Category: Stock Market

Life360 Inc (ASX: 360) shares closed 2.99% higher on Tuesday afternoon. While the uptick is good news for investors, the stock has a while to go before it recovers losses made over the past four months.

For the year to date, Life360 shares have declined 18.33%. They’re also 52.18% below the all-time high of $55.44 achieved in October last year.

What happened to Life360 shares?

The US-based software development company took the tech industry by storm last year. The dual-listed (on the Nasdaq and the ASX) company was earmarked as an unstoppable ASX growth share after the launch of its new GPS pet-tracking feature.

There was never any real price sensitive news out of the tech company to explain the dramatic investor sell-off. Rather, it looks like the decline is a combination of investors selling up to take profit off the table after a period of strong price growth, combined with overall sector wide weakness across the tech sector.

Earlier this month there was concern that artificial intelligence could disrupt traditional platforms and software models. This damped investor sentiment and caused a further pullpack in the share price.

This year’s headwinds come off the back of a sharp share price correction across the tech sector in late 2025. 

The company delivered a standout quarterly update last month. The result beat expectations and caused a share price surge of nearly 30%.

Life360 reported strong user growth, with monthly active users (MAU) reaching 95.8 million. That marks the highest Q4 MAU level in the company’s history and represents an intake of an additional 16.2 million users over calendar year 2025.

But it wasn’t enough to keep confidence high and the uptick was short-lived. 

What’s ahead for Life360 in 2026?

Life360 said it expects to see strong user acquisition and monetisation in both its core US and fast-growing international markets this year. 

Following its new pet-related software, the business plans to turn its attention to an elderly-focused solution.

Some even think the user growth could accelerate in 2026 if engagement remains strong.

In short, Life360 is well positioned for growth in 2026. If that eventuates, then the current share price is a bargain for investors who want to get in on the stock. Especially ahead of the next uplift.

Data shows that analysts are mostly bullish on the outlook for the tech stock. Out of 13 analysts, 10 have a buy or strong buy rating on the shares. The maximum price target is $49.68 which implies a potential 87.41% upside for investors at the time of writing.

The post Life360 shares drop 50% from their peak: Buy, sell or hold? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday

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 Life360. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Life360. 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) will report its 2026 half-year financial results this morning. The update comes as the company prepares for a change in senior leadership.

Just after market close on Tuesday, CSL confirmed that chief executive officer and managing director Dr Paul McKenzie will retire. Gordon Naylor has been appointed interim CEO and managing director, effective from 11 February 2026.

The timing places leadership succession firmly in focus as investors await the company’s earnings update and outlook commentary.

CSL shares were volatile during Tuesday’s session. The stock was trading up around 2.2% at around $184.02 in late afternoon trade before reversing direction to finish the day down 4.98% at $171.39.

Leadership change after 3 years as CEO

Dr McKenzie served as CSL’s CEO and managing director since late 2022. His tenure covered a challenging period marked by shifting demand conditions, cost pressures and operational adjustments across parts of the group.

CSL chair Brian McNamee said the board determined it was the right time for new leadership to continue driving the company’s strategic transformation. He also acknowledged Dr McKenzie’s contribution during a period that included post-pandemic operational stabilisation and ongoing investment in research and development.

Incoming interim CEO Gordon Naylor is a long-time CSL executive and current non-executive director, with more than 3 decades of experience at the company. His background includes senior leadership roles across plasma therapies and vaccines, as well as involvement in major acquisitions and infrastructure expansion.

The board said Naylor will have full authority during the interim period while a search for a permanent CEO takes place.

Half-year results due before market open

CSL is scheduled to release its half-year financial results for the six months ended 31 December 2025 before the market opens today.

An investor and analyst briefing will follow at 10:00am AEDT via webcast.

The result is also expected to include the declaration of an interim dividend. Historically, the interim dividend is paid in April, with the ex-dividend date typically falling in early March.

What investors will be watching

While the leadership change is notable, attention will remain firmly on the numbers and forward guidance.

