Category: Stock Market

One of the emerging stories of 2026 has been the negative investor sentiment towards ASX technology shares. 

The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) index fell another 4.7% yesterday.

It is now down 18.59% year to date (YTD) and nearly 30% in the past 12 months. 

Notable ASX technology shares that have been heavily sold off include: 

• WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) down almost 26% YTD
• Life360 Inc (ASX: 360) down 37% YTD
• Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1) down nearly 36% YTD. 

Is the AI replacement fear real?

Much of this Australian tech sell-off has been driven by a growing fear that companies could have their core services replaced by AI. 

Many Software as a Service (SAAS) companies earn a profit through subscriptions, paid services etc. 

Should consumers be able to access similar, or even better services with more efficient AI tools, it would likely impact the earnings of these companies. 

The challenge investors face in the short-term is identifying which companies are realistically going to be impacted, and which are going to adapt. 

An important consideration is that some companies could be set to benefit exponentially from AI integration.

A new report from Vanguard provided an in-depth analysis of how this could play out in the long-term. 

So while some AI technology shares might be seriously challenged, others are at an all-time value due to misplaced fear.

Aussie tech vs US tech

A key distinction that investors need to understand is the difference between ASX technology industry and global tech. 

Largely, the ASX is underweight towards technology shares. 

Instead, it is dominated by traditional sectors such as mining, energy, and financials. Together, these make up the bulk of its market capitalisation. 

Additionally, the tech sector here in Australia is heavily skewed toward software-as-a-service (SaaS) companies. 

Many of these firms are cloud software providers, focusing on recurring subscription-based business models rather than hardware or consumer electronics. 

This contrasts sharply with the tech composition of the S&P 500, which is dominated by large-cap, diversified technology giants such as Apple Inc (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA). 

How to target these companies

If you are bullish on an Australian tech revival, you can scoop up companies trading at relative lows like WiseTech, Life360 or Megaport. 

Price targets via TradingView indicate these stocks are now oversold. 12 month price targets suggest upsides between 70% and 97%.

However another option is to invest in an ASX ETF like Betashares S&P ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC). 

It provides exposure to just under 50 ASX shares in the sector. 

The fund is down 18% year to date, providing a relative value for those expecting Australian tech stocks to recover. 

Alternatively, if investors are looking to avoid ASX technology stocks, and buy the dip on global tech shares, two funds to consider are: 

• Global X Morningstar Global Technology ETF (ASX: TECH) – invests in companies positioned to benefit from the increased adoption of technology, including Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), and/or cloud and edge computing infrastructure and hardware.
• Global X FANG+ ETF (ASX: FANG) – Includes just 10 companies at the leading edge of next-generation technology targeted for global tech/growth potential.

The post Have ASX technology shares finally hit rock bottom? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 10 ASX 200 shares to buy after the market selloff
• Is NextDC the ASX share closest to Nvidia?
• Buy, hold, sell: NextDC, WiseTech Global, and CBA shares
• How to position your portfolio for the AI impact? Expert
• Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy next week

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 Apple, Life360, Megaport, Nvidia, and WiseTech Global and is short shares of Apple. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Life360 and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Apple and Nvidia. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Warren Buffett has built one of the greatest investing track records in history by focusing on a relatively simple idea. 

That is buying high-quality businesses with lasting competitive advantages and holding them for the long term.

Of course, we can’t know exactly which ASX shares Buffett would buy if he were investing in Australia. 

But we can look at the characteristics he tends to favour. Strong brands, dominant market positions, reliable earnings, and businesses that are easy to understand often feature heavily in Berkshire Hathaway’s (NYSE: BRK.A) portfolio.

With that in mind, here are three ASX 200 shares that I think could fit comfortably within a Buffett-style investment approach.

Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH)

Cochlear is the kind of business that ticks many of the boxes Buffett often looks for.

The company is a global leader in implantable hearing solutions, with a dominant position in a specialised medical technology market. Its products help restore hearing for people around the world, which gives the business both strong demand and a meaningful purpose.

