Category: Stock Market

Shares in JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH) are moving higher on Monday after the electronics retailer released its half-year results.

In early morning trade, the JB Hi-Fi share price is up 5.45% to $80.86.

The bounce follows a difficult start to the year for the company. JB Hi-Fi shares are still down roughly 15% in 2026, and were trading above $100 only a few months ago.

Today’s early rally indicates the market is responding positively to the latest set of numbers.

Here’s what stood out in the result.

Sales and profit increase

For the six months to 31 December 2025, JB Hi-Fi reported total sales of $6.1 billion, up 7.3% on the prior corresponding period.

Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) rose 8.1% to $454 million, while net profit after tax (NPAT) increased 7.1% to $305.8 million. Earnings per share (EPS) came in at 279.7 cents, up 7.1%.

Margins also edged higher across the group’s key divisions. Group EBIT margin increased 6 basis points to 7.46%.

Performance across the group

JB Hi-Fi Australia recorded sales growth of 6.3% to $4.12 billion, with comparable sales up 5%. EBIT increased 7.7% to $340.9 million, and EBIT margin improved to 8.27%.

JB Hi-Fi New Zealand reported sales growth of 32.6% to NZ$268.6 million, with EBIT more than doubling to NZ$4.5 million.

At The Good Guys, sales rose 4.1% to $1.58 billion, while EBIT increased 8% to $107.4 million.

The e&s business delivered statutory sales growth of 56.8% to $144.8 million, reflecting a full 6-month contribution compared to 4 months in the prior period.

Interim dividend increased

The board declared a fully-franked interim dividend of 210 cents per share, up 23.5% on the prior corresponding period.

The dividend represents 75% of NPAT. The shares will trade ex-dividend on 26 February 2026, with payment scheduled for 13 March 2026.

January trading update

JB Hi-Fi also provided a January trading update.

JB Hi-Fi Australia recorded total sales growth of 4% for the month, while JB Hi-Fi New Zealand grew 26.4%. The Good Guys reported sales growth of 2.7%. On the other hand, e&s sales declined 4.6%.

Despite showing relatively consistent growth, management said it remains cautious given the ongoing uncertainty in the retail market.

Foolish takeaway

JB Hi-Fi shares were under pressure this year before today’s result.

The half-year numbers showed steady sales growth, higher profit, modest margin improvement, net cash of $489.5 million and a higher dividend.

While the share price has moved higher in early trade following the update, whether that strength will continue depends on trading conditions for the remainder of FY26.

The post JB Hi-Fi shares jump 5% on results day. Is this the turnaround investors were waiting for? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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.

The Qube Holdings Ltd (ASX: QUB) share price is in focus today after the company announced a $5.20 per share all-cash acquisition proposal from a Macquarie Asset Management-led consortium, valuing Qube at an enterprise value of $11.7 billion and representing a 27.8% premium to its last closing price.

What did Qube Holdings report?

• Entered a Scheme Implementation Deed for a Macquarie Asset Management consortium to acquire 100% of shares at $5.20 cash per share (less dividends paid or declared after SID signing).
• Implied enterprise valuation of around $11.7 billion, with an EV/FY25 EBITDA multiple of approximately 14.5x.
• Shareholder offer represents a 27.8% premium to Qube’s closing price of $4.07 on 21 November 2025.
• Permitted to pay up to $0.40 per share in total dividends prior to implementation, expected to be franked to the maximum extent possible.
• UniSuper to exchange 15.07% Qube stake for a direct interest in the new holding structure rather than receiving cash.

What else do investors need to know?

The scheme must be approved by Qube shareholders (except UniSuper), the Supreme Court of New South Wales, regulators, and the independent expert. The Qube board recommends accepting the offer in the absence of a superior proposal and subject to the independent expert’s review.

Shareholders (other than UniSuper) will receive $5.20 in cash per share, adjusted for any allowed franked dividends paid before completion—potentially delivering extra value through franking credits. If the transaction extends past December 2026, a “ticking fee” of two cents per month is payable to shareholders.

What did Qube Holdings management say?

Qube Managing Director, Paul Digney, said:

MAM’s offer underscores the value that has been created through our strategy for growth, the quality of our business, leadership team and people and the strength of our safety culture.

