Category: Stock Market

  • Bell Potter says this ASX biotech stock could rocket 80%

    medical asx share price represented by doctor giving thumbs up

    Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: PAR) shares could have huge upside potential.

    That’s the view of analysts at Bell Potter, which believe the ASX biotech stock could be a great option for investors with a high tolerance for risk.

    What is Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals?

    Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals is a biotechnology company focused on repurposing Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium (PPS) for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) in the knee.

    Bell Potter believes that the global market for a safe, effective treatment that provides superior patient outcomes compared to the standard of care is a “multiple blockbuster.”

    In fact, it has suggested that market estimates of US$10 billion in annual revenues are likely conservative.

    The good news is that the company’s recently completed phase II study produced some highly encouraging results, which are worthy of further clinical trials.

    What is the broker saying about this ASX biotech stock?

    Bell Potter notes that the coming weeks will be pivotal for this ASX biotech stock. This is because it is expecting to receive feedback from the US FDA in relation to its pathway for its treatment. It said:

    PAR has a major short term catalyst within weeks being FDA feedback from its recent meeting to discuss the pathway for iPPS. A key discussion point was the design of the proposed phase 3 and confirmatory study for iPPS in osteoarthritis (OA) including the minimal effective dose (2mg twice weekly for 6 weeks). Recent studies in lower doses proved ineffective in the management of pain, hence there is no alternative to this optimal dose. Other than efficacy, the key considerations are toxicity and safety.

    The data from several hundred patients treated in various clinical studies, the Special Access Scheme in Australia and non-clinical studies has shown iPPS at the optimal dose to be exceptionally safe with no serious adverse events. Accordingly, we are confident the FDA will approve the minimal effective dose and the proposed trial design.

    In light of the above, this morning the broker has reaffirmed its speculative buy rating on the company’s shares with a 47 cents price target. Based on its current share price, this implies over 80% upside for investors over the next 12 months.

    Though, it is worth remembering that Bell Potter’s speculative rating means this is a high risk play. So, investors with a low or normal risk tolerance may want to stay well clear of the ASX biotech stock and focus on more appropriate investment options.

    The post Bell Potter says this ASX biotech stock could rocket 80% 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

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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.

  • 2 ASX 300 retail shares tumbling lower on key updates today

    Woman checking out new iPads.

    Two leading S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) retail shares released some key updates this morning.

    Namely consumer electronic goods retailer JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH) and online furniture and homewares retailer Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW).

    Here’s what they announced.

    ASX 300 retail share slides on results

    The Temple & Webster share price is down 3.0% to $12.24 after the ASX 300 retail share released a trading update ahead of its presentation at the Macquarie Conference.

    Still, shares remain up a whopping 93% over the past six months.

    Shares are sliding despite Temple & Webster reporting that the first half-year sales were strong, with sales from 1 January to 5 May up 30% compared to the prior corresponding period. The company said sales growth is being driven by both repeat and first-time customers.

    And Temple & Webster is harnessing artificial intelligence to drive growth and improve customer experience.

    “Our suite of internal AI solutions are delivering, in aggregate, conversion rate increases of over 10% and are now handling ~40% of all customer interactions,” the company stated.

    The ASX 300 retail share also reaffirmed its full-year earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) guidance range.

    “We reiterate our EBITDA guidance of 1-3%, targeting the mid-point of the range as we continue to invest in growing our market share and delivering on our key growth pillars,” CEO, Mark Coulter, said.

    “While the overall furniture and homewares market is down 4% HTD [1 January to 5 May] due to cost-of-living pressures, our strong growth highlights the significant market share gains we are making,” Coulter added.

    As for the balance sheet, the ASX 300 retail share is holding more than $100 million in cash with no debt.

    Temple & Webster reports its full-year results in August.

    JB Hi-Fi share price dives on slowing growth

    The JB Hi-Fi share price is also under selling pressure this morning, down 5.5% to $56.65 after the electronics retailer released a sales update for the period from 1 January to 31 March (Q3 FY 2024).

    The JB Hi-Fi share price remains up 22% over the past six months.

    The ASX 300 retail share reported a 0.3% year on year decline in same-store sales growth for its JB Hi-Fi Australia business. The JB Hi-Fi New Zealand business, on the other hand, enjoyed a 2.9% increase. Comparable sales growth at The Good Guys dipped 0.8% from the prior corresponding period.

    For the first three quarters of FY 2024, JB Hi-Fi sales growth in both Australia and New Zealand was flat. Sales growth at The Good Guy sales declined by 7.3%.

    Commenting on the results pressuring the ASX 300 retail share today, CEO Terry Smart said, “We are pleased with our Q3 FY24 sales results. Our trusted value-based offerings and high levels of customer service continue to resonate with our customers.”

