Category: Stock Market

It has been a bit of a topsy-turvy month for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and many ASX shares. Although the index is technically sitting pretty flat, having gone backwards by 0.04% since this time in June, we’ve seen it go from the low 8,700s to as high as 8,850 points. That’s a range worth more than 1.5%.

Of course, there have been several events on the global stage that easily explain this volatility. Most of all, the resumption of hostilities in the Middle East has exacerbated fears of a new energy crisis.

In this climate, it can be difficult to find the confidence to invest in new ASX shares. However, I still think there are buys out there. So here are two ASX shares that I’d buy this July.

2 ASX shares to buy this July

Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL)

First up, we have Washington H. Soul Pattinson, or Soul Patts for short. This company is a rather unique stock on the ASX. It functions more as an investment holding company than your traditional ASX share. Buying its shares represents buying an ownership stake in Soul Patts’ vast underlying investment portfolio. This portfolio is well diversified. It contains several large stakes in other ASX shares, a broad-based portfolio of large-cap ASX shares, property assets, private credit, venture capital and more.

Soul Patts has a track record that spans decades. This, in my view, displays its investing acumen in a very favourable light indeed. To illustrate, as of 31 January, Soul Patts investors have enjoyed an average return of 12.9% per annum (share price growth plus dividends). That’s well above what the ASX 200 has delivered over the same span.

Speaking of dividends, Soul Patts also has one of the best dividend track records on the ASX, having delivered an annual dividend rise every year since 1998. That’s 28 years and counting. All in all, this is an ASX stock I’d buy any day.

iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF (ASX: IXI)

Our next ASX share is not really an ASX share at all, but an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF houses a portfolio of underlying shares that are drawn from all over the world. These shares are all leaders in the consumer staples sector.

Consumer staples are goods that we tend to need to buy. They include food, drinks, household essentials, as well as alcohol and tobacco products. Because of the nature of these products, consumer staples companies tend to be highly resilient investments, capable of surviving and even thriving during economic shocks or downturns. After all, we all need to eat, drink and stock our households, regardless of the economic weather.

You’ll probably recognise many of the investments that can be found in IXI’s portfolio. They currently include Coca-Cola, Unilever, Costco, Colgate-Palmolive, and Philip Morris International. Our own Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) and Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) are also present.

If you’re nervous about the current geopolitical climate, this might be an investment worth considering today.

The post 2 ASX shares I’d buy this July appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 3 ASX shares I’d buy and hold for my kids
• How much is needed in superannuation to target a $100,000 annual passive income?
• How much do I need in my superannuation to earn an annual $60,000 passive income?
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• 3 ASX dividend shares that look better after CGT reforms

Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen has positions in Coca-Cola, Costco Wholesale, Philip Morris International, Unilever, and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Colgate-Palmolive, Costco Wholesale, and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Philip Morris International and Unilever. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended 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.

If you took the plunge and bought $10,000 worth of Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) shares five years ago, you’d be sitting on some tidy gains today.

First, you would have seen the share price gains delivered by Woodside stock smash the gains delivered by the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) over this time.

Second, you would have banked a significant cash pile from the regular passive income stream the oil and gas giant has paid out over the five years as well. (Assuming you cashed out your Woodside dividends, rather than reinvesting them in the company.)

As for those capital gains, five years ago you could have picked up Woodside stock for $22.34 a share. Meaning your $10,000 investment would have netted you 447 shares, with enough change left over for a burger.

Now, in late afternoon trading on Wednesday, the ASX 200 energy stock was trading for $31.58. So, the 447 shares you bought five years ago would now be worth (a rounded) $14,116.

That’s a gain of more than 41%, well ahead of the 19% five-year gains posted by the benchmark index.

So, how about that passive income?

Tapping into Woodside shares for passive income

If you bought shares in the ASX 200 oil and gas giant five years ago, you’d have received the past 10 fully franked dividend payments by now.

