Category: Stock Market

  • For monthly income, an 8.8% ASX dividend share to consider

    Different Australian dollar notes in the palm of two hands, symbolising dividends.

    ASX dividend shares are a great option for Aussie investors looking for reliable income, stability, and long-term growth potential.

    There are several companies that pay their investors every quarter, every six months, or every year. ASX dividend shares that pay out every single month are a much rarer find. 

    The most popular three are the BetaShares Dividend Harvester Active ETF (ASX: HVST), Plato Income Maximiser Ltd (ASX: PL8), and Metrics Master Income Trust (ASX: MXT). They all offer a reliable monthly income at a good rate.

    But there is another ASX dividend share that I think Aussie investors should consider: The BetaShares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (ASX: YMAX).

    What is YMAX?

    The Betashares YMAX is an ASX-listed exchange-traded fund (ETF) that is designed to generate an attractive income. It targets the 20 largest Australian shares on the ASX. 

    The fund uses a covered call strategy to generate extra income that is typically higher than dividend yields alone. It generally offers lower volatility than a direct investment in the underlying shares. It does not aim to track an index.

    What does its portfolio look like?

    The ASX dividend share invests in a portfolio that provides exposure to the largest 20 Australian securities listed on the ASX, combined with call options written on the securities in the share portfolio.

    The portfolio is passively managed, which means that the weighting of each security will generally mirror the weighting of the security within the Solactive Australia 20 Index, Betashares explains. It also aims to generate dividends, franking credits, and some capital growth. 

    It is most heavily weighted into the financial sector (45.7%) and the materials sector (20.8%). 

    And as of the 30th of January this year, the top four holdings in its portfolio are Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), and National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB).

    The portfolio is most heavily weighted into CBA and BHP shares at 15.5% and 15.1% respectively. It is also weighted 8.2% into both Westpac and NAB.

    What are the ASX dividend share’s payouts?

    When it comes to monthly payouts, the Betashares YMAX is relatively new to the table. Since its inception in April 2013, the fund has been paying quarterly dividends to its shareholders.

    But effective from January 2026, the intended distribution frequency of the fund has been amended from quarterly to monthly.

    As at 30 January 2026, the Betashares YMAX has a 12-month gross distribution yield of 8.8% and a 12-month distribution yield of 7.4%. The total 12-month franking level is 42.7%.

    The fund paid its last quarterly dividend on 19th January. It paid shareholders $0.13247 per share with 31% franking.

    Its first-ever monthly dividend payment was paid on the 17th of February, where it handed investors $0.035221 per unit. This came with 37.97% franking. This translates to an annual distribution return of 7.64%.

    The fund has confirmed a $0.050699 per unit dividend, with 32.88% franking, will be paid on the 17th of March.

    The post For monthly income, an 8.8% ASX dividend share to consider appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in BetaShares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund right now?

    Before you buy BetaShares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund 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 BetaShares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund 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 recommended BHP Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Buy, hold, sell: Bannerman, CBA, and Telstra shares

    Business people discussing project on digital tablet.

    Looking for ASX shares to buy? If you are, then it could be worth hearing what analysts are saying about the three below, courtesy of The Bull.

    Are they buys, holds, or sells? Let’s find out:

    Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN)

    The team at Fairmont Equities sees value in this ASX uranium stock. It believes Bannerman stands to benefit from increasing demand for uranium, which it expects to outstrip supply in the coming years.

    As a result, it has named it as an ASX share to buy this week. Fairmont explains:

    Bannerman is a uranium development company. Its flagship Etango project is based in Namibia. The uranium sector continues to appeal because demand should continue to outpace supply for the next several years. The company recently announced a joint venture with the China National Nuclear Corporation. The deal de-risks the Etango project and reduces funding risk involving development. BMN is exposed to potential upside in uranium prices.

    Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

    Morgans thinks that Australia’s largest bank is undoubtedly a high-quality company. However, due to its stretched valuation, it isn’t a buyer at current levels.

