7. Better opportunities may exist elsewhere at this stage of the cycle.

    Calling time on Metcash shares

    Atop recommending selling A2 Milk shares, Halligan also issued a sell recommendation on Metcash shares.

    “Metcash is a wholesale distributor across food, liquor and hardware,” he said. “It services independent retailers across Australia.”

    Writing before the release of today’s trading update, Halligan noted:

    Group sales revenue was up just 0.1% in the first half of 2026 when compared to the prior corresponding period. Group underlying profit after tax fell 5.9%, reflecting lower earnings in hardware and liquor and increased finance costs.

    Summarising his sell recommendation on Metcash shares, Halligan concluded:

    The company operates in fiercely competitive industries. Higher interest rates may pressure its discretionary product sales and full year 2026 earnings, suggesting a re-allocation of capital. The shares have fallen from $4.23 on September 1, 2025 to trade at $2.76 on May 7.

    The post Sell alert! Why this expert is calling time on Metcash and A2 Milk shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy A2 Milk shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and A2 Milk wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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

    More reading

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

  • This ASX 200 stock is rocketing 10% after a surprise profit update

    ASX bank profit upgrade Red rocket and arrow boosting up a share price chart

    Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS) shares are racing higher on Monday after the wholesale distributor released a much stronger earnings update.

    At the time of writing, the Metcash share price is up 10.22% to $3.02.

    Today’s rally gives shareholders some relief after a weak stretch for the stock. Metcash shares remain down around 8% in 2026 and about 9% over the past year.

    Here’s what the company said.

    Profit guidance comes in stronger

    According to the release, Metcash expects to deliver underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) of between $268 million and $270 million for FY26.

    The company said the result was helped by a stronger second half and continued discipline in costs, capital spending, and working capital.

    Revenue growth was positive, although fairly modest at the headline level. Metcash expects group revenue to rise 0.7%. Excluding tobacco, revenue is expected to increase 3.8%.

    That gap is worth watching because tobacco continues to weigh on the Food division. Without tobacco, the rest of the business looks in better shape.

    Food revenue is expected to come in at $10.5 billion, down 0.6%. But excluding tobacco, Food revenue is expected to rise 5.4%.

    Liquor revenue is expected to increase 1% to $5.4 billion, while Hardware & Tools revenue is expected to rise 4.3% to $3.7 billion.

    The numbers are still preliminary and unaudited, with Metcash due to release its full-year results on 22 June.

    Hardware sales start to recover

    Metcash said sales momentum improved in the second half, reflecting the pricing and range initiatives already in place.

    Total Tools sales grew 6.7%, while Hardware sales rose 3.7%.

    While trade market conditions remain soft, Metcash said the recovery has taken a little longer than first expected.

    The company also said earnings in Hardware & Tools were affected by margin pressure, particularly in Victoria and Tasmania.

    Cash flow gives investors another boost

    Metcash also pointed to stronger cash flow and tighter spending across the business.

    The company expects cash realisation to exceed its 80% to 90% 3-year target range. Debt leverage is expected to sit at the lower end of its 1 to 1.75 times target range.

    Capital spending has also been reduced to about $170 million. That is around $30 million below guidance.

    Management said this included active management of working capital and about $80 million of precautionary inventory related to supply chain uncertainty.

    Metcash has also started additional cost initiatives. These are expected to deliver at least $25 million in annualised savings in FY27.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Metcash has given investors a better update than many were expecting.

    Profit guidance looks solid, cash flow is strong, and its Hardware & Tools division is showing some improvement.

    The full result in June will give a clearer picture, but today’s share price reaction shows the market is regaining confidence.

    The post This ASX 200 stock is rocketing 10% after a surprise profit update appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Metcash 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 Metcash 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

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

    More reading

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

  • What world-leading news is driving shares in this junior ASX mining company higher today?

    Young successful engineer, with blueprints, notepad, and digital tablet, observing the project implementation on construction site and in mine.

    Aldoro Resources Ltd (ASX: ARN) has confirmed its Kameelburg project as the world’s largest strontium resource, sending its shares higher on Monday.

    Resource grows even larger

    The company said in a statement to the ASX that it had a “globally significant” rare earth element resource of 597.07 million tonnes at a grade of 2.49%, which was a 15% increase in tonnage from its previous resource update in September last year.

    The new resource was based on 29 new diamond drill holes at the project.

    Aldoro said there were four distinct revenue streams from the project, located in Namibia, namely rare earth oxides, niobium pentoxide, strontium carbonate, and potentially magnetite-hosted iron by-product.

    Aldoro Chair Quinn Li said regarding the new resource:

    This updated Resource represents another transformational step-change for the Kameelburg Project and further confirms the emergence of one of the world’s most significant multi-critical minerals systems. Not only has the total resource tonnage continued to grow at consistent grade, but the high-grade core has more than doubled in scale. Importantly, we have now formally declared a maiden strontium resource and by-product credit, positioning Kameelburg as the largest known strontium resource globally. This is a major milestone for Aldoro and further highlights the unique strategic value of the project.