The most recent final dividend of 83.5 cents a share would have landed in your bank account on 27 March.

If we add that into the other nine dividend payments, then you would have received a total of $11.31 a share in passive income since your purchase,

That means the 447 Woodside shares you bought on 23 July 2021 would have returned a total of $5,056 in fully franked dividends by now. Or more than half of your initial investment.

Now remember, on Wednesday those 447 shares were worth $14,116. So if we add that passive income payout back in, then the accumulated value of the Woodside stock you bought five years ago for $10,000 would now be worth $19,172.

What’s the latest from the ASX 200 energy stock?

Woodside released its March quarterly update on 29 April.

Highlight for the three months included a 7% quarter-on-quarter increase in operating revenue to US$3.26 billion.

The revenue boost was fuelled by an 11% quarter-on-quarter increase in the average realised price Woodside received for its oil and gas, which rose to US$63 per barrel of oil equivalent (boe).

Woodside shares closed up 2.0% on the day of the results release.

The post Bought $10,000 of Woodside shares 5 years ago? Here’s how much passive income you’ve already earned appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursday
• How much do I need in my superannuation to earn $7k per month in passive income?
• These ASX shares could generate $12,000 per year in passive income
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

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.

The team at Bell Potter just released updated guidance on three ASX shares after some key announcements and results. 

The broker has listed two as a hold and tipped one to rise up to 72%. 

Here’s what the broker had to say. 

Champion Iron Ltd (ASX: CIA)

Champion Iron is an iron ore miner, explorer, and developer.

In a new report from Bell Potter, the broker listed these ASX shares as a hold. 

The broker said iron ore prices were slightly higher in the June 2026 quarter but have since fallen.

Because prices are declining, freight costs remain high, and market expectations are weaker, Bell Potter expects Champion Iron to receive a lower average selling price. 

The broker has lowered its 12 month price target to $4.40 (previously $4.80), which indicates a 13% upside from current levels. 

While we expect iron content price premiums for this product, full value-in-use premiums are unlikely to be realised until longer-term offtake is secured. Free cash flow should improve from FY27 as capex rolls off, supporting debt servicing and ongoing dividends. On valuation, we retain our Hold recommendation.

Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT)

Yesterday, Beach Energy released its FY26 Fourth Quarter Activities Report. 

The company reported quarterly production of 4.9 million barrels of oil equivalent (MMboe) and total revenue of $400 million for the June quarter.

Following the results, Bell Potter lowered its price target on these ASX shares to $0.950 (previously $1.150). 

This indicates just over 8% upside for these ASX shares. 

The broker retained its hold recommendation, and said the company is in a production replacement cycle with respect to exploration and appraisal.

Production growth should return in FY27 and capex ease, enabling positive free cash flow to support balance sheet deleveraging and ongoing dividends. We are positive on BPT’s exposure to Australian east coast gas markets (around half of sales volumes) and cautious with respect to global oil markets.

Regal Partners Ltd (ASX: RPL)

Yesterday, Regal Partners released preliminary H1 2026 results.

The company engages in the provision of investment management services.

According to the release, normalised NPAT is expected to double to at least $90 million and record net FUM inflows of over $1.3 billion for the half.

Following the result, Bell Potter said this guidance is just a minimum rather than a cap, suggesting there is potential for further upside.

The company also reported record quarterly net inflows of $911 million, supported by strong fundraising, while underlying inflows exceeded Bell Potter’s expectations. 

Although funds under management were slightly below forecasts due to distributions, buy-backs and weaker market movements, investment performance and client demand – particularly for hedge funds – were better than expected, supporting continued earnings growth.

Based on this guidance, the broker has retained its buy recommendation and price target of $4.80, which indicates an upside of 72%. 

The post Broker tips up to 72% upside for one of these ASX shares  appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursday
• Regal Partners: Profit doubles and FUM hits record high
• Beach Energy posts steady Q4 production and a resilient outlook
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday

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

ASX exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have gone from a niche investment to a mainstream way for Australians to build wealth.