    In addition, with much of the good news now priced in, the broker is recommending investors sell CBA shares. It commented:

    CBA is a high quality company. But the bank’s valuation has stretched well beyond peers, reflecting investor preference for safety and consistency. Much of the good news, including strong deposit margins and sector leading returns, is already priced in, leaving limited scope for upside from here. We see better value elsewhere in the sector and believe the current premium leaves the stock vulnerable to even modest disappointment, which supports our sell rating at these levels.

    Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

    Morgans is a little more positive on telco giant Telstra, but not enough to justify a buy recommendation.

    The broker has named Telstra shares as a hold. It thinks the stock is fairly valued at current levels, stating:

    This telecommunications giant offers stable earnings, a strong mobile network and dependable dividends, making it a defensive holding in a volatile market. However, while its core mobile business continues to perform well, the growth outlook is steady rather than exciting. The stock appears fairly valued at recent levels, reflecting its predictable cash flows and limited near term catalysts. For now, Telstra remains suitable as an income‑focused hold due to its defensive earnings stream, but we don’t see a compelling reason to materially increase exposure.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Bannerman, CBA, and Telstra shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

  • 3 must-own ASX blue-chip dividend stocks for Aussie investors

    Male hands holding Australian dollar banknotes, symbolising dividends.

    ASX dividend stocks are a popular choice for investors seeking long-term growth potential and steady income.

    But when it comes to deciding exactly which ASX dividend stocks to go for, there are plenty of options. Almost too many. There are dividend stocks that pay dividends every single month, and others that pay quarterly or annually. Some are fully franked, and some aren’t. There are high-yield stocks, and then there are your blue-chips.

    Blue-chip stocks are generally large, well-established, and financially stable companies. They have a strong track record, have reliable earnings, and pay frequent dividends.

    If you want a dividend stock that will steadily increase its dividend over time and have solid growth potential, blue-chip stocks are what you need to look at.

    Here are three blue-chip dividend stocks that I think all Aussie investors should own in their portfolios. 

    BHP Group (ASX: BHP)

    Mining giant BHP is one of the largest and most established companies on the ASX, with a strong balance sheet and low debt, even during volatile markets.

    In FY25, BHP’s dividend payouts were lower than those received the previous year, reflecting shifts in commodity prices over the 12-month period. But it continues to be a heavyweight for passive income. 

    The miner recently reported impressive half-year earnings. On the bottom line, the ASX 200 miner achieved a 22% increase in underlying profit to US$6.20 billion.

    This saw management declare a fully-franked interim dividend of 73 US cents (AU$1.03) a share, up 30% in Aussie dollar terms and up 46% in US dollar terms.

    Macquarie previously forecast that BHP will pay its shareholders US$1.09 per share in FY26, with a potential dividend yield of 5.7% including franking credits. 

    Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

    Internet access and mobile phone connectivity are no longer a perk but a necessity for everyday life. That means Telstra shares tend to perform steadily, regardless of the stage of the economic cycle. 

    The ASX dividend stock offers a reliable income stream to investors, too. In fact, one of the best things about Telstra is that its dividend payout ratio is close to 100% of its earnings. That unlocks a good dividend yield.

    In its February half-year results, the company declared an interim dividend of 10.5 cents per share, up 10% from the prior period. The dividend was 90.5% franked, with 9.5 cents franked and 1 cent unfranked. On an annualised basis, that represents 21 cents per share for the full year. 

    In FY25, Telstra shares paid a fully franked dividend of 19 cents per share.

    Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

    Wesfarmers is another blue-chip company that offers a fantastic passive income. The business owns several leading retailers, including Bunnings, Kmart, Officeworks, and Priceline.

    The business recently posted a strong FY26 half-year result, which included a fully-franked interim dividend of $1.02 per share. That’s an increase of 7.4%.

    Analyst forecasts suggest the retail giant could deliver an annual dividend per share of $2.16 in FY26, which would be a grossed-up dividend yield of 3.9%, including franking credits.