    The post 2 ASX 300 retail shares tumbling lower on key updates 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Temple & Webster Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Jb Hi-Fi and Temple & Webster Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Are Qantas shares too expensive at over $6?

    A woman reaches her arms to the sky as a plane flies overhead at sunset.

    Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN) shares have been on a roll in recent weeks.

    Since early March, the airline operator’s shares have ascended by an impressive 24%.

    This leaves them trading above the $6.00 mark for the first time this year.

    Does this make its shares expensive? Or can they keep climbing? Let’s see what analysts are saying.

    Are Qantas shares too expensive?

    The good news for investors is that you may not be too late to the Qantas party.

    In fact, if one leading broker is on the money with its recommendation, there could be even larger gains to come for investors buying at today’s price.

    According to a recent note out of Goldman Sachs, its analysts have retained their buy rating and $8.05 price target on the airline operator’s shares.

    Based on the current Qantas share price of $6.21, this implies potential upside of 30% for investors over the next 12 months.

    And while the broker is not expecting any dividends this year, they could be on the horizon. The broker is forecasting a 30 cents per share dividend in FY 2025. This represents a very attractive 4.8% dividend yield.

    Why is it bullish?

    Goldman believes the market is undervaluing the company based on its improved earnings capacity following the transformation of its business following the COVID crisis.

    Despite these improvements, the company’s valuation remains below pre-COVID times. It explains:

    Qantas Airways is the flagship carrier of Australia and is the largest airline in Australia by capacity share, serving destinations domestically and internationally. As a key beneficiary of the re-opening of the world post-COVID, we expect the airline’s traffic capacity to return to 95% of pre-COVID levels by FY24e, with the airline’s earnings capacity (EPS) expected to exceed that of pre-COVID levels by ~52%. We forecast a ~24% FY19-24e cumulative uplift in unit revenues (c. 4.4%pa), and ~50% drop-through of QAN’s A$1bn+ structural cost-out program. QAN’s current market capitalisation and enterprise value are 10% below and 11% below pre-COVID levels.

    Goldman then adds:

    As such, we believe QAN is not priced for a generic recovery, let alone prospects for improved earnings capacity. We continue to see upside associated with substantially improved MT earnings capacity.

    Overall, this could make Qantas shares a good option if you’re looking for exposure to the travel sector.

    The post Are Qantas shares too expensive at over $6? 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

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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 Goldman Sachs Group. 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 smartest ASX growth shares to buy with $500 right now

    A young boy points and smiles as he eats fried chicken.

    ASX growth shares can deliver the most growth over the long term thanks to the power of compounding. If I were investing $500 today, I’d want to choose stocks that can grow earnings significantly but aren’t priced exorbitantly.

    There are plenty of great businesses on the ASX, such as WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) and REA Group Limited (ASX: REA). However, these stocks certainly come with hefty price/earnings (P/E) ratio price tags.

    There are a few different factors I’d want to identify with a compelling ASX growth share.

    ASX growth share characteristics I look for

    One of the first things I’m looking for is that the business has a solid core offering that seems relatively insulated from technological change and competition – some industries are changing (and being challenged) very quickly.

    Next, ideally, I want to see that the ASX growth share has in-built operating leverage, meaning as the business becomes bigger, profit margins grow enabling net profit after tax (NPAT) to rise faster than revenue. Why is that important? Profit is usually what investors use to value a business, and profit pays for dividends. Accelerating profit should mean good shareholder returns over time.  

    Global growth is a key factor that I like to look for. Australia is a great country, but the relatively small population means the growth ceiling can be reached fairly quickly. Tapping into the North American, Europe or Asia markets can be very lucrative for an ASX company.

    Finally, I’d want to invest in a business that is reasonably priced, thinking about the potential profit it may generate in the next two to three years.

    Where I’d invest $500 right now

    I’ll talk about my latest ASX growth share investment, seeing as I made it just a few days ago.

    Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF) operates KFC outlets in Australia, the Netherlands and Germany. It’s also responsible for Taco Bells in Australia. I think KFC has a strong brand, and I can’t see food as we know it being replaced any time soon.

    It’s displaying excellent operating leverage at the moment. In the FY24 first-half result, Collins Foods reported revenue rose 14.3%, underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) increased 16.7% and underlying net profit went up 28.7%. That’s exactly the sort of profit margin improvement I like to see.

    There is plenty of room for Collins Foods to grow its KFC and Taco Bell networks in Australia, and the potential growth in Germany and the Netherlands is very compelling to me. It opened four new KFC locations in Australia in HY24 and eight in the Netherlands.

