Category: Stock Market

The Corporate Travel Management Ltd (ASX: CTD) share price is firmly in the spotlight today after the company reported a resilient FY25 underlying EBITDA of $83.6 million, while also disclosing a statutory net loss after tax of $346.7 million due to significant goodwill write-downs.

What did Corporate Travel Management report?

• FY25 underlying EBITDA: $83.6 million; FY26 forecast: $113.6 million
• Total Transaction Value (TTV): $9.6 billion in FY25 (up from $9.1 billion in FY24); FY26 forecast: $9.8 billion
• Revenue: $643.4 million in FY25; FY26 forecast: $669.9 million
• Statutory net loss after tax: $346.7 million (includes $357.7 million goodwill impairment)
• Strong liquidity: $107 million cash as at 30 June 2026 and new $175 million funding package
• No dividend declared, as remediation and balance sheet strengthening takes priority

What else do investors need to know?

CTM has made significant progress on customer remediation, with around 78% of its $246 million refund program either agreed or close to being finalised. The bulk of settlement payments can be spread through to Q1 FY28, helping manage cash flow.

Governance and risk management have received a major boost, with new board-led oversight, stronger controls, and leadership appointments across legal, commercial, and transformation teams. These changes aim to create a more disciplined and transparent business.

A new strategic initiative, CTM One, focuses on leveraging technology and data—like CTM’s proprietary Lightning and Sleep Space platforms—to drive higher quality growth, better customer outcomes, and stronger operating leverage globally.

What did Corporate Travel Management management say?

Managing Director and CEO Ana Pedersen said:

Today is a significant step forward for CTM and these results demonstrate the resilience of CTM’s underlying business.

Customer remediation is now well advanced, with 78% of refunds agreed or close to finalisation. The recently announced $175 million funding facility provides the certainty and flexibility to complete the process while continuing to support the business. Across our global operations, we continued to retain customers, win new business and grow transaction volumes despite a period of significant disruption.

Our focus is on continuing to deliver for customers, improving operating leverage and building a more connected global business positioned for sustainable long-term growth.

We recognise this has been a challenging period for investors, clients, partners and our people, and we are grateful for their ongoing support and confidence in CTM.

What’s next for Corporate Travel Management?

CTM is preparing for an FY26 earnings recovery, forecasting underlying EBITDA to rise back towards FY24 levels and focusing on disciplined execution of its CTM One strategy. Transaction volumes in early FY27 are tracking in line with expectations, with strong customer retention and new project wins.

As remediation obligations are resolved, restoring the balance sheet, investing in technology, and strengthening the company’s global platform remain core priorities. Dividends may remain suspended in the short term, but more guidance is expected at the upcoming AGM.

View Original Announcement

The post Corporate Travel Management reports FY25 and 1HY26 earnings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Corporate Travel Management secures new funding and updates on FY25 and FY26 earnings
• Corporate Travel Management updates UK remediation progress and settlement terms
• Corporate Travel Management teams up with Amadeus for global tech upgrade
• Corporate Travel Management secures new UK Ministry of Defence contract

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.

The Clarity Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: CU6) share price is in focus today after the company reported a 68% jump in revenue to $8 million, alongside a net loss of $107.2 million for the year ended 30 June 2026.

What did Clarity Pharmaceuticals report?

• Revenue increased 68% to $8.0 million
• Net loss after tax widened to $107.2 million (up 67%)
• Research and development spend rose to $91.1 million
• Liquid assets grew to $178.3 million at year end
• No dividend declared for FY26
• Net tangible assets per share up to 49.9 cents (from 28.1 cents)

What else do investors need to know?

Clarity raised $203 million in fresh capital through a placement at the end of July 2025, strengthening its cash reserves for future clinical trials and commercialisation. The company received a $9.8 million R&D tax incentive refund, highlighting its ongoing investment in Australian radiopharmaceutical research.

The year was marked by significant clinical progress, with flagship prostate and neuroendocrine tumour imaging and therapy candidates advancing through multiple phase II and phase III trials. Manufacturing and supply agreements were expanded to support the anticipated launch of key products.