    The post 3 must-own ASX blue-chip dividend stocks for Aussie investors appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy BHP Group 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 BHP Group 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 Macquarie Group and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Telstra Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Down almost 40% and at a 52-week low, should you buy this ASX 200 tech stock?

    A woman gazes with anticipation into a glass ball she's holding in her hands.

    Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL) shares hit a 52-week low of $45.88 today. That leaves the gaming stock down almost 40% from its high.

    When a high-quality ASX 200 tech stock falls that far, I think it’s worth looking if this has created a buying opportunity.

    In Aristocrat’s case, I believe it has.

    Why is this ASX 200 tech stock out of favour?

    One of the big concerns weighing on gaming and software-related ASX shares this year has been artificial intelligence (AI).

    Investors are asking whether AI-generated content could lower barriers to entry in gaming, reduce differentiation, or allow competitors to catch up more quickly. In theory, that could pressure margins and market share.

    But when I look at Aristocrat’s recent annual general meeting update from last month, I see a company leaning into AI rather than running from it. Management highlighted that AI investment across the group is focused on improving content creation, speeding up prototyping, enhancing quality control, and accelerating delivery into market segments.

    In other words, AI is being used as a productivity and innovation tool, not something that replaces Aristocrat’s core competitive advantages.

    This is still a content-led business. Aristocrat’s strength lies in its intellectual property, deep customer relationships, hardware integration, and global distribution footprint. AI might change how games are built, but it does not automatically recreate decades of brand equity and installed base scale.

    The core business is still performing

    Strip away the noise, and Aristocrat is still growing. In FY25, revenue was $6.3 billion, up 11%, with EBITDA margins expanding to 41.7%. That is not the profile of a business in structural decline.

    In North America, Aristocrat lifted its gaming operations market share to 43% and outright sales share to 31%, both all-time highs. It also held 9 of the top 10 premium leased indexing game titles in December 2025, according to industry data.

    Those numbers tell me that, despite investor anxiety, customers are still voting with their wallets.

    The ASX 200 tech stock is also pushing deeper into online real money gaming and iLottery, where it holds roughly a 70% share of the US iLottery market. That segment alone represents a long runway for expansion.

    A stronger, more focused Aristocrat

    Another underappreciated point, in my view, is the significant work that has been done to simplify and focus the portfolio.

    The sale of Plarium and Big Fish’s social casual assets means Aristocrat is now more tightly aligned around land-based gaming, social casino, and regulated online gaming. Management has also emphasised its strong balance sheet and minimal leverage.

    That matters in volatile markets. A strong balance sheet gives flexibility. It allows continued investment in design and development, selective acquisitions, and share buybacks when appropriate.

    From what I can see, this is not a company scrambling to defend itself. It is one that CEO Trevor Coker believes has laid “significant foundational work” for sustainable long-term success.

    So, should you buy?

    At $45.88 and consensus estimates pointing to earnings per share of $2.58 in FY26, this ASX 200 tech stock is trading on a forward P/E ratio of just 18x.

    I think that indicates that the market is pricing in a lot of fear. But when I look at the fundamentals, I see a global leader with growing market share, expanding margins, strong cash flow, and multiple growth avenues across land-based and online gaming.

    That does not eliminate risk. AI could reshape the industry faster than expected. Regulatory changes could impact online growth. Execution always matters.

    However, for long-term investors willing to tolerate some volatility, I think the current risk-reward looks far more attractive than it did near the highs.

    The post Down almost 40% and at a 52-week low, should you buy this ASX 200 tech stock? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Aristocrat Leisure 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 Aristocrat Leisure 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 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 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.

  • Fletcher Building shares lift as ASX 200 slides. Here’s why

    View of hand holding pen signing new deal with glasses sitting on table next to contract papers.

    Fletcher Building Ltd (ASX: FBU) shares are higher in mid-afternoon trade on Tuesday.

    At the time of writing, the Fletcher share price is up 1.38% to $2.95.

