Category: Stock Market

  • Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

    A girl sits on her bed in her room while using laptop and listening to headphones.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) couldn’t hold on to the positive momentum we saw yesterday during this Thursday’s session.

    Despite several stints in green territory this morning, the ASX 200 ended up closing in the red by the time trading wrapped up this afternoon, dropping 0.1%. That leaves the index at 8,525.7 points.

    This miserly day for Australian investors follows a far more optimistic morning on Wall Street.

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in fine form, rising by 0.66%.

    The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) did even better, gaining a rosy 0.77%.

    But time to return to the local markets now and see how today’s falls were distributed amongst the different ASX sectors today.

    Winners and losers

    The worst place to have been invested in this Thursday was tech shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) was sold off heavily, cratering 2.3%.

    Gold stocks suffered disproportionately too, with the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) tanking 2.1%.

    Communications shares seemed to be on the nose as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) ended up retreating 0.91% this session.

    We could say something similar for real estate investment trusts (REITs), as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)’s 0.86% downgrade.

    Mining stocks gave up some of yesterday’s surge, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) was walked back by 0.42% this Thursday.

    Consumer discretionary shares were right behind that, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) sliding 0.35%.

    That’s it for the losers, though. Turning to the winners, it was energy stocks that led the charge. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) surged by 1.54% this session.

    Healthcare shares were popular as well, evident from the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)’s 0.87% jump.

    Utilities stocks stuck the landing, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) saw 0.34% added to its total today.

    Consumer staples shares also held their value, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) enjoying a 0.1% improvement.

    Industrial stocks were right behind that. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) got a 0.09% bump by the time the markets closed.

    Finally, financial shares scraped home with a rise, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)’s 0.03% uptick.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    Today’s best stock on the index came in as chemicals manufacturer, Orica Ltd (ASX: ORI). Orica shares soared 5.48% higher this session to close at $20.60 each.

    This decisive move came without any news from the company today, though.

    Here’s how the other top stocks pulled up at the kerb:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    Orica Ltd (ASX: ORI) $20.60 5.48%
    DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO) $4.48 5.16%
    Infratil Ltd (ASX: IFT) $9.60 3.90%
    Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) $1.98 3.66%
    Graincorp Ltd (ASX: GNC) $6.40 2.73%
    Elders Ltd (ASX: ELD) $7.18 2.72%
    Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) $2.44 2.52%
    Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) $7.85 2.48%
    Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) $1.28 2.40%
    CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) $144.35 2.38%

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

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

    Should you invest $1,000 in Orica Limited right now?

    Before you buy Orica Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Orica Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen has positions in CSL. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL and DroneShield and is short shares of DroneShield. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL and Elders. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Are Liontown shares a buy, hold, or sell?

    Lion holding and screaming into a yellow loudspeaker on a blue background, symbolising an announcement from Liontown.

    Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) shares are a popular option for investors looking at the lithium industry.

    But are they a good option? Let’s see what analysts at Ord Minnett are saying about the lithium miner.

    What is the broker saying?

    Ord Minnett was pleased with the company’s performance during the first half of FY 2026, highlighting that its net loss was smaller than expected. It said:

    Liontown posted an underlying first-half FY26 net loss that was smaller than market expectations, as reduced tax charges and benefits from non-cash inventory movements outweighed higher-than-anticipated depreciation and amortisation (D&A) expenses, while the rest of the result was as expected.

    In addition, it notes that the company has reaffirmed its production guidance for FY 2026 and hit a 1.5 million tonnes per annum run rate. But it won’t be stopping there, with the company looking to grow its production to 2.8 million tonnes per annum next year.

    At the same time, Liontown is expecting to reduce its unit costs meaningfully, which leaves it well-placed to generate material free cash flow at current prices. Ord Minnett said:

    The lithium miner reiterated FY26 production guidance for the Kathleen Valley project in Western Australia and for the project to reach a run rate of 1.5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of spodumene concentrate by the end of the March quarter this year, before rising to a run rate of 2.8Mtpa by the end of the June quarter in 2027.

    The company forecasts reduced unit costs – $855–1045 per tonne on a 5.2% lithium oxide basis (SC5.2) versus market and Ord Minnett expectations of $913 per tonne and $934 per tonne, respectively– as the underground mining operation contributed the largest proportion of ore, rather than the open pit, by the end of FY26. Liontown sees a consistent recovery rate of circa 70% once the underground ore becomes the main feedstock.