Today, around two million Australians invest through ASX ETFs, drawn by their low costs, instant diversification, and simplicity. Rather than researching dozens of companies, investors can buy a single fund and gain exposure to hundreds – or even thousands – of investments.

The trend shows no sign of slowing. According to ASX data, ETF trading activity jumped 26% during the last financial year, comfortably outpacing the broader sharemarket, where trading volumes increased 22%.

So, what’s driving the boom?

A simpler way to invest

One of the biggest attractions of ASX ETFs is convenience. Instead of trying to identify tomorrow’s winning shares, investors can buy one ETF and instantly own a diversified portfolio.

Depending on the fund, that could mean exposure to Australian shares, global companies, bonds, property, or even specific sectors such as healthcare or technology.

Cost is another major advantage. Most ETFs simply track an index, allowing them to charge significantly lower management fees than traditional actively managed funds. Those savings can add up over decades, leaving more of an investor’s returns compounding over time.

Many ETFs also pay regular distributions, making them popular with investors seeking passive income. Better still, they’re just as easy to buy and sell as any other ASX-listed share.

The market keeps growing

The ETF industry isn’t just attracting more investors, it’s also offering more choice.

According to ASX data, the number of ETFs listed on the exchange has more than doubled over the past five years to 456 products. Another 72 ETFs launched during the last financial year alone.

Meanwhile, assets invested across Australia’s ETF industry have surpassed $350 billion.

Whether investors want exposure to Australian blue chips, global technology leaders, emerging markets, fixed income, or dividends, there’s now likely an ASX ETF that fits the bill.

More choice isn’t always better

The explosion in new products also means investors need to be more selective. As demand has grown, fund managers have rushed to launch ASX ETFs targeting the latest investment themes.

Artificial intelligence is the newest example. Funds such as the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ), and VanEck Global Defence ETF (ASX: DFND) all offer exposure to companies expected to benefit from AI.

While these thematic ETFs can be appealing, they often carry greater risk than broad-market index funds. Many own relatively concentrated portfolios, and some launch only after a sector has already enjoyed a strong rally.

Foolish takeaway

The rise of ASX ETFs reflects a growing preference for simple, diversified, and low-cost investing.

But investors shouldn’t assume every ETF is a good investment. Choosing a well-diversified, high-quality fund remains just as important as deciding to invest through ETFs in the first place.

The post Why millions of Aussies are switching to ASX ETFs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Where to invest $20,000 in ASX ETFs for 10 years
• Where to invest $50,000 in ASX ETFs this month
• ASX ETFs are booming. Should you join in?
• 3 ASX ETFs to buy and hold for 10 years
• 3 exciting ASX ETFs for exposure to the future of technology

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.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares closed higher in the green on Wednesday afternoon.

When the bell rang on the ASX at 4pm, the shares were up around 2.5% at $59.76 each.

The increase means the ASX mining giant’s shares have now risen nearly 31% over the year-to-date, and are up around 44% from 12 months ago.

BHP’s share price gains over the past couple of years is one thing attracting many investors.

But the shares are also a very popular option for investors searching for passive income.

It’s not hard to see why. The blue-chip major is currently the largest stock on the ASX by market capitalisation, it has a consistently strong operational performance, and therefore, a long history of paying fully-franked dividends to shareholders.

But what if you wanted to generate $10,000 of passive income from BHP shares every year? What exactly would that entail?

Let’s crunch the numbers.

What passive income does BHP pay its shareholders?

First, we need to understand what dividends the mining giant pays its shareholders.

BHP traditionally pays two fully-franked dividends to shareholders each year, in March and September. 

The miner most recently paid its shareholders an interim dividend of $1.0385 per share in March, fully franked. 