One of Cochlear’s biggest strengths is the ecosystem it has built around its technology. Once a patient receives a Cochlear implant, they typically remain connected to the company’s processors, upgrades, and services for many years. That creates recurring revenue opportunities and a very loyal customer base.

Buffett has often said he likes companies with strong competitive advantages that are difficult for rivals to replicate. Cochlear’s decades of research, intellectual property, and global reputation make it difficult for rivals to challenge.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

REA Group also feels like a business that could appeal to Warren Buffett’s investing style.

The ASX 200 share operates Australia’s leading online property listings platform through realestate.com.au. Its position in the market gives it a powerful network effect. Sellers and agents want to list properties where the most buyers are looking, and buyers naturally gravitate to the platform with the most listings.

That self-reinforcing advantage has allowed REA to build a dominant position in online property advertising.

Buffett often talks about businesses that effectively become the default choice in their industry. In Australia’s property market, REA’s platform has that kind of status.

As long as Australians continue buying and selling property, REA should remain an important gateway for that activity.

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

Wesfarmers is another ASX 200 share with several characteristics commonly found in Warren Buffett investments.

The conglomerate owns a portfolio of businesses across retail, chemicals, and industrial operations, but its most valuable asset is Bunnings.

Bunnings has become the dominant home improvement retailer in Australia and New Zealand, with strong brand recognition and a reputation for competitive pricing. That leadership position has helped the business deliver consistent earnings and strong returns on capital over many years.

Buffett has often spoken about the value of companies that combine strong brands with disciplined management teams. I think Wesfarmers’ long history of careful capital allocation and steady business expansion fits that description well.

Foolish takeaway

It’s impossible to know exactly which Australian shares Warren Buffett would buy if he were investing on the ASX.

But by looking at the types of businesses he typically favours, it’s possible to identify companies that share similar qualities. Cochlear, REA Group, and Wesfarmers all have strong market positions, lasting competitive advantages, and business models that have proven themselves over many years.

Those are exactly the kinds of traits Buffett has long looked for when building a portfolio designed to compound wealth over time.

The post 3 high-quality ASX 200 shares I think Warren Buffett would probably love appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 3 ASX shares down 30% (or more) to buy right now
• 10 ASX 200 shares to buy after the market selloff
• What I’d buy if the ASX share market crashes
• Here’s the dividend forecast out to 2030 for Wesfarmers shares
• How I’d invest $20,000 in the ASX share market right now

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 Berkshire Hathaway, Cochlear, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Berkshire Hathaway, Cochlear, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

ASX small-cap stock Nickel Industries Ltd (ASX: NIC) is in focus today after a new report from Bell Potter has provided updated guidance on the company. 

The broker has responded to potential supply constraints emerging due to the conflict in the Middle East. 

Nickel Industries overview

The company is a vertically integrated nickel producer. It has production assets spanning nickel ore mining, Nickel Pig Iron (NPI) production and nickel Mixed Hydroxide Precipitate (MHP) production. 

This is via several Rotary Kiln Electric Furnace (RKEF) processing lines across two Industrial Parks in Indonesia. 

Most of the global NPI consumption goes into stainless steel manufacturing, which is the largest end-market for nickel. 

This ASX materials stock has had a solid 12 months. 

Its share price has risen 15.8% in that period. 

However, like many ASX materials companies, it has dipped significantly in March. 

It is down almost 13% since 2 March. 

This is largely in line with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) which is down 14.6% over the same period.

Bell Potter’s updated outlook

Yesterday, Bell Potter released an updated report on the ASX small-cap.

The broker acknowledged reports of increased sulphur pricing and potential supply constraints emerging due to the conflict in the Middle East. 

Bell Potter said primarily produced as a by-product of petroleum and natural gas refining, approximately 25% of global production is sourced from the region.