    According to the estimates on Commsec, Collins Foods shares are valued at 18x FY24’s estimated earnings. It is then projected to grow earnings per share (EPS) by 44% to 74.8 cents, which puts it at just 13x FY26’s estimated earnings.

    Collins Foods isn’t the only S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) share that I’ve invested in recently. I’ve also written about Corporate Travel Management Ltd (ASX: CTD) here and Johns Lyng Group Ltd (ASX: JLG) here as other ideas.

    The post The smartest ASX growth shares to buy with $500 right now 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has positions in Collins Foods and Johns Lyng Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Corporate Travel Management, Johns Lyng Group, Pro Medicus, REA Group, and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Corporate Travel Management and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Collins Foods, Johns Lyng Group, Pro Medicus, and REA Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • CBA share price on watch following $2.4b third quarter profit

    A woman wearing yellow smiles and drinks coffee while on laptop.

    The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) share price will be one to watch closely today.

    That’s because the banking giant has just released its third quarter update.

    Let’s see what the bank reported for the three months ended 31 March.

    CBA share price on watch following Q3 update

    • Operating income down 1%
    • Operating expenses up 2%
    • Unaudited statutory net profit after tax down 5% to $2.4 billion
    • CET1 ratio of 11.9%

    What happened during the quarter?

    For the 31 March, CBA reported a 1% decline in operating income. This reflects one less day in the quarter and slightly lower net interest margins. The latter was driven primarily by continued competitive pressures and customers switching to higher yielding deposits. This was largely offset by higher earnings on replicating portfolio and equity hedges.

    CBA’s expenses increased 2% due to higher amortisation and staff costs, which were partially offset by productivity initiatives.

    This ultimately led to Australia’s largest bank reporting an unaudited statutory net profit after tax of $2.4 billion for the three months. This is down 3% on the first half average and 5% on the prior corresponding period.

    What else did CBA report?

    CBA reported improved momentum in volume growth. This was delivered across home lending and household deposits in the quarter.

    It advised that in the Retail Bank, transaction accounts continued to grow with an increase of ~143,000 accounts in the quarter. This was mainly driven by new migrant account openings.

    Home loans grew $4.2 billion during the quarter. However, this was at 0.7x system for the three months.

    Its proprietary mix for home loans represented 65% of new business flows for the quarter. Household deposits grew $5.3 billion in the quarter.

    CBA has been working hard on its business banking operations. It advised that it has continued to build its Business Banking franchise through deep transaction banking relationships.

    Business transaction accounts increased by ~25,000 in the quarter to over 1.22 million accounts. This is up 10% on the prior comparative period.

    Business lending volumes grew above system at 1.1x for the three months, with diversified growth across multiple sectors.

    Rising arrears

    Finally, the bank’s balance sheet remains strong despite an increase in arrears. It reported a loan impairment expense of $191 million for the quarter, or 8 basis points of average Gross Loans and Acceptances (GLAA).

    Home loan arrears increased during the quarter to 0.61% (+9 basis points), as higher interest rates continue to impact some borrowers. Credit card arrears increased during the quarter (+8 basis points) in line with seasonal trends. Personal loan arrears increased (+20 basis points) during the quarter, with elevated arrears observed for customers more susceptible to cost of living pressures.

    Management warned that it expects to see further increases in arrears in the months ahead given continued pressure on real household disposable incomes.

    Nevertheless, CBA finished the period with a healthy customer deposit funding ratio of 75%, LCR of 138%, and NSFR of 120%.

    The post CBA share price on watch following $2.4b third quarter profit 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

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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.

  • 2 ASX dividend stocks analysts rate as buys

    Smiling woman with her head and arm on a desk holding $100 notes out, symbolising dividends.

    Luckily for income investors, there is no shortage of dividend payers on the Australian share market.

    But which ASX dividend stocks could be quality options for an income portfolio right now?

    Well, listed below are two stocks that have recently been named as buys by analysts. In addition, they have been tipped to provide investors with dividend yields of at least 5.5% in FY 2024 and FY 2025.

    Let’s now take a look at why analysts are bullish and what they are saying about these stocks:

    Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1)

    The first ASX dividend stock for investors to look at according to analysts at Bell Potter is Accent Group.

    It is a footwear focused retailer that operates over 800 stores (and numerous online stores) across brands including HypeDC, Sneaker Lab, Platypus, Stylerunner, and The Athlete’s Foot.

    Following a review of the retail sector this week, the broker remains very positive on Accent Group. It said: “Our revenue assumptions for Accent Group (AX1) see improving comps towards the end of the 2H and we remain positive on recovering trends with positive commentary from global footwear brands such as Skechers & Deckers (Hoka). We also focus on incremental benefits to AX1’s younger customer demographics who we think could benefit from the upcoming tax cuts.”