    Ms Li said there had been “outstanding” metallurgical leach recoveries for strontium and rare earths, and, “together with the magnetite-rich domains currently being assessed as a potential iron by-product stream, Kameelburg is rapidly evolving into a genuinely world-class, multi-product critical minerals project with the potential to become a long-life global supplier of strategic minerals”.

    Aldoro said Namibia was widely recognised as one of the most mining-friendly jurisdictions in Africa, with a well-established development framework.

    The company added:

    The country hosts a portfolio of globally significant operating mines (including Rössing, Husab, Langer Heinrich and Skorpion) and is home to substantial investment from major international mining groups. The Namibian mining sector contributed N$7.8 billion in corporate tax in the most recent fiscal year, underscoring the sector’s importance to the national economy and the corresponding strength of government support for mining investment.

    Infrastructure in place

    Aldoro said the Kameelburg project was well-situated, needing no greenfields rail, road, port, or power grid investment to bring it into production.

    The project has bitumen highway access, and a heavy haul rail freight line is just 2km from the proposed mine site.

    A major power line is also just 7km distant.

    Aldoro shares were 7.9% higher on the news on Monday at 47.5 cents.

    The company is valued at $103.8 million.

    The post What world-leading news is driving shares in this junior ASX mining company higher today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Aldoro Resources right now?

    Before you buy Aldoro Resources 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 Aldoro Resources 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

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

    More reading

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

  • Why is this ASX 300 food stock racing higher today?

    A young boy points and smiles as he eats fried chicken.

    S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) food stock Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING) is charging higher 6.2% to $1.80 on Monday. The market reacted positively after the chicken and turkey producer reassured investors with a steady earnings outlook and signs of improving operational momentum.

    Despite today’s rally, the ASX 300 stock remains heavily down over longer periods. Inghams shares have fallen 28% year to date and are down 53% over the past 12 months. By comparison, the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) has gained around 5% over the same period.

    So, what exactly did the ASX 300 stock report?

    Poultry volumes and prices rise

    The ASX 300 food stock reaffirmed FY26 underlying EBITDA guidance of between $180 million and $200 million before AASB 16 adjustments, giving investors confidence that trading conditions have stabilised despite ongoing cost pressures.

    Inghams also revealed that group core poultry volumes rose 1.1% during the first nine months of FY26 compared with the prior corresponding period. At the same time, core poultry net selling prices also increased 1.1%.

    Investors appeared particularly encouraged by the ASX 300 stock’s operational progress and cost-saving measures. Inghams said its annualised cost-saving initiatives are expected to deliver between $60 million and $80 million in benefits.

    Inghams additionally revised FY26 capital expenditure guidance to approximately $80 million.

    Commenting on the result, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Ed Alexander said:

    We are seeing improved operational performance and positive momentum from initiatives already delivered, while reaffirming our FY26 guidance in a challenging environment.

    Reduced frozen inventory

    The ASX 300 food stock highlighted stronger operational execution across several areas, including yield improvements, labour productivity, and inventory management. Inghams also reduced frozen inventory by $25 million, helping improve system balance and strengthen cash flow generation.

    However, the food producer still faces meaningful challenges. Management warned that cost pressures remain elevated across feed, diesel fuel, and packaging. Inghams expects higher fuel costs alone to create a net $7 million to $10 million impact during FY26, although pricing actions and operational efficiencies are expected to partially offset the pressure.

    Inghams noted that feed costs are currently well covered for FY26, but higher costs are expected to emerge in FY27.

    What next for Inghams?

    Even so, Inghams said it remains focused on stabilising operations, improving asset utilisation and increasing value per bird. Management believes ongoing operational improvements and tighter cost controls should continue supporting earnings growth despite uncertain input costs.

    The ASX 300 food stock is also pursuing growth opportunities beyond its traditional poultry operations. Inghams is expanding its ingredients and higher-value product divisions while leveraging recent investments and scaling new initiatives, including the launch of the Bostocks brand in Australia.

    For investors, today’s strong rally suggests the market was relieved to see the consumer staples share maintain guidance and demonstrate improving execution after a difficult 12 months.

    The post Why is this ASX 300 food stock racing higher today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Inghams 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 Inghams 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

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

    More reading

    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 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: ANZ, Eagers, and Woolworths shares

    A man holds his hand under his chin as he concentrates on his laptop screen and reads about the ANZ share price

    If you are on the lookout for some new portfolio additions, then it could be worth hearing what analysts are saying about the ASX shares named below, courtesy of The Bull.

    Are they bullish, bearish, or something in between? Let’s find out.

    ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ)

    Sanlam Private Wealth has named ANZ shares as a sell this week.

