Category: Stock Market

Owning Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) shares can be a volatile ride because of the shifts in energy prices over the months and years as supply and demand shift.

It’s challenging to predict what’s going to happen next, but analysts can gain insights from certain factors (such as production) and forecast Woodside’s revenue and costs.

We’re going to look at what experts think of Woodside shares and the profit prospects in the next few years.

FY25

The 2025 financial year is already over for Woodside, but investors haven’t seen what the numbers are yet, so we’re going to look at what analysts think those numbers may be.

UBS is predicting that FY25 could see US$12.8 billion of revenue, US$3.95 billion of operating profit (EBIT) and US$2.2 billion of net profit. The balance sheet is projected to have reached US$7.3 billion of net debt at the end of 2025.

These final projections before the actual result’s release in February were in response to the 2025 fourth quarter production.

UBS noted that production was 4% better and revenue was 7% ahead of market expectations due to stronger oil production from both Mad Dog (US Gulf Coast) and Sangomar (Senegal).

The broker said that while Sangomar has started to decline from the fourth quarter of 2025, a beneficial one-off adjustment to Woodside’s share of production under the sharing contract with the Senegalese government saw higher quarter-over-quarter production net to Woodside.

After seeing the quarterly update, UBS increased its 2025 estimate for earnings per share (EPS) by 8%.

However, it was also noted that trading volumes in LNG were cut materially over the fourth quarter. The trading division is expected to see a trading loss of around $10 million in the second half of 2025 – trading volumes in LNG were swapped with longer trading volumes in oil, according to UBS.

The broker said that while the FY25 result is now substantially ‘de-risked’, it remains cautious for Woodside shares of a material forecast decline of FY26’s net profit and free cash flow.

FY26

Despite a strong 2025 fourth quarter of oil production, UBS said that new 2026 production for Woodside was 4% below the market’s expectations at the midpoint.

Production guidance (by product) points to weaker oil production in 2026 than the market expected (LNG production was in line).

UBS said it believes the key driver of the market’s view of an implied 13% cut to 2026 oil production guidance (which is forecast by the market to meet the midpoint of guidance) is a “faster decline rate at Sangomar followed by the natural field decline” in Australian oil assets.

It cut its 2026 (and onwards) EPS estimates due to a steeper decline in oil production, primarily from Sangomar and higher interest cost driven by higher capital expenditure during 2026 and higher tax.

The broker is forecasting that in 2026, Woodside could generate US$10.7 billion of revenue and US$1 billion of net profit.

FY27

UBS didn’t have much to say about the 2027 financial year projection and onwards, but it provided estimates.

In FY27, the broker forecasts that the business could generate revenue of US$11.2 billion and make net profit of US$1.58 billion, representing the start of a recovery from the low financial point in FY26.

FY28

The company’s financials could improve in FY28, according to UBS’ projections.

In the 2028 financial year, the broker forecasts the ASX energy share could make US$12 billion of revenue and net profit of US$1.98 billion.

UBS has a neutral rating on Woodside shares, with a price target of $23.10, suggesting a noticeable decline over the next year.

The post Here’s the earnings forecast out to 2028 for Woodside shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday
• 3 ASX 200 shares I would buy in February
• ASX 200 energy shares lead the market as oil and uranium prices spike
• Buying ASX shares for passive income? Here’s how Woodside, Fortescue and CBA shares stack up
• Why ASX 200 energy stocks like Santos and Woodside shares are ending the week with a bang

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

BlueScope Steel Ltd (ASX: BSL) shares are sliding today.

Shares in the $13 billion S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) industrial stock closed Friday trading for $30.24. In morning trade on Monday, shares are changing hands for $29.91 apiece, down 1.1%.

For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.6% at this same time as investors eye a potential RBA interest rate hike tomorrow.

That’s today’s price action for you.

Now here’s what’s happening with the company’s top management.

BlueScope shares under new management

BlueScope shares are slipping today after the company confirmed that Tania Archibald has today started in her new role as managing director and CEO.

The company first announced Archibald’s appointment to the top position on 5 November.

BlueScope gave a nod of appreciation to outgoing CEO Mark Vassella, who led the company for eight years. Over that time, the ASX 200 industrial stock returned $4.2 billion to shareholders and invested $3.7 billion in growth. BlueScope shares have also more than doubled in value over the past eight years.