Investors will be focused on revenue performance across CSL’s plasma and specialty therapies businesses, margins, currency impacts and commentary around second-half trading conditions.

Any update to full-year guidance is likely to be closely watched, particularly given recent share price weakness.

With CSL shares well below previous highs and sentiment still fragile, the earnings update comes at an important time.

The post CSL prepares for half-year results as CEO transition comes into focus appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Should you buy BHP, CSL, and DroneShield shares? Here’s my take
• CSL names Gordon Naylor interim CEO as Dr Paul McKenzie retires
• 5 amazing ASX shares that could build serious wealth for investors
• 3 beaten-down ASX 200 shares to pick up in February
• How I would aim to build a $500,000 ASX retirement portfolio

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. 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.

Recently it has been well covered here at The Motley Fool that both the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) are trading close to all-time highs. 

When valuations appear full, it can be a good time for investors to consider generating passive income through dividend shares. 

Dividend shares can bring steady passive income should markets correct or stay flat. 

Here are three options to consider with healthy yields right now. 

Argo Investments Ltd (ASX: ARG)

Argo is a listed investment company (LIC) with a diversified portfolio of more than 90 ASX-listed companies. 

It has a healthy track record of consistent dividends dating back more than 20 years. 

This aligns with its ethos, as it aims to provide shareholders with long-term growth as well as reliable dividend income.

Argo released its half-year results to 31 December 2025 on Monday. 

The announcement included an interim dividend worth 18.5 cents per share for the first half of FY2026.

As Sebastian Bowen reported on Monday, this is a record high interim dividend for the company. 

It’s important to note the ex-dividend date for this payout has been set for this Friday, 13 February.

This means you need to have bought Argo shares by market close on Thursday to qualify for the payment. 

The updated interim dividend means these ASX dividend shares now give the company a forward dividend yield of roughly 4.2%.

CAR Group Ltd (ASX: CAR)

Car Group is another ASX dividend stock that announced positive news for investors this week. 

On Monday, the company also released half-year results, which included a bumped up dividend payment. 

Car Group announced its next interim dividend will be 42.5 cents per share.

This is a significant jump from the interim dividend of 38.5 cents per share that investors saw last year.

The stock now has a forward dividend yield of 3.16%.

While 3.16% isn’t the best yield on the market, it’s the consistency of passive income that might attract investors. 

As far as dividend shares go, Car Group has now put together 10 years of consistent increases. 

Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN)

Qantas is one of Australia’s most recognisable ASX dividend shares. 

New data from UBS has projected a cash dividend yield of almost 5% in 2026 including the franking credits.

Macquarie also expects Qantas to deliver a dividend yield of around 5% in FY26.

This is expected alongside further share price gains, which could bring the magical combination of capital gains and passive income. 

Its dividend is also expected to continue to grow through 2030, giving these ASX dividend shares strong long term potential. 

Qantas will release its half-year results on February 26.

The post 3 of the best ASX dividend shares right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Bell Potter says these ASX 200 stocks are buys with 20%+ upside
• 3 ASX 200 shares tipped to storm 50% to 60% higher this year
• Buy, hold, sell: CAR, REA, and Life360 shares
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

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

Are you wanting some exposure to the small side of the market? If you are, then Bell Potter has you covered.

It has named three small-cap ASX shares that could be top picks for investors in February. Here’s what it is recommending to clients:

Integral Diagnostics Ltd (ASX: IDX)

This diagnostic imaging company is highly rated by Bell Potter, especially after its merger with Capitol Health. The broker sees plenty of growth opportunities from greenfield and brownfield investments, as well as M&A opportunities. It said:

The merger between Integral Diagnostics and Capitol Health results in a diagnostic imaging (DI) company which operates 151 clinics throughout Australia. Its strongest presence will be within Victoria and Queensland (67 & 41 locations respectively) with minor penetration in the other States. The company offers a range of imaging modalities through its clinics with the largest contribution to revenue from CT (31%) followed by US (24%), MRI (13%) and X-Ray / Diagnostic Radiology (11%), and Nuclear Medicine PET (5%). The growth strategy has centred around a combination of greenfield & brownfield investments and M&A opportunities.