Production disruptions and shipping restrictions (much of exported supply is shipped through the Strait of Hormuz) have led to supply concerns and price spikes from ~US$250/t to US$500/t.

Sulphuric acid (produced from sulphur) is a substantial input into the High Pressure Acid Leach (HPAL) nickel production process, requiring ~8-10t of sulphur per tonne of nickel produced.

What does this all mean?

Essentially, the conflict in the Middle East is causing higher sulphur prices and possible supply shortages.

About 25% of global sulphur production comes from the Middle East, mostly as a by-product of oil and gas refining.

Shipping risks through the Strait of Hormuz and potential production disruptions have pushed sulphur prices from around US$250/t to about US$500/t.

Sulphur is used to produce sulphuric acid, a key input in the HPAL nickel production process, which requires roughly 8–10 tonnes of sulphur to produce one tonne of nickel.

Nickel Industries produces its own acid on site using elemental sulphur, with sulphur accounting for about 40% of HPAL production costs.

The company currently holds around 2–3 months of sulphur inventory at its HPAL operations.

Target price unchanged 

Based on this guidance, Bell Potter has retained its buy recommendation on the ASX small-cap stock. 

While the conflict in the Middle East is resulting in an immediate market impact to key input costs and the duration is uncertain, we form the view that while margins may be impacted, NIC is insulated due to its diversified nickel product suite. There is also a potential offset from higher nickel prices to which NIC has strong leverage.

The broker also retained its price target of $1.45. 

From yesterday’s closing price of $0.88, that indicates an upside of 64.8%. 

The post Bell Potter is tipping this ASX small-cap to rise 65% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday
• Guess which ASX mining stock is ‘ready to rip’ 40% higher
• Nickel Industries lifts 2026 quota, driving stronger outlook and margins
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

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.

With $5,000 to invest, three ASX dividend shares worth considering today are beaten-down Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL), Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL), and Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN).

But for long-term investors, pullbacks can also create opportunities to lock in attractive dividend yields.

These ASX dividend shares offer a combination of income potential and established businesses.

Sonic Healthcare

This ASX dividend share is one of the world’s largest medical diagnostics providers, operating laboratories and pathology services across Australia, Europe, and North America. The company’s scale and global footprint are major strengths.  

Another positive is the long-term demand outlook. Healthcare testing and diagnostics are essential services, and aging populations across developed markets should support steady demand for Sonic’s services over time.

However, there are risks investors should keep in mind. Healthcare shares are exposed to government funding changes and regulatory shifts, which can affect margins. Rising wages in the healthcare sector are also a challenge for pathology operators.

Macquarie has recently assigned the ASX dividend share an outperform rating with a $27.50 price target. This points to a 25% upside over 12 months.

For income investors, the broker expects the company to pay partially franked dividends of 104 cents per share in FY2026 and 100 cents per share in FY2027.

At the current share price of $21.97, this equates to dividend yields of approximately 4.7% for FY2026 and 4.55% for FY2027.

Super Retail Group

The ASX dividend share is the retailer behind well-known brands including Supercheap Auto, Rebel, BCF, and Macpac.

A key strength of the business is its brand diversification. By operating across multiple retail categories, Super Retail reduces reliance on any single segment of consumer spending. The group also generates strong operating cash flow, which supports dividends and store expansion.

The main risk for the ASX dividend share is its exposure to consumer spending cycles. If economic conditions weaken or household budgets tighten, sales across discretionary retail categories can fall. Retail competition and promotional activity can also weigh on margins.

Even so, this ASX dividend share is known for generous shareholder returns. The company currently pays about 96 cents per share annually in dividends, offering a yield of roughly 6.5%, with payments typically made twice a year.

Most analysts rate the dividend stock a buy. They have set the average 12-month price target at $16.66, implying a 13% upside. This could bring the year’s total earnings to 19.5%.

Harvey Norman Holdings

Harvey Norman is one of Australia’s most recognisable retailers, selling electronics, furniture, bedding, and appliances through a large franchise network. One of the company’s biggest strengths is its property portfolio, as many stores sit on land owned by the group.