What did Clarity Pharmaceuticals management say?

Executive Chair Dr Alan Taylor said:

Our strong progress across clinical, regulatory, and manufacturing activities this year lays the foundation for our transition from developer to commercial stage. We remain focused on bringing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals to patients globally.

What’s next for Clarity Pharmaceuticals?

Clarity is prioritising late-stage clinical trials and regulatory submissions in the US for its core copper-based SAR technology platform. The company will also focus on building its commercial infrastructure, supported by expanded manufacturing capabilities and new executive appointments.

Looking ahead, Clarity remains well funded and plans to progress new studies targeting unmet needs in cancer care, while preparing for product launches in the US and other key markets.

Clarity Pharmaceuticals share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Clarity Pharmaceuticals shares have declined 33%, trailing the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which is flat over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Clarity Pharmaceuticals FY26 earnings: Revenue jumps, losses widen as clinical pipeline progresses appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• This ASX biotech is tipped to more than double in value
• Clarity Pharmaceuticals reports clinical trial milestones
• Clarity Pharmaceuticals reports new SECuRE trial responses at higher dose
• Clarity Pharmaceuticals reports clinical progress in June 2026 quarter

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 S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is losing ground on Thursday, with another wave of selling pushing the market closer to the 9,000-point mark.

At the time of writing, the benchmark is down 0.77% to 9,057 points after touching an intraday low of 9,053 points.

That puts the index at its lowest level in 4 trading days and continues the pullback from the stronger levels seen earlier this month.

There also aren’t many places for investors to hide today, with 144 shares trading lower compared with just 48 moving higher.

So, what’s behind the weakness?

Rate hike concerns are growing

The biggest issue hanging over the market is the changing outlook for interest rates.

Wednesday’s hotter-than-expected inflation figures already had investors reconsidering whether the RBA could raise rates again.

Household spending increased 1.1% in July and was 7% higher than a year earlier, showing Australian consumers are still spending despite higher borrowing costs.

The latest figures have added to concerns that another RBA rate hike could be on the way.

That’s worth watching with the share market still trading close to record highs and valuations are already looking pretty high.

Morgan Stanley has warned that Australian equities are “not priced for a hike”, noting the ASX 200 is trading on a 12-month forward P/E ratio of 18.1 times.

With another rate hike now a real possibility, investors are becoming more cautious after the market’s run towards record levels.

Most sectors are moving lower

The weakness is spread across most sectors, but several large companies are doing plenty of damage to the index.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares are down 0.95% to $66.76, while fellow heavyweight Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares are 0.15% lower at $155.22.

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) shares have dropped 1.36% to $82.14, while Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) shares are down 3.21% to $38.89.

Property shares are also weaker, with Goodman Group (ASX: GMG) down 1.06% to $27.92.

Nonetheless, there are still a few pockets of strength.

Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN) shares are up 4.39% to $9.63 following its FY26 result, while CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares are 0.44% higher at $173.20.

Foolish takeaway

The ASX 200 is now sitting less than 60 points above the psychological 9,000-point mark, so that level will be worth watching if the selling continues.

Much will depend on whether concerns around another rate hike ease or build further in the lead-up to the RBA’s September meeting.

The post Why is the ASX 200 falling to a 4-day low today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Do leading brokers rate Woolworths shares as a buy following its results?
• Should I buy CSL shares before the end of August?
• Another RBA interest rate hike could be just weeks away. Here’s what the big banks think
• Where I’d invest $10,000 in ASX shares in September
• Qantas shares jump 4% today: Is this the start of a rebound?

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL, Goodman Group, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group, CSL, Goodman Group, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) shares are under pressure on Thursday.

In afternoon trade, the supermarket giant’s shares are down 3% to $38.96.

Is this a buying opportunity for investors? Let’s see what two leading brokers are saying about the company following its results release this week.

What are brokers saying?

