Category: Stock Market

  • The superannuation myth that could cost you $100,000 before you retire

    Man trying to balance and walk on a rope attached to a cliff's edge.

    There is a retirement decision many Australians make in their 50s and early 60s that feels sensible, cautious, and responsible.

    It can also be one of the most expensive mistakes in long-term wealth building.

    The idea sounds reasonable enough: as retirement gets closer, shift your super into cash or a conservative option so you can protect what you have built. After all, if markets fall, you have less time to recover.

    That is the part that makes the decision feel smart.

    The problem is that safety and lower returns often travel together. And over the final stretch before retirement, that trade-off can become far more costly than people expect.

    What actually hurts returns

    The biggest damage usually does not come from a market fall on its own.

    It comes from what happens next.

    When investors switch to cash after markets have already fallen, they often lock in the decline. Then, because confidence usually returns slowly, many stay defensive while markets recover. That means they can miss part of the rebound, which is often where a large share of long-term returns is earned.

    That is the trap.

    Market downturns feel dangerous in the moment. Yet for long-term investors, the bigger risk is often responding emotionally and giving up years of future compounding.

    Why the final decade matters so much

    One of the most misunderstood parts of retirement planning is how powerful the last 10 years before retirement can be.

    By that stage, many people have built meaningful super balances. Even modest percentage returns on a larger base can add up quickly. That means the final decade is not just about preservation. It is still a major growth phase.

    For example, a $400,000 super balance growing at 9% a year for 10 years would become roughly $947,000, even without extra contributions.

    If that same balance grew at 4% a year instead, it would reach about $592,000.

    That is a gap of more than $350,000.

    This is why moving to low-growth settings too early can have such a lasting impact. It is not simply about avoiding losses. It is about what you give up in return.

    The market downturn can make this decision more dangerous

    A falling market often creates the strongest urge to “play it safe”.

    That is understandable. Watching your super balance decline can be uncomfortable, especially when retirement no longer feels far away.

    Yet this is exactly when a rushed switch can do the most harm.

    If markets are already down, moving to cash may protect you from further short-term falls, but it can also leave you stranded if prices recover sooner than expected. And recoveries rarely wait until investors feel calm again.

    In other words, the danger is not just volatility. The danger is making a permanent portfolio decision based on a temporary emotional state.

    A downturn does not automatically mean your super strategy is wrong. It may simply mean markets are doing what markets have always done from time to time.

    What to focus on instead

    That does not mean everyone should stay aggressively invested forever.

    Your investment mix should reflect your age, expected retirement date, need for income, other assets, and ability to tolerate fluctuations. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

    However, a change this important should be based on your full financial position, not a scary patch in the headlines.

    For many Australians, better questions to ask are:

    How much growth do I still need?

    How long until I start drawing heavily on my super?

    Will I retire all at once, or transition gradually?

    Do I have cash or other assets outside super that reduce the need to panic?

    Those questions are far more useful than simply asking whether cash feels safer today.

    Foolish Takeaway

    The myth is not that cash is always bad. It is that conservative automatically means safer.

    In reality, switching your super to cash or a low-growth option too early can reduce your long-term retirement outcome by far more than many people realise. Not because you made a reckless decision, but because the decision felt prudent at exactly the wrong time.

    Super is still a long-term investment vehicle, even as retirement gets closer.

    If you are thinking about changing your investment option, make sure the move fits your timeline and broader plan, not just your nerves on a volatile day.

    The post The superannuation myth that could cost you $100,000 before you retire appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for over ten years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Leigh Gant 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 it’s time to look past the “SaaSpocolypse” and target Aussie tech

    A female engineer inspects a printed circuit board for an artificial intelligence (AI) microchip company.

    Australian tech was heavily sold off to start the year. This was led by investors dumping shares in software as a service (SaaS) companies. 

    From January until late March, the S&P/ASX 200 Info Tech Index (ASX: XIJ) fell 30%. 

    This was driven by AI replacement fears.

    AI can now perform functions like coding, data analysis, customer service, and content generation more cheaply and effectively. 

    This directly overlaps with what many SaaS companies charge subscriptions for, and pushed many investors into fear-driven selling. 

    But since late March, Aussie tech shares have been rebounding. 

    A new report from Betashares has reinforced why the initial sell-off may have been overblown and how investors can profit. 

    Small and mighty 

    Tom Wickenden, Investment Strategist at Betashares, said with just a 4% weight in the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: 300), Australia’s technology companies punch above their weight in terms of investor interest.

    A small but dynamic part of Australia’s equity market, technology companies have delivered periods of significant outperformance against the broader Australian market and global technology peers, alongside sharp drawdowns.

    He reinforced that the sector is no stranger to volatility, and that current investor uncertainty is not misplaced. 

    Disruption risk is a permanent feature of technology investing. But disruption also presents opportunity, for incumbents to integrate and adapt and new entrants to grow. In a sector as dynamic and small as Australian technology, this points to the benefits of an indexed ETF approach.

    Investors flock to Aussie Tech 

    According to the report, despite the current drawdown – and what some have dubbed a global ‘SaaSpocalypse’ in software – Australian investors are pouring into the sector. 

    The Betashares S&P ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC) has attracted $193.7 million in net inflows so far this year to 15 April 2026, already exceeding the $156.5 million gathered in 2025.

    These flows suggest that, rather than stepping away during volatility, many investors continue to view Australian technology as a long-term structural growth opportunity.

    This influx of investment into the ASX ETF has also helped its recent recovery. 

    After falling roughly 30% across the first three months of the year, it has now rebounded 16% in just the last 3 weeks. 

    Fund overview 

    For those seeking Aussie tech exposure, the ATEC ASX ETF aims to track the S&P/ASX All Technology Index (before fees and expenses). 

    The Index provides exposure to leading ASX-listed companies in a range of tech-related market segments such as information technology, consumer electronics, online retail, and medical technology.

    At the time of writing, it includes 45 underlying holdings, with its largest exposure being to: 

    The post Why it’s time to look past the “SaaSpocolypse” and target Aussie tech appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Betashares S&P Asx Australian Technology ETF right now?

    Before you buy Betashares S&P Asx Australian Technology ETF 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 S&P Asx Australian Technology ETF 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 Bell 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 Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Xero. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 3 ASX dividend shares I’d hold through anything

    Growth of ASX share price represented by tiny beans stalk shooting up into the sky

    When markets turn volatile, income investors often ask a simple question: which ASX dividend shares can I rely on no matter what?

    It’s not about chasing the highest yield. It’s about owning businesses with durable cash flow, strong market positions, and the ability to keep paying dividends through cycles.

    Here are three ASX dividend shares that fit that bill.

    Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

    Telstra is often the first name that comes to mind for reliability. As Australia’s dominant telecommunications provider, it benefits from scale, infrastructure, and a sticky customer base. Mobile and internet services are essential, which gives Telstra defensive earnings even when the economy slows.

    The company has also been using its pricing power, with recent increases expected to support margins. For income investors, Telstra offers consistent dividends backed by steady cash flow.

    The telco is expected to pay a total dividend of 20 cents for FY26, representing a 5.25% year-on-year increase. At the time of writing that implies a dividend yield around 3.7% For FY27 the dividend payout is expected to increase again to 21 cents per share. 

    APA Group (ASX: APA)

    APA is another cornerstone income stock. Its network of gas pipelines operates under long-term contracts, delivering predictable and recurring revenue. The energy infrastructure company has increased its annual distribution every year for the past 20 years, making it one of the most reliable ASX dividend shares around.

    It’s expecting to hike its FY26 annual distribution to 58 cents per security, translating into a distribution yield of 5.8%, at the time of writing.

    While infrastructure stocks can be sensitive to interest rates, APA’s underlying business remains highly resilient. It plays a crucial role in energy supply, making it a dependable option for long-term portfolios.

    Transurban Group (ASX: TCL)

    Then there’s Transurban, an ASX dividend share that offers a blend of income and growth. The company owns and operates major toll roads across Australia and North America, assets that are difficult to replicate.

    Many of its tolls are linked to inflation, providing a natural hedge against rising costs. As populations grow and urban congestion increases, demand for its roads tends to follow. That creates a long runway for earnings and distribution growth over time.

    For FY26, the company has guided to a distribution of 69 cents per security, implying a forward yield of around 5.0%. It recently paid an interim distribution of 34 cents per security, unfranked, reinforcing its steady payout rhythm.

    The connection

    What ties these ASX dividend shares together is the nature of their assets.

    Telstra provides essential connectivity. APA underpins energy infrastructure. Transurban keeps cities moving. These are services people rely on every day, regardless of economic conditions.

    That doesn’t mean they’re risk-free. Telstra faces ongoing competition and needs to manage pricing carefully. APA carries debt and can be affected by higher interest rates. Transurban also has significant leverage and is exposed to traffic volumes during economic slowdowns.

    But importantly, these risks are well understood and built into business models designed for the long term.

    Foolish Takeaway

    For investors focused on income, long term is what matters most. Not perfect performance every year, but the ability to deliver steady, reliable returns over time.

    If you’re building a dividend portfolio to hold through thick and thin, these three ASX dividend shares have the scale, resilience, and cash flow to stay the course.

    The post 3 ASX dividend shares I’d hold through anything appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Telstra Corporation 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 Telstra Corporation 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 Marc Van Dinther has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Apa Group, Telstra Group, and Transurban Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Bell Potter names the best ASX dividend shares to buy

    Two players on a field pump their fists in the air, indicating two of the best

    There are plenty of ASX dividend shares to choose from on the local market.

    But which ones could be best buys?

    To narrow things down, let’s look at two that Bell Potter has on its Australian equities panel.

    These are equities that the broker believes offer attractive returns over the long term.

    Here are two ASX dividend shares it is tipping as buys:

    Elders Ltd (ASX: ELD)

    Bell Potter thinks this agribusiness company’s shares are undervalued at current levels.

    In addition, it highlights Elders’ strong dividend yield as a reason to buy. It said:

    We see value in ELD, particularly with the market appearing to undervalue the pending Delta acquisition. The base business is performing well with multiple growth drivers including recovery from drought conditions, system modernisations, and backward integration benefits. We are attracted to ELD’s valuation, which is relatively cheap at 12x 12MF P/E, along with these potential upside catalysts and a strong dividend yield.

    The broker is forecasting fully franked dividends of 39 cents per share in FY 2026 and then 45 cents per share in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $7.35, this would mean dividend yields of 5.3% and 6.1%, respectively.

    Bell Potter has a buy rating and $9.00 price target on Elders’ shares.

    Nick Scali Limited (ASX: NCK)

    Another ASX dividend share that Bell Potter is bullish on is furniture retailer Nick Scali.

    It believes the company is well-placed for growth given its UK rollout. It said:

    Nick Scali is an Australian retailer specialising in household furniture and related accessories, operating under the core Nick Scali brand as well as the Plush banner. >90% of sales are completed in-store, with the company maintaining a substantial physical presence with over 100 showrooms across Australia and New Zealand, and has recently expanded into the UK, which now contributes around 8% of total revenue.

    Looking ahead, the key growth drivers include the continued roll-out of Nick Scali stores in the UK, supported by the refurbishment of acquired Fabb locations, and the ability to leverage the group’s established supply base to drive scale efficiencies and margin expansion.

    As for income, the broker is forecasting fully franked dividends of 61.9 cents per share in FY 2026 and then 75.1 cents per share in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $14.93, this would mean dividend yields of 4.15% and 5%, respectively.

    Bell Potter has a buy rating and $25.00 price target on Nick Scali’s shares.

    The post Bell Potter names the best ASX dividend shares to buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Elders 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 Elders 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 recommended Elders and Nick Scali. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 2 wonderful ASX All Ords stocks I’d buy today

    Purple tech growth chart.

    ASX All Ords stocks are a great hunting ground for opportunities because they can deliver much more growth than an ASX blue-chip share. The All Ordinaries (ASX: XAO) is full of interesting names.

    Smaller businesses are much earlier in their growth journey, but are typically undervalued by the market for their potential earnings growth. When we pick the right names, it can lead to strong, market-beating returns.

    If I were looking to beat the market, the two names below are ones I’d consider.

    Aeris Resources Ltd (ASX: AIS)

    Aeris describes itself as an Australian mid-tier copper and gold producer. It has two copper projects, expected to deliver between 40kt and 49kt in FY26.

    On top of that, the business has multiple development projects, and it’s also investing in exploration. This gives it a strong platform for growth over the longer-term.

    I’m expecting copper prices to rise over the longer term due to rising demand, driven by global electricity grid expansion, electric vehicles, data centres, renewable energy, batteries, and so on.

    The FY26 half-year result showed how the business can deliver improving profitability amid higher commodity prices – revenue grew by 4.6%, gross profit increased 57% to $93.5 million, net profit after tax (NPAT) rose 62% to $47.9 million, and operating cash flow surged 67% to $97.3 million.

    The Aeris Resources share price is down by 46% since January 2026, making it a much cheaper buy.

    According to the forecast on CMC Invest, the ASX All Ords stock is now valued at just 2x FY26’s estimated earnings.

    Australian Ethical Investment Ltd (ASX: AEF)

    Australian Ethical is a fund manager that aims to provide investors with investment options that align with their ethical beliefs about what they would and wouldn’t want to invest in.

    For example, it avoids certain industries, such as fossil fuels, nuclear, and tobacco, while actively supporting positive ones, such as renewable energy, healthcare, IT, and others.

    One of the most appealing aspects of Australian Ethical as an investment is its superannuation offering. This offers both long-term funds under management (FUM) and growth from regular superannuation contributions.

    For example, in the FY26 third quarter, the business reported net inflows of $0.1 billion, with the vast majority coming from the superannuation channel. Short-term market volatility can affect FUM and the earnings trajectory, but a sell-off can be an opportunity for a rebound.

    At the end of March, Australian Ethical expanded its private markets offering with the launch of the Australian Ethical Growth Opportunities Fund. This provides wholesale investors with access to long-term, ethically aligned private-market investments. The new fund has received a cornerstone institutional commitment of up to $125 million from the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC).

    According to the forecast on CMC Invest, the ASX All Ords stock is valued at 20x FY26’s estimated earnings.

    The post 2 wonderful ASX All Ords stocks I’d buy today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Aeris 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 Aeris 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 Tristan Harrison 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 Australian Ethical Investment. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Australian Ethical Investment. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Lest We Forget

    Silhouette of soldier paying tribute against the sunset - stock photo

    Duty.

    The word might seem old-fashioned these days, in what can often feel like a me-first world.

    It invokes a responsibility not just to ourselves, but to others. To do the right thing.

    And it elicits the idea of sacrifice. After all, we don’t need to promise to do the things we want to do – but to do the things we ought to do, even when we might prefer not to, or prefer to do something else.

    Today is ANZAC Day.

    It is the day, 111 years ago, that soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps landed on a beach in Suvla Bay in the Dardanelles Strait. It was a strategic sea transport lane that the Allies were determined to keep open, and hopefully use as a prelude to capturing Istanbul, then known as Constantinople, the capital of the Ottoman Empire.

    A day that would become immortalised in Australian and New Zealand history, and serve as our pre-eminent day of remembrance for all Australian and New Zealand soldiers, sailors and aviators, and those of our allies, who served, suffered and died in the service of our countries in wars and warlike conflicts.

    Those who were doing their duty.

    From the cities and the bush. Old and young. Black and white. Rich and poor. Volunteer and conscript.

    They put on our nation’s uniform and served their country faithfully.

    Some did not return, and are buried in war graves, mostly overseas. We remember them today.

    We also remember those who came home, but who returned with physical, mental and emotional injuries. Who left the war, but whom the war never left.

    We remember those whose emotional injuries were so severe that ending their own lives was preferable to living with the pain.

    They all did their duty, in our name.

    We remember, because it is our duty.

    Remembrance isn’t about glorifying war. It’s not about the conflicts themselves at all.

    It is about those Australians, New Zealanders and those of our wartime allies who put themselves in harm’s way because their country asked them to.

    It is our responsibility – our duty – to pause and reflect. To remember.

    Not just the gallant acts of incredible bravery. Though we remember them.

    Not just the battles won against fierce odds. Though we remember them, too.

    We remember the ordinary serviceman and woman who donned their uniform and followed orders, because that’s what they were asked to do.

    Who felt fear. Who knew horror. Who served with distinction and honour, even though at times they would have felt, with every fibre of their being, that they would rather have been anywhere else.

    Who did their duty, simply because it was their duty, and they believed it was the right thing to do.

    And that’s why it’s our duty to remember.

    After the Ode of Remembrance is recited across the country at ANZAC services, today, attendees will observe a period of silence.

    In the stillness, we will contemplate the sacrifices made by our service personnel. Our fellow Australians, who, in years past, did their duty. Often at great personal cost, some making the supreme sacrifice.

    We will remember those who, often in the youthful prime of their lives, did their duty, regardless of that personal cost.

    And so, we will do our duty. We will remember them.

    They went with songs to the battle, they were young,

    Straight of limb, true of eye, steady and aglow.

    They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted:

    They fell with their faces to the foe.

    They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:

    Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

    At the going down of the sun and in the morning

    We will remember them.

    Lest We Forget

    The post Lest We Forget appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for over ten years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Scott Phillips 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.

  • Almost ready to retire? I’d buy cheap ASX dividend shares for passive income

    A happy couple looking at an iPad.

    Getting close to retirement changes how I think about investing.

    Income starts to matter more, and I want that income to be as reliable as possible. At the same time, I still want the portfolio to hold up over the long term.

    Here is how I would approach buying ASX dividend shares for passive income at this stage.

    Focus on the starting yield

    The price you pay matters more when you are investing for income.

    Buying ASX shares after a pullback can lift the dividend yield and improve the income from day one. That is why I pay close attention to companies trading below their usual levels.

    For example, when a business like Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN) falls well below its highs, the potential yield on offer with its shares can become very generous.

    In fact, according to CommSec consensus estimates, Harvey Norman shares are expected to offer a dividend yield of around 8% in FY27.

    Look for businesses that can keep paying

    A high dividend yield is only useful if it can be sustained.

    I focus on companies that generate consistent cash flow and have a track record of paying dividends through different conditions. That often leads me toward businesses with strong positions in their markets.

    Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) is a good example of this. The Bunnings and Kmart owners’ earnings are supported by demand that tends to hold up well in most economic environments, which helps underpin regular and growing dividends.

    Diversify

    I think a balanced income portfolio is important.

    An easy way to achieve this is with an exchange-traded fund (ETF) like the Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY) or the Betashares S&P Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: HYLD).

    They allow you to buy a large group of ASX dividend shares through a single investment. This provides almost instant diversification to a passive income portfolio.

    Keep it manageable

    As retirement approaches, simplicity becomes more important.

    I would rather own a handful of income-producing ASX shares that I understand than a large number of positions that are harder to follow. That makes it easier to track performance and stay confident in the portfolio.

    Foolish Takeaway

    I think building a passive income portfolio comes down to buying the right shares at the right price and holding them over time.

    A mix of reliable dividend payers and opportunities created by share price weakness can help build a steady income stream, which is what I would focus on as I get close to retirement.

    The post Almost ready to retire? I’d buy cheap ASX dividend shares for passive income appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for over ten years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Harvey Norman. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 3 ASX ETFs with market-beating potential over the next 10 years

    A bland looking man in a brown suit opens his jacket to reveal a red and gold superhero dollar symbol on his chest.

    Outperforming the market over long periods often comes down to backing the right parts of the economy early and staying invested.

    Broad index exchange traded funds (ETFs) tend to reflect where the market is today. More targeted ETFs can tilt towards where growth and returns may come from over the next decade.

    Here are three ASX ETFs that offer that potential and were recently recommended by the team at BetaShares:

    BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

    The first ASX ETF that could be a market-beater is the BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF.

    This fund leans into companies that are shaping consumer behaviour and digital infrastructure. It is less about the overall economy and more about where innovation is happening at scale.

    Its holdings include companies such as Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX), Adobe (NASDAQ: ADBE), and Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA).

    Adobe is a good example of how these businesses evolve over time. It has transitioned from one-off software sales to a subscription-based model, creating recurring revenue and improving margins. That ability to adapt is a common feature across many Nasdaq leaders.

    With technology continuing to influence how industries operate, the BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF could be an ETF to hold for the long term.

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

    Another ASX ETF to look at is the BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF.

    This ETF focuses on automation, which is a theme that is becoming more important as companies look to improve productivity and reduce reliance on labour.

    Its holdings include companies such as Fanuc Corporation (TYO: 6954), Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG), and Keyence Corporation.

    Keyence stands out for its high-margin business model. It develops sensors and automation equipment used in manufacturing, with a strong focus on efficiency and precision. Its products are embedded in production processes, which can make demand more resilient over time.

    As automation expands across industries, the BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF could be destined to outperform over the long term.

    BetaShares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

    A final ASX ETF worth considering for the long term is the BetaShares Asia Technology Tigers ETF.

    This ETF provides exposure to large technology companies across Asia, where digital adoption continues to accelerate.

    Its holdings include companies such as Meituan (SEHK: 3690), PDD Holdings (NASDAQ: PDD), and Samsung Electronics.

    Meituan is an interesting one. It operates a platform that connects consumers to services such as food delivery and local retail, building scale through network effects. Its growth reflects how digital ecosystems are developing differently across Asia.

    With innovation and consumption trends continuing to evolve in the region, the BetaShares Asia Technology Tigers ETF could be a top long-term pick.

    The post 3 ASX ETFs with market-beating potential over the next 10 years appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Betashares Capital Ltd – Asia Technology Tigers Etf right now?

    Before you buy Betashares Capital Ltd – Asia Technology Tigers Etf 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 Capital Ltd – Asia Technology Tigers Etf 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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  • Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

    3 children standing on podiums wearing Olympic medals.

    It was a lacklustre finish to what has been a rather rough trading week for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) this Friday.

    After a shaky and volatile session that saw the index whipsaw quite a lot, the ASX 200 ended up closing 0.078% lower by the time the markets closed up shop. That leaves the index at 8,786.5 points as we head into the weekend.

    This inglorious end to the trading week for ASX investors follows a red night up on Wall Street.

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) wasn’t in a good mood, shedding 0.36%.

    The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared worse, though, dropping by 0.89%.

    But let’s return to the local markets now and see how the various ASX sectors ended their respective weeks today.

    Winners and losers

    Despite the broader market’s drop, we still saw a few sectors make gains. But first, let’s check out the losers.

    Leading that sorry group today were gold stocks. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) had a clanger, cratering by 2.51%.

    Broader mining shares weren’t that much better, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) plunging 1.01%.

    Industrial stocks were far tamer, though. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) ended up retreating by 0.32%.

    Real estate investment trusts (REITs) were in exactly the same boat, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)’s 0.32% dive.

    Tech shares followed close behind that. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) saw its value dip by 0.28% this Friday.

    Our last losers this Friday were consumer discretionary stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) slipping 0.03% lower.

    Turning to the winners now, it was utilities shares that fronted the pack. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) saw its value soar by 2.17% today.

    Energy stocks also ran hot, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ)’s 1.47% surge.

    Consumer staples shares proved to be a safe haven, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) jumped by 0.38% this session.

    Financial stocks were in the same ballpark, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) bouncing 0.3%.

    Communications shares didn’t miss out. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) lifted 0.23% today.

    Finally, healthcare stocks got across the line, as illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)’s 0.18% rise.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    Today’s index winner was tech stock Data#3 Ltd (ASX: DTL). This company’s shares vaulted 5.81% higher over today’s trading to finish at $8.01 each.

    That’s despite an absence of any news from Data #3, though

    Here’s the rest of today’s best:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    Data#3 Ltd (ASX: DTL) $8.01 5.81%
    Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN) $17.05 4.47%
    Austal Ltd (ASX: ASB) $4.62 4.29%
    Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV) $3.50 3.55%
    Reliance Worldwide Corporation Ltd (ASX: RWC) $3.05 3.39%
    Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) $14.90 3.26%
    Vulcan Energy Resources Ltd (ASX: VUL) $3.65 3.11%
    AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL) $9.53 2.92%
    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) $32.61 2.64%
    Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) $12.77 2.57%

    Enjoy the weekend!

    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.

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

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for over ten years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    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 Sebastian Bowen 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 Telix Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Data#3 and Telix Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 2 ASX 200 stocks that could rise 50%

    Person pointing at an increasing blue graph which represents a rising share price.

    If you are looking for some big potential returns for your investment portfolio, then it could pay to hear what Morgans is saying about the two ASX 200 shares in this article.

    That’s because the broker believes these shares are cheap and have the potential to rise around 50% from where they trade today.

    Let’s see what the broker is recommending to clients this week:

    Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF)

    Morgans thinks this quick service restaurant operator’s shares are undervalued at current levels.

    The broker has a buy rating and $12.50 price target on its shares. Based on its current share price of $8.29, this implies potential upside of 50%.

    Commenting on its buy recommendation, Morgans said:

    We revise our CKF forecasts ahead of the FY26 result in June, trimming underlying NPAT to reflect deferred store openings, reset German acquired store economics, and a lower EU SSS assumption to better capture the Netherlands-skewed mix for FY26, partially offset by a marginal AU SSS upgrade on sustained KFC Australia momentum. We maintain our BUY recommendation and reduce our price target to $12.50 (from $12.70).

    Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

    Another ASX 200 share that Morgans is recommending to clients is health imaging technology company Pro Medicus.

    After making adjustments to its financial model for Pro Medicus, the broker has retained its buy rating with a $210.00 price target. Based on its current share price of $138.73, this implies potential upside of 51% for investors between now and this time next year.

    Morgans has been impressed with Pro Medicus’ contract wins since the release of its half-year results in February and remains very positive on its long-term growth opportunity. It explains:

    In this note, we deploy a new PME model where we have deliberately set a lower bar. Our remodelled estimates prioritise achievability over optimism, staging implementation revenue conservatively and mark FX to spot. We see this as the right framework for a stock where sentiment has been fragile. On the business operations front, the story remains untarnished.

    Contract newsflow since February has been exceptional: ~$100m in wins and renewals, all at higher pricing, with cardiology upsell gaining traction. The demand story is not in question. We re-emphasise our positive long-term conviction on the name although lower our valuation to reflect current but potentially fleeting headwinds. Our target price is reduced to A$210 p/s and we retain our Buy recommendation.

    The post 2 ASX 200 stocks that could rise 50% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Collins Foods 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 Collins Foods 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 and Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Collins Foods and Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.