Since inception, Qube has achieved significant growth and diversification across markets and geographies. I am confident that this transaction will provide the platform for the business to continue that evolution while maintaining our strong track record of enhancing supply chains and delivering outstanding customer service.

What’s next for Qube Holdings?

Qube will now distribute a Scheme Booklet to shareholders with full details of the offer and a timeline for the vote, likely to take place around June 2026. Completion depends on regulatory and shareholder approval, as well as no competing proposals arising. Qube encourages shareholders to take no immediate action and await further information. If a superior proposal emerges, the board’s recommendation may change under the agreement’s terms.

Qube Holdings share price snapshot

Over the 12 months, Qube shares have risen 18%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 5% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Qube Holdings board backs $11.7bn Macquarie takeover at 27.8% premium appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Abacus Storage King posts profit growth, reaffirms outlook for 2026
• Aurizon Holdings hikes dividend after stronger FY2026 half-year profit
• Stockland posts strong 1H26 result on development surge
• JB Hi-Fi posts record first-half sales, profit and dividend lift

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 Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. 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.

a2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M) shares are starting the week on a very positive note.

In morning trade, the infant formula company’s shares are up 12.5% to $9.60.

Investors have been buying its shares after it delivered strong first-half growth and upgraded its full-year outlook.

A2 Milk shares jump on results day

For the six months ended 31 December, a2 Milk reported revenue of NZ$993.5 million, up 18.8% on the prior corresponding period.

Management notes that this was driven by strong performances across all segments and product categories, with growth primarily from core products supported by recent innovation.

Total infant milk formula (IMF) sales increased 13.6%, underpinned by continued brand strength and solid execution across channels. Liquid milk sales rose 18.5%, while Other Nutritionals revenue surged 42.9% (excluding a2 Pokeno ingredient sales).

Also growing strongly was its underlying EBITDA, which rose 25.9% to NZ$164.8 million, while underlying net profit after tax increased 19.6% to NZ$122.6 million. On a statutory basis, net profit after tax rose 9.4% to NZ$112.1 million.

The board declared an interim dividend of 11.5 NZ cents per share, up 35.3% year on year, representing around 74% of net profit from continuing operations.

Management commentary

A2 Milk’s managing director and CEO, David Bortolussi, was pleased with the half. He said:

We continue to execute our growth strategy with a focus on maximising opportunities in China infant milk formula, adjacent categories and new markets.

Infant milk formula remains central to our growth strategy and continues to outperform the China market, delivering 13.6% year-on-year revenue growth. Our liquid milk businesses continue to perform exceptionally well in Australia and the US, with both achieving double-digit revenue growth as more consumers embrace the benefits of a2 Milk.

The Company’s strong performance in the half has enabled us to upgrade our FY26 full year guidance and declare an interim dividend at the higher end of our policy range.

Outlook

As mentioned above, A2 Milk has upgraded its FY 2026 guidance following a stronger than expected first half.

The company now expects revenue growth in the mid double-digit percentage range (from low double-digit) compared to FY 2025 continuing operations. EBITDA margin is forecast to be approximately 15.5% to 16.0%, with net profit expected to be up on FY 2025 reported levels.

Bortolussi adds:

Our upgraded outlook means we are now on track to achieve our $2 billion medium term sales ambition in FY26, a full year ahead of plan. This is testament to the execution of our team and the strength of the a2 brand.

The post A2 Milk shares jump 12% on strong half-year result and guidance upgrade appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• The a2 Milk Company shares fall 11% after responding to an ASX price query

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.

There have been some significant declines in the share prices of some ASX dividend shares. This could be a great time to invest because of the dividend yields on offer.

I like it when a share price declines because it pushes the dividend yield higher. For example, if a business has a dividend yield of 5% and the share price drops 10%, then the dividend yield becomes 5.5%. A 20% decline unlocks a 20% dividend yield. And so on.

Both of the ASX dividend shares below have a promising future, in my view.

Centuria Capital Group (ASX: CNI)

Centuria is one of the largest property fund managers in Australia, giving the business significant exposure across a range of property sectors, including industrial and office.

As the chart below shows, the Centuria share price has fallen by around 20% since 29 August 2025, making it significantly cheaper for investors.

The business has provided guidance that expects to generate operating earnings per share (OEPS) of 13.4 cents, representing growth of 10% year over year. This means the business is trading at 14x FY26’s operating earnings.

The ASX dividend share is also expecting to pay a distribution to investors that equates to a distribution yield of 5.4%, at the time of writing, which I think is a solid start for passive income investors.

Centuria is aiming for at least $1 billion of real estate transactions in FY26, as well as expanding its real estate finance with new products and capital sources. Additional revenue is expected through its AI-related investments as well. All of this is expected to drive earnings growth.

I think the business has a very promising future, and this is a good time to invest.

Nick Scali Ltd (ASX: NCK)

This ASX dividend share is one of the larger furniture retailers in Australia. The business has the Plush and Nick Scali businesses in Australia, as well as the relatively new UK operations.

The Nick Scali share price is down around 25% since 11 February 2026, as shown in the chart below. This could be an exciting opportunity to invest in the company.

The business reported a good level of growth in the FY26 first-half result. In the first six months, ANZ revenue rose 13.1% to $251.7 million, and underlying ANZ net profit jumped 29.4% to $46.6 million.

UK revenue declined 38.5% to $17.6 million, while the underlying UK net loss worsened by 100% to $5.6 million.

Total revenue grew 7.2% to $269.3 million, overall underlying net profit increased 23.1%, and the dividend per share was hiked by 30% to 39 cents per share.

We shouldn’t read too much into the UK numbers because there were numerous store closures for lengthy periods because of store refurbishments. UK sales orders increased by 12.8%, which bodes well for future growth.

Additionally, the UK gross profit margin increased to 59.2%, significantly above last year’s gross profit margin of 45.1%.

A number of new UK stores are currently in negotiations, with a “strong focus on growing the store network”.

Trading looks positive for the second half of FY26 – ANZ written sales orders for the month of January increased by 3.1% year over year. A further five new stores are confirmed for ANZ during the year, with additional opportunities currently being reviewed.

In the UK, the majority of the store refurbishment program is now complete, and it has seen an improvement. Total January written sales were $6.7 million. Four Nick Scali-branded stores that were trading in January FY25 achieved like for like sales growth of 32% in January FY26, which bodes well for the foreseeable future.

The forecast on CMC Invest suggests the business could deliver an annual dividend per share of 84 cents in FY27. That would translate into a grossed-up dividend yield of 6.5%, including franking credits, at the time of writing.

The post These 2 ASX dividend shares are great buys right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Recap: Winners and losers from earnings season week 2
• Why Austal, Cochlear, Nick Scali, and WiseTech shares are tumbling today
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• 3 ASX dividend stocks I’m excited to see the payouts of this reporting season

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

The New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) share price is in focus today after the company reported underlying EBITDA of $106.9 million for the quarter ended 31 January 2026, and group coal sales up 8.2% compared to the previous quarter.

What did New Hope Corporation report?

• Group Run of Mine (ROM) coal production: 4.1 million tonnes, up 4.8% from last quarter
• Coal sales: 2.9 million tonnes, up 8.2% from last quarter
• Average realised sales price: $139.0 per tonne, up from $136.6 per tonne
• Underlying EBITDA: $106.9 million for the quarter, and $214.8 million for the first half FY26
• Available cash balance: $616.8 million at 31 January 2026
• Reduction in Bengalla Mine’s FY26 sustaining capital guidance to $100–130 million

What else do investors need to know?

New Hope continued its strong mining performance at both Bengalla and New Acland mines, with improved logistics supporting higher coal sales. Saleable coal production grew 2.8% for the quarter, while Queensland’s New Acland Mine increased output thanks to higher yielding coals and improved rail availability.

Safety remains a focus, with the All-Injury Frequency Rate rising to 35.20, and the company reporting four high potential safety events during the quarter. The board noted no shares were acquired under the ongoing $100 million buy-back program during the period, but capital management remains a priority.

Malabar Resources, in which New Hope holds a 25.97% stake, advanced the Maxwell Underground project and secured a major debt facility for future growth. New Hope also entered a deed to extinguish its financial guarantee liability related to Bowen Coking Coal, which will see a $12 million settlement paid to New Hope if creditors approve the deal.

What did New Hope Corporation management say?

Chief Executive Officer Rob Bishop said:

Our operations delivered improved productivity and output on the back of better mining conditions and logistics performance. We are focused on maintaining safe, reliable production and delivering value to our shareholders.

What’s next for New Hope Corporation?