Based on the latest consensus forecasts, BHP is expected to pay a fully-franked dividend of A$2.148 per share in FY26. Based on the current share price, that translates to a forward dividend yield of around 3.6%.

It’s not the highest dividend yield, but it represents the company’s stability and consistency.

How many BHP shares do I need to buy to generate $10,000 in passive income?

Using the figures above, in order to generate $10,000 in passive income from BHP shares alone, an investor would need to buy 4,655 shares.

How much would that cost?

At the time of writing, BHP shares are changing hands for $59.76.

This means that to buy the 4,655 shares I need for $1,000 of passive income, I would need to invest around $278,000.

That’s certainly not a small amount. But it could be worth it in the long run.

Not only would I be getting a nice paycheck every six months, but there is potential for capital returns too.

And also don’t forget, that entire amount wouldn’t need to be invested all in one go. 

Is this a good time to buy into BHP? Expert analysts are on the fence. According to Market Index data, eight out of 10 brokers currently have a hold rating on the ASX bank shares. 

The post How many BHP shares do I need to buy for $10,000 of passive income? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• BHP shares have tripled in the past 10 years. Could history repeat itself over the next decade?
• Is the BHP share price a buy for its 5% dividend yield?
• BHP shares soared 62% in FY26. Can they keep climbing?
• Why I think BHP is the best ASX mining share
• How to build an ASX dividend portfolio that keeps paying you for decades

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

The financial future of my kids is high up on my priority list. The goal is straightforward. I want to invest in ASX shares that have the potential to thrive for decades.

That’s because my kids are still in the single digits. So there is no point in chasing the next big growth stock. Instead I’m after consistent growth and good quality businesses that can stand the test of time.

Here are three ASX shares which I think fit the bill.

Transurban Group (ASX: TCL)

Transurban is a long-term favorite of mine. It’s a global infrastructure business that builds and operates urban toll road networks, tunnels, and bridges and operates 22 assets across Australia, the US, and Canada.

The business is widely considered a high-grade defensive ASX dividend stock because its toll road services are essential.

Even in the event of a downturn, people still need to travel to work and transportation will always continue. Transurban’s toll roads typically have stable traffic volumes year-round, which means the business enjoys resilient cash flow regardless of economic conditions.

Another bonus is that most of its toll roads are on an annual contract. This means Transurban is able to increase its toll prices each year in line with rising inflation.

Over the past year, the ASX shares have been relatively stable, fluctuating mildly between $13.25 a piece and $15.62 a piece. Over the past 12 months, the shares are up around 7%.

It’s this stability and consistent earnings that means Transurban is able to pay a reliable dividend to its shareholders too.

In February, the toll road operator paid an interim dividend of 34 cents per share, unfranked, to its shareholders.

For FY26, the company has forecast a distribution of 69 cents per security, which implies a forward dividend yield of around 4.1%, at the time of writing.

Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Ltd (ASX: SOL)

If I were to focus on long-term dividend income. Soul Patts is another ASX share I’d consider buying for my kids. 

Soul Patts is an Australian diversified investment house. It’s often compared to Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway because it invests in a broad portfolio of assets ranging from ASX-listed companies, to private credit, to real estate, and others.

It is widely regarded as Australian dividend royalty and it’s also one of the few ASX shares that have continually raised its dividend payments over the past 28 years.

Soul Patts historically pays its fully-franked dividends twice per year in May and a final dividend in December. It occasionally also pays shareholders an additional special dividend.

For the first half of FY26, Soul Patts paid a fully-franked interim dividend of 48 cents per share. This was a 9.1% increase on the prior corresponding period.  At the time of writing, the ASX shares have a grossed-up dividend yield of around 2.4%, including franking credits.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

The Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF is an entirely different type of investment. It is an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that tracks the performance of the Nasdaq CTA Cybersecurity Index and it gives investors easy access to cybersecurity-focused companies.