This property ownership helps underpin the balance sheet and can provide an additional source of value beyond the retail operations. Harvey Norman also generates strong cash flow from its franchise model, which supports shareholder distributions.

However, the ASX dividend share is still exposed to the consumer cycle. Sales of big-ticket household goods can slow when interest rates are high or when housing markets weaken. Competition from online retailers is another ongoing challenge.

Macquarie remains positive on the ASX dividend share. It believes the company is positioned to pay fully-franked dividends per share of 27.8 cents in FY 2026 and 31.2 cents in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $5.46, this represents dividend yields of 5.1% and 5.7%, respectively.

The broker has a buy rating and $6.60 price target on the retail stock. This points to a 23% upside at current price levels.

The post 3 ASX dividend shares to buy today with $5,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• Passive income: How much would I need to invest in ASX shares to earn $1,000 every month?

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 Super Retail Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Harvey Norman and Super Retail Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Sonic Healthcare. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

In just over a week of trading during March, many investors have endured heavy losses to their portfolio. 

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 6.5% since 2 March.

Meanwhile the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) is down more than 2%. 

Markets are coming under heavy pressure due to conflict in Iran. 

Investors are now seemingly in a complete “risk-off” mode, as most sectors are being heavily sold-off, even those not directly impacted by the conflict. 

With the timeline and future of the situation extremely unclear, its likely defensive assets like gold could continue to benefit. 

When markets endure pressure like we have seen to start the month, it can be a good time for investors to switch focus to generating passive income through consistent dividends. 

This can provide some relief when individual shares are falling. 

Here are three ASX ETFs that have a history of paying consistent dividends.

Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY)

This is a popular dividend focussed ASX ETF. It seeks to track the return of the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index.

According to Vanguard, it provides exposure to companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) that have higher forecasted dividends relative to other ASX-listed companies. 

It has consistently paid a yield hovering around 4% and includes a combination of roughly 80 blue-chip and mid-sized companies. 

This includes well-known dividend payers like the big-four banks, and mining giants like BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO).

It has a management fee of 0.25% per annum.

SPDR MSCI Australia Select High Dividend Yield Fund (ASX: SYI)

This ASX ETF seeks to track the returns of the MSCI Australia Select High Dividend Yield Index. 

At the time of writing, it is made up of 57 underlying holdings in companies with relatively high dividend income and quality characteristics with the potential for franked dividend income.

It currently offers a dividend yield of 3.92%, with distributions paid quarterly and a management fee of 0.20% per annum.

BetaShares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (ASX: YMAX)

YMAX ETF aims to generate attractive monthly income and reduce the volatility of portfolio returns by implementing an equity income investment strategy over a portfolio of the 20 largest blue-chip shares listed on the ASX. 

Unlike many other ASX ETFs, YMAX ETF does not aim to track an index.

It currently has a 12 month gross distribution yield of 8.8%. 

Another positive of this ASX ETF is that distributions are now paid monthly, however due to the ongoing management, it has an annual fee of 0.64% per annum.

The post Shift your focus to passive income with these dividend ASX ETFs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Buy these top ASX ETFs for passive income
• 3 ASX dividend ETFs that could help you retire at 57
• The easiest way to earn $1,000 a month in ASX dividends
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• For monthly income, an 8.8% ASX dividend share to consider

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 recommended Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The ASX 200 and global markets have experienced a bout of volatility this month after oil prices surged in response to escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Exchange traded funds (ETFs) can be a particularly useful way to take advantage of these pullbacks. With a single investment, they can provide investors with exposure to a basket of companies positioned to benefit from powerful long-term trends.

With that in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that could be worth considering after the recent market selloff.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

The first ASX ETF that could be a buy after the recent volatility is the Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF.

This fund provides exposure to leading technology companies across Asia, particularly in China, Taiwan, and South Korea. These businesses play a critical role in the global digital economy.