    Should you buy Liontown shares?

    According to the note, the broker has put an accumulate rating on Liontown shares with a $1.90 price target.

    Based on its current share price of $1.71, this implies potential upside of 11% for investors over the next 12 months. It concludes:

    Post the result, we have cut our EPS estimates by 12.0% to incorporate increased finance costs and higher D&A charges, while our FY27 and FY28 forecasts are trimmed by 2.4% and 3.0%, respectively, to account for increased selling, general and administrative(SGA) expenses with a partial offset from reduced lease payments. We maintain our target price of $1.90 but have raised our recommendation to Accumulate from Hold on valuation grounds.

    The post Are Liontown shares a buy, hold, or sell? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Liontown Resources Limited right now?

    Before you buy Liontown Resources Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Liontown Resources Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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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 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 ASX retail giant’s shares just hit a record low. What’s going on?

    Man going down a red arrow, symbolising a sliding share price.

    The Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV) share price is continuing to fall again on Thursday.

    At the time of writing, the company’s shares are down 1.17% to $3.39. This marks 6 consecutive sessions in the red for the embattled drinks group.

    Notably, earlier in today’s session, the stock fell to $3.38, hitting a fresh record low.

    The latest move adds to a weak run in 2026, with Endeavour shares now down around 7% since the start of the year.

    Here’s what investors are seeing.

    Pressure builds after recent results

    The recent weakness follows the company’s half-year results, which highlighted mixed operating trends.

    Group sales rose 0.9% to $6.7 billion. However, profitability moved in the opposite direction. Underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) fell 6.7% to $278 million, while statutory profit dropped 17.1% to $247 million.

    The company also cut its interim dividend by 13.6% to 10.8 cents per share.

    Margins remain under pressure as the business invests in pricing to stay competitive.

    Management has been clear that price leadership is a focus, especially across its core retail brands. While this is supporting volumes, it is weighing on near-term earnings.

    Brokers take a conservative stance

    Broker updates following the result have been broadly neutral.

    According to recent commentary, there were no major surprises in the numbers, with performance largely in line with earlier trading updates.

    However, outlook changes have been modestly negative. One broker trimmed its EBIT forecasts for FY26 to FY28 by up to 4% and lowered its price target to around $3.65, while maintaining a hold rating.

    The key takeaway across updates is that earnings are expected to remain under pressure as the company continues to invest in pricing and its hotel network.

    What the chart is showing

    From a technical view, the trend line remains weak.

    The share price is trading near the lower end of its bollinger band range, which is suggesting sustained selling pressure.

    Momentum indicators also point to a soft setup. The relative strength index (RSI) is sitting in the mid-40s, telling us the stock is neither oversold nor showing signs of strong buying interest.

    With the stock now at record lows, there is limited visible support below current levels. Previous price action suggests the $3.80 to $4 range may now act as resistance.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Endeavour shares are continuing to drift lower following a soft earnings update and a cautious broker outlook.

    The business remains focused on improving competitiveness through pricing and investment across its retail and hotel operations.

    However, this strategy is weighing on margins in the near term, as reflected in both earnings trends and the share price.

    The post This ASX retail giant’s shares just hit a record low. What’s going on? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Endeavour Group Limited right now?

    Before you buy Endeavour Group Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Endeavour Group Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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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.

  • A $500 million deal just dropped for Woolworths. Here’s what investors need to know

    Image of a shopping centre.

    The Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) share price is edging higher on Thursday, rising 0.60% to $36.60.

    The gain further adds to a strong run this year, with Woolworths shares now up around 24% in 2026.

    Today’s move comes as new details emerge around a significant property deal involving the sale of multiple shopping centres by the supermarket giant.

    Let’s take a closer look at the media report.

    $500 million property deal comes into focus

    According to The Australian, Woolworths has agreed to sell a portfolio of 10 neighbourhood shopping centres. The portfolio is being acquired by investment firm Forest Endeavour for more than $500 million.

    The portfolio includes supermarket-anchored retail sites across multiple states, with a mix of operating assets and some still under development.

    Woolworths is expected to remain the anchor tenant across the locations.

    Why Woolworths is selling these assets

    This deal shows how Woolworths is managing its capital.

    By selling the property but keeping its stores in place, the company can bring in cash without changing how it operates day-to-day.

    That cash can then be used in other parts of the business, such as store upgrades, logistics improvements and technology investments.

    It also means less money is tied up in owning property over the long-term.

