Category: Stock Market

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) closed 0.5% higher at the end of last week, and the upward momentum has continued this week too. At the time of writing on Tuesday morning, the index is another 0.47% higher for the day, and now 2.89% higher for the year-to-date.

Earnings season has taken its toll on some sectors of the market, while defensive stocks continued to outperform.

New data from CommSec reveals the Australian shares that were most traded by its clients last week, and the results might be surprising.

5 most traded ASX shares

Droneshield Ltd (ASX: DRO) shares have been a firm favourite among its clients for several weeks now. But last week sentiment shifted and CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares became the star of the show. 

The biotech company’s shares crashed nearly 17% over the course of the week after the company released a soft half-year result and announced a shock CEO exit.

Analysts have been positive on CSL shares for some time, with many tipping an extraordinary comeback this year. And it looks like, after a brutal sell-off, many investors saw a buying opportunity. The stock was the most traded among the bank’s clients last week, and 79% of activity was buying.

The share price has failed to rebound just yet, with an increase just under 1% this week so far.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares were the second most-traded, but most of the activity (78%) was investors selling up their stock. This is most likely investors taking profits after the shares jumped 10% following the bank’s surprisingly strong half-year results announcement. 

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) shares were the third most traded, with most activity (80%) being from buyers after the shares dropped over 13% throughout the week amid a broad pullback in the tech sector.

While Droneshield shares weren’t a priority last week, they were still on investors’ minds. The shares came in fourth place, mostly down to buying activity. 

Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS) shares were the fifth most traded ASX share among Commsec’s clients last week. The shares are significantly lower than their all-time high in January thanks to a few headwinds, but analysts are still bullish about their outlook this year.

What other ASX shares were investors interested in?

CommSec clients were also interested in buying AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP), Pro Medics Ltd (ASX: PME) and Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) shares last week.

There was also a lot of selling activity around ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares throughout the week.

The post ASX recap: 5 most traded shares last week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Here’s everything you need to know about the latest BHP dividend
• Why BHP, JB Hi-Fi, Judo Capital, and PEXA shares are storming higher today
• With FY 2026 profits forecast to grow 4% to 7%, are CSL shares a good buy today?
• AFIC announces CEO transition: Alison Gibson to succeed Mark Freeman in 2026

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 CSL, DroneShield, Electro Optic Systems, WiseTech Global, 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 WiseTech Global 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.

Shares in Baby Bunting Group Ltd (ASX: BBN) are charging higher on Tuesday after the retailer released its half-year results.

In early afternoon trade, the Baby Bunting share price is up 10% to $2.42. It marks a welcome bounce for investors after the stock fell roughly 15% earlier this year.

Let’s take a closer look at what impressed investors.

Record gross margin and solid sales growth

For the first half of FY26, Baby Bunting reported total sales of $271.4 million, up 6.7% on the prior corresponding period.

Comparable store sales increased 4.7%, above the company’s earlier guidance range of 2% to 3%.

Gross margin was a standout metric, increasing 124 basis points to 41%, the highest level in the company’s history. Management said this was driven by better supplier terms, growth in private label and exclusive products, and improved pricing discipline.

Gross profit increased 10% to $111.4 million.

Profit lifts, but costs still a focus

On a pro forma basis, net profit after tax (NPAT) came in at $5 million, up 4.1% on last year and in line with guidance.

Underlying NPAT, which strips out one-off items linked to store refurbishments and network changes, jumped 44% to $7.2 million.

However, cost of doing business rose to $96.8 million. This reflects investment in new stores, refurbishments, marketing, and general inflation pressures.

Management also confirmed no interim dividend will be paid as it focuses on funding growth.

Store upgrades delivering results

A key part of Baby Bunting’s strategy is its ‘Store of the Future’ refurbishment program.

The company said refurbished stores delivered sales uplifts of around 25%, which is at the top end of its target range. In total, 6 refurbishments were completed in the first half, with more planned in the second half.

The company’s online channel grew by 18% and now accounts for almost one quarter of overall sales.

Trading update and guidance

Importantly, momentum appears to have continued into the second half.