Among its holdings are Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (NYSE: TSM), the world’s most advanced chip manufacturer, Tencent (SEHK: 700), which operates a vast ecosystem of digital services, and Alibaba (NYSE: BABA), a major player in ecommerce and cloud computing.

Many Asian technology shares have experienced periods of significant volatility in recent years, but the long-term growth drivers behind digital payments, artificial intelligence (AI), and online services remain intact.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

Another ASX ETF that could be worth a closer look is the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF.

Cybersecurity has become a critical priority for businesses and governments as more services move online and cyber threats continue to evolve.

The ETF invests in companies that develop the tools used to protect networks, data, and digital infrastructure. Holdings include companies such as CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD), which specialises in cloud-based endpoint security, Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), a leader in network security platforms, and Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT), which provides cybersecurity hardware and software solutions.

As digital transformation continues across industries, spending on cybersecurity is widely expected to grow.

VanEck Video Gaming and Esports ETF (ASX: ESPO)

A final ASX ETF that could be worth considering after the selloff is the VanEck Video Gaming and Esports ETF.

This fund invests in companies involved in the global gaming industry, which has grown into one of the largest entertainment sectors in the world.

Its holdings include companies such as Nintendo, which produces some of the most popular gaming franchises globally, Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), whose graphics chips power gaming PCs and consoles, and Roblox (NYSE: RBLX), a platform that blends gaming with social interaction and user-generated content.

Gaming continues to expand as an entertainment medium across consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. As technology improves and audiences grow, companies within this ecosystem could benefit from strong long-term demand.

This fund was recently recommended by analysts at VanEck.

The post 3 excellent ASX ETFs to buy after the selloff appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers Etf. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF, CrowdStrike, Fortinet, Nvidia, Roblox, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, and Tencent. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Alibaba Group, Nintendo, and Palo Alto Networks. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CrowdStrike and Nvidia. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

With markets enduring heavy pressure so far in March, it’s important for investors not to panic and to maintain a long-term view of their portfolios. 

A new report from Global X has reinforced that technological innovation doesn’t slow down just because markets wobble. 

It said that some of the most transformative breakthroughs, from the internet to smartphones to modern cloud computing, have continued to accelerate even during periods of uncertainty.

Today, the next wave of innovation is already underway. Artificial intelligence, robotics, automation and even humanoid technology are advancing at extraordinary speed.

These are megatrends reshaping infrastructure, manufacturing, defence, energy and the way people work. And unlike speculative stocks, there’s a practical, tangible way to invest in the foundations of this boom: the “picks and shovels” behind the innovation economy.

Here are three ASX ETFs to consider for investors seeking raw exposure to the foundations of these rising sectors. 

All have risen roughly 80% in the last 12 months. 

Global X Copper Miners ETF (ASX: WIRE)

This fund provides access to a global basket of copper miners that stand to benefit from being key parts of the value chain, facilitating growth in major areas of innovation such as technology, infrastructure, and clean energy.

With global electrification accelerating and AI infrastructure buildouts gathering pace, demand for copper is expected to structurally outstrip supply for years. WIRE offers a simple way for investors to gain exposure to this long-term demand without needing to pick individual mining stocks.

According to the report, copper matters for innovation for several reasons:

• AI data centres require enormous amounts of copper for heat dissipation and electrical wiring
• Robotics and automation systems use copper in motors, chips, wiring, sensors and circuit boards
• Electric vehicles contain two to four times more copper than petrol cars
• Renewable energy systems, such as wind turbines and solar farms, are copper-intensive by design.

Global X Uranium ETF (ASX: ATOM)

Global initiatives to reduce carbon emissions will see uranium and nuclear adoption rise as a crucial power source to facilitate the clean energy transition.

ATOM gives investors exposure to the global uranium industry at a time when nuclear energy is being re-evaluated as a critical enabler of the digital economy.