Kinatico Ltd (ASX: KYP)

Another small-cap ASX share that has been recommended as a buy by Bell Potter is technology company Kinatico. It provides CV checks and workforce compliance management solutions.

The broker is positive on the company’s growth outlook. It said:

Kinatico is a leading provider of “know your people” solutions to organisations in Australia and New Zealand. The company operates two key businesses: its legacy CVCheck brand, which provides employment screening and verification services to over 10,000 repeat corporate customers and its new key focus, a SaaS-based business that delivers real-time workforce compliance management and monitoring. The core strategy is to leverage the large customer base of the legacy CVCheck business to provide a ready-made sales pipeline for its higher growth SaaS compliance solutions.

Universal Store Holdings Ltd (ASX: UNI)

A third small-cap ASX share that is being recommended by Bell Potter is youth fashion retailer Universal Store.

The broker highlights Universal Store’s strong growth outlook, which is being underpinned by its store rollout strategy, and cheap valuation as reasons to buy. It said:

Universal Store Holdings is a leading youth focused apparel, footwear and accessories retailer in Australia. UNI will continue to increase store numbers over the next few years, supporting earnings growth of 10% p.a.. Valuation looks attractive, trading on a forward P/E of ~16x. UNI is a quality small cap (ROE ~26%) that is executing on its rollout strategy.

The post 3 super small-cap ASX shares that could be destined for big things appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) shares jumped 6.07% higher to close the day at $2.62 a piece on Tuesday.

The digital financial services company’s shares have caught headlines and investor attention over the past year for its volatile price swings. The shares have swung anywhere between $1.08 and $4.93 each over the past 52 weeks.

But this week, investors are buying back in. Since closing at $2.36 a piece on Friday afternoon last week, Zip shares have climbed 10.78%. And they’re now 18.55% higher than this time last year.

It’s welcome news. But now the question is, can it keep on going?

What’s ahead for Zip in 2026?

Zip has posted strong financial results over the past few quarters, and the business has robust growth plans for 2026. 

In October the company announced its Q1 results for FY26. It revealed that its total transaction value had jumped 38.7% to $3.9 billion and income was 32.8% higher at $321.5 million. Zip also confirmed it is on track to meet its FY26 results target.

Late last year Zip also made some significant progress in plans to broaden its product range and expand its global presence.

The company announced that its US segment is expanding its partnership with programmable financial services business, Stripe, a move which caused investor panic at the time. 

Zip is still considering plans to tap into the US capital markets too in order to boost its presence among US-based investors. It is mulling over plans for a secondary sharemarket listing on the Nasdaq to potentially drive opportunity for business expansion.

On paper, Zip’s rapid expansion plans and growing profit margins make the stock a no-brainer buy. And it looks like investor confidence could finally be returning too.

What do the experts expect from the shares?

I think Zip shares are a bargain at the current trading price, and I expect the share price growth could very well keep climbing higher. 

TradingView data shows that analysts also expect great things from the buy-now-pay-later (BPNL) provider this year. All 11 analysts are incredibly bullish and have a buy or strong buy rating on the stock and the maximum target price is $6.72. At the time of writing this implies the shares could soar 156.48% higher over the next 12 months.

Zip is due to post its FY26 half-year results on the 19th of February which it is expected to reveal whether the business is still on track and any news about the potential US expansion.

The post Zip shares climb 10% higher this week. Can they keep going? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• 3 reasons to buy Zip shares today
• 3 ASX 200 shares to buy: experts
• Here’s the dividend forecast out to 2030 for Zip shares
• Forget this ASX 200 share and buy Telstra and Zip shares: Experts

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 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.

Two of Australia’s largest ASX financials stocks are Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN) and QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) shares. 

Both suffered heavy losses yesterday, falling between 4.24% and 3.4% respectively. 

For context, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was essentially flat on Tuesday. 