For the first 7 weeks of the second half, comparable sales are up 6.7%. That includes solid growth in both Australia and New Zealand.

Management maintained second-half pro forma NPAT guidance of $12.5 million to $14.5 million. Full-year pro forma NPAT guidance remains at $17.5 million to $19.5 million.

The company is also targeting full-year comparable sales growth of 5% to 7% and gross margin above 41%.

What’s driving the share price?

Today’s 10% jump reflects a positive market response to stronger sales momentum and record margins.

While the stock is still down for the year, these results show a business that is stabilising after a tougher retail period.

The focus now shifts to whether this improvement can be sustained. If comparable sales stay solid and margins remain above 41%, earnings growth in the second half could accelerate.

The post Why Baby Bunting shares are jumping 10% today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• This ASX 200 stock just announced a huge dividend hike
• This ASX industrials stock has dropped nearly 5% following H1 FY26 result
• Is JB Hi-Fi a buy, sell or hold following its half-year result?
• With FY 2026 profits forecast to grow 4% to 7%, are CSL shares a good buy today?
• AFIC announces CEO transition: Alison Gibson to succeed Mark Freeman in 2026

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.

We are now in the midst of this February’s ASX earnings season. We’ve already heard from some big names over the past week or two, with more ASX 200 stocks joining the list daily.

This morning, another stock gave investors a look at its latest numbers. This particular ASX 200 stock reported double-digit increases across the board, and gave investors a massive 13% dividend hike as a result.

That ASX 200 stock was none other than Seek Ltd (ASX: SEK).

This online classifieds stock certainly has a half-year to remember over the six months to 31 December 2025. As we covered this morning, Seek reported an impressive 21% rise in sales revenues over the period to $647 million. Net revenues increased by 12%, with earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) surging 19% to $267 million. That enabled Seek to report an adjusted profit of $104 million, up 35%.

Although Seek did ring up a reported net loss of $178 million, this was mostly a result of a $356 million impairment in its stake in Chinese online recruitment platform Zhaopin.

Investors were expecting more, though, it seems. At the time of writing, this ASX 200 stock has retreated 2.1% and is trading at $16.81  share. That’s despite initially spiking up to $18.48 this morning.

But let’s talk dividends.

ASX 200 stock reveals 13% dividend hike

In some pleasing news for income investors, Seek reaffirmed its status as one of the ASX 200’s best dividend-paying tech stocks this morning by revealing a 13% hike to its next interim dividend. Yep, Seek will pay a 2026 interim dividend worth 27 cents per share this year. As is typical of Seek, this dividend will come with full franking credits attached.

This 27 cents per share dividend is 13% higher than 2025’s interim dividend of 24 cents per share. It also represents a meaningful increase over October’s final dividend, which was worth 22 cents per share.

Seek has nominated 17 March next month as this payment’s ex-dividend date, with pay day then rolling around on 1 April (no joke).

This latest dividend from Seek is a notable one. It is the third interim dividend to be raised from the previous year’s levels in a row, as well as being the highest individual dividend the ASX 200 stock has ever declared.

Together with that final dividend from October, worth 22 cents per share, Seek’s 12-month dividend total now rises to a record 49 cents per share.

That means that, although Seek currently trades on a trailing dividend yield of 2.73% (at current pricing), we can now give this ASX 200 stock a forward dividend yield of 2.91%.

The post This ASX 200 stock just announced a huge dividend hike appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• SEEK delivers double-digit growth and record dividend in FY26 half-year results
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• 3 beaten-down ASX 200 shares to pick up in February
• Why is everyone talking about Seek shares all of a sudden?

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.

SRG Global Ltd (ASX: SRG) shares are down 4.76% to $2.80 a piece at the time of writing on Thursday. The latest stock price plunge follows news of the ASX industrial company’s half-year results for the period ending 31 December 2025, which were released ahead of the market open this morning.

The latest decline means the shares are now 6.04% lower for the year-to-date but they’re still trading 95.8% above where they were this time last year.