    Woolworths’ director of property development, Andrew Loveday, said the group has seen strong demand for supermarket-linked assets, highlighting the value of its property portfolio.

    Why investors want these assets

    This deal also reflects what is happening in the property market.

    Shopping centres with major supermarkets are seen as more reliable because they bring steady foot traffic and consistent spending on everyday items.

    The report notes that both local and offshore investors have been active in this space, looking for stable and predictable income.

    Forest Endeavour, backed by Asian investors, has been growing its presence in Australian retail and hospitality assets.

    The portfolio covers sites from Queensland to Tasmania and includes a mix of open-air centres and development projects.

    Foolish bottom line

    While the company is focusing on using its capital more efficiently, its core supermarket network remains unchanged.

    In addition, by selling property but remaining the tenant, Woolworths can reduce capital tied up in long-term assets and improve financial flexibility.

    The share price has already been trending higher this year, and moves like this show what’s driving it.

    Woolworths currently has a market capitalisation of around $44.6 billion and sits among the top 20 companies listed on the ASX.

    The post A $500 million deal just dropped for Woolworths. Here’s what investors need to know appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Woolworths Group Limited right now?

    Before you buy Woolworths Group Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Woolworths Group Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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

  • Treasury Wine shares just tumbled to 14-year lows. Screaming bargain or falling knife?

    A wine technician in overalls holds a glass of red wine up to the light and studies it.

    Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) shares are sinking today.

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) global wine company closed yesterday trading for $3.54. In afternoon trade on Thursday, shares are changing hands for $3.38 apiece, down 4.5%.

    For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.2% at this same time.

    This will come as unwelcome news to the company’s shareholders, though not to the host of short sellers betting against the stock. Treasury Wine kicked off the week as the third most shorted stock on the ASX, with a short interest of 15.1%.

    Unfortunately for those faithful stockholders, today’s underperformance is far from unusual for the wine company.

    Indeed, following today’s slump, you’d have to go back to March 2012 to find Treasury Wine shares trading at a lower level.

    What’s been pressuring the ASX 200 stock?

    Treasury Wine shares have been in a downward trend for more than a year, with the stock down 65.7% over the past 12 months.

    The company has faced a number of headwinds, including tougher trading conditions in some of its core markets, such as China and the United States.

    Consumer drinking habits are also changing, with a shift in focus towards more premium-oriented wines.

    These headwinds were apparent when the company released its half-year results (H1 FY 2026) on 16 February.

    Net sales revenue of $1.3 billion was down 16% year on year, while earnings before interest and tax declined by 39.6% from H1 FY 2025 to $236.4 million. And with the company posting a statutory net loss of $649.4 million, management suspended the Treasury Wine dividend.

    Treasury Wine shares closed down 5.2% on the day of the results release.

    Are Treasury Wine shares now on sale?

    It’s never easy trying to call the bottom on a stock that’s lost two-thirds of its value in a year.

    According to consensus analyst recommendation on CommSec, the ASX 200 wine company is a hold, with two strong buy recommendations, two moderate buy recommendations, 11 hold recommendations, and two strong sell recommendations.

    There are a few reasons I’m modestly optimistic about the potential for a material turnaround over the medium term.

    Among them, the company’s shifting focus to premium brands and its Project Ascent program. This program aims to achieve $100 million in annual cost savings over two to three years.

    Commenting on the program, CEO Sam Fischer said:

    It is a disciplined, multi-year transformation program designed to sharpen our portfolio, simplify the organisation and optimise our cost base, and I am pleased with the progress we have made to date.

    Also, while I’m not prone to mimicking the investments made by billionaires, I do tend to take note.

    And on that note, news emerged in early March that French billionaire Olivier Goudet had invested another $41.7 million in Treasury Wine shares since mid-January. That sees Goudet holding around 7.1% of the company’s outstanding shares.

    The post Treasury Wine shares just tumbled to 14-year lows. Screaming bargain or falling knife? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Treasury Wine Estates Limited right now?

    Before you buy Treasury Wine Estates Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Treasury Wine Estates Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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

  • Why is everyone talking about 4DX shares this week?

    A man in a shirt and tie looks to the horizon holding his hand above his eyes as if to shield the sun so he can see better.

    4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX) shares have jumped another 2.3% higher in Thursday afternoon trade. At the time of writing, the shares are changing hands at $6.37 a piece.

    The uptick means the shares have now rocketed 55% over the past week. They’re now up a huge 71% over the past month and are 40% higher over the year to date.

    Most impressively, 4DX shares are 1,890% higher than this time 12 months ago, driven by regulatory approvals and a portfolio of signed contracts with hospitals and medical providers.

    The ASX healthcare technology company develops imaging software for healthcare providers to analyse airflow through the lungs. It helps identify and treat lung and respiratory diseases ranging from asthma to lung cancer.

    The company saw its share price explode in 2025 after its flagship product, CT:VQ, received regulatory approvals. It was quickly implemented and adopted through partnerships and commercial contracts with healthcare organisations.

    4DMedical has already signed contracts with hospitals and medical providers, primarily across the US. Stanford University, the University of Miami, Cleveland Clinic, and UC San Diego Health have all rolled out the technology at their centres.

    So, why are 4DX shares in the spotlight this week?

    4DX announced yesterday that its CT:VQ has now been deployed at the Mayo Clinic in the US for ventilation and perfusion analysis. 

    The clinic is widely-regarded as one of the world’s leading hospitals. This makes it a landmark moment for 4DX and its shares. 

    The news comes amid the company’s rapid repositioning from a research and development business trialling new technology, to a globally commercial business. And this has happened within a very short period of time.

    Investors are clearly jumping on board and it is sending the share price flying.

    What’s next for 4DX in 2026?

    Development and rapid adoption of the company’s technology also mean 4DMedical has smashed its milestone goals this year. 

    Approvals have been secured in Canada and New Zealand, and now the company is turning its attention to Europe and Australia.

    What’s the outlook for 4DX shares?

    The latest share price surge even took analysts by surprise. Despite the majority of brokers holding strong buy ratings, the target prices all now imply a significant downside for 4DX shares from here. We may see analysts confirm or update their expectations for the shares in coming days.

    What’s clear though, is that the share price rally demonstrates high expectations for the outlook of the company’s growth. I think we’ll see plenty more from 4DX shares this year.

    The post Why is everyone talking about 4DX shares this week? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in 4DMedical Limited right now?

    Before you buy 4DMedical Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and 4DMedical Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    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.

  • These 3 ASX 200 shares have hit fresh multi-year lows: Buy, sell or hold?

    A worried woman sits at her computer with her hands clutched at the bottom of her face.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has slumped another 0.1% at the time of writing on Thursday afternoon. It means the index is now down 2.3% for the year to date but the shares are 6.6% higher than this time last year.

    Losses have been seen across the board this year as geopolitical uncertainty and concerns about rising inflation rates puts pressure on markets.

    But there are some ASX shares which have been pushed down to fresh multi-year lows.

    The question is: Is this a buying opportunity for investors? Or a sign of what will come next?

    Dexus (ASX: DXS)

    At the time of writing, Dexus shares have shed another 1.3% to $5.96 a piece. Today’s decline marks the stock’s lowest point seen since late-2012. 

    The shares have tumbled 14% so far in 2026 and are now down 19% over the year. The decline has come off the back of concerns about Australia’s interest rate direction, high borrowing costs, and overall investor uncertainty. 

    But the ASX 200 real estate stock is a major Australian property investor, developer, and manager. It has a large, high-grade office portfolio and a smaller industrial portfolio in Australasia. It also manages properties on behalf of third-party investors. 

    This means it’s diverse and it has a steady, reliable income.

    Its FY26 first-half statutory NPAT came in at $348.5 million, up significantly from $10.3 million in the same period last year. The increase was mostly driven by property valuation gains.

    Analysts tip an average upside of 22% to $7.28 per share.

    Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH)

    Cochlear shares are also trading in the red at the time of writing, down 0.2% to $165.30. This is the lowest level seen for the ASX 200 company’s shares since October 2017.

    The shares have crashed 37% in the first three months of 2026, and they’re 39% lower over the past year.

    The world’s leading cochlear implant manufacturer suffered from lower-than-expected FY25 results in mid-August, and again for the first half of FY26 last month. Investors were spooked and many sold up their stock.

    But brokers are confident that a recovery is on the horizon, with many agreeing that the company’s share price is now below fair value.

    Analysts tip an average upside of 51% to $249.58 over the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

    WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

    It’s been a bloodbath for WiseTech shares over the past nine months, with the company’s share price crashing 68%. At the time of writing, the share price is down another 3% to $38.45, marking the lowest point for the ASX 200 shares since a dip in June 2022.

    For the year to date, the shares have shed 44% of their value, and the stock is currently trading 55% below where it was this time last year.

    The logistics software company faced several huge headwinds, which sent its value crashing. Even an impressive half-year result in late February didn’t stop investors selling up.

    But after so much downwards pressure, brokers expect the price to bottom out this year and start soaring.

    Analysts tip an average 123% upside to $85.69 over the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

    The post These 3 ASX 200 shares have hit fresh multi-year lows: Buy, sell or hold? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Cochlear Limited right now?

    Before you buy Cochlear Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Cochlear Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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

  • Everything you need to know about the latest Soul Patts dividend

    View of a business man's hand passing a $100 note to another with a bank in the background.

    Investment house Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd (ASX: SOL) just released another solid result. Shareholders may be wondering how big the latest Soul Patts dividend is.

    Soul Patts has an illustrious history of paying dividends. It has been listed on the ASX for 120 years, and has paid a dividend every year in that time.

    The company has just announced its latest payout.

    Soul Patts dividend

    For the half-year period to 31 January 2026, the company decided to declare an interim dividend of 48 cents per share, representing a year over year increase of 9.1%.

    The business funds its payout from net cash flow from its investments, i.e., the money it receives from its portfolio.

    Soul Patts reported that its net cash flow from investments grew by 15.4% to $334 million, driven by strong trading gains and its recent efforts to build a larger capital base following the Brickworks merger. On a per-share basis, the cash flow grew 12.5% to 89 cents.

    The investment house said that total dividends as a percentage of net cash flow from investments was 54.6%, representing a very sustainable dividend payout ratio.

    When will it be paid?

    Shareholders have less than two months to wait for the cash to hit their bank accounts. This interim dividend will be paid on 14 May 2026.

    But any investors who want to receive entitlement to this Soul Patts dividend will need to ensure they own Soul Patts shares before the ex-dividend date of 20 April 2026.

    The ex-dividend date is the cut-off date when investors will miss out on the payment. Therefore, interested investors must have bought shares before the end of trading on Friday, 17 April 2026.

    Investors can also choose to participate in the dividend reinvestment plan (DRP) to receive new Soul Patts shares instead of receiving cash. The DRP price for the new shares will be determined over the next several weeks.

    Soul Patts dividend yield

    The company doesn’t have the biggest dividend yield on the ASX, but its consistency is one of the most impressive elements.

    It has now increased its dividend every year for the past 28 years, a stunning record for an ASX share.

    The dividend announced today represents a dividend yield of 1.25%, or a grossed-up dividend yield of 1.8% including franking credits (at the time of writing).

    Adding the final dividend from FY25 and the HY26 interim dividend, Soul Patts now has an annual dividend yield of 2.8%, or 4% including franking credits. I think it’s likely the company intends to increase its FY26 final dividend too, so the FY26 yield is likely to grow.

    The post Everything you need to know about the latest Soul Patts dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited right now?

    Before you buy Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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

  • $10,000 invested in this ASX healthcare share a year ago is now worth $36,500

    A bearded man holds both arms up diagonally and points with his index fingers to the sky with a thrilled look on his face.

    ASX healthcare share Starpharma Holdings Ltd (ASX: SPL) has rocketed 365% over the past 12 months.

    Had you put $10,000 into this ASX small-cap share in March 2025, your holdings would be worth $36,500 today.

    Starpharma is an Australian biotech that develops drug delivery systems using proprietary polymers called dendrimers.

    These nanoscale molecules make medicines more effective in the body.

    Starpharma licenses its drug delivery technology to large pharma, and also develops its own anti-infection products.

    This ASX healthcare share is trading at 47 cents on Thursday, up 1.1%.

    What’s behind the dramatic 365% share price rise?

    The bulk of Starpharma’s rise over the past 12 months occurred between late September and February.

    In September, the ASX healthcare share rose by more than 100% after the company announced two new partnerships.

    Starpharma announced a new deal with drug company Genentech, which it has worked with for more than three years.

    The companies will develop cancer treatments using Starpharma’s proprietary DEP drug delivery technology.

    Under the deal, Starpharma got an upfront payment of US$5.5 million.

    It is also eligible to receive up to US$564 million in success-based payments over time.

    Starpharma granted Genentech an exclusive global licence to commercialise any products developed via the collaboration.

    Starpharma CEO Cheryl Maley said:

    A key strategic priority for Starpharma is to build new, high-impact partnerships that unlock the full potential of our DEP platform.