Bell Potter was pleased with the company’s performance in FY 2026, noting that its net profit was ahead of expectations. It said:

WOW reported a FY26 underlying NPAT ahead of our expectations at $1,599m (BPe $1,511m and VA $1,553m). Key operating statistics of the result included: Operating results: Revenue of $71,539m was up +4% YoY (vs. BPe $71,431m and VA of $71,628m). EBITDA of $6,089m was up +7% YOY (vs. BPe of $6,123m and VA of $6,133m). Underlying NPAT of $1,599m was up +15% YOY (vs. BPe of $1,511m and VA of $1,553m). Group gross margin was up +12bps YoY and CODB was down -13bps YoY.

In response to the result and outlook commentary, the broker has made a material increase to its near-term estimates. It revealed that “NPAT changes are +16% in FY27e and +12% in FY28e.”

This has led to Bell Potter increasing its price target on Woolworths shares to $42.35 (from $35.50).

However, with potential upside now just under 9%, that isn’t quite enough for a buy rating, and the broker has held firm with its hold recommendation. It commented:

There has been a clear acceleration in the topline of the Australian food business in recent quarters (>200bp outperformance since 2Q26) and material recovery in the Big W business driving a return to growth at WOW. Continued growth in eCommerce sales in the Australian Food business (>17% in penetration in 4Q26), A material uplift in digital platform traffic (+13% YoY in 4Q26) and growth in active rewards members (to 10.8m users) are all encouraging signals for investments in online capability and customer capture. In the near term, WOW should also benefit from reduced supply chain implementation costs ($113m expense in FY26).

What else are brokers saying?

The team at Morgans is a little more positive on Woolworths shares. Following a review of the results, the broker has retained its accumulate rating (between buy and hold) with an improved price target of $43.50. This implies potential upside of almost 12% for investors over the next 12 months.

Commenting on its recommendation, Morgans said:

WOW’s FY26 result was slightly better than expected. Australian Food earnings were in line with our forecast, while Australian B2B and W Living exceeded expectations. NZ Food was softer following a challenging 2H26. Encouragingly, Australian Food sales momentum has continued into early FY27, supported by the popular Disney Ooshies collectibles campaign. 

Excluding this benefit, sales growth remained solid, indicating the underlying business continues to perform well. We adjust FY27/28/29F underlying EBIT by +2%/+2%+4%. Our target price increases to $43.50 (from $37.30), reflecting changes to earnings forecasts and a higher valuation multiple. The multiple expansion reflects continued positive momentum in the core Australian Food segment, our increased confidence that this sales growth can be sustained, and improved execution. We maintain our ACCUMULATE rating.

The post Do leading brokers rate Woolworths shares as a buy following its results? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why is the ASX 200 falling to a 4-day low today?
• 3 ASX 200 dividend shares that just hiked their payouts
• South32, Woolworths, BHP shares reach 52-week high: Buy, sell or hold?
• Everything you need to know about the Woolworths dividend
• Why Woolworths, Domino’s and DroneShield shares are turning heads on Wednesday

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

The Aeris Resources Ltd (ASX: AIS) share price is in focus today after releasing its FY26 results, highlighted by a 22% lift in revenue to $702.8 million and net profit after tax soaring 295% to $178.5 million.

What did Aeris Resources report?

• Revenue rose 22% to $702.8 million
• EBITDA jumped 81% to $290.2 million
• Net profit after tax surged 295% to $178.5 million
• Operating cash flow more than doubled to $275.6 million
• Net assets climbed to $599.5 million, up 89%
• Cash and cash equivalents increased to $164.9 million from $28.2 million

What else do investors need to know?

Aeris Resources strengthened its balance sheet during FY26 after a successful $96.8 million capital raising. Proceeds were partly used to fully repay and cancel a $50 million loan facility, saving around $6 million in interest and fees for the year ahead.

Operationally, copper production at Tritton rose 19% to 23,000 tonnes, boosting revenue, while the Cracow operation benefited from higher gold prices despite lower gold output. The company also recognised historical tax losses for the first time, resulting in a $51.5 million income tax benefit and further supporting statutory profits.

Investing activities were stepped up, including development at Murrawombie, early works at Constellation, and increased exploration, leading to improvements in Aeris’ Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve Statement.