Why the ASX industrials stock’s shares are crashing on results day

Here’s what the engineering-led specialist construction, maintenance and mining services company posted this morning:

• Revenue up 20% to $743.9 million
• EBITDA up 20% to $71.0 million
• EDIT(A) up 26% to $53.2 million
• Net profit after tax (NPAT) up 27% to $33.7 million
• EPS up 20% to 5.5 cents 
• Dividends per share up 20% to 3 cents

What happened in H1 FY26?

SRG Global posted a 20% increase in its revenue to $743.9 million, from $619.7 million in the first half of FY25. 

It also posted a 20% increase in its earnings before interest tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) to $71 million. This is up from $59 million in the first half of FY25. The company said this was due to continued strong margin performance and operational delivery across both of its operating segments.

In the same period the ASX industrials company improved its cash position to a net debt of $21.2 million. This is up from from proforma net debt of $52.5 million following its TAMS acquisition in October 2025. 

“I am pleased to report that TAMS delivered to business case in its first 2 months with SRG Global and is now fully integrated into the business. TAMS is a market leading marine infrastructure services provider with a 25-year history of long-term client relationships and is an embedded partner with Port Authorities and blue-chip clients in diverse sectors for critical port and marine infrastructure maintenance and engineering, design & construction,” SRG Global managing direction David Macgeorge said. 

“SRG Global has record Work in Hand of $4.2 billion and is well positioned for long-term growth with end-to-end asset life cycle capability in key sectors such as water, energy, resources, transport, defence, ports / marine, health, education and data centres across Australia and New Zealand.”

The board declared a 1H interim fully franked dividend of 3.0 cents per share. This is up 20% from the first half of last year. The record date of the dividend is Friday, 13 March 2026 with a payment date of Friday, 10 April 2026.

What’s ahead of SRG Global this year?

The ASX industrials company is optimistic about the outlook for its full-year results. 

SRG Global has upgraded its FY26 earnings guidance to $164 million to $168 million. It has also upgraded EBITDA guidance to $126 million to $130 million EBIT(A) for FY26.

The company also said that its $4.2 billion WIH (work in hand) and $11.5 billion opportunity pipeline products are a platform for long-term sustainable growth. It notes that its has a positive exposure to growth sectors including water, energy, industrial/resources, transport, defence, health, education, data centres and ports/marine.

The post This ASX industrials stock has dropped nearly 5% following H1 FY26 result appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why Baby Bunting shares are jumping 10% today
• This ASX 200 stock just announced a huge dividend hike
• Is JB Hi-Fi a buy, sell or hold following its half-year result?
• With FY 2026 profits forecast to grow 4% to 7%, are CSL shares a good buy today?
• AFIC announces CEO transition: Alison Gibson to succeed Mark Freeman in 2026

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

Shares in JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH) found some support on Monday after the company released its results, and it’s not hard to see why.

The electronics and homewares retailer posted a 7.3% increase in sales to a record $6.1 billion net profit was up 7.1% to $305.8 million and the interim dividend was boosted by a massive 23.5% to 210 cents per share.

Chief executive officer Nick Wells said the company was building on the momentum of the previous year.

He added:

In a retail environment where customers are seeking value, our brands continue to resonate strongly and our teams continue to execute to a high standard.

On trading to date this calendar year JB Hi-fi Australia sales were up 2.4%, JB Hi-Fi New Zealand were up 16.7% and The Good Guys were 2.7% higher.

Mr Wells did strike a note of caution about the outlook however, saying:

Whilst we are pleased to see sales growth continue in January in JB Hi-Fi and The Good Guys, cycling strong sales in the prior year, we remain cautious given the uncertainty in the retail market and the continued competitive activity. As always, we will remain focused on maximising demand through driving great value for our customers and delivering consistently high levels of customer service.

Shares looking cheap?

So what do the analysts think? It’s fair to say there’s a range of opinions, with Macquarie quite bullish on the outlook for JB Hi-Fi shares.

Macquarie has a 12-month price target of $106 compared with $82.40 currently, which would represent a total shareholder return of 33.3% if achieved once dividends are factored in.

The Macquarie team said they believed “concerns by the market are over-played” and they still saw tailwinds for the shares including ongoing tech upgrade cycles.

 They added:

With industry anecdotes continuing to point to rising competition in key promotional periods, especially “Black November”, there was continued evidence of JBH’s strong market position. In the key JB AU segment, which is likely the largest participant in these promotional-heavy periods, gross profit margins expanded … evident of solid execution and supplier contributions.

The analyst team at Citi still has a buy rating on JB Hi-Fi shares, but did downgrade its price target from $110 to $100.

They said they were “positively surprised” by the gross profit margins for JB Hi-Fi and The Good Guys, and they believed major downgrades were unlikely in the future, going on past performance where that had only happened once in 15 years.

 And finally, the analyst team at Morgans have rated JB Hi-Fi shares a hold, with a price target of just $87, lowered from $95.

The Morgans team said this week’s profit was a “solid” result from the company which was the market leader in its field, however they reduced their assumptions about earnings going forward due to lower sales growth expectations.

The post Is JB Hi-Fi a buy, sell or hold following its half-year result? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Why A2 Milk, Aurizon, JB Hi-Fi, and Magnetic Resources shares are storming higher today
• JB Hi-Fi shares jump 5% on results day. Is this the turnaround investors were waiting for?
• JB Hi-Fi posts record first-half sales, profit and dividend lift

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.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares are slipping today.

Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) biotech stock closed yesterday trading for $152.17. In late morning trade on Tuesday, shares are changing hands for $151.07 apiece, down 0.7%.

For some context, the ASX 200 is up 0.5% at this same time.

Unfortunately, today’s underperformance is something stockholders have been dealing with for some time now. With today’s intraday moves factored in, CSL shares are down 41.5% over 12 months, compared to the 5.2% one-year gains posted by the benchmark index.

And those losses will have only been very modestly pared by the company’s dividends. CSL currently trades on a 2.8% unfranked dividend yield, partly trailing, partly pending.

The pending part of that CSL dividend is the $1.838 per share interim payout, declared when the company reported its half year results on 11 February.

If you want to bank that passive income payout, you’ll need to own shares at market close on 9 March. CSL stock trades ex-dividend on 10 March.

Which brings us back to our headline question.

Should you buy CSL shares today?

Bell Potter Securities’ Christopher Watt recently analysed the company’s half year results and outlook (courtesy of The Bull).

“This plasma and vaccines giant reported revenue of US$8.3 billion in the first half of 2026, down 4% on the prior corresponding period,” he noted.

“Underlying net profit after tax and amortisation (NPATA) of US$1.9 billion, excluding restructuring costs and impairments, was down 7%,” Watt added.

But Watt pointed out that CSL shares could have a stronger second half ahead of them, according to the company’s FY 2026 guidance, with management flagging full year potential profit growth of 7%.

Watt said:

The company has maintained full year guidance, with revenue forecast to increase between 2% and 3% and NPATA between 4% and 7% at constant currency.

While marking the ASX 200 healthcare stock as potentially ‘attractive’ longer-term, Watt currently has a hold rating on CSL shares.

“CSL trades below its historical price/earnings ratio and peers. Longer term product pipelines remain attractive,” he concluded.

What’s the latest from the ASX 200 healthcare share?

CSL’s chief financial officer Ken Lim commented on the outlook for CSL shares last week, following the abrupt departure of former CEO Paul McKenzie.

Acknowledging the first half results were disappointing, he said over the six months the company was “adversely impacted by a number of factors including government policy changes, one-off restructuring costs and impairments”.

As for the potentially stronger second half, McKenzie said:

In the second half we have an ambitious growth plan, driven by immunoglobulin (Ig), albumin and our newly launched products. We continued to advance our broader transformation strategy, making strong progress on our cost‑efficiency initiatives and strengthening the foundations of the business.

We invested in growth opportunities including our strategic collaboration with VarmX. This will deliver enhanced growth, profitability and shareholder returns.

The post With FY 2026 profits forecast to grow 4% to 7%, are CSL shares a good buy today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• Buy, hold, sell: CSL, Lynas, and Wesfarmers shares
• Utilities outperform as ASX 200 ascends to a 3-month high
• Recap: Winners and losers from earnings season week 2
• The earnings were awful, but here’s why I’m still holding my CSL shares

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 positions in and has recommended CSL. 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.