A word from the new CEO

Commenting on her first day as CEO, Archibald said:

Our current $2 billion investment program is now entering the final phase. We’re poised to deliver strong cash flows. And I intend to capitalise on it for the benefit of shareholders. As the investment phase ramps down, the delivery phase ramps up.

Looking at what could impact BlueScope shares in the year ahead, she said the company’s portfolio is “well positioned”.

According to Archibald:

In the United States, steel demand remains robust and there is no better place in the world to make and sell steel. In Asia, BlueScope maintains a unique footprint across major growth economies, while in New Zealand the EAF has reset the operating model and cost base. In Australia, ongoing population growth is driving steel demand across all sectors including housing and infrastructure.

BlueScope shares not for sale ‘on the cheap’

Archibald also turned her attention to recently lobbed – and summarily rejected –takeover offer in joint proposal by SGH Ltd (ASX: SGH) and Steel Dynamics Inc (NASDAQ: STLD).

The nonbinding proposal, which valued BlueScope at $13.2 billion, was announced on 6 January.

Today, Archibald said:

The board rejected the proposal, and I supported that rejection. It very significantly undervalued this company. It sought to transfer value away from our shareholders by buying BlueScope on the cheap.

The board remains open to any proposal that genuinely reflects BlueScope’s fundamental value. But we are not sitting here waiting. We are getting on the front foot to accelerate the delivery of BlueScope’s value.

BlueScope shares closed up a sharp 20.8% on the day the takeover proposal was reported.

The post BlueScope shares slipping as new CEO backs rejection of $13.2 billion takeover offer appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• So BlueScope shares go to all-time high of $31. Big deal. What next?
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• Why BHP, BlueScope, Catalyst Metals, and Ryman shares are storming higher today
• 5 ASX 200 mining stocks including Mineral Resources and BHP shares smashing new 52-week highs 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 recommended Steel Dynamics. 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.

Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares are on the slide on Monday morning.

At the time of writing, the mining giant’s shares are down 2% to $148.71.

Why are Rio Tinto shares falling?

Today’s move appears to have been driven by broad market weakness which has overshadowed news that the miner is increasing its aluminium exposure with an acquisition.

According to the release, Rio Tinto and Aluminum Corporation of China (Chalco) have entered into a definitive agreement with Votorantim.

This will see the two parties acquire, through a joint venture to be owned 33% by Rio Tinto and 67% by Chalco, Votorantim’s 68.596% controlling shareholding in Companhia Brasileira de Alumínio.

It notes that the transaction, at an all-cash consideration of R$10.50 per share, represents a premium of approximately 21.2% over the weighted average trading price of its stock for the 20 trading days prior to the signing of the transaction agreement.

It values Votorantim’s shareholding at approximately US$902.6 million (Rio Tinto’s pro-rata share is US$297.8 million), subject to closing adjustments and the other terms of the transaction agreement, including satisfaction of regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

But it won’t stop there. Following closing, the joint venture will launch a mandatory tender offer for the remaining shares in Companhia Brasileira de Alumínio not held by Votorantim, as required by Brazilian law.

Management notes that the transaction will leverage Rio Tinto and Chalco’s deep and complementary expertise across the aluminium value chain to unlock the next phase of growth at Companhia Brasileira de Alumínio.

What is Companhia Brasileira de Alumínio?

The release highlights that Companhia Brasileira de Alumínio is a vertically integrated low-carbon aluminium business in Brazil. It is supported by a 1.6 GW portfolio of renewable power generation assets, including 21 hydropower plants and wind power complexes.

The operation serves primarily the growing domestic market, with competitive low-carbon products and operations. It has three bauxite mines in production with current production of approximately 2 million tonnes of bauxite per annum, and an aluminium complex in Sao Paulo. The latter encompasses a 0.8 million tonnes capacity alumina refinery, an approximately 0.4 million tonnes capacity aluminium smelter, secondary recycling capacity of 0.3 million tonnes, and downstream processing facilities.

Rio Tinto’s Aluminium & Lithium chief executive, Jerome Pecresse, said:

This acquisition, jointly with Chalco, of Votorantim’s controlling position in CBA’s [Companhia Brasileira de Alumínio’s] fully integrated aluminium supply chain in Brazil is aligned with our strategy to deliver value for shareholders by extending our low-carbon, renewable-powered aluminium footprint in rapidly growing markets. It also provides the opportunity to grow our bauxite and alumina supply chain in the Atlantic region.

Our partnership with Chalco brings together our combined operational excellence, innovation and unique project execution capabilities, unlocking the potential to create value for the benefit of our shareholders, as well as CBA’s employees, customers and local communities.