What did Aeris Resources management say?

Aeris’ Executive Chairman Andre Labuschagne said:

Aeris delivered strong FY26 financial results, underpinned by continued operational improvement, resilience and cost discipline, enabling Aeris to maximise the benefit of a favourable commodity price environment. These factors resulted in strong operating cash flows, further strengthening our cash balance and overall financial position.

The significant progress made during FY26, together with our strong balance sheet and continued focus on operational improvement, positions Aeris well to deliver another strong performance in FY27 and advance our growth opportunities.

What’s next for Aeris Resources?

Aeris Resources finished FY26 with no debt, increased cash reserves, and a stronger net asset base, providing flexibility for growth. The company will focus on advancing its Constellation project and supporting exploration across its assets.

Management says it remains committed to disciplined cost management, operational improvement, and investigating strategic mergers and acquisitions to drive stakeholder value. Investors can expect further updates on project progress and potential resource upgrades through FY27.

Aeris Resources share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Aeris Resources shares have risen 138%, outperforming the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) by a wide margin.

View Original Announcement

The post Aeris Resources: FY26 profit surges on revenue growth and cash boost appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 2 ASX shares tipped to grow 40% or more in the next 12 months
• Morgans names 3 ASX shares to buy now
• Aeris Resources releases FY27 production and capital guidance

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.

S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are down 0.8% to 9,057.1 points as earnings season continues today.

After reviewing companies’ results, brokers have reduced their ratings on numerous ASX shares.

Let’s see a sample.

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

The PLS Group share price is $5.23, down 1.2% today and up 123% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX 200 lithium share has ripped 23% higher.

Morgans downgraded PLS shares from hold to trim after the miner’s FY26 results.

The broker commented:

PLS delivered an in-line FY26 Underlying EBITDA result and surprised with a maiden 5cps fully franked final dividend (22% FCF payout).

We view PLS as fairly valued at current levels, with its premium to peers already reflecting the company’s best-in-class execution, balance sheet and growth optionality.

Depleted lithium inventories leave scope for short-term upside, though we see the medium-term outlook as more volatile given uncertainty around supply and demand drivers.

The broker retained its 12-month price target of $4.60, which implies a 12% downside ahead.

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN)

The Paladin Energy share price is $12.31, down 2.1% today and up 64% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX 200 energy share has jumped 29%.

Morgans downgraded Paladin Energy shares from buy to accumulate due to recent share price strength.

Following the uranium miner’s FY26 report, the broker increased its target price to $14.10.

This suggests a potential 15% upside ahead.

Morgans said:

Cash is starting to flow — PDN delivered positive operating cash flow for the first full year since the restart, generating US$38m in FY26 and marking the transition from ramp-up story to steady-state and cash-generating producer.

Guidance beaten across the board — Langer Heinrich Mine (LHM) exceeded FY26 production, sales and cost guidance, providing further evidence that the operation can sustainably deliver and continues to build momentum as it enters more steady state operations.

Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) 

The Lovisa share price is $27.14, down 1.7% today and down 34% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX retail share has soared 27%.

Morgans downgraded Lovisa shares, on valuation grounds, from buy to accumulate after the retailer’s FY26 report.

The broker reduced its 12-month price target to $31.

This implies a potential 14% upside ahead.

Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX: ORA)

The Ora Banda share price is $1.59, down 1.9% today and up 84% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX 200 gold share has ripped 42% higher.

MA Financial Group downgraded Ora Banda shares to a hold rating after the miner’s FY26 report.

The broker raised its 12-month price target from $1.40 to $1.60.

This implies a potential 1% upside ahead.

Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR)

The Sandfire Resources share price is $23.47, down 2.8% today and up 85% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX 200 copper share has leapt 22%.

The Sandfire Resources share price struck a new record of $25 on the back of its FY26 report yesterday.

Morgans downgraded Sandfire Resources shares from accumulate to hold with a $23 target.

This indicates the stock is fully valued now.