    By actively pursuing licensing opportunities and collaborating with leading organisations, we aim to expand market reach and enable our partners to deliver significantly improved therapies to patients worldwide.

    The ASX healthcare share surged again when the company announced its first radiopharmaceutical partnership.

    Starpharma signed a research and option agreement with Radiopharm Theranostics Ltd (ASX: RAD) that made it eligible to receive a $500,000 option fee, a $2 million upfront payment, and up to $89 million in success-based payments and royalties on net sales.

    Maley called the deal a key milestone, and said radiopharmaceuticals was a strong area of focus for Starpharma.

    In its 1H FY26 report in February, Starpharma reported a 474% increase in revenue to $10.8 million for the six months to 31 December.

    The half-year profit was $1,367,000, up from a loss of $5,392,000 in 1H FY24.

    Is it too late to buy this rising ASX healthcare share?

    ASX biotech shares are notoriously risky and unsuitable for investors with a low risk tolerance.

    PAC Partners gives this one a buy rating with a “high risk” 12-month price target of 80 cents to $1.

    PAC Partners forecasts growth in partnerships as well as over-the-counter revenue over the next four years.

    The post $10,000 invested in this ASX healthcare share a year ago is now worth $36,500 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Starpharma Holdings Limited right now?

    Before you buy Starpharma Holdings Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Starpharma Holdings Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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

  • Buy, hold, sell: Breville, Collins Foods, and MA Financial shares

    Business people discussing project on digital tablet.

    There are a lot of ASX shares out there to choose from on the local share market.

    To narrow things down, let’s see what analysts are saying about the three in this article.

    Are they buys, holds, or sells? Here’s what the broker is recommending:

    Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

    Ord Minnett is very positive on this appliance manufacturer and is recommending it to clients. The broker recently upgraded its shares to a buy rating with a $37.20 price target.

    It highlights that Breville is well-placed to benefit from a consolidation of vendors by Best Buy (NYSE: BBY) in the United States. It explains:

    The consolidation of vendors by Best Buy is described by Breville management as a “material change” to the retail channel structure in the US. The brands chosen benefit from additional shelf space and a structural lock-in, while the brands that have been de-ranged lose access to more than 1,000 retail locations. This dynamic is also playing out across other Best Buy categories, not just small domestic appliances.

    As a primary partner in Best Buy’s consolidated vendor strategy, this should provide Breville with a significant competitive advantage in the giant US market. Following recent weakness in the Breville share price, we upgrade to Buy from Accumulate with an unchanged price target of $37.20.

    Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF)

    The broker has also been looking at quick service restaurant operator Collins Foods.

    It highlights that the company is expanding its footprint in Germany with an acquisition.

    However, while it sees positives, it isn’t enough for anything more than a hold rating with a $12.00 price target. It explains:

    Collins noted same-store sales (SSS) growth in its dominant Australian division was 2.7% in FY26-to-date but had accelerated in the second half of FY26 to 3.2%. Post the trading update, Ord Minnet trimmed its FY26 EPS estimate by 0.7%, while our forecasts for FY27 and FY28 increased by 7.2% and 8.4%, respectively, which led us to raise our target price to $12.00 from $10.50.

    There is value apparent in Collins, but the company needs to exhibit a sustained period of performance in the German market, which the company is touting as its next ‘growth pillar’, before we can become more constructive on the stock.

    MA Financial Group Ltd (ASX: MAF)

    Ord Minnett is feeling bullish about this global alternative asset manager and has named it as a buy with a $10.05 price target.

    It highlights that the asset management business is experiencing strong momentum and believes it is well-placed to grow its assets under management. It commented:

    ‍Ord Minnett has resumed coverage of MA Financial with a Buy recommendation and a target price of $10.05. Its asset management business is seeing continuing momentum in net flows and the launch of new investment vehicles in FY25 leads us to expect strong growth in assets under management (AUM) in the near term.

    Further, the residential lending business is hitting its straps and will deliver a more material profit contribution in FY26. We see an attractive value proposition in MA Financial, with the stock trading on a one-year forward price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple of 14.7x, along with a forecast EPS compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23% over the FY25–28 horizon.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Breville, Collins Foods, and MA Financial shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Breville Group Limited right now?

    Before you buy Breville Group Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Breville Group Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Collins Foods. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Best Buy. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Collins Foods and Ma Financial Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.