As an ETF, HACK allows Australian investors to invest in a diversified basket of international cybersecurity stocks without having to purchase individual shares on overseas exchanges. It typically holds around 30 to 40 companies involved in software, hardware, and services protecting digital infrastructure, data, and networks.

Cybersecurity is becoming more important across the world as cyberattacks grow in sophistication, frequency, and scale. 

I also think it will also become a larger cost for businesses as more activity moves online and businesses expand on their use of artificial intelligence.

The fund also pays a semi-annual dividend to its shareholders. Earlier this month, HACK paid its most recent $0.615682 per unit dividend to its investors. 

As at 30th June 2026, the HACK ETF has a 12-month gross distribution yield of 2.5%.

The post 3 ASX shares I’d buy and hold for my kids appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• How I would turn $200,000 into an ASX retirement income portfolio
• How much do I need in my superannuation to earn $7k per month in passive income?
• 5 ASX ETFs for beginner investors in July
• How much is needed in superannuation to target a $100,000 annual passive income?
• How to make $50,000 of passive income from ASX shares like CBA

Motley Fool contributor Samantha Menzies has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF, Transurban Group, and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Transurban 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.

On Wednesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was on form and pushed higher. The benchmark index rose 0.35% to 8,823 points.

Will the market be able to build on this on Thursday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to jump

It looks set to be a great session for Australian investors on Thursday despite a subdued night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 75 points or 0.85% higher this morning. In late trade in the United States, the Dow Jones is up 0.1%, the S&P 500 is 0.05% lower, and the Nasdaq is down 0.35%.

Hold Beach Energy shares

Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) shares are around fair value despite falling heavily this year according to Bell Potter. This morning, the broker has retained its hold rating on the energy producer’s shares with a reduced price target of 95 cents (from $1.15). It said: “BPT is in a production replacement cycle with respect to exploration and appraisal. Production growth should return in FY27 and capex ease, enabling positive free cash flow to support balance sheet deleveraging and ongoing dividends. We are positive on BPT’s exposure to Australian east coast gas markets (around half of sales volumes) and cautious with respect to global oil markets.”

Oil prices rise again

ASX 200 energy shares Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have a good session after oil prices charged higher again overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 3.3% to US$87.12 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 3.65% to US$94.33 a barrel. Traders were bidding oil higher after the US claimed that Iran is not serious about signing a peace deal.

Buy Paladin Energy shares

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) shares are undervalued according to Bell Potter. In response to its quarterly update and release of FY 2027 guidance, the broker has retained its buy rating on the uranium producer’s shares with a trimmed price target of $14.80 (from $15.30). It commented: “We retain our Buy recommendation. We have a positive medium- to long-term outlook for the uranium market, supported by barriers to new supply and demand growth linked to electrification, energy security and AI-related power requirements. PDN has around ~53% exposure to spot prices out to 2030. Production at LHM continues to improve with higher-grade mined ore feeding the processing plant and continued process optimisation.”

Gold price climbs

It could be a good session for ASX 200 gold shares including Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) on Thursday after the gold price rose overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up 1.55% to US$4,139.4 an ounce. Safe haven demand sent the gold price to a two-week high.

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

More reading

• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• The Santos share price is in the spotlight this week. Here’s why
• Why is everyone talking about Resolute Mining, Westgold and Paladin shares on Wednesday?
• Why this top expert thinks Qantas shares can fly 20% higher
• Beach Energy posts steady Q4 production and a resilient outlook

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Woodside Energy Group Ltd. 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.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) enjoyed a happy hump day this Wednesday. After a bumpy start to the week, investors seemed to be in a positive mood all session today. After some bouncing around, the ASX 200 ended up closing 0.34% higher. That leaves the index at a flat 8,823 points.

This excitable Wednesday on the ASX comes after an even more upbeat night over on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in a great mood, rising 0.74%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was even more jubilant, gaining 1.29%.

But get back to the local markets now and dive a little deeper into what the different ASX sectors were doing this hump day.

Winners and losers

Despite the broader market’s gains, there were a few sectors that were left out in the cold.

First amongst those were again healthcare shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) tanked 1.93% today.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) were also shunned, with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) diving 1.44%.

Consumer discretionary stocks matched that loss. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) also tumbled 1.44%.

Tech shares were on the nose too, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ)’s 1.07% slump.

Communications stocks weren’t much better. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) dipped 0.93% this session.

Utilities shares came next, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) shedding 0.75% of its value.

Industrial stocks fared better, though. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) saw its value decline 0.08% this Wednesday.

Our final losers were consumer staples shares, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)’s 0.02% slip.

Turning to the winners now, it was gold stocks that came out on top. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) enjoyed a 3.98% surge today.

Broader mining stocks also ran hot, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) roaring 2.3% higher.

Energy shares didn’t miss out either. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) jumped 0.67% this session.

Last and least, financial stocks joined the party, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)’s 0.19% increase.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Titanium stock IperionX Ltd (ASX: IPX) was our index winner this Wednesday. IperionX shares rocketed 8.67% higher today to close at $3.51 each. Although there was no news out from the company, most mining shares had a stunner today.

Here’s how the other chart-toppers pulled up at the kerb: 

ASX-listed company	Share price	Price change
IperionX Ltd (ASX: IPX)	$3.51	8.67%
Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN)	$4.27	7.56%
Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX: OBM)	$1.11	7.28%
FireFly Metals Ltd (ASX: FFM)	$1.78	6.91%
Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN)	$9.13	6.66%
Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL)	$6.29	6.61%
Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX)	$4.85	6.13%
Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD)	$6.10	5.90%
Austal Ltd (ASX: ASB)	$3.72	5.68%
Catalyst Metals Ltd (ASX: CYL)	$5.92	5.34%

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why is everyone talking about Resolute Mining, Westgold and Paladin shares on Wednesday?
• Why this top expert thinks Qantas shares can fly 20% higher
• Paladin Energy sets FY2027 Langer Heinrich uranium guidance
• Westgold Resources exceeds guidance with record gold production in FY26
• Mercury NZ trading margin jumps 33% as renewables drive Q4 result

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.

Of all the ASX healthcare shares, Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL) is one of the most appealing businesses to me in the sector.

Sonic Healthcare describes itself as a global healthcare provider with specialist operations in laboratory medicine and pathology, radiology, general practice medicine and corporate medical services.

It’s headquartered in Sydney, but it has operations in a number of countries including Australia, Germany, USA, Switzerland, the UK, Belgium, Poland and New Zealand.

There are (at least) three great reasons to like the business.

Revenue growth with good tailwinds

The business is regularly delivering good revenue growth, which is an important element of long-term success. Sonic Healthcare is benefiting from the fact that there are ageing and growing population demographics in its core markets.

The FY26 half-year result showed the ability of the business to grow – revenue rose 17% year over year to $5.4 billion. That included organic revenue growth of 5%.

Sonic Healthcare has managed to drive its revenue through both organic expansion and acquisitions.

The great thing about being a global business is that Sonic can allocate its organic investment and acquisition attention to whichever market or opportunity it thinks is the best place for its money.

I believe the ASX healthcare share will be able to continue growing revenue at a good pace for the foreseeable future.

Good profit growth

Profit growth is even more important than revenue growth, of course.

Sonic’s profit is growing at a pleasing pace, which I think the market is underestimating. In the FY26 half-year result, Sonic Healthcare revealed operating profit (EBITDA) growth of 10%, net profit growth of 11% and operating cash flow growth of 10%.

As the business become larger, I expect its profit margins to increase, as it did in the past. The company noted that its underlying EBITDA margin did increase in the HY26 period.

According to the projection on Commsec, the Sonic Healthcare share price is valued at less than 18x FY26’s estimated earnings. The forecast on Commsec suggests the business could grow its earnings by 15% in FY27 and another 14% in FY28.

If the ASX healthcare share is able to continue growing its earnings by more than 10% in the coming years, it could justify more market excitement again about its prospects.

Rising dividend

One of the benefits of owning the ASX healthcare share is that the business is regularly increasing its payout.

It has increased its annual payout each year since FY13, meaning it has been able to give investors a pleasing level of payout consistency.

According to the projection on Commsec, the business could pay an annual dividend per share of $1.095 in FY26, which translates into a 5.25% dividend yield, excluding any franking credits.

Overall, I think this business is undervalued and has a promising future.

The post 3 reasons why this ASX healthcare share price is a buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Healthcare shares lead the ASX 200 again as sector rotation gathers pace

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

Of all the ASX exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in my portfolio, of which there are a few, there’s only one that I think is looking attractive right now. Sure, my index funds, which include the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) and the Vanguard MSCI Australian Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VSO), are always solid options. But neither of these funds is looking like a screaming bargain at today’s prices. At least in my opinion.

But the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)? That’s a different story.

The VanEck Wide Moat ETF is a rather unique fund on the ASX. It is not your traditional index fund, blindly following an entire market. Instead, it is an actively managed ASX ETF that holds a relatively concentrated portfolio of US stocks.

Not just any US stock finds its way into the MOAT portfolio, though. Each holding is only selected if it appears to display signs of possessing a wide economic moat. A moat is a concept first coined by legendary investor Warren Buffett. It describes an intrinsic competitive advantage that a company can possess and use to keep its customers coming back and its competition at bay. Much as a literal moat protected a castle from marauders in days of yore.

There are many types of moats that a company might have. It could be a powerful and trusted brand, or a cost advantage that allows a company to offer consistently lower prices than its rivals. It could also be offering a product or service that customers find difficult to avoid using.

Only companies that Morningstar determines possess at least one of these moats are eligible for inclusion in the VanEck Wide Moat ETF. To illustrate, some of its current holdings include Airbnb, Microsoft, Nvidia, Nike, Disney, Clorox, Amazon, and PepsiCo.

Whether it’s Airbnb’s brand, Nvidia’s cutting-edge chips, Disney’s intellectual property assets, or Amazon’s cost advantage, you can see why these companies might possess a moat.

But let’s talk about this ETF itself.

Why this ASX ETF is looking hot right now

Over long periods of time, MOAT units have returned some impressive numbers. As of 30 June, this ASX ETF has delivered an average of 14.4% per annum over the past ten years (that’s growth plus dividend returns). Since inception in 2015, the number is 13.94% per annum.

Yet the past year has been a lacklustre one for this fund. Over the 12 months to 30 June, investors banked just 5.97%. Indeed, over this same period, the MOAT unit price itself has gone backwards by about 3.8%. As of today’s pricing, the gap is even wider at a 6.2% loss.

Yet I think this makes this ASX ETF a compelling investing opportunity. This ETF has the runs on the board to show that its strategy is a successful one over long periods of time. As such, any pullback or departure from the mean might be a great time to pick up some units. I’ve had this ETF in my portfolio for many years, and it has been a lucrative investment. As such, I’m considering adding some more at current levels.

The post I think this Buffett-inspired ASX ETF is in the buy zone right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 ASX ETFs for beginner investors in July
• 3 amazing ASX ETFs I’d buy this month
• The best ASX ETFs to buy and hold for 10 years
• The currency-hedged ASX ETFs magnifying dividends by up to 10x this season
• 6 ASX ETFs offering 10%-plus dividend yields in a single payout

Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen has positions in Amazon, Microsoft, PepsiCo, VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF, Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF, and Vanguard Msci Australian Small Companies Index ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Airbnb, Amazon, Microsoft, Nike, Nvidia, and Walt Disney. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Airbnb, Amazon, Microsoft, Nike, Nvidia, VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF, and Walt Disney. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.