The broker commented:

SFR resumed dividends with a 35cps final dividend (+86% vs expectations) and we see scope for this to build further as its cash balance continues to grow with no drawn debt, supported by a favourable base metals price environment.

SFR’s asset quality, management quality and balance sheet strength, alongside emerging growth optionality, underpin its case as a core copper exposure for long-term investors, though the stock appears fully valued at current prices.

Scentre Group (ASX: SCG)

The Scentre share price is $3.57, down 1.4% today and down 12% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX 200 real estate investment trust (REIT) has fallen 8%.

Jarden downgraded Scentre shares to a hold rating after reviewing the property group’s 1H FY26 results.

The broker has a $4.05 target, which suggests a potential 13% upside ahead.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

The Inghams share price is $2.05, up 2.3% today and down 26% over 12 months.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 consumer staples share has fallen 9%.

Jarden downgraded Inghams shares to a hold rating after the company’s FY26 results.

The broker’s target is $2.50, which implies a potential 22% upside ahead.

The post 7 ASX 200 shares downgraded by brokers this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Buy, hold, sell: Coles, Paladin Energy, and Woodside shares
• 3 ASX mining shares Bell Potter rates a buy
• Why I think the Lovisa share price is an excellent long-term buy right now
• How much superannuation is needed to target a $50,000 annual passive income?
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

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 positions in and has recommended Lovisa. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Lovisa 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.

There are a lot of ASX shares out there for investors to choose from.

To narrow things down, let’s take a look at what the team at Morgans is saying about the three popular shares listed below. 

Here’s what it is recommending:

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)

This supermarket giant delivered a result that was largely in line with expectations in FY 2026 despite a challenging operating environment. Morgans said:

COL’s FY26 result was broadly in line with expectations, with Supermarkets the key highlight while Liquor remained soft. Despite a challenging operating environment due to ongoing cost-of-living pressures, geopolitical uncertainty and increasing regulatory complexity, COL continued to gain market share in Supermarkets with momentum building across its digital business. COL also outlined several initiatives to support its next phase of growth. 

Alongside the ongoing development of its VIC automated distribution centre, the company plans to accelerate investment in stores, online capacity and technology, while repositioning its liquor offering with a greater focus on supermarket co-locations and a more integrated food and drinks proposition.

In response to the release, Morgans has retained its accumulate rating (between buy and hold) with an improved price target of $25.40. It adds:

We adjust FY27/28/29F underlying EBIT by +1%/+2%/+2%. Our target price increases to $25.40 (from $24.60) and we maintain our ACCUMULATE rating.

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN)

This uranium producer’s FY 2026 results impressed Morgans. It highlights that the Langer Heinrich Mine outperformed guidance for production, sales and costs. The broker said:

Cash is starting to flow – PDN delivered positive operating cash flow for the first full year since the restart, generating US$38m in FY26 and marking the transition from ramp-up story to steady-state and cash-generating producer. Guidance beaten across the board – Langer Heinrich Mine (LHM) exceeded FY26 production, sales and cost guidance, providing further evidence that the operation can sustainably deliver and continues to build momentum as it enters more steady state operations. 

However, due to recent share price strength, the broker has downgraded Paladin Energy’s shares to an accumulate rating with an improved price target of $14.10. It adds:

Following recent share price strength, we move to an ACCUMULATE (previously BUY) with an increased price target of A$14.10ps.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

Energy giant Woodside outperformed expectations in the first half of FY 2026 according to Morgans. 

It highlights that stronger than expected realised prices underpinned an earnings beat. It said:

WDS delivered a 1H26 EBITDAX beat (+6%) and inline underlying NPAT result (+1%). Underlying NPAT of US$1,334m ~1% ahead of consensus and ~3% ahead of MorgansF, was driven by stronger realised pricing (+20% yoy) and trading activity. Costs were inside the ranges pre-announced with the Q2 report. The interim dividend of US57cps (+8% YoY) was held at an 80% payout of underlying NPAT despite gearing (20.6%) sitting marginally above the 10-20% target range. A H2 skew in production and realised prices will help, while management also announced a US$350m pa cost savings target from 2028. 

However, due to its current valuation, the broker has held firm with its hold rating and $32.20 price target. It concludes:

We maintain our HOLD rating and A$32.20 target price.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Coles, Paladin Energy, and Woodside shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 7 ASX 200 shares downgraded by brokers this week
• 3 ASX mining shares Bell Potter rates a buy
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursday
• How much do I need to retire on $120,000 a year at 55?
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Woodside Energy Group Ltd. 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 Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: CUV) share price is in focus after the company posted its tenth straight annual profit and announced a stable, fully franked dividend of $0.05 per share for FY2026.

What did Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals report?

• Revenue declined slightly to $94.0 million, down 1% from FY2025.
• Net profit after tax was $33.9 million, a 6% decrease year on year.
• Cash reserves rose 12% to $252.1 million.
• Expenses held steady, dropping 0.5% to $53.5 million.
• Basic earnings per share slipped 6% to $0.68.
• A franked final dividend of $0.05 per share was declared, matching last year.

What else do investors need to know?

Clinuvel’s profit marks a decade of uninterrupted earnings, which the company credits to disciplined cost controls and strong treatment demand for SCENESSE®. While revenue declined marginally as US sales softened – partly due to competitor programs and a shift in US supply practices – European revenue growth offset this impact.

The balance sheet remains robust, with net tangible assets per share climbing 12%. Operating cash inflow was $36.9 million, and after prepaying income tax, cash reserves still finished notably higher. The steady dividend reflects a commitment to reward shareholders, equating to 9% of free cash generated for the period.

What did Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals management say?

Group Chief Financial Officer Mr Peter Vaughan said:

This position provides us with flexibility to pursue an expansion strategy, continue investing through market cycles in key strategic areas, and allocate capital based on opportunity rather than necessity. As CLINUVEL builds its operations and presence in the capital markets in the United States, we can do so from a position of strength.

What’s next for Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals?

Clinuvel aims to use its strong cash and asset base to drive further growth in North America and other markets. Management will continue to invest in core areas like R&D and the Phase III vitiligo program and expects steady business expansion through diversification.

The company remains confident in self-financing its strategy, thanks to disciplined spending and consistent cash flow. Shareholders can also look forward to continued dividends, subject to cash reserves and performance.

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals shares have declined 31%, trailing the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which is flat over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals posts 10th consecutive profit and maintains dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Buy, hold, sell: Whitehaven, Endeavour, Neuren Pharmaceuticals shares
• Corporate Travel Management reports FY25 and 1HY26 earnings
• Clarity Pharmaceuticals FY26 earnings: Revenue jumps, losses widen as clinical pipeline progresses
• Why is the ASX 200 falling to a 4-day low today?
• Do leading brokers rate Woolworths shares as a buy following its results?

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

Building wealth through shares does not need to be difficult.

I think the best approach is to look for strong businesses that can continue to become more valuable over time, and then give them years to do the work.

Here are three ASX shares I would be happy to buy with that approach.

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

Xero has become a major accounting platform for small businesses, but I still think the long-term opportunity is much larger than its current customer base.

Its software helps businesses manage accounting, payroll, payments, and other financial tasks that are central to day-to-day operations.

I like that because once a business becomes comfortable using Xero, the platform can become deeply embedded in how it operates.

The company can keep growing by adding more customers, expanding further across major international markets, and increasing the number of services existing customers use.

I think that gives Xero several ways to keep building on its existing business.

Over a long timeframe, small gains in customer numbers and product usage can add up to a much larger business.

National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB)

NAB would give this portfolio a more established financial business.

What I like most is its strong position in business banking. Australian companies need funding, transaction accounts, payments, and other banking services as they grow, invest, and manage their day-to-day finances.

That gives NAB the opportunity to build broad relationships with business customers across several products and services.

I also think this part of the market can be attractive over the long term because successful businesses often become more valuable banking customers as they expand.

NAB still has a large personal banking operation, but its business banking strength gives it an area where it can stand out from some of its major rivals.