Following yesterday’s results, it could be an opportunity to buy the dip. 

Here is what experts are saying. 

Suncorp Group

Suncorp is a Queensland-based financial services conglomerate offering retail and business banking, general insurance, superannuation, and investment products in Australia and New Zealand.

Its shares fell 4.24% yesterday despite no price sensitive news out of the financial services conglomerate. 

Its share price is down almost 10% in 2026 and more than 32% in the last 12 months. 

It now sits close to its 52-week low, trading at $16.05 per share. 

The insurance stock experienced a prolonged sell-off during elevated natural hazard payouts related to extreme weather events towards the back half of 2025.

Based on recent targets from experts, Suncorp shares could be a buy-low opportunity. 

Recently, Goldman Sachs placed a price target of $20 on Suncorp shares. 

From yesterday’s closing price, that indicates an upside of 24.61%. 

Estimates from Morgan Stanley suggest even more upside for this ASX financials stock. 

Last month, Morgan Stanley retained its overweight rating with a trimmed price target of $22.25.

This indicates an upside of 38.63%. 

It’s worth noting these capital gains could come alongside a healthy dividend yield that is projected to be more than 5%. 

An important date for investors to watch will be on Wednesday 18 February when the company releases its HY26 results.

QBE Insurance Group

QBE is Australia’s second-largest international insurer. It provides a broad range of insurance products across personal, business, corporate, and institutional markets, and is involved in insurance underwriting and reinsurance.

Its shares have also spluttered over the last 12 months, including a fall of 3.39% yesterday. 

QBE has faced headwinds over the last year which has dampened investor confidence. 

These include slowed increased premiums, and subdued growth. 

Recently, Wilsons also noted the company is negatively exposed to US dollar weakness. 

QBE shares closed yesterday at $19.69, and there appears to be limited upside based on analysts ratings. 

According to TradingView, 12 analysts have one year price targets between $19.30 and $24.21. 

This indicates QBE shares are hovering close to fair value. 

On the positive side, Bell Potter estimates that QBE’s shares will provide investors in FY 2026 with a dividend yield of 4.7%.

It is set to release full year results on Friday, 20 February. 

The post Are Suncorp or QBE shares a better buy after yesterday’s sell-off? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• What the stronger Australian dollar means for your shares
• Buy, hold, sell: DroneShield, Regis Resources, and Suncorp shares
• Here are the 3 ASX ETFs I use for my super fund
• Goldman Sachs tips 19% upside for Suncorp shares…plus dividends!

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.

This S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) share doubled in value last year. Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE) may have moved more slowly this year, but in the first six weeks of 2026 the share price still climbed 6%.

At the time of writing, the ASX 200 share is trading at $25.93 apiece, a gain of 102% over 12 months.

The slowing pace has investors asking whether Eagers is gearing up for its next leg higher. Here’s why this rocketing ASX 200 share still looks compelling.

BYD as growth engine

A big driver of Eagers’ success has been electric vehicles, particularly BYD. The ASX 200 share now operates roughly 80% of BYD dealerships in Australia, giving it unmatched exposure to one of the fastest-growing EV brands in the country.

Analysts point to Eagers’ diversified earnings base as a key advantage. As the market normalises and interest-rate pressure eases, Eagers’ scale and brand partnerships could see it outperform peers.

Eagers delivered a record half-year result in mid-2025 — and the numbers were hard to ignore. Revenue surged to $6.5 billion, up 18.9% year-on-year. Underlying operating profit before tax hit $197.7 million, while underlying EBITDA climbed to $297 million, up 11.6%.

On 19 February the $7 billion ASX 200 share will release its second half year results for 2025.

A bold step into North America

In October, the ASX 200 share announced a game-changing move, revealing the acquisition of a 65% stake in CanadaOne Auto, one of Canada’s largest dealership groups.

The deal values CanadaOne at around $1.05 billion and marks Eagers’ first expansion into North America. Once completed in Q1 2026 (pending approvals), Eagers will control 42 dealerships across multiple Canadian provinces.