According to the report, uranium is experiencing a global resurgence because it provides:

• Zero-carbon baseload power
• High reliability
• The ability to support 24/7 AI and computing loads
• Independence from fossil fuel price volatility

Global X Green Metal Miners ETF (ASX: GMTL)

This ASX ETF provides exposure to global companies that produce critical metals for clean energy infrastructure and technologies, including lithium, copper, nickel and cobalt.

These are the essential inputs for:

• EV batteries
• Robotics and automation components
• High-performance magnets used in humanoid technology
• Renewable energy storage
• Advanced computing and electronics

The post 3 ASX ETFs set to benefit from the AI revolution appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• The ASX ETFs that have gotten off to the hottest starts in 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 Air New Zealand Ltd (ASX: AIZ) share price is in focus today after the company suspended its FY2026 earnings guidance, citing extreme volatility in global jet fuel markets. The airline previously flagged a first-half loss of $59 million and now warns that these challenges will meaningfully impact its second-half results.

What did Air New Zealand report?

• Suspended FY2026 earnings guidance due to jet fuel market volatility
• First-half FY2026 net loss of $59 million previously reported
• Jet fuel prices have soared from US$85–90 to US$150–200 per barrel recently
• Air New Zealand is 83% hedged against Brent crude for the rest of FY2026
• Estimated fuel consumption (March–June 2026): approximately 2.9 million barrels

What else do investors need to know?

Air New Zealand’s prior earnings outlook relied on more stable fuel prices and assumed jet fuel would remain around US$85 per barrel in the second half. However, sharp increases in prices and a widening crack spread are now expected to have a significant impact on the company’s bottom line.

The airline has implemented initial fare adjustments to help offset these cost pressures. Management also flagged the option of further pricing measures and changes to its flight network and schedule if high fuel costs persist. Ongoing cost-saving initiatives are being progressed in parallel.

What’s next for Air New Zealand?

Air New Zealand has put its formal earnings guidance on hold until jet fuel markets and other key operating conditions stabilise. Management will be monitoring the situation closely and responding as needed through pricing, scheduling, and ongoing cost controls to help reduce the impact on earnings.

Investors can expect further updates as conditions evolve, especially relating to input costs and demand shifts in the aviation sector as a result of ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Air New Zealand share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Air New Zealand shares have declined 29%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 8% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Air New Zealand suspends earnings guidance as jet fuel prices soar appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Thinking of selling your ASX shares today? Here’s why it would be a big mistake
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• Why almost every ASX sector is falling in today’s market sell-off
• US$100 oil is a big deal for every ASX share. Here’s why
• If I wanted to outperform the ASX 200 over the next 10 years, I’d focus here

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

A sharp market selloff can sometimes create opportunities for long-term investors.

That was the case on Monday, when a spike in oil prices triggered a broad pullback across the market. Oil surged roughly 20% in a single day, which rattled investor sentiment and pushed a number of ASX shares lower.

During these kinds of selloffs, even quality businesses can get caught in the downdraft. Several well-known shares hit 52-week lows as investors rushed to reduce risk.

Rather than seeing that as a warning sign, I think these moments are a chance to look for value. 

Here are three cheap ASX shares that look particularly interesting to me after the recent weakness.

Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE)

Treasury Wine Estates has been under pressure for quite some time, and the latest market selloff pushed its shares to a fresh 52-week low.

The global wine producer has faced a number of challenges over the past couple of years, including changing demand patterns in key markets and ongoing portfolio adjustments. But despite those headwinds, Treasury Wine still owns some of the most recognisable premium wine brands in the industry.

Brands like Penfolds give the company strong pricing power and a position in the premium segment of the wine market. That premiumisation strategy has been a core focus for management and remains a key driver of long-term value.

With the share price now well below previous highs, I think the market may be underestimating the long-term potential of the business.

Premier Investments Ltd (ASX: PMV)

Premier Investments is another company that hit a 52-week low during Monday’s selloff.