The post Rio Tinto shares fall despite big acquisition news appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday
• ASX copper shares surge as commodity hits record high
• Why the $260 billion Glencore merger is a ‘high-stakes gamble’ for Rio Tinto shares
• Buy, hold, sell: CSL, CBA, and Rio Tinto shares
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday

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

Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS) shares are under pressure in early trade on Monday.

At the time of writing, the ASX defence stock is down 4% to $8.30.

Why are EOS shares falling?

Investors have been selling the company’s shares amid broader market weakness and uncertainty sparked by talk of a potential offshore shift by the defence technology company.

Before the market opened, EOS released an ASX statement responding to recent media articles that speculated the company could move its headquarters and stock market listing from Australia to Europe. This is in order to capitalise on rapidly rising defence spending across the region.

The response

This morning, EOS acknowledged that global demand for defence technology is expected to remain strong over the next five to ten years, particularly in Europe. The company said it is actively seeking to grow its presence in European markets and sees significant opportunity there as governments lift defence budgets in response to geopolitical tensions.

However, EOS was also careful to clarify that the board has made no unannounced decisions regarding a change in corporate headquarters or stock exchange listing. The company said there are currently no formal plans under consideration to delist from the ASX, and that any such decision would only be made after comprehensive assessment of the impact on shareholders, customers, employees, and other stakeholders.

Despite that reassurance, the market reaction suggests some investors are uneasy. The possibility of a future delisting, even if only theoretical at this stage, is often enough to unsettle parts of the shareholder base, particularly retail investors who value the certainty and liquidity of an ASX stock.

EOS has left the door open to change over time, noting that it regularly reviews ways to maximise shareholder value and optimise future growth. It said:

EOS regularly considers a wide range of factors that contribute to maximising shareholder value. EOS will continue to consider ways to optimise future growth prospects, including in Europe, during 2026 and beyond. This may lead to changes in EOS’ market presence, production facilities, equity listing, headquarters, operating locations, business portfolio and/or other aspects of the EOS business in the future. EOS will continue to assess potential growth opportunities and the best way to realise these, and will keep the market informed as any changes arise.

What now?

From a fundamental perspective, this update does not change the company’s near-term outlook.

EOS continues to see strong demand across Europe, the United States, the Middle East, and Asia, although it cautioned that not all opportunities will necessarily convert into firm orders.

But, investors value certainty, and a potential delisting could weigh on EOS shares in the near term.

The post EOS shares tumble on European listing update appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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 positions in and has recommended Electro Optic Systems. 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.

Today, Corporate Travel Management Ltd (ASX: CTD) announced major leadership changes. Specifically, founder and managing director Jamie Pherous will retire, and Ana Pedersen has been appointed Acting Group CEO. This leadership change comes as the company works to resolve accounting matters and seeks to have its shares reinstated for trading on the ASX.

What did Corporate Travel Management report?

• Jamie Pherous retires as Managing Director, transitions to strategic advisor for six months
• Ana Pedersen, previously Chief Commercial Officer, appointed as Acting Group CEO
• Search process underway for permanent Group CEO, considering internal and external candidates
• Appointment of John Snyder (ex-BCD Travel CEO) as Special Advisor to assist during leadership transition
• Ongoing suspension of CTM shares pending finalisation of accounting matters and FY25 accounts

What else do investors need to know?

The board says the leadership change aims to “accelerate the transition to a refreshed corporate structure” that meets stakeholder expectations. Ms Pedersen, who joined CTM in October 2024, brings more than 20 years of global corporate travel and technology experience, including senior roles with BCD Travel and HRS Group.

The company remains committed to strengthening its governance and internal controls. John Snyder’s appointment as Special Advisor is expected to provide additional global expertise during this period of change.

What did Corporate Travel Management management say?

Acting Group CEO Ana Pedersen said:

Stepping into the role, my immediate priorities are to bring clarity and confidence as we work toward CTM’s shares being reinstated for trading on the ASX. This means finalising our accounting matters with integrity and certainty, and, in partnership with the Board, strengthening governance and controls. At the same time, we remain laser-focused on client delivery, which continues uninterrupted, and on supporting our people, who are critical to our success.

What’s next for Corporate Travel Management?

Ms Pedersen will lead the company through a period of transition, focusing on resolving accounting matters, supporting the board’s governance initiatives, and ensuring stable operations. The board will continue its search for a new permanent Group CEO, evaluating both internal and external candidates.