    This comes despite weakness in the broader market. The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is currently down 1.32% as investors react to escalating conflict in the Middle East.

    Here’s what the company announced.

    Higgins secures 10-year road maintenance contracts

    According to the release, Fletcher announced that its subsidiary, Higgins Contractors, has officially signed major road maintenance contracts with New Zealand’s transport authority.

    The contracts cover the East Waikato, Bay of Plenty, and Hawke’s Bay regions. Each agreement runs for 10 years, starting from April 2026.

    Higgins had previously been named as the preferred contractor in December 2025. However, the agreements have now been formally signed and locked in.

    Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Andrew Reding said the agreements are an important milestone for Higgins and provide a strong platform for the next decade.

    The company also reminded investors that it has entered into a binding agreement to sell its Construction Division to VINCI Construction. The final purchase price could change depending on the outcome of key contract negotiations.

    Fletcher and VINCI are still working through the details and will update the market separately.

    What does Fletcher actually do?

    Fletcher is one of New Zealand’s largest building materials and construction companies.

    It operates across New Zealand and Australia. The business makes and supplies building products such as plasterboard, insulation, roofing, piping, and concrete. It also runs trade and retail distribution businesses that supply builders and tradespeople.

    Through subsidiaries like Fletcher Construction and Higgins, the group also works on large infrastructure and construction projects.

    In recent years, management has reviewed the business and explored selling non-core divisions to streamline operations and strengthen financial performance.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Fletcher has faced a challenging period, with pressure on earnings and margins in its recent financial results. The share price has also been volatile over the past year, trading between roughly $2.64 and $3.44.

    The modest share price gain reflects investor support for the long-term nature of the new road maintenance contracts. Government-backed work that runs for a decade can provide more stable and predictable revenue.

    The company is still progressing broader restructuring efforts, and investors will be watching for updates on the proposed sale of the Construction Division.

    Any progress on asset sales and restructuring will likely remain a key driver of sentiment this year.

    Fletcher shares are outperforming the wider market in what has been a weak session for the ASX.

    The post Fletcher Building shares lift as ASX 200 slides. Here’s why appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Fletcher Building 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 Fletcher Building 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.

  • Why is this ASX rare earths stock rocketing 35% today?

    Man looking happy and excited as he looks at his mobile phone.

    Lindian Resources Ltd (ASX: LIN) shares are defying the broader market on Tuesday.

    At the time of writing, the ASX rare earths stock is up 25% to 66.2 cents, even as the ASX 200 index sinks 1.2% into the red.

    In fact, at one stage today, its shares were up as much as 35% to 71.5 cents.

    Why is this ASX rare earths stock rallying?

    The surge comes after Lindian Resources announced that it has executed a binding term sheet to acquire 100% of an operating mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC) processing facility in Kazakhstan via a joint venture structure.

    According to the release, the acquisition will be made through an incorporated joint venture between Lindian (51%) and local partner RA Group LLP (49%).

    The two parties will acquire the SARECO hydrometallurgical plant, which was previously owned and operated by a joint venture between Japan’s Sumitomo Corporation and Kazatomprom, for a purchase price of US$15 million.

    Importantly, this move transforms the ASX rare earths stock from a concentrate-only producer into a company with downstream MREC production capability, which is a higher-value product that typically attracts stronger payabilities.

    A step-change in strategy

    Management described the transaction as a “defining step” that fast-tracks Lindian’s transition into an integrated rare earths company with downstream capability.

    The purchase price may be US$15 million, but only US$3 million is payable upfront following due diligence. The remaining US$12 million is deferred until three months after commercial MREC production begins, which is expected around the first half of 2027.

    This certainly could be a great deal for the ASX rare earths stock. To put it into perspective, Lindian noted that comparable new cracking and leaching plants can cost in excess of A$500 million to construct.

    By acquiring an already constructed and operational plant, Lindian also avoids the lengthy permitting, construction, and funding risks associated with greenfield development.