Why does this matter? Canada’s auto market is significantly larger than Australia’s and typically delivers stronger margins. Analysts see the deal as strategically important. It gives Eagers geographic diversification and reduces reliance on domestic car sales cycles.

The acquisition is backed by a $452 million capital raise and a strategic placement with Mitsubishi Corporation, which already partners with Eagers through its Easyauto123 used-car business.

Built to weather the cycle

Eagers isn’t just a new-car dealer — and that’s a big plus.

The used-car operations, service and parts divisions, and independent retailer Easyauto123 provide recurring, higher-margin revenue streams that are far less cyclical. With new vehicle sales often the most volatile part of the industry, this diversification gives Eagers a natural buffer during downturns.

The result is a more resilient, cash-generative business than many investors realise.

What next for Eagers shares?

Despite the monster rally in the past year, analysts still see room to move.

TradingView data shows most brokers rate the ASX 200 share a hold or buy, with bullish forecasts stretching as high as $35.90. This points to 38% upside from current levels.

The average 12-month price target sits at $30.96, which still points to a potential 19% gain from here.

The post Here’s why this standout ASX 200 share can keep racing up appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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

Yesterday afternoon, ASX Ltd (ASX: ASX) announced that CEO and Managing Director Helen Lofthouse will step down in May 2026, coinciding with the final preparations to deliver the first phase of the CHESS project.

What did ASX Limited report?

• CEO Helen Lofthouse to step down in May 2026 after 11 years at ASX
• CHESS project Release 1 targeting go-live in April 2026
• Korn Ferry engaged to support global search for new CEO
• Technology and resilience upgrades completed under current leadership
• Ongoing transformation and technology modernisation program

What else do investors need to know?

The transition comes at a crucial time, as ASX finalises preparations for the first phase of the CHESS project, which underpins Australia’s equity clearing and settlement infrastructure. Helen Lofthouse has led a strategic reset, enhanced tech investment, and upgraded risk frameworks over her tenure.

Succession planning has commenced, with Korn Ferry supporting a thorough search for the next CEO. Both internal and external candidates will be considered, with the Board emphasising the need for strong credentials in financial markets and transformation.

What did ASX Limited management say?

Outgoing CEO and Managing Director Helen Lofthouse said:

Since becoming CEO we have reset the CHESS project, refreshed our strategy, expanded technology investment and delivered a series of technology and resilience upgrades. While the pace of change has been intense in recent years, I’m very proud of our achievements in modernising technology, enhancing customer engagement, developing Group capabilities, and shifting our culture.

What’s next for ASX Limited?

ASX’s Board said the search for a new CEO will not impact delivery of its strategic priorities, with the executive team fully accountable for current programs. The company remains focused on reliable, resilient market infrastructure and stewardship.

Investors can expect ongoing updates on the CEO search and key project milestones—especially as the CHESS project’s first phase approaches its go-live date in April 2026.

View Original Announcement

The post ASX Limited CEO to step down as CHESS project enters new phase appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Computershare lifts outlook and dividend after solid 1H26 earnings
• CSL names Gordon Naylor interim CEO as Dr Paul McKenzie retires
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday
• Sims consolidates Houston operations with Tri Coastal Trading acquisition

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.

Yesterday afternoon, Computershare Ltd (ASX:CPU) posted a 3.9% rise in Management EPS and upgraded its full-year outlook.

What did Computershare report?

• Management revenue up 3.9% compared to 1H FY25
• Management EPS rose 3.9% to 72.2 US cents
• ROIC exceeded 36%
• Margin income of $372.9 million, down 5.4%
• Interim dividend lifted to 55 AU cents per share (30% franked), up 22% on last year
• Net debt leverage reduced to 0.3x

What else do investors need to know?

Computershare said revenue growth was especially strong in its Issuer Services business, with Register Maintenance revenue up more than 4%. Corporate Action revenue grew by over 12% as market activity recovered in some regions, although global M&A volumes remain below 2021 levels.