    Bell Potter expects this to underpin fully franked dividends per share of 13 cents in FY 2024 and then 14.6 cents in FY 2025. Based on the latest Accent share price of $1.83, this represents dividend yields of 7.1% and 8%, respectively.

    The broker currently has a buy rating and $2.50 price target on its shares.

    Dexus Industria REIT (ASX: DXI)

    Another ASX dividend stock that could be a buy is Dexus Industria.

    It is a real estate investment trust that primarily invests in high quality industrial warehouses located across capital cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide.

    Morgans is positive on the company. It notes that “DXI’s industrial portfolio remains robust with the outlook positive for rental growth. The development pipeline also provides near and medium-term upside potential and post asset sales there is balance sheet capacity to execute.”

    The broker currently has an add rating and $3.18 price target on its shares.

    In respect to dividends, Morgans expects dividends per share of 16.4 cents in FY 2024 and 16.6 cents in FY 2025. Based on the current Dexus Industria share price of $2.97, this will mean dividend yields of 5.5% and 5.6%, respectively.

    The post 2 ASX dividend stocks analysts rate as buys 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

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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 Accent Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Morgans names more of the best ASX 200 shares to buy in May

    A male sharemarket analyst sits at his desk looking intently at his laptop with two other monitors next to him showing stock price movements

    The team at Morgans has been busy picking out its best ASX 200 share ideas for May.

    The first two ASX 200 shares we looked at can be found here. Read on for three more picks:

    CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

    Morgans thinks that this biotech giant would be a great option this month. Especially given its attractive valuation and strong earnings per share growth outlook. It said:

    While shares have struggled of late, we continue to view CSL as a key portfolio holding and sector pick, offering double-digit recovery in earnings growth as plasma collections increase, new products get approved and influenza vaccine uptake increases around ongoing concerns about respiratory viruses, with shares trading at 25x, a substantial discount (20%) to its long-term average.

    The broker has an add rating and $315.35 price target on CSL’s shares.

    ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD)

    Another ASX 200 share that Morgans is tipping as a strong buy is sleep disorder treatment company ResMed.

    Its analysts feel that concerns over weight loss drugs disrupting its market are unwarranted. As a result, it believe ResMed’s long-term growth outlook remains very positive. It said:

    While weight loss drugs have grabbed headlines and investor attention, we see these products having little impact on the large, underserved sleep disorder breathing market, and do not view them as category killers. Although quarters are likely to remain volatile, nothing changes our view that the company remains well placed and uniquely positioned as it builds a patient-centric, connected-care digital platform that addresses the main pinch points across the healthcare value chain.

    The broker has an add rating and $34.11 price target on its shares.

    Washington H Soul Pattinson & Company Ltd (ASX: SOL)

    A third ASX 200 share that is on Morgans’ best ideas list this month is investment house Soul Patts.

    The broker likes the company due to its positive long term track record and diversified business. It explains:

    SOL’s investment portfolio includes a diversified pool of assets ranging from listed equities (both large cap and emerging companies), private equity, property and structured yield. On a 20-year horizon, SOL’s annualised TSR is 12.5% vs the All Ords accumulation index of 9%. SOL has a 20-year history of increased dividend distributions, with a 20-year CAGR of c.8%. In our view, SOL’s management team continues to deliver both organic and inorganic growth over the long term. We continue to like the SOL story, particularly its track record of growing distributions.

    Morgans has an add rating and $35.60 price target on the company’s shares.

    The post Morgans names more of the best ASX 200 shares to buy in May 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in CSL and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL, ResMed, and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended ResMed and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • How much passive income would I make from 200 NAB shares?

    Woman in a hammock relaxing, symbolising passive income.

    Owning National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) shares has been pleasing when it comes to receiving passive income in the form of dividends.

    The ASX bank share sector collectively has quite a high dividend payout ratio, which pushes up the dividend yield. The other side to the equation is having a reasonable price/earnings (P/E) ratio.

    The NAB share price has risen strongly over the past year, as we can see in the chart below.

    After the bank’s recent release of the FY24 first-half result, let’s consider how big the dividend payouts might be in the future.

    HY24 payout recap

    NAB reported that its cash earnings of $3.55 billion for the six months to 31 March 2024 were down 12.8% year over year and down 3.1% half-on-half.

    However, the diluted cash earnings per share (EPS) of $1.12 didn’t drop as much – it fell 1.6% half-on-half and 12.3% year on year.

    NAB decided to grow its interim dividend per share by 1.2% year over year to 84 cents per share. This was the same dividend as the FY23 second-half dividend. It represