Category: Stock Market

  • Perseus Mining delivers record profit and higher dividends in FY26

    Smiling Indian manager leaning on chair.

    The Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU) share price is in focus after the company reported record FY26 results, with profit after tax rising 14% to $480.5 million and revenue up 19% to $1.48 billion.

    What did Perseus Mining report?

    • Revenue of $1.484 billion, up 19% year on year
    • Net profit after tax of $480.5 million, up 14%
    • EBITDA of $860.5 million, up 16%
    • Operating cash flow of $666.4 million, up 24%
    • Final dividend of 9 cents per share, full-year dividend of 14 cents, up 87%
    • Cash and bullion holdings of $1.03 billion

    What else do investors need to know?

    Perseus Mining completed $126 million of its $150 million FY26 share buyback, and renewed its buyback program with approval to invest up to $350 million more over the next year. The company’s strong balance sheet is supported by an undrawn US$400 million debt facility.

    Perseus is also planning a further $100 million distribution to shareholders from the proceeds of the Meyas Sand Project sale in Sudan, pending final structure and approvals. A revised capital management policy sets a minimum dividend of 20% of post-NCI operating cash flow.

    Project progress remains strong, with the Nyanzaga Gold Project in Tanzania now 67% complete and on track for first gold pour in January 2027.

    What did Perseus Mining management say?

    Perseus’s Managing Director and CEO, Craig Jones, said:

    Perseus has delivered a record financial result for FY26 delivering on production and cost guidance again, a reflection of the Company’s ongoing commitment to delivering on its priorities. Strong gold prices supported our delivery of record net operating cash flow of $666 million, up 24% year on year, enabling a record year for shareholder returns. Today we announced a final dividend of 9 cents per share taking our full year dividend to 14 cents, up 87%, alongside A$126 million in on-market share buy-backs during the year.

    FY26 was also a year of major project momentum with our Nyanzaga Gold Project in Tanzania on track for first gold pour in January 2027 and the achievement of first gold pour from the CMA underground in Côte d’Ivoire.

    Our Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve update released today demonstrates Perseus’s ongoing ability to grow its resources, with a 37% increase in Measured and Indicated Resources and a 40% increase in Proved & Probable Reserves compared to FY25.

    What’s next for Perseus Mining?

    Looking ahead, Perseus expects gold production for FY27 between 420,000 and 480,000 ounces, with all-in site costs forecast between US$1,835 and US$2,070 per ounce. Development focus remains on bringing Nyanzaga online, with commercial production planned for Q4 FY27.

    The company also aims to maintain a robust capital management strategy, with a focus on returning value to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks, while prioritising project execution and sustainability outcomes.

    Perseus Mining share price snapshot

    Perseus Mining’s share price has outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the past 12 months with a 65% gain, reflecting strong earnings and record shareholder distributions.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Perseus Mining delivers record profit and higher dividends in FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Perseus Mining right now?

    Before you buy Perseus Mining 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 Perseus Mining 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 1 August 2026

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

  • What is Bell Potter saying about EOS shares after its results?

    Woman analysing data.

    Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS) shares had a day to remember on Tuesday.

    The defence and space company’s shares rocketed 23% to $10.58 following the release of its half-year results.

    Does this mean it is too late to invest? Let’s see what Bell Potter is saying about the popular stock.

    What is the broker saying?

    Bell Potter highlights that EOS reported underlying EBITDA that was 4% above its estimates in the first half of FY 2026 thanks to better than expected gross margins. It commented:

    EOS pre-reported +283% YoY revenue growth to $169m, supported by +322% YoY growth in Defence (BPe +310%) and -4% YoY decline in Space (BPe +31%). EBITDA was $21.6m (4% beat vs. BPe) driven by higher-than-expected gross margins offset partially by higher opex which reflected a 42% YoY expansion in headcount as EOS scales geographic presence for further order book growth plus MARSS sign on bonuses. Statutory NPAT of -$33.7m was materially lower than expectations and driven completely by fair value adjustments to contingent consideration of the MARSS acquisition.

    Another positive was the release of an update on its guidance for FY 2026. Bell Potter points out that management is expecting revenue to be significantly better than both it and the market were expecting. The broker explains:

    EOS has completed its review of CY26 revenue outlook (including the base business and the newly acquired MARSS business) and now expects full-year revenue to be in the range of $360-400m substantially above BPe of $316m and consensus of $320m. This guide is not conditional on securing future orders. On 12 August 2026, EOS issued a bank guarantee of British £37.1m ($70.9m) to a prospective government customer in the Middle East. This deposit suggests signing of a major Middle East contract is imminent. 

    In the past, EOS has provided guarantees of 5-20% of the contract value, however, it is feasible that guarantees could be a much higher percentage suggesting potential contract value of between $140-700m. EOS also provided a market development update which detailed several new material opportunities including 1x >$300m follow-on production HELW systems and 5x major MARSS opportunities.

    Should you buy EOS shares?

    According to the note, Bell Potter has retained its buy rating and $12.60 price target on EOS shares.

    Based on its current share price, this implies potential upside of almost 20% for investors over the next 12 months.

    Commenting on its buy recommendation, the broker said:

    Retain Buy. EOS is positioned as a C-UAS market leader leveraged to increasing budget allocations to C-UAS tech. The next 3-12 months is catalyst rich for EOS.

    The post What is Bell Potter saying about EOS shares after its results? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Electro Optic Systems right now?

    Before you buy Electro Optic Systems 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 Electro Optic Systems 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 1 August 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 positions in and has recommended Electro Optic Systems. 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.

  • 2 ASX shares tipped to grow 60% or more in the next 12 months

    Two plants grow in jars filled with coins.

    There are a handful of ASX shares that analysts think could deliver substantial returns, with multiple buy ratings.

    Analysts always seek opportunities that may be undervalued. Experts can quantify how undervalued an investment might be with a price target.

    A price target tells investors where they think the share price will be in 12 months from the time of the investment rating. If a price target implies capital gains of more than 10% in the next year, it could be more likely to beat the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

    There are a few names that are projected to grow by 60% or more, including the following two.

    IDP Education Ltd (ASX: IEL)

    IDP describes itself as a global leader in international student placement and a co-owner of the world’s most popular high-stakes English language test, IELTS. It helps people get accepted into their ideal course, take an English language test or learn English in its schools.

    It’s partnered with more than 1,000 universities and institutions across Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the UK and the USA.

    The ASX share has struggled in recent times amid the uncertainty surrounding the international student sector, but now it’s seen as undervalued after falling 95% since November 2021 and down 70% since January 2026.

    IDP Education reported that it was resilient during FY26, with revenue only falling by 9% to $795.4 million as low volumes were partly offset by a strong yield performance. It said that its yield improved 11% in student placement and 7% in language testing.

    Student placement volumes declined by 27%, language testing volumes dropped by 8%, and language volumes increased by 1%. IDP said it was disciplined with its cost control, with direct costs down 8%. It delivered a $32 million net reduction in its overhead cost base, ahead of its $25 million target.

    It also said that its adjusted operating profit (EBIT) of $122.9 million only declined by 7%.

    The ASX share is planning for its market volume to drop by 20%-30% in FY27, but it expects revenue outperformance amid a focus on profitable growth and average yield improvements. The student placement and English language testing yields are expected to grow at mid-single-digit percentages.

    Cost-cutting is expected to deliver a $15 million reduction in overhead costs.

    According to CMC Invest, there have been nine ratings on the business within the last three months. The average price target is $3.08, implying a possible rise of 68% over the next year from where it is at the time of writing.

    Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

    Another ASX share that could be one to watch is Zip, a leading buy now, pay later business.

    The company recently reported its results for the 12 months to 30 June 2026, which showed impressive growth. Total transaction value (TTV) grew 27.2% to $16.7 billion, with US TTV higher by 42.5% in US dollar terms.

    Total income increased 24.6% to $1.35 billion, cash operating profit (EBTDA) rose 57.9% to $268.9 million and statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) grew 45.7% to $116.4 million. It also announced a $50 million Zip share buyback.

    In FY27, the ASX share expects to see US TTV growth of more than 30% in US dollar terms, and cash EBTDA could rise by 26% to $340 million.

    According to CMC Invest, there have been six ratings on the business within the last three months. The average price target is $4.28, suggesting a possible rise of 69% over the next year from where it is at the time of writing.

    The post 2 ASX shares tipped to grow 60% or more in the next 12 months appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Idp Education right now?

    Before you buy Idp Education 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 Idp Education 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 1 August 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 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.

  • Are Coles shares a buy after its results?

    Happy man on a supermarket trolley full of groceries with a woman standing beside him.

    Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) shares were in fine form on Tuesday.

    Following the release of the supermarket giant’s FY 2026 results, its shares were bid almost 5% higher, closing the session at $23.75.

    This leaves Coles shares trading close to their record high of $24.59.

    Can they keep climbing? Let’s see what Bell Potter is saying about the company and its shares.

    What is the broker saying?

    Bell Potter highlights that Coles delivered a profit slightly ahead of expectations in FY 2026. It said:

    Revenue of $45,580m was up +2.8% YoY (vs. BPe $45,698m and VA $45,602m). EBITDA of $4,220m was up +7.1% YoY (vs. BPe of $4,220m and VA $4,244m). Underlying NPAT of $1,255m was up +13.7% YoY (vs. BPe of $1,195m and VA $1,241m).

    The broker also highlights that Coles plans to make a significant investment in its store network, which will include the opening of 45+ new stores and the refurbishment of many more. It said:

    COL has unveiled a material investment in its business, in: (1) Network investment of $300m over FY27-28e, covering new stores (+45 new Supermarkets) and refurbishments (1500 renewals); (2) $880m investment in VIC ADC ($190m spent to date and $300m in FY27e) with commissioning in FY30e; and (3) Strategic partnership with Accenture to generate >$100m in benefits by endFY29e (requiring an upfront $190m investment to be booked as an NRI).

    Bell Potter has boosted its net profit estimates by 11% in FY 2027 and FY 2028, reflecting lower depreciation charges and the benefits of accelerated store opening program.

    Should you buy Coles shares?

    According to the note, Bell Potter has retained its hold rating on Coles shares with an improved price target of $24.40 (from $22.80).

    This implies modest potential upside of 2.7% before dividends. Including them, Bell Potter expects a total return of just over 6%.

    Commenting on its recommendation, the broker said:

    The major acceleration in business investment creates a reasonably attractive growth profile through to FY29e, with a reasonable dividend yield. Staples remain in favour and COL is a beneficiary of this dynamic.

    In determining our target price we have considered a sum of the parts and ROIC model. Major features of these approaches are: (1) Sum of the parts: We have incorporated multiple of 9.5x EBITDA for Supermarkets and 8.0x EBITDA for the liquor business, modest discounts to its peers; and (2) ROIC based approach : Which is predicated on a WACC of 8.1%, deriving an implied EV/EBITDA is ~9.3-9.5x FY27- 28e.

    The post Are Coles shares a buy after its results? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Coles 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 Coles 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 1 August 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.

  • Will CBA shares ever get back to the top of the ASX 200?

    A little girl wearing a gold crown sulks and pokes her tongue out.

    It seems strange to think about now, but it really wasn’t that long ago that bank stock Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) was the largest share on the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

    CBA held this crown for a long time, but it was usurped back in January by none other than BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP). The mining giant only held on to said crown for a few weeks, returning it to CBA in February. By March, though, BHP was back on top, and has been there ever since.

    Today, the gap looks almost insurmountable. As we speak, BHP rules the ASX 200 roost with its market capitalisation of just over $344 billion. CBA comes in a distant second at a value of $262.75 billion.

    In an ASX 200 index fund, this means that BHP commands about a 12% weighting, with CBA taking up 9.6%.

    Given that just a few months ago, these two titans of the ASX were in lockstep, it is worth asking the question: ‘Will CBA shareholders take back the crown that it relinquished to BHP many moons ago?’

    Well, the theoretical answer is of course yes. The ASX has seen many swings and roundabouts in the makeup of its top echelons over many decades. If CBA has supplanted BHP before, there’s no reason it cannot do so again. And vice versa.

    So let’s look at what it took to get where we are today.

    CBA vs BHP shares: The race to the top of the ASX 200

    CBA shares have really had a year to forget in 2026. The stock is down about 2.5% year to date. It has had a lacklustre 12 months too, with the bank last hitting a record high of $192 a share back in June of 2025. Today, at $157.01, it is down more than 18% from that all-time high. An arguably stretched valuation, as well as concerns over housing and financial markets in Australia, are the likely culprits for this drop.

    Meanwhile, BHP has been firing on all cylinders. The ‘Big Australian’s bet on copper has paid off handsomely, with roaring prices pushing BHP stock to reset its own record highs several times over 2026 to date. The most recent record came just yesterday, seeing the miner hit $68.22 a share.

    Year to date, BHP has now lifted an astonishing 47.88%.

    So we can see how the disparity between BHP and CBA shares has established itself.

    But all it would take for the gap to narrow, or even invert, would be a change in economic conditions. BHP is a resources stock, and thus highly sensitive to commodity prices. If prices came off the boil, you can bet that BHP’s shares would follow, and sharply.

    If CBA held its own or even attracted buyers looking for a safe haven (the company has benefited from this before), we could well see Commonwealth Bank regain its ASX 200 crown. It’s entirely possible. But whether it happens next month, next year or next decade is the $80 billion question.

    The post Will CBA shares ever get back to the top of the ASX 200? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Commonwealth Bank Of Australia right now?

    Before you buy Commonwealth Bank Of Australia 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 Commonwealth Bank Of Australia 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 1 August 2026

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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 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.

  • Up nearly 140%, are PLS shares still a buy after exploding profit growth?

    A man scoots in superman pose across a bride, excited about a future with electric vehicles.

    PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) shares are trading in the green this week. The ASX lithium stock has gained 21% over the past month and nearly 140% over the last 12 months, at the time of writing.

    The question for investors is whether the rally can continue after PLS Group delivered a remarkably strong FY2026 result.

    The latest earnings report, released on Monday, showed just how dramatically the lithium market has improved.

    Profit and revenue surge

    Higher lithium prices and stronger market confidence provided a major boost to PLS’ financial performance.

    The company’s realised selling price jumped 121% to US$1,488 per tonne. That helped revenue surge 152% to $1.9 billion, while net profit after tax (NPAT) exploded 369% higher to $528 million.

    The company also improved its underlying operations. Unit operating costs (FOB) fell 9% to $569 per tonne, while sales volumes reached a record level. PLS Group also strengthened its balance sheet, helped by a successful US$600 million bond issue.

    Management of PLS shares says the business enters FY2027 “larger, lower cost” and with significantly stronger finances and greater flexibility.

    From defense to growth

    The company plans to build on that position by progressing growth projects including P2000 and Colina, while ramping up production at Ngungaju.

    During the year, the improving lithium environment allowed Pilbara Minerals to shift from defensive positioning towards growth. It restarted the Ngungaju processing plant and updated timelines for the P2000 and Colina projects.

    The P2000 and Colina feasibility studies have also progressed, with the company approving approximately $175 million of pre-FID capital expenditure for P2000 in June.

    There won’t be many ASX companies with a market capitalisation above $10 billion delivering this level of growth during the current reporting season.

    Are PLS shares still a buy?

    Despite the impressive numbers, investors may need to be more selective after such a huge share-price rally.

    Bell Potter believes PLS shares may have peaked for now. The broker retained its hold rating on Tuesday morning but increased its price target from $4.70 to $5.20. With PLS shares currently trading at $5.15, this suggests they are near fair value.

    TradingView data shows a divided analyst community. Nine of 18 brokers rate the stock a buy or strong buy, while the average price target is $5.36, slightly above the current share price.

    The most bullish forecast sees PLS shares climbing 28% to $7.00. At the other end of the spectrum, the most pessimistic forecast points to a potential 40% decline.

    So, while PLS Group’s fundamentals have improved dramatically, the share price may already reflect much of that optimism. After a 140% gain over 12 months, investors should weigh the company’s strong growth prospects against lithium price volatility and valuation.

    The post Up nearly 140%, are PLS shares still a buy after exploding profit growth? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Pls 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 Pls 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 1 August 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 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.

  • 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday

    Smiling man with phone in wheelchair watching stocks and trends on computer

    On Tuesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was on form and raced higher. The benchmark index rose 0.7% to 9,164.6 points.

    Will the market be able to build on this on Wednesday? Here are five things to watch:

    ASX 200 to rise

    The Australian share market looks set for a good session on Wednesday following a positive night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 31 points or 0.35% higher. In the United States, the Dow Jones rose 0.3%, the S&P 500 climbed 0.3%, and the Nasdaq charged 0.65% higher.

    Oil prices sink

    ASX 200 energy shares including Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have a tough session on Wednesday after oil prices sank overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 5% to US$80.81 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 6% to US$86.63 a barrel. This was driven by easing US-Iran war fears.

    Buy EOS shares

    In response to its results on Tuesday, Bell Potter has retained its buy rating and $12.60 price target on Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS) shares. It said: “EBITDA was $21.6m (4% beat vs. BPe) driven by higher-than-expected gross margins offset partially by higher opex which reflected a 42% YoY expansion in headcount as EOS scales geographic presence for further order book growth plus MARSS sign on bonuses.. […] Retain Buy. EOS is positioned as a C-UAS market leader leveraged to increasing budget allocations to C-UAS tech. The next 3-12 months is catalyst rich for EOS.”

    Gold price rises

    ASX 200 gold shares Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a good session on Wednesday after the gold price rose again. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up 0.45% to US$4,719 an ounce. Traders bid the gold price close to a three-month high on US dollar weakness.

    More ASX 200 results

    Another group of ASX 200 shares will be releasing their results on Wednesday and will be on watch. This includes counter-drone technology company DroneShield (ASX: DRO), pizza chain operator Domino’s Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP), supermarket giant Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW), investment platform provider Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL), and logistics technology company WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC).

    The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Beach Energy right now?

    Before you buy Beach Energy 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 Beach Energy 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 1 August 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Domino’s Pizza Enterprises, WiseTech Global, and Woolworths Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Domino’s Pizza Enterprises, DroneShield, Electro Optic Systems, Netwealth Group, and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Netwealth Group and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Domino’s Pizza Enterprises. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • I put $25,000 into BHP shares 5 years ago. Here’s what it’s worth now

    A man in a blue collared shirt sits at his desk doing a single fist pump as he watches the Appen share price rise on his laptop

    BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares surged to a new all-time record $68.22 on Tuesday, taking their 2026 gain to 48% and 12-month return to 58%.

    That’s great news for BHP shareholders — myself included.

    More than five years ago, I made one of my first Australian share purchases: BHP shares. So, how has that early bet worked out?

    Let’s run the numbers.

    $25,000 in BHP shares

    At the end of 2020, I backed the $330 billion ASX mining giant at $36.63 per share. I invested $24,987 to buy 682 BHP shares.

    What followed was an extraordinarily volatile five years. The investment began amid pandemic uncertainty, with commodity prices swinging wildly and BHP shares briefly falling into the low $30s.

    Then came the commodity boom. Iron ore prices surged, BHP’s profits ballooned and the stocks climbed above $50 during 2021 and 2022.

    The cycle eventually turned. China’s property slowdown weighed on iron ore and mining stocks, pushing BHP back towards the high $30s before the shares recovered.

    The income and capital gains

    With BHP shares now around $67, my original 682 stocks would be worth approximately $45,694. That represents a capital gain of about $20,707 before dividends.

    But BHP isn’t just a capital-growth story. Its dividends have been a major part of the investment return. Over the five-year period, the miner paid approximately $19 per share in dividends. Across 682 shares, that equates to around $12,958 in income.

    Add that to the capital value and the investment has generated roughly $58,650 in total value if dividends were taken as cash. That’s more than double the original investment.

    Reinvesting the dividends

    However, I opted to participate in BHP’s dividend reinvestment plan (DRP).

    Assuming the dividends were reinvested at an average share price of around $51, the original 682 BHP shares could have grown to approximately 806 shares. At $67 per share, that holding would now be worth roughly $54,002.

    Compared with the original $24,987 investment, that’s a gain of more than $29,000.

    And the benefit doesn’t stop there. Owning more shares means future dividends are calculated on a larger holding.

    The DRP effectively turned volatility into an opportunity. When BHP shares traded in the $30s and $40s, reinvested dividends bought more shares. When the mining cycle recovered, those additional shares amplified the gains.

    Was the BHP investment worth it?

    The past five years demonstrate two important things about BHP shares.

    First, the mining giant remains highly cyclical. Investors need to stomach significant swings driven by commodity prices and global demand.

    Second, when the commodity cycle works in BHP’s favour, its combination of earnings growth and substantial dividends can be powerful.

    For a patient investor willing to ride out the volatility, my $25,000 BHP investment has turned into a holding worth more than $54,000.

    Not bad for one of my first ASX share purchases.

    The post I put $25,000 into BHP shares 5 years ago. Here’s what it’s worth now 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 1 August 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in BHP Group. 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.&amp;amp;amp;lt;/em&amp;gt;</p>

  • Attention! This ASX 300 stock could be set to rise 50% and has a 7% yield

    Happy girl holding a plant and soil in front of ascending piles of coins.

    As earnings season continues, one ASX 300 stock that is drawing significant broker attention is Regal Partners Ltd (ASX: RPL). 

    Regal Partners provides investment management services. It offers access to a diverse range of strategies covering hedge funds, private markets and real assets.

    Over the last 12 months, it has experienced some volatility, and is down 3% in that span. 

    However, following the release of full-year results, the team at Morgans have an improved outlook on the ASX 300 stock moving forward. 

    What did this ASX 300 stock report?

    In strong news out of the company, Regal Partners reported normalised NPAT of $93.3 million for the half, more than doubling the previous year. Funds under management rose to $21.4 billion, supported by record net inflows.

    Other results included: 

    • Normalised fully diluted earnings per share of 21.4 cents, up 104%
    • Fully franked interim dividend of 12 cents per share declared for 1H26
    • Balance sheet with approximately $290 million in capital post-dividend. 

    The stock price has climbed more than 6% since Monday when these results were announced. 

    The team at Morgans believe this is a sign of what’s to come over the next 12 months. 

    What did Morgans have to say?

    The team at Morgans said this ASX 300 stock has delivered another solid result. 

    It was moderately above prior guidance (NPAT of “at least $90m” in July-26), resulting in Normalised NPAT increasing 108% (vs pcp) to $93.3m, supported by performance fees which increased 180% (vs pcp) to $119m. 

    Importantly, the largely recurring management fees increased 14% (vs pcp), while the business trades on <10x PER. Phil King’s intended retirement is likely to continue weighing on the market, something we believe investors will overcome as the deep bench gains in profile (and presumably performance persists). On this basis, we retain our Buy recommendation with a $4.25/sh price target (previously $4.00).

    Based on this updated price target, the broker sees approximately 50% upside from current levels. 

    Elsewhere, Bell Potter has retained its buy rating and $4.80 price target on the company, suggesting 70% upside. 

    Don’t forget the dividend 

    If 50% upside isn’t enough, this ASX 300 stock also offers a very attractive dividend yield. 

    Bell Potter is forecasting fully franked dividends per share of 19 cents in FY 2026, 20 cents in FY 2027, and then 22 cents in FY 2028. 

    This represents yields of 6.7%, 7.1%, and 7.8%, respectively.

    The post Attention! This ASX 300 stock could be set to rise 50% and has a 7% yield appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Regal Partners right now?

    Before you buy Regal Partners 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 Regal Partners 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 1 August 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 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 average superannuation balance at age 63 in Australia. How does yours compare?

    Happy senior couple sitting together hand in hand on the sofa.

    Your early-60s are a turning point for your superannuation, as this is when your focus shifts from wealth accumulation to preservation.

    By age 63, you’ve passed your preservation age (60 years old), which means you can access your superannuation if you’ve quit working. 

    And you’re just four years away from potentially receiving the Age Pension.

    The question is: How does your super compare to others your age?

    And is it enough to retire on?

    Let’s take a look.

    The average superannuation balance for Australian men aged 63 in FY27

    There aren’t exact figures for the average balance at age 63, but the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) provides a good starting point.

    The data shows that the average Australian male aged 60 to 64 has around $395,852 in their superannuation.

    And the average superannuation balance for Australian women the same age

    Women in the same age bracket have a lot less. The average balance for Australian women aged 60 to 64 is around $313,360. That’s a gap of around $83,000 compared to men the same age.

    That’s because women are more likely to take extended periods out of the workforce. Whether that’s for a career break, to have children, or to care for family. Overall, women are more likely to have periods where they receive little to no compulsory employer superannuation.

    Time out of the workforce or reduced hours means women don’t get the same benefit from compounding, which overall contributes to a lower super balance. 

    How does your super balance stack up with men and women the same age as you?

    And most importantly, have you got enough to retire on?

    How much does it cost to retire?

    ASFA estimates that it’ll cost single Australians around $55,923 per year to retire comfortably. Couples living together will need to have closer to $78,566 per year combined to finance a comfortable retirement.

    These figures also assume you’ll start your retirement at age 67. It also assumes that you’ll receive a part Age Pension around this time and that you own your home outright.

    How do I know if I’m on the right track?

    In order to fund a comfortable retirement, ASFA calculates that single Australians will need around $630,000 in their superannuation at age 67. Meanwhile, couples will need around $730,000 combined at the same age.

    To reach this goal, at 63, all Australians should aim to have around $562,000 stashed away in their superannuation.

    As you can see, the amount you need to retire comfortably is significantly higher than the $395,852 or $313,360 average superannuation balances at the same age.

    Why is the gap so large?

    A quick calculation shows that the average Australian is behind by up to $249,000 at age 63.

    Part of the reason is that Australia’s compulsory Superannuation Guarantee only began in 1992. That means many people aged around 63 probably didn’t earn any super through their early working lives. 

    There is also a common misconception that accumulating superannuation alone is enough to be able to fund retirement. The reality is, while superannuation is a great tool to help, you need to contribute extra if you want to reach your goal. 

    The power of compounding returns means the more money you can invest when you’re younger, the more impact it will have on your final balance.

    The post The average superannuation balance at age 63 in Australia. How does yours compare? 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 1 August 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.