    A compelling transaction

    Commenting on the deal, the company’s executive chair, Robert Martin, said:

    The acquisition of the SARECO Mixed Rare Earth Carbonate facility is a defining step for Lindian. It fast-tracks our transition from a concentrate producer to an integrated rare earths company with downstream capability, materially enhancing margins, commercial flexibility and long-term strategic value. This transaction positions Lindian to be one of the very few non-Chinese companies globally producing both rare earth concentrate and MREC.

    What makes this transaction particularly compelling is the capital efficiency. Securing a fully constructed, operational cracking facility for US$15 million, compared to over half a billion dollars typically required for greenfield downstream development, allows Lindian to avoid years of development, construction, permitting and balance sheet risk whilst maintaining our first to market approach. This downstream capability strengthens our negotiating position on all offtake discussions and expands our addressable customer base as we move toward dual production in 2026.

    The post Why is this ASX rare earths stock rocketing 35% today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Lindian 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 Lindian 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.

  • 4 ASX All Ords shares at 52-week lows. Should you buy?

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

    S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO) shares are down 1.5% at 9,289.9 points on Tuesday.

    The ASX All Ords hit an all-time high of 9,436.2 points on Friday, the final day of earnings season, and fell 0.13% yesterday.

    Today, the market is substantially lower as investors continue to weigh how the US and Israel attack on Iran will affect world order.

    Energy is the only sector in the green today as oil and gas prices continue to climb on expectations of disrupted global supply.

    Meanwhile, three ASX All Ords shares have hit 52-week lows today.

    Are they a buying opportunity, or is it best to steer clear?

    Let’s defer to the experts.

    4 ASX All Ords shares slumping to 52-week lows

    HMC Capital Ltd (ASX: HMC)

    This ASX All Ords financial share fell to a 52-week low of $2.54 on Tuesday.

    That’s a 72% deterioration over 12 months, but Morgans sees the upside.

    The broker retained its buy rating on HMC Capital shares after reviewing the company’s 1H FY26 report.

    In a note, Morgans commented:

    We still see value in HMC, with our market-to-market NTA at c.$2.30 per share, or c.$3.00 when we factor in our valuation for the listed co-investments (HDN, HCW, DGT), while the c.$60m of recurring funds management EBITDA adds additional value.

    Morgans lowered its 12-month price target from $4.85 to $4.45.

    Healius Ltd (ASX: HLS)

    The Healius share price tumbled to a 52-week trough of 66 cents today.

    This ASX All Ords healthcare share has halved in value over the past 12 months.

    Morgans reiterated its hold rating after reviewing the pathology services provider’s 1H FY26 report.

    The broker commented:

    While management maintained FY26 earnings in line with consensus and operational discipline is improving, sustainable earnings leverage remains an open question and dependent on execution.

    The broker gives the ASX All Ords healthcare share a 12-month target of 80 cents.

    DigiCo Infrastructure REIT (ASX: DGT)

    This ASX All Ords real estate investment trust (REIT) fell to a 52-week low of $1.93 on Tuesday.

    The data centre specialist has lost more than 55% of its value over the past year.

    Morgans is optimistic, however, after going over the company’s 1H FY26 results.

    The broker commented:

    DGT continues to trade at a c.50% discount to NAV of A$4.62/security, yet that NAV does not yet reflect the full value of the 88MW SYD1 expansion, which management estimates will deliver a further c.A$1.50/security of NAV uplift at a targeted 15% yield on cost.

    Acknowledging the share price weakness, we continue to see the opportunity in DGT, retaining our Buy rating with a $4.15/sh price target.

    Beacon Lighting Group Ltd (ASX: BLX)

    This ASX All Ords consumer discretionary share reached a 52-week low of $2.02 today.

    That’s a 41% fall over 12 months.

    However, Morgans upgraded Beacon Lighting from accumulate to buy on the back of its 1H FY26 report.

    The broker commented:

    BLX 1H26 result was weaker than expected, driven by softer sales in both retail and trade, which has tempered expectations of a meaningful recovery in the 2H.

    Whilst earnings recovery is likely longer dated, we see long-term opportunity in trade, store network growth, and margin expansion as the cycle turns.

    The broker lowered its share price target from $3.80 to $3.20.

    The post 4 ASX All Ords shares at 52-week lows. Should you buy? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Beacon Lighting 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 Beacon Lighting 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 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 HMC Capital. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended HMC Capital and HomeCo Daily Needs REIT. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Here’s how Woolworths shares smashed Coles shares in February

    A man in a supermarket strikes an unlikely pose while pushing a trolley, lifting both legs sideways off the ground and looking mildly rattled with a wide-mouthed expression.

    Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) and Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) shares had remarkably different runs in the month just past.

    While Coles shares underperformed the 3.7% gains posted by the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) in February, Woolies stock raced ahead of those gains.

    On 30 January, Coles shares were trading for $21.28. When the closing bell sounded on 27 February, shares were changing hands for $20.56 apiece, down 3.4% for the month.

    Woolworths shares, on the other hand, closed out January trading for $30.94 and ended February at $36 each, up 16.4%.

    Here’s what’s been happening with the ASX 200 supermarket giants.

    Woolworths shares rocket on results

    The biggest news out of Woolworths in February was the release of the company’s half-year results on 25 February.

    Woolworths shares closed up 13% on the day after reporting (before significant items) a 3.4% year-on-year increase in sales for the six-month period to $37.14 billion.

    And with all of the company’s segments achieving year-on-year earnings growth, the ASX 200 supermarket achieved 14.4% growth in earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) to $1.66 billion.

    On the bottom line, Woolies reported a net profit after tax (NPAT) of $859 million, up 16.4% year on year.

    The Woolworths shares also likely got a boost from passive income investors after management increased the fully-franked interim dividend by 15.4% from last year’s payout to 45 cents per share.

    If you want to bank the interim Woolworths dividend, you’ll have to hurry. Woolies stock trades ex-dividend tomorrow, meaning you’ll need to own shares at market close today to receive that payout. You can then expect to receive the Woolworths dividend on 2 April.

    Coles shares hammered on results

    Coles released its own half-year results two days later, on 27 February.

    Unlike Woolworths shares, Coles stock closed down 7.4% on the day the supermarket reported.

    Market expectations were clearly high following Woolworths’ strong results, with Coles coming under selling pressure despite reporting a 2.5% year-on-year increase in sales revenue to $23.6 billion.

    Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) – excluding significant items – of $2.21 billion increased by 7.8%.

    And Coles’ NPAT of $676 million was up 12.5% from H1 FY 2025.

    With profits up, management declared a fully-franked interim dividend of 41 cents per share. That’s up 10.8% from last year’s interim payout.

    You’ve got a little more time if you’re looking to grab the Coles dividend. The ASX 200 stock trades ex-dividend on 10 March, meaning you’ll need to own shares at market close on 9 March. You can then expect to see that passive income payout on 30 March.

    Comparing the results between the two supermarket giants, Woolworths shares look to have benefited from materially stronger key growth metrics than Coles posted in the first half.

    The post Here’s how Woolworths shares smashed Coles shares in February 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…

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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 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.

  • This new listed fund is looking to raise $300 million, and will pay a monthly dividend

    Australian dollar notes in the pocket of a man's jeans, symbolising dividends.

    A new investment fund, the Kapstream Investment Trust (ASX: KIT), is looking to raise $300 million in new capital and list on the ASX by the end of March.

    The Trust will take the money raised and invest it in its investment manager’s other funds, the Kapstream Absolute Return Income Fund, the Kapstream Absolute Return Income Plus Fund, and the Kapstream Private Investment Fund.

    Those funds, in turn, invest predominantly in fixed income securities and securitised warehouse financing.

    Monthly dividend stream targeted

    The goal, the Trust’s offer document says, is to target a return of the official cash rate set by the Reserve Bank of Australia, plus 3.5%, with monthly dividends envisaged.

    The offer document goes on to say:

    The units seek to provide investors with a means of diversifying their own portfolios and generating regular income. We expect the units will have lower correlation to domestic and international listed equity markets and are expected to have greater correlation to bond and credit markets.

    The offer opened on February 16 and is scheduled to close on March 4, with a minimum raise of $200 million and a maximum of $300 million. The shares are to be offered via brokers only.

    The offer document says further regarding the investment philosophy:

    The investment strategy of the trust is to invest predominantly in a diversified portfolio of investment grade Australian and global fixed income securities as well as asset backed securities typically in the form of warehouse financing . The trust may also hold cash on a temporary or limited basis. The trust may over time also acquire a portfolio of direct assets that fall within the investment strategy and may, subject to applicable law and the ASX Listing Rules, also invest in other funds managed by Kapstream that provide exposure to assets that fall within the investment strategy.

    The offer document also explained the details of warehouse financing.

    Warehouse financing is a form of private debt securitisation which provides capital to lenders to ‘on‑lend’ and is a critical part of lending businesses, commonly in the nonbank sector. Underlying borrowers are widely diversified across mortgage, auto, personal, professional, and other receivable and loan types.

    The managers of the trust will be paid a management fee but not a performance fee, the offer document says.

    The shares in the trust are expected to start trading on the ASX on March 30 under the ticker KIT.

    The post This new listed fund is looking to raise $300 million, and will pay a monthly dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Wondering where you should invest $1,000 right now?

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    Scott just revealed what he believes could be the ‘five best ASX stocks’ for investors to buy right now. We believe these stocks are trading at attractive prices and Scott thinks they could be great buys right now…

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    Motley Fool contributor Cameron England 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 stock soared 435% in 12 months, and is tipped to keep climbing

    A man in a suit looks surprised as he looks through binoculars.

    Kingsgate Consolidated Limited (ASX: KCN) shares are in the red in early-afternoon trade on Tuesday. At the time of writing, the ASX stock is down 1.43% at $7.225 a piece.

    Despite today’s dip, the stock is still 25.22% higher year to date and an enormous 435.56% higher than this time last year. 

    The increase means the stock has significantly outperformed the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO), which climbed 10.21% over the same period, and has outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ), which increased 52.04% over the year.

    Who is Kingsgate and what does it do?

    Kingsgate is engaged in gold and silver mining, development, and exploration, operating on the Pacific Rim and with headquarters in Sydney, Australia.

    Its main operation is the Chatree Gold Mine in Thailand, which restarted in 2023 after the Thai government halted all gold mining in the country in 2016. Kingsgate also operates the 100%-owned Nueva Esperanza Silver Gold Project in Chile’s Maricunga Belt. 

    The gold miner was added to the ASX 300 Index amid a quarterly rebalance in September. The company has a market capitalisation of $1.95 billion.

    What pushed the ASX stock higher over the past year?

    Kingsgate has ridden the wave of soaring gold prices over the past year as investors flock to safe-haven assets amid worsening geopolitical instability. 

    The gold price spiked at an all-time high of US$5,419 in late January. A dramatic buy-the-dip rally sent the metal’s price south earlier this month, but recent geopolitical turmoil has seen investors flock back to the asset. 

    The gold price held above US$5,300 on Monday, paring earlier gains after spiking past US$5,419. At the time of writing on Tuesday morning, the gold price has climbed another 0.58% for the day to US$5,353. 

    What do analysts expect next?

    Even after Kingsgate’s price surge over the past year, it looks like there could be room for more in 2026.

    According to TradingView data, two analysts have ratings on the ASX 300 gold miner. One has a hold rating, and the other has a strong buy rating. The average target price is $8.07 per share, which implies a potential 12.15% upside at the time of writing.

    The post This ASX stock soared 435% in 12 months, and is tipped to keep climbing appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Kingsgate Consolidated 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 Kingsgate Consolidated 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.