Meanwhile, client service and support of CTM’s people remain central priorities. Management says the company’s long-term future will be built on strengthening governance, operational excellence and sustainable growth.

View Original Announcement

The post Corporate Travel Management announces major leadership changes appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday
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• These were the worst-performing ASX 200 shares in January

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 positions in and has recommended Corporate Travel Management. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Corporate Travel Management. 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.

If we’re going to invest in ASX shares to generate returns, then we may as well try to invest in the ones with the best outlook.

Smaller businesses normally have much better growth potential than larger ones because they are earlier in their growth journey.

It’s much easier for a business to grow from $1 billion to $2 billion, than it is to go from $10 billion to $20 billion.

The two investments below are ones I think can scale significantly from where they are today, and I’d happily put $2,000 into them.

Siteminder Ltd (ASX: SDR)

Siteminder is a leading ASX technology share that provides software to hotels for their operations and maximising revenue through hotel bookings.

The business has won subscribers from across the world, with a recent focus on larger hotels.

Impressively, the company has a goal of organic annual revenue growth of 30% in the medium-term. It’s winning new subscribers and offering a number of modules that can help give hotels data to decide on room prices, or automate it for them.

Maximising revenue and room occupancy is a key factor for the success of a hotel, so Siteminder’s service can be integral for the long-term.

As a software business, I’m expecting the company to deliver rising profit margins thanks to operating leverage and how costs may only grow at a relatively slow pace, enabling operating profit (EBITDA) and cash flow to soar in the coming years.

I think it’s one of the most promising ASX share investments around.

VanEck MSCI International Small Cos Quality ETF (ASX: QSML)

This is an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that gives investors exposure to a global portfolio of some of the most promising small-cap shares.

It aims to own 150 of the world’s highest-quality small companies, based on three key fundamentals.

First, a high return on equity (ROE). Second, earnings stability. Third, low financial leverage. Businesses that make high levels of profit, with earnings don’t go backwards and that have low levels of debt are appealing investments.

Noting the great investment performance of small caps, VanEck, the provider of the ETF, says:

Investments focusing on quality small companies have delivered outperformance over the long term relative to other global small companies benchmarks and also relative to large- and mid-cap benchmarks.

Some of the businesses in this portfolio could become tomorrow’s blue-chips as they grow and reach their potential.

Pleasingly, the QSML ETF has solid diversification across both sectors and countries, so it has lower risks than if its portfolio was focused on one industry.

Past performance is not a guarantee of future returns, but the fund has delivered an average return per year of 17.1% over the prior three years. I think this fund can continue to deliver impressive double-digit returns over the long-term thanks to its quality-focused construction strategy.

The post 2 incredible ASX shares I’d buy with $2,000 right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

The GrainCorp Ltd (ASX: GNC) share price is in focus today after the company released its FY26 earnings guidance, forecasting underlying EBITDA of $200–240 million and underlying NPAT between $20–50 million, both lower than FY25 results.

What did GrainCorp report?

• FY26 underlying EBITDA guidance: $200–240 million (FY25: $308 million)
• FY26 underlying NPAT guidance: $20–50 million (FY25: $87 million)
• Export volumes expected: 5.5–6.5 million tonnes (FY25: 7.0mmt)
• Receival volumes anticipated: 11.0–12.0 million tonnes (FY25: 13.3mmt)
• Nutrition and Energy average crush margins steady with FY25
• Agri energy contribution expected to be lower due to US biofuels uncertainty

What else do investors need to know?

GrainCorp highlighted that global grain markets are experiencing oversupply and low prices, leading to multi-year low export margins and weaker financial performance. Slow grower selling on the east coast and reduced incentives for grain delivery are adding to the pressure on margins and volumes.

In response, GrainCorp is accelerating cost management measures to ensure sustainability while maintaining reliable services for growers. The company described its balance sheet as strong and reaffirmed confidence in its ongoing strategic direction. Guidance remains subject to variables like grain volumes, export timing, and oilseed margins.

What did GrainCorp management say?

GrainCorp Managing Director and CEO, Robert Spurway, said:

Record global production has created an oversupply of grain, outpacing demand growth and placing downward pressure on commodity prices for the whole market. Despite strong ECA production volumes, with ABARES estimating a 2025-26 ECA winter crop of 31.2 million tonnes (mmt), the current abundance of global supply and low grain prices have reduced incentives for growers to deliver grain to market. As a result, GrainCorp is experiencing lower margins on grain handled in FY26.

What’s next for GrainCorp?

Looking ahead, GrainCorp plans to keep managing costs closely and maintain high-quality service for Australian growers during this market downturn. The company’s balance sheet remains robust, supporting its long-term strategy across the food, feed, and energy value chain.

Management will update investors on further market developments, including new season opportunities late in the year. The next key update will be at the AGM on 18 February 2026.

GrainCorp share price snapshot

Ove the past 12 months, GrainCorp shares have declined 3%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post GrainCorp shares: FY26 earnings guidance forecasts lower profits appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday
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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.

If you are looking to add some fresh ideas to your portfolio this month, exchange traded funds (ETFs) can be a simple way to gain exposure to big themes without relying on a single stock to get everything right.

This month, a number of exciting ASX ETFs stand out for their links to long-term structural trends that continue to reshape the global economy. Here are five that could be worth a closer look.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

The first ASX ETF to consider is the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF.

Cybersecurity has become an important part of the digital economy. As more data moves online and businesses rely on cloud-based systems, the cost of breaches continues to rise. That creates ongoing demand for security software and services.

This ASX ETF provides investors with exposure to global cybersecurity leaders, including companies such as CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD) and Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW). Rather than betting on a single technology, the fund captures the broader trend of rising security spend across industries.

Betashares Cloud Computing ETF (ASX: CLDD)

Another exciting ASX ETF is the Betashares Cloud Computing ETF. It focuses on stocks that enable and benefit from the shift to cloud computing. This includes businesses involved in software-as-a-service, cloud infrastructure, and data platforms that underpin modern IT systems.

Holdings include companies such as Salesforce (NYSE: CRM) and ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW). As enterprises continue migrating workloads to the cloud and optimising their digital operations, demand for these services is likely to remain strong over time. It was recently recommended to investors by Betashares.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

The popular Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF offers investors easy exposure to technology leaders across Asia.

This ASX ETF invests in stocks that are shaping digital payments, e-commerce, semiconductors, and online services across the region. Examples include Tencent Holdings (SEHK: 700) and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE: TSM).

What makes the Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF interesting is the combination of long-term growth potential and subdued sentiment. While Asian tech stocks have faced volatility in recent years, digital adoption and rising incomes across the region continue to support a strong long-term investment case.

BetaShares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC)

For investors looking closer to home, the BetaShares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF provides investors with exposure to Australia’s listed technology sector.

The ETF includes companies such as WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) and Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO), which operate globally but are listed on the ASX. Recent weakness across the tech sector has seen the fund trade well below its previous highs, which could make it an opportune time to consider a position. It was also recently recommended by the fund manager.

Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ)

A final ASX ETF to look at is the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF. It invests in stocks involved in robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence. Its holdings include businesses such as NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) and Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG), which enable automation across industries ranging from manufacturing to healthcare.

The fund targets the tools and infrastructure that support long-term productivity gains, making it an interesting option for investors with a long-term horizon.

It was also recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

The post 5 exciting ASX ETFs to buy this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers Etf, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF, CrowdStrike, Intuitive Surgical, Nvidia, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, Tencent, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Palo Alto Networks. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CrowdStrike, Nvidia, Salesforce, and ServiceNow. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) shares have rushed to 52-week highs in the past month. In the past 6 months, the share price has soared by 58% to $4.62 at the time of writing.

In 2025, South32 shares experienced a rough patch that saw the mining stock fall sharply at times. The tumble was down to cyclical weakness and operational headwinds.

The recent surge and upcoming major earnings release next week have investors asking: Can South32 keep the rally going?  

Multi-trick pony

Over the last month, South32 shares have jumped, in part driven by stronger metals prices and better production results. In the past 6 months, the stock has outperformed some peers thanks to silver, copper, and aluminium strength.  

On the bullish side, the core argument for sustained upside is straightforward: South32 isn’t a one-trick pony. Unlike single-commodity miners, the miner spans nine metals, from silver and copper to manganese and aluminium. As a result, rising prices across different markets can all feed into revenues.

Stronger balance, financial flexibility

Analysts pointing to buy ratings highlight a strategic pivot away from low-growth coal toward metals that matter for electrification and the energy transition. South32’s assets, like Sierra Gorda in Chile and the Hermosa project in the US, offer leverage to copper, zinc, and battery-related materials.

A stronger balance sheet and recent divestments have also improved financial flexibility, and many brokers still see upside for South32 shares over the next year. Morgans has a buy rating on the $21 billion ASX 200 share with a 12-month price target of $5, an 8% upside.