The Australian Foundation Investment Co Ltd (ASX: AFI) share price is in focus today after the ASX-listed giant announced a leadership transition, with CEO and Managing Director Mark Freeman set to retire at the end of the 2026 financial year. AFIC also named Alison Gibson as his successor, effective 13 July 2026.

What did Australian Foundation Investment Company report?

• Mark Freeman to retire as CEO and Managing Director at end of FY26 after over 31 years with AFIC and related LICs
• Alison Gibson appointed incoming Managing Director and CEO, effective 13 July 2026
• Gibson brings over 25 years’ experience in investment management, including a decade at AFIC
• AFIC’s funds under management have grown from $1 billion to $12 billion under Freeman’s leadership
• More than 200,000 shareholders currently invest in AFIC and related listed investment companies

What else do investors need to know?

Alison Gibson will take charge not only at AFIC but also as CEO and Managing Director of Australian Investment Company Services Limited (AICS). This group provides investment and administration services to AFIC and three other listed investment companies: Djerriwarrh Investments, Mirrabooka Investments, and AMCIL Limited.

Gibson previously served as portfolio manager at AFIC from 2011 to 2021 before joining HESTA. She has a strong background in portfolio management, equity research, and investment strategy, leading investment teams in both institutional and funds management settings.

Her employment package includes a base salary of $850,000 per annum plus a potential annual incentive of up to 100% of her fixed remuneration, along with standard notice and post-employment restrictions.

What’s next for Australian Foundation Investment Company?

With Freeman’s retirement planned for the end of FY26, the leadership transition will take place over the coming year. Alison Gibson is expected to build on AFIC’s established investment approach, supported by her experience and familiarity with the business.

The Board has highlighted its confidence in Gibson’s ability to lead AFIC and its affiliates, continuing their focus on long-term value for shareholders at low cost.

Australian Foundation Investment Company share price snapshot

Over the past 12 month, AFIC shares have declined 7%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 5% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post AFIC announces CEO transition: Alison Gibson to succeed Mark Freeman in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why experts think this ASX 200 share can rise 20% after its result
• BHP Group posts 28% profit jump and higher dividend in half-year earnings
• Sims FY26 half-year earnings: Profit surges, dividend rises
• A rare opportunity to buy 1 of Australia’s top shares?
• SEEK delivers double-digit growth and record dividend in FY26 half-year results

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

ASX retail shares are underperforming on Tuesday as earnings season continues.

The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) is up 0.3% while the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is up 0.5%.

Meantime, brokers have revealed two ASX retail shares to buy and two to sell.

Let’s take a look.

Nick Scali Ltd (ASX: NCK) 

The Nick Scali share price is $19.14, up 3.9% on Tuesday and up 8.6% over the past 12 months.

The furniture retailer reported 36% increase in profit in its 1H FY26 results last week.

Nick Scali revealed a 7.2% year-on-year increase in revenue to $269.3 million and an 18.8% uplift in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) to $96.6 million.

The statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) was $41 million, and there was a 14.1% improvement in gross margin to 59.2%.

Nick Scali announced a fully franked interim dividend of 39 cents per share, up 30% on 1H FY25.

Bell Potter said first-half NPAT came in 11% above expectations.

The broker retained its buy rating on the ASX retail share but lowered its 12-month share price forecast by 11% to $25 “due to softer growth into the second half, earnings revisions and the rising interest rate environment”.

Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

The Breville share price is $32.17, down 0.5% on Tuesday and down 13% over the past 12 months.

The white goods manufacturer released its 1H FY26 results last week.

The company revealed a 10.1% increase in total sales revenue to $1,098.7 million.

EBITDA grew by 2.9% to $182.8 million and NPAT lifted 0.7% to $98.2 million.

Breville announced a fully franked interim dividend of 19 cents per share, up from 18 cents in 1H FY25.

Following the report, Morgans maintained a buy rating on this ASX retail share.

The broker commented:

1H26 was better-than-feared, with double-digit sales growth (+10%) largely offset by tariff costs (~130bp GM impact) to deliver a flat NPAT outcome (+1% on pcp).

Crucially, FY26 EBIT growth guidance provides much-needed earnings visibility, alleviating some concerns for an extended transition year and improving our confidence for a resumption of sustainable EPS growth from FY27+.

We continue to be impressed by BRG’s strong operational execution, green shoots in Food Prep, and powerful medium-term tailwinds (geographic expansion, espresso tailwinds, NPD, Best Buy developments).

Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF)

The Collins Foods share price is $10.14, up 1.2% today and up 24% over the past 12 months.

On The Bull this week, Michael Gable from Fairmont Equities revealed a sell rating on the KFC franchise owner.

Gable explained:

We expect cost pressures to hit margins. Cost of living pressures and rising interest rates in Australia may pressure sales.

The company delivered group revenue and statutory net profit after tax growth in the first half of 2026 when compared to the prior corresponding period.

However, market reaction to the result has been negative.

The shares have fallen from $11.60 on December 1, 2025 the day prior to the half year result, to trade at $10.425 on February 12, 2026.

Share price rallies are followed by selling pressure, a sign that investors are seeking out other opportunities.

Cettire Ltd (ASX: CTT)

ASX retail share Cettire is trading at 48 cents apiece, down 2% today and down 60% over the past 12 months.

Cettire will release its 1H FY26 results next Thursday.

Christopher Watt from Bell Potter Securities reckons the luxury goods online retailer is a sell.

Watt explained:

Fiscal year 2025 was challenging in response to a slowdown in demand, macroeconomic headwinds and a heightened competitive environment.

The company posted a statutory net loss after tax of $2.6 million.

The shares have fallen from $4.66 on February 12, 2024 to trade at 51 cents on February 12, 2026.

In our view, the lack of near term catalysts suggest elevated risk, particularly if macroeconomic headwinds dampen luxury demand. 

The post ASX retail shares: Experts rate 2 to buy and 2 to sell appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 8 ASX All Ords shares just upgraded to strong buy status
• Why experts think this ASX 200 share can rise 20% after its result
• What have we learned from earnings season so far?
• Leading brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today
• Buy, sell or hold? Where to from here for plunging Nick Scali shares?

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

Shares in Pexa Group Ltd (ASX: PXA) are higher on Tuesday after the company outlined changes to its Digital Solutions division.

At the time of writing, the Pexa share price is up 4.83% to $14.54.

The stock is now up around 7% for 2026, with today’s move marking one of its stronger single-day gains this year.

The rally follows an announcement released after market close on Monday.

Exit from Digital Solutions confirmed

In its update, Pexa confirmed it will exit its majority-owned Digital Solutions businesses. These assets will be classified as “held for sale” and treated as discontinued operations.

The decision follows a previously announced strategic review, in which management concluded that Pexa is not the best long-term owner of those businesses. Instead, the company will concentrate capital and resources on its core Exchange platform across Australia and the United Kingdom.

Pexa expects to recognise around $26 million in net impairments as part of the exit. It also flagged significant items of between $7 million and $8 million in the first half of FY26, excluding the impairment.

Despite the one-off charges, investors appear focused on the clearer earnings profile.

Pexa has begun the divestment of majority-owned Value Australia, which is expected to be completed by mid-2026.

FY26 guidance updated

Alongside the restructure, Pexa restated its FY26 guidance to reflect discontinued operations and the performance of its core business.

On a restated basis, group revenue is now expected to be between $395 million and $415 million, compared to previous guidance of $405 million to $430 million.

Group EBITDA margin is forecast at 34% to 37%, up from the earlier 32% to 35% range.

Core net profit after tax from continuing operations is now expected to be between $15 million and $25 million. Previously, guidance was for $5 million to $15 million.

Group capex remains at $50 million to $55 million, while international operating cash flow is expected to be between negative $59 million and negative $63 million.

For the first half of FY26, Pexa expects significant items of between $7 million and $8 million, excluding the $26 million impairment.

Cost savings and upcoming results

The company said the divestment will enable greater focus on its core Exchange operations. It plans to direct capital and resources toward growth in Australia and the United Kingdom.

The company is also undertaking a cost optimisation program in Australia, which is expected to deliver more than $10 million in annual cash savings.

Digital Solutions products that align with the Exchange business will be absorbed into the Australian segment. FY25 comparatives have been restated to reflect the revised structure.

Management said further detail will be provided at its first-half FY26 results on 27 February 2026.

The post Why the Pexa share price is on the rise today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• PEXA Group: Divestment drives strategy shift

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

S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO) shares are in the green, up 0.4% as earnings season continues on Tuesday.

Meantime, brokers have identified some stocks that they think are good buys for the year ahead.

Let’s check them out.

8 ASX All Ords shares with strong buy consensus ratings

The following stocks have been recently upgraded to ‘strong buy’ consensus ratings among analysts on the CommSec platform.

A consensus rating is the average rating based on a number of analysts’ opinions.

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

The Zip share price is $2.50, down 0.4% on Tuesday.

This ASX All Ords financial share is up 2% over the past 12 months.

UBS is among the brokers recommending investors buy Zip shares.

The broker has a 12-month share price target of $5.20 on the buy now, pay later (BNPL) provider.

Citi also has a buy rating with a much lower target of $4.30.

Zip will report its earnings on Thursday.

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

The Xero share price is at a three-year low of $77, down 2.7% today as the global tech downturn continues.

The ASX All Ords tech share has halved in value over the past six months.

In February, several brokers have reiterated their buy ratings but with vastly different 12-month price targets.

Jefferies has a target of $82.70 and Citi is tipping $144.80 per share.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

The Wisetech share price is also at a three-year low of $45.49, down 5.6% on Tuesday.

Wisetech shares have lost 63% of their value over the past year.

This month, Jefferies reiterated its buy rating with a 12-month price target of $65.

Citi is far more ambitious with a target of $109.15.

Wisetech will release its 1H FY26 results next Wednesday.

Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX)

The Westgold Resources share price is currently $7.20, down 0.8%.

The ASX All Ords gold share is up 193% over the past 12 months.

Macquarie is among the brokers with a buy rating on Westgold shares. Its 12-month target is $9.90.

Ord Minnett also has a buy recommendation with a target of $8.65.

Some experts believe the gold price could rise above US$7,000 per ounce this year.

Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM)

This ASX All Ords gold share is $13.32 apiece on Tuesday, down 0.9%.

Capricorn Metals shares have soared 68% over the past 12 months.

This month, Macquarie upgraded its rating to buy and lifted its price target from $15.20 to $16.20.

AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL)

The AGL share price is $10.43, down 0.6% today and down 2.7% over the past 12 months.

Last week, AGL reported an underlying profit of $353 million for 1H FY26, down 6% on 1H FY25.

The energy retailer announced a fully franked interim dividend of 24 cents per share.

Citi has a buy rating on the ASX All Ords utilities share with a price target of $11.80. 

RBC Capital also has a buy recommendation with a target of $11.50.

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX)

The Telix Pharmaceuticals share price is $8.33, down 3.5% on Tuesday.

The ASX All Ords healthcare share is down 70% over the past 12 months.

Citi just reiterated its buy rating on Telix with a price target of $34.

TD Cowen also has a buy rating but lowered its price target from $25 to $20.

WA1 Resources Ltd (ASX: WA1)

This ASX All Ords copper share is $15.62 apiece, down 2% today and up 18% over the past 12 months.

Copper is in high demand due to the green energy transition and rising debasement trade amid geopolitical and trade uncertainties.

The red metal is essential for electrification and a key input in new infrastructure like wind turbines and data centres.

This month, Canaccord Genuity reiterated its buy rating and lifted its 12-month price target from $28 to $32.

The post 8 ASX All Ords shares just upgraded to strong buy status appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• ASX retail shares: Experts rate 2 to buy and 2 to sell
• What have we learned from earnings season so far?
• Here’s the dividend forecast out to 2030 for AGL shares
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• These are the 10 most shorted ASX shares

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