The Corporate Trust division enjoyed fee revenue growth over 12%, boosted by higher issuance volumes across structured products. Employee Share Plans also saw a 5% lift in revenue, while Assets under Administration jumped 25% year-on-year.

With a robust balance sheet and strong cash generation, the company’s board opted to increase the interim dividend instead of pursuing additional share buybacks due to tax efficiency reasons.

What did Computershare management say?

Stuart Irving, CEO, said:

We are executing well on our strategic plans to deliver a simpler, higher quality Computershare that generates consistent results and enduring returns for shareholders. We have positioned the group to leverage long term growth trends and have benefitted from increased activity across all our business lines. With our natural interest rate hedge, we have delivered earnings growth again, despite a lower yield environment.

What’s next for Computershare?

Following the stronger first-half performance, Computershare upgraded its full-year Management EPS guidance to around 144 cents per share, a 6% increase on the prior year. The company remains focused on operational improvements, cost control, and investing in new technologies to drive long-term growth.

Management says momentum across key business lines and improved activity levels provide a positive outlook for the second half of FY26.

Computershare share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Computershare shares have declined 9%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 5% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Computershare lifts outlook and dividend after solid 1H26 earnings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• ASX Limited CEO to step down as CHESS project enters new phase
• CSL names Gordon Naylor interim CEO as Dr Paul McKenzie retires
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday
• Sims consolidates Houston operations with Tri Coastal Trading acquisition

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.

Now could be an opportune time to snap up the ASX 200 stock in this article.

That’s the view of analysts at Bell Potter, who believe that it could generate big returns for investors over the remainder of 2026.

Which ASX 200 stock?

The stock in question is Region Re Ltd (ASX: RGN). It is an internally managed REIT owning and managing a portfolio of approximately 100 neighbourhood and sub-regional shopping centres around Australia.

Bell Potter notes that the ASX 200 stock has released its half-year results and was pleased with what it saw. It said:

RGN announced its 1H26 result with FFO / share of 7.9c directly in-line with BPe and Visible Alpha consensus. FY26 guidance has been upgraded to FFO / share of 16.0c (was 15.9c, BPe 15.9c, VA 15.9c) and AFFO / DPS of 14.1c.

The broker also highlights that the company’s outlook is improving. It adds:

Whilst not in our forecasts, we see potential avenues for further growth beyond stated guidance. Potential factors, which are not included in guidance, include: (1) further accretive acquisitions above RGN’s marginal CoC, (2) further deployment of FUM with capital partner (pro-forma FUM now c.$840m vs FY25 $711.5m), (3) recommencement of buy-back (c.16% complete at $2.39 avg.).

Big potential returns

In response to the results, Bell Potter has reaffirmed its buy rating on the ASX 200 stock with an improved price target of $2.75.

Based on its current share price of $2.33, this implies potential upside of 18% for investors over the next 12 months.

In addition, the broker is expecting a dividend yield of approximately 6%. This boosts the total potential return to 24%.

Bell Potter highlights that the company’s shares are trading at a discount to net tangible assets (NTA) despite offering a generous dividend yield and having a “strong runway.”

Commenting on its buy recommendation, Bell Potter concludes:

No change to our Buy recommendation. We continue to see strong runway for RGN, with interest expense variability largely hedged out and, in our view, conservative guidance amid the backdrop of improving property fundamentals, trading at 14.6x FY26e FFO and a -9% discount to NTA offering a 6.0% yield.

Our target price increases accounting for these earnings changes, roll forward of our valuations. Our DCF valuation increases +3.1% accounting for the above changes. Our SOTP increases by +0.3%, reflecting our updated assumption for -10bp cap rate compression in our NAV (vs. -15bp previously).

The post This ASX 200 stock has a ‘strong runway’ and offers a 24% total return appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• This ASX retail REIT just reported its half-year results. Here’s what stood out
• Region Group names Greg Chubb as new CEO and Managing Director
• Bell Potter says these ASX shares are best buys in January

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