    Although the big four bank has been performing well, it is concerned that higher interest rates could lead to mortgage and credit card holders struggling to keep up with repayments. It said:

    The bank delivered a cash profit of $3.780 billion in the first half of 2026, up 14 per cent, excluding significant items, on the second half of 2025. Return on equity was up 149 basis points. The company posted an interim dividend of 83 cents a share, with franking increased to 75 per cent. The company’s share price has performed well in the past 12 months. Our concern is higher interest rates potentially increasing provisions as mortgage and credit card holders struggle to meet increasing repayments in a weaker economy. It may be prudent to trim holdings and take some profits.

    Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE)

    The team at Capital Wealth has named this auto retailer as an ASX share to buy this week.

    It believes the company is well-placed to benefit from growing electric vehicle demand. It explains:

    Eagers is Australia’s largest automotive retailer. In recent months, APE has benefited from a sharp uplift in electric vehicle demand, with EV sales across Australia booming in March. APE posted revenue of $13 billion in full year 2025, up 16.5 per cent on the prior corresponding period. The company grew its share in the new vehicle market to 13.9 per cent, up from 11.5 per cent in full year 2024. Elevated fuel prices and ongoing dealership acquisitions support increased exposure to APE.

    Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

    Capital Wealth is feeling less positive on this supermarket giant. It has named Woolworths shares as a hold this week.

    Although it sees positives in Woolworths, it has concerns with the tough consumer backdrop. Capital Wealth said:

    Food retail sales were up 5.9 per cent in the third quarter of 2026 when compared to the prior corresponding period. However, food earnings before interest and tax growth guidance is expected to be in the mid-to-high single digit range, but no longer at the upper end of the range. While scale and defensive earnings remain strengths, possible margin pressure and cautious consumer sentiment temper near‑term upside, supporting a hold for now.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: ANZ, Eagers, and Woolworths shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Anz 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 Anz 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

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

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Woolworths Group. 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 Australia has recommended Eagers Automotive Ltd. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Up 33% in May, guess which ASX All Ords gold stock is lifting off again today

    gold, gold miner, gold discovery, gold nugget, gold price,

    The All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) is down 0.9% today despite the best lifting efforts of this resurgent ASX All Ords gold stock.

    The rapidly rebounding stock in question is Gorilla Gold Mines Ltd (ASX: GG8).

    After getting hammered in March, Gorilla Gold shares are enjoying a strong rebound in May. This follows a series of promising exploration updates from its Comet Vale Gold Project, located in Western Australia.

    Gorilla Gold shares closed on Friday trading for 43.0 cents. In morning trade on Monday, shares are swapping hands for 44.5 cents apiece, up 3.5%.

    With today’s intraday gains factored in, shares in the ASX All Ords gold stock are now up 32.8% since the closing bell on 30 April.

    Here’s what’s piquing investor interest again today.

    ASX All Ords gold stock lifts on shallow gold discovery

    Gorilla Gold shares are outperforming today after the company reported making its fourth gold discovery in three weeks at Comet Vale.

    First-pass drilling at the new shallow gold discovery at the Diddy Kong Prospect (located within Comet Vale) was said to have successfully followed up a historical intercept.

    Top results included 4.0 metres at 2.1 grams of gold per tonne from 91.0 metres from one hole, and 4.0 metres @ 5.2g/t Au from 111.0 metres.

    Among the multiple shallow gold intercepts returned from initial drilling, the ASX All Ords gold stock highlighted one hole which returned 8.0 metres @ 3.2g/t Au from 14.0 metres.

    Gorilla Gold said it is mobilising a reverse circulation (RC) drill rig to Comet Vale in May to “aggressively follow up” the shallow Diddy Kong, Magilla and Donkey Kong discoveries at the project.

    The miner noted that drilling continues across all three of its gold projects, with six drill rigs operating during May, targeting high-grade resource growth and new discoveries.

    What did Gorilla Gold management say?

    Commenting on the latest results helping boost the ASX All Ords gold stock today, Gorilla Gold CEO Charles Hughes said, “Our discovery drilling at Comet Vale continues to deliver exceptional results this year, with Diddy Kong marking our fourth new gold discovery in just three weeks.”

    Hughes added:

    Diddy Kong is a shallow gold system with very similar characteristics to the nearby Magilla and Donkey Kong discoveries and the 350,000-ounce Lakeview deposit. Importantly, the associated soil anomaly extends for around 1 kilometre, highlighting the significant upside here…

    With established infrastructure, advanced permitting and proximity to multiple processing options, we are well positioned to rapidly unlock value from these exciting new discoveries at Comet Vale.

    The post Up 33% in May, guess which ASX All Ords gold stock is lifting off again today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Gorilla Gold Mines Ltd right now?

    Before you buy Gorilla Gold Mines Ltd 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 Gorilla Gold Mines Ltd 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

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

    More reading

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