For me, that makes it a bank stock I would be comfortable holding for many years.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Netwealth provides investment and superannuation technology used by financial advisers and their clients.

I think the long-term opportunity comes from becoming increasingly important to those advisers.

Once client assets and processes are moved onto a platform, changing providers can involve significant work. That gives Netwealth the chance to build long-lasting relationships while continuing to improve the technology advisers use.

Australia’s superannuation system also gives the company a strong backdrop.

Workers keep contributing to retirement savings, while investment returns can increase the amount of money already on platforms.

Netwealth can therefore grow by winning more advisers and clients, while the overall pool of wealth it competes for continues to expand.

I think that combination gives the business plenty of room to become larger over the next decade.

Foolish takeaway

I like these three shares because I can see clear reasons why their businesses could be stronger years from now.

Xero can keep expanding its software platform, NAB can deepen its business banking relationships, and Netwealth can capture more of Australia’s growing investment wealth.

I would be comfortable buying all three and giving those opportunities plenty of time to develop.

The post 3 excellent ASX shares I’d buy for long-term wealth creation appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Another RBA interest rate hike could be just weeks away. Here’s what the big banks think
• What on earth’s going on with Xero shares?
• How much superannuation is needed to target a $50,000 annual passive income?
• Netwealth Group FY26 earnings: Record profits, platform and adviser growth
• 2 ASX 200 shares I’d buy and 2 I’d avoid amid a surging Aussie dollar

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

A broad index fund can be a great way to build wealth, but some exchange-traded funds (ETFs) take a more selective approach.

If I wanted to give myself a chance of outperforming the wider market over the long term, these are three ASX ETFs I would consider.

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY)

The QLTY ETF looks for global companies displaying characteristics such as strong profitability, healthy balance sheets, and relatively stable earnings.

I like this approach because long-term wealth creation often comes from businesses that can keep reinvesting successfully rather than simply being large.

The portfolio includes companies from several industries and countries, so investors are not relying on one particular sector to deliver the returns.

Quality businesses can still become expensive or experience disappointing periods, of course. But over a long timeframe, I think concentrating more money in companies with strong financial characteristics gives the fund a reasonable chance of producing attractive returns.

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)

The MOAT ETF takes the idea one step further by considering both business quality and price.

It invests in US companies that have sustainable competitive advantages, or economic moats, while also trading below fair value.

Those advantages could come from strong brands, switching costs, network effects, or other characteristics that make it difficult for competitors to take customers and profits away.

I particularly like the valuation element. Owning a great company does not guarantee a great investment if the starting price is too high. The MOAT ETF regularly adjusts its portfolio towards businesses offering the most attractive combination of competitive strength and valuation.

That gives it a different process from an index that simply puts the most money into whichever companies have the largest market values.

Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT)

I would also consider applying a quality filter closer to home.

The AQLT ETF invests in Australian shares selected using measures including profitability, earnings stability, and financial leverage.

I think this could be a good alternative to simply owning the entire Australian market.

Traditional market-cap-weighted funds can become heavily influenced by the largest companies and sectors on the ASX. The AQLT ETF instead asks whether a business demonstrates strong financial characteristics.

That can result in a portfolio focused on companies that have already demonstrated an ability to generate strong returns from their businesses.

There is no guarantee that those characteristics will lead to market-beating performance, but I think the process makes sense for investors willing to take a more selective approach.

Foolish takeaway

Trying to beat the market is difficult, and even professional investors regularly fall short.

That is why I would want a clear reason for moving away from a simple index fund.

For me, quality, sustainable competitive advantages, and sensible prices are three characteristics worth backing.

These ETFs package those ideas into diversified portfolios, giving investors a way to pursue outperformance without having to pick stocks themselves.

The post 3 strong ASX ETFs I’d buy to try and beat the market appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why these ASX ETFs are on my watchlist
• 3 super ASX ETFs for beginner investors
• Here are 3 top Betashares ETFs I’d buy now
• 3 strong ASX ETFs for smart investors to buy and hold
• 3 Betashares ETFs I’d buy and hold for 10 years

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino 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 VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.