The retail group owns Smiggle and Peter Alexander, both of which have built strong customer followings over many years.

Retail stocks often experience volatility when investors become concerned about consumer spending or economic conditions. However, Premier Investments has historically proven to be a disciplined operator with a strong balance sheet and a track record of returning capital to shareholders.

The company has also demonstrated an ability to grow its brands both in Australia and internationally, which provides additional avenues for expansion over time.

At current levels, I think the market is mis-pricing this ASX share.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Aristocrat Leisure is another high-quality ASX share that has fallen to a 52-week low and looks cheap to me.

The gaming technology company has long been one of the ASX’s standout global growth stories. Its slot machine business continues to generate strong cash flow, while its digital gaming division provides exposure to the fast-growing mobile gaming market.

More recently, the company has also been investing heavily in real-money gaming opportunities, which could represent another growth avenue in the years ahead.

While concerns around industry competition and broader market volatility have weighed on the share price, I still see Aristocrat as a business with strong intellectual property, global scale, and a proven ability to grow earnings over time.

Foolish takeaway

Market selloffs can be uncomfortable, but they often create opportunities for investors willing to take a long-term view.

Treasury Wine Estates, Premier Investments, and Aristocrat Leisure are three companies that have recently fallen to 52-week lows despite owning strong brands and well-established business models.

If their long-term growth stories continue to play out, the current share price weakness could look like an opportunity in hindsight.

The post Why I think these cheap ASX shares could be strong buys appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• 3 ASX dividend stocks to buy with $3,000 in March
• These ASX 200 stocks are trading close to 52 week lows: Is it time to buy low?
• Down almost 40% and at a 52-week low, should you buy this ASX 200 tech stock?
• Which billionaire has upped his stake in Treasury Wine Estates?

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

Almost every company in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fell on Monday. 

Geopolitical conflict weighed heavily on investor confidence, as Australia’s benchmark index tumbled almost 3%. 

In fact, yesterday was the worst day since the post-“Liberation Day” sell-off in April last year.

However after the fall, there are buying opportunities for many ASX 200 companies. 

It’s important to understand that volatility is likely to continue as concerns continue to rise about the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. 

However, taking a long-term view, these companies could be great value after Monday’s crash. 

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

BHP shares fell more than 5% yesterday. 

It has been one of the major losers in the “risk-off” reaction from markets. 

The natural resources company is now down 15% in just the last week of trading. 

However BHP Chairman Ross McEwan said the global mining giant sees little immediate impact from the US-Iran conflict. 

According to Bloomberg, the company has prepared for various scenarios, and about 95% of its mining products ultimately go to Asia, with relevant trade routes remaining open, though some routes passing through the Middle East are expected to be affected.

Analysts seem fairly neutral on the ASX 200 stock in the short term. 

16 analysts ratings via TradingView have an average 12 month price target of $53.00 on BHP shares. 

That’s roughly 5.8% higher than yesterday’s closing price of $50.10. 

While right now might not be the most attractive entry point, should the sell-off continue, it could be a buy low opportunity for long-term investors. 

Nextdc Ltd (ASX: NXT)

This ASX 200 company fell more than 6% yesterday. 

However, it appears the conflict in Iran has affected the company mostly indirectly through market sentiment and interest-rate expectations, not through its core operations.

The company operates data centres in Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia. 

It focuses on co-location services to local and international organisations as well as interconnectivity between enterprises, global cloud, ICT providers, and telecommunication networks.

This core business focus is set to play an important role in the growth of AI, which is set to require massive processing infrastructure. 

Essentially, this ASX 200 stock is considered a high-growth tech infrastructure stock. These can drop more than defensive companies during market shocks.

While the short term could be bumpy, a 6% sell-off could be a time to gain exposure at a reasonable price. 

It has a buy rating from UBS, with a price target of $22.55.

That’s a 76% upside from yesterday’s closing price. 

The post Should investors buy the dip on these ASX 200 shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell 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.