The broker increased its price target from $4.50 after South32 released its 2Q FY26 update in January. Morgans said South32 achieved a modest beat on consensus expectations for operations, supported by strong alumina and silver output.

Silver rally

Naturally, the commodities boom is lifting fundamentals too. Recent production reports showed gains in manganese and aluminium output, and first-half results were strong enough to propel the share price to 12-month highs as markets responded.

Analysts note that silver’s rally in particular could materially boost earnings if prices remain elevated, potentially reshaping South32’s earnings mix beyond traditional aluminium exposure. 

Bumpy boom, bumpy share ride

But it isn’t all smooth sailing. The mining business is cyclical by design, and commodity price volatility can cut both ways. Past share price swings underscore how quickly sentiment can turn when prices retreat or operational hitches emerge.

Heavy capital commitments, like Hermosa’s large upfront cost, carry execution risk, and projects in jurisdictions like Chile and Mozambique expose the company to regulatory and sovereign risk.

In plain terms, South32’s diversified portfolio and surge in metals prices give it a shot at riding the commodities rally further. But cyclical risk, project execution challenges, and uneven performance history mean the ride for South32 shares might be as bumpy as the boom itself.

The post Can South32 shares keep surfing the commodities boom? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in South32. 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.

Here are 2 ASX dividend stocks often mentioned in the same breath by income investors — but for very different reasons.

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd (ASX: SOL) sit at opposite ends of the market. One sells groceries to millions of Australians every week. The other quietly compounds wealth through long-term investments.

What the ASX dividend stocks share is a reputation for dependable dividends. The question is how reliable that income really is from here.

Coles

Coles has positioned itself as a defensive income stock since its demerger, with dividends paid twice a year and typically fully franked. The ASX 200 share aims to return a large portion of earnings to shareholders, and that policy has delivered a steady, if unspectacular, yield.

The strength of Coles lies in its predictability. Australians keep buying groceries regardless of economic conditions, which gives Coles resilient cash flow and earnings visibility.

That stability underpins its dividend reliability and makes it attractive to conservative investors. For example, Coles’ dividends have steadily risen from 35.5 cents per share in 2019 to 57.7 cents in 2020, 61 cents in 2021, 63 cents in 2022, 66 cents in 2023, and 68 cents in 2024.

All of those dividends came with full franking credits attached too.

Coles’ weakness is growth. Supermarket margins are thin, cost pressures are constant, and competition from Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) and Aldi limits pricing power. When earnings come under pressure, the ASX dividend stock has limited flexibility because its payout ratio is already high.

Looking ahead, Coles is likely to remain a steady dividend payer rather than a growing one. Coles maintained its dividend streak in 2025, paying 37 cents per share in March and 32 cents in September. The 69-cent total marked a 1.47% increase on 2024’s payout.

Since hitting a record high in September, the blue-chip share has fallen to $21.28 at the time of writing. That’s lifted the trailing dividend yield to 3.24%, or 4.65% grossed-up with full franking—though this reflects past dividends, not future payouts.

In 2026, investors should expect consistency over excitement, with modest dividend growth tied closely to cost control and execution.

Washington H. Soul Pattinson

This $15 billion ASX dividend stock is one of the quiet achievers of the ASX. Soul Pattinson’s dividend policy is simple and powerful: pay a fully-franked dividend every year and aim to increase it over time.

That approach has resulted in one of the longest dividend growth records in Australian market history. The investment house has been the most reliable ASX dividend share over the last three decades, as it has grown its payout every year since 1998.

The company’s strength is diversification. Its portfolio spans telecommunications, resources, property, credit and private equity, smoothing earnings across cycles. Management takes a long-term view and prioritises balance sheet strength, which supports dividend durability even in weaker markets.

The trade-off is yield. Soul Pattinson’s dividend yield is lower than many traditional income stocks, reflecting its focus on sustainability rather than maximum payout. As mentioned, Soul Patts hasn’t got the largest payout, with a grossed-up dividend yield of 3.9%, including franking credits, in 2025.  

The outlook remains solid. As long as the company continues to reinvest wisely and protect capital, this ASX dividend stock looks well placed to keep delivering slow, steady dividend growth for patient investors.

The post 2 heavyweight ASX dividend stocks for reliable income appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• Buying Woolworths shares? Here’s the dividend yield you’ll get
• Which ASX retail stocks look like good buying ahead of the looming reporting season?

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