Looking ahead, New Hope expects Bengalla Mine to return to its normal 13.4 million tonne per annum ROM coal production rate in the second half of FY26, as pit sequences recover from last year’s severe weather. Guidance for group and site-specific production and sales remains unchanged, with a notable reduction in sustaining capital expenditure at Bengalla Mine.

The company remains committed to disciplined capital management, exploring shareholder return options, and tracking developments at its strategic investments. Completion of the Bowen Coking Coal settlement and publication of its interim report in March 2026 are also on the near-term agenda.

New Hope Corporation share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, New Hope Corporation shares have risen 6%, slightly outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 5% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post New Hope Corporation Q2 FY26 earnings: coal sales and EBITDA hold steady appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• Aurizon Holdings hikes dividend after stronger FY2026 half-year profit
• Stockland posts strong 1H26 result on development surge
• JB Hi-Fi posts record first-half sales, profit and dividend lift

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.

It has been a very rough time for the technology segment of the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO). Who knows when the falls will stop? While I’m seeing opportunities in that sector, I also think there are other ASX 200 shares that could be a bastion of stability.

Not every business is exposed to AI in the way that software stocks are.

There are some names that have resilient earning and can easily weather the storm, in my view. These stocks include those with exposure to essential products and services.

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)

You can’t get much more of an essential service than food and Coles is one of the largest food retailers in Australia with its national supermarket chain and liquor division which includes Liquorland.

The ASX 200 share has delivered regular sales and earnings growth, funding a similar growth pattern as the dividend.

It doesn’t need to continue outperforming Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) to continue being a good investment, but that makes it particularly compelling as a sign that customers are liking the products on offer.

With a growing Australian population and strong e-commerce growth, the prospect for ongoing earnings growth looks good, particularly with its new automated distribution centres.

According to the forecasts on CommSec, the Coles share price is valued at 24x FY26’s estimated earnings with a forecast grossed-up dividend yield of 5.1%, including franking credits.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

Another essential service that most Australians and businesses can’t seem to do without is an internet connection.

Telstra is the leading Australian telco, with the biggest market share of mobile and NBN connections.

Having the best network and the most subscribers allows Telstra to generate the strongest profits compared to its peers, as well as investing the most in its network further.

Telstra’s subscriber base has regularly grown over the last few years and the operating leverage has enabled its operating profit (EBITDA) margin to increase.

I’m particularly hopeful the ASX 200 share can win more 5G-powered home internet connections because that would mean a significantly higher profit margin from each connection, rather than that margin going to the NBN.

According to the forecast on Commsec, the current Telstra share price is valued at 25x FY26’s estimated earnings with a possible grossed-up dividend yield of 5.8%, including franking credits.

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

Soul Patts is the most diversified ASX 200 share, in my view.

It’s not just a telco or a supermarket business. Rather, it owns a portfolio across a broad range of ASX shares, international shares, private businesses, property and credit.

Some of the sectors it’s invested in include telecommunications, resources, industrial property, building products, swimming schools, agriculture, electrification, healthcare and more.

By taking this diversified approach, along ensuring its investments have defensive cash flow, it means the ASX 200 share is likely to deliver resilient earnings, even during economically uncertain times, as well as a steadily-growing dividend.

I’m backing this business to be around for decades to come.

Its ability to shift its portfolio means, in my view, it can always ensure its portfolio is future-focused and generate good returns for shareholders. Additionally, that wide investment horizon gives the company a great chance to find the best opportunities.

The post Why it’s a great time to buy these ASX 200 shares in these rocky times appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has positions in Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. 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 Telstra Group, 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.

The Abacus Storage King (ASX: ASK) share price is in focus after the company posted a statutory profit of $71.1 million, up 4.8% on the prior half, and maintained its distribution at 3.10 cents per security.

What did Abacus Storage King report?

• Statutory profit of $71.1 million, up 4.8% on HY25
• Funds from Operations (FFO) of $41.0 million, down 5.3% on HY25
• Net Tangible Assets (NTA) of $1.76 per security, up 1.1% on FY25
• Distribution per security unchanged at 3.10 cents
• Occupancy stable at 90.5%, down 0.2 percentage points on HY25
• Gearing at 31.9%, within target range; over $500 million in funding capacity

What else do investors need to know?

Abacus Storage King continued to expand in HY26, investing $58.1 million into acquisitions and developments and adding more than 15,000 square metres of new net lettable area to its portfolio. Notably, the company has rolled out its proprietary revenue management system across its entire established portfolio, driving dynamic pricing and helping maintain sector-leading operating metrics.

The board is currently exploring the internalisation of Abacus Storage King’s management structure, which it believes could support greater efficiency and growth. These discussions are still at an early stage, and no outcome is guaranteed.

What did Abacus Storage King management say?

Chief Financial Officer Evan Goodridge said:

We were pleased to report continued RevPAM and valuation growth across all Australian regions, driven by the Group’s leading locations and brand. ASK remains well placed to deliver sustainable long-term growth as we continue to deliver operating strength that has underpinned the business achieving sufficient scale to consider internalising the management structure.

What’s next for Abacus Storage King?

Looking ahead, management reaffirmed its full-year distribution guidance of 6.20 cents per security, with 25% to be paid as a fully franked dividend and targeting a payout ratio of 90% to 100% of FFO. The company is confident in its balance sheet strength and development pipeline, which includes plans for 18 new stores and further expansion across Australia.

Management says its focus remains on delivering operational excellence and strategic growth, while continuing to evaluate the potential management internalisation. The revenue management system is expected to drive margin expansion over the medium term.

Abacus Storage King share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Abacus Storage King shares have risen 22%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 4% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Abacus Storage King posts profit growth, reaffirms outlook for 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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.

There are a lot of ASX shares for investors to choose from on the Australian share market.

To narrow things down, let’s see what analysts at Bell Potter are saying about the three popular shares listed below, courtesy of The Bull. Here’s what you need to know:

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

Despite trading on lower than normal multiples and having an attractive longer term product pipeline, the team at Bell Potter still only rates CSL shares as a hold this week. Following the biotech giant’s half-year results, the broker said:

 This plasma and vaccines giant reported revenue of $US8.3 billion in the first half of 2026, down 4 per cent on the prior corresponding period. Underlying net profit after tax and amortisation (NPATA) of $US1.9 billion, excluding restructuring costs and impairments, was down 7 per cent. The company has maintained full year guidance, with revenue forecast to increase between 2 per cent and 3 per cent and NPATA between 4 per cent and 7 per cent at constant currency. CSL trades below its historical price/earnings ratio and peers. Longer term product pipelines remain attractive.

Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC)

Bell Potter has named this ASX rare earths stock as a sell this week. It believes the company’s shares are expensive (and volatile). And with execution risks remaining elevated, the broker thinks investors should keep their powder dry for the time being. It said:

While Lynas boasts strategic positioning in rare earths amid a positive long term theme, execution risks, in our view, remain elevated. The consensus among market watchers is for significant volatility ahead. Operational challenges, including power supply disruptions at the Kalgoorlie processing plant and geopolitical uncertainty, add further complexity. The share price has been volatile. It rose from $6.89 on February 12, 2025 to $21.64 on October 15. LYC was trading at $15.92 on February 12, 2026. There’s no dividend yield.

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

Finally, Bell Potter has put a hold rating on Wesfarmers shares ahead of its half-year results.

The broker sees potential for a strong result to be a positive catalyst for its shares, but with a stretched valuation, it thinks investors should be waiting for a better entry point. It said:

The industrial conglomerate’s interim results for fiscal year 2026 are scheduled to be released on February 19. The results could serve as a positive catalyst, with growth most likely led by Bunnings and Kmart Group. Wesfarmers posted statutory net profit after tax of $2.926 billion in full year 2025, an increase of 14.4 per cent on the prior corresponding period.

While its valuation remains stretched, operating momentum and productivity investments in digital and supply chain capabilities support earnings resilience. Capital management initiatives — such as a payout of $3.56 a share that includes special distributions — further enhances total return. The current valuation leaves a hold recommendation.

The post Buy, hold, sell: CSL, Lynas, and Wesfarmers shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• 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
• Buy, hold, sell: James Hardie, CSL, and CBA shares

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in CSL. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Lynas Rare Earths Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The Aurizon Holdings Ltd (ASX: AZJ) share price is in focus today after reporting a 9% rise in first-half FY2026 EBITDA to $891 million and lifting its interim dividend by 36% to 12.5 cents per share.

What did Aurizon Holdings report?

• Revenue up 4% to $2.1 billion
• EBITDA increased 9% to $891 million
• NPAT rose 16% to $237 million
• Earnings per share up 20% to 13.6 cents
• Interim dividend of 12.5 cps, 90% franked (36% increase)
• Free cashflow up 41% to $335 million

What else do investors need to know?

Aurizon attributed the result to higher volumes, a regulatory revenue uplift, and continued discipline on costs. The half saw solid gains across the Bulk, Coal, and Network business units, supporting the group’s improved earnings.

The interim dividend payout ratio was lifted to 90% of Underlying NPAT, and Aurizon extended its on-market buy-back by $100 million, now totalling up to $250 million. The company also completed a review of its Network business, deciding to keep its integrated rail model rather than pursue a demerger or monetisation.

What did Aurizon Holdings management say?

Managing Director & CEO Andrew Harding said:

Today’s results underscore the strength of Aurizon’s two largest business units, Network and Coal and the continued growth of Bulk and Containerised Freight… Revenue growth was driven by regulatory uplift and higher volumes, while disciplined cost control — including the successful execution of last year’s $60 million cost‑out program — further strengthened our position… We determined that retaining 100% ownership of Network remained the option that best delivers long-term value for our shareholders.

What’s next for Aurizon Holdings?

Aurizon expects full-year underlying EBITDA in the range of $1,680 million to $1,750 million and has upgraded expected full-year dividends to 22-23 cents per share. The group is maintaining its focus on disciplined growth, cost control, and investment in both transformation and growth capex.

Management says they are progressing with the draft 10-year undertaking for the Central Queensland Coal Network, which, if approved, is expected to provide an average annual revenue uplift and long-term certainty for customers and shareholders.

Aurizon Holdings share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Aurizon shares have risen 13%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 4% over the same period.

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The post Aurizon Holdings hikes dividend after stronger FY2026 half-year profit appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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.

The Stockland Corporation Ltd (ASX: SGP) share price is in focus today after the diversified property group posted a statutory profit of $292 million for the first half of FY26, up 19% on last year, and a 29.5% surge in post-tax Funds From Operations (FFO) to $325 million.

What did Stockland report?

• Statutory profit: $292 million (1H25: $245 million)
• Post-tax FFO: $325 million, up 29.5%
• FFO per security: 13.5 cents
• Distribution: 9.0 cents per security (1H25: 8.0 cents)
• NTA per security: $4.25 (FY25: $4.22)
• Gearing: 28.1%, within target range of 20%–30%

What else do investors need to know?

Stockland’s Development business had a standout half, with Masterplanned Communities settlements up 60% to 3,168 lots and development FFO nearly tripling to $106 million. The company’s Investment Management arms, including Town Centres and Logistics, continued to deliver steady growth, despite some asset disposals and partnership transfers.

The group also reaffirmed its full-year targets for both its Masterplanned and Land Lease Communities, and completed its target of net zero scope 1 and 2 emissions across operations, highlighting its focus on sustainability.

What did Stockland management say?

Tarun Gupta, Managing Director and CEO said:

We delivered a strong first half result, with earnings growth supported by higher development production and continued progress in executing our strategy.

Our Investment Management portfolios performed well, delivering positive comparable growth across all sectors, supported by strong leasing outcomes and contributions from recent project completions. We continue to expand our capital partnering platform and recycle capital toward attractive growth opportunities, while maintaining balance sheet strength and funding flexibility.

What’s next for Stockland?

Looking ahead, Stockland expects development earnings and cash flow to be “materially weighted” to the second half of FY26, as more settlement receipts flow through. The company is targeting 7,500–8,500 lot settlements in Masterplanned Communities and 700–800 for Land Lease Communities for the full year.

Management also expects gearing to moderate further by year-end, and the distribution per security to be in line with FY25 at 25.2 cents. Stockland will keep progressing its commercial pipeline, especially with new data centre opportunities and an expanded focus on the Land Lease sector.

Stockland share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Stockland shares have declined 4%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 4% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Stockland posts strong 1H26 result on development surge appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Abacus Storage King posts profit growth, reaffirms outlook for 2026
• Aurizon Holdings hikes dividend after stronger FY2026 half-year profit
• JB Hi-Fi posts record first-half sales, profit and dividend lift
• Treasury Wine Estates posts $649.4m loss, suspends dividend as transformation accelerates
• Bendigo and Adelaide Bank earnings: Profit up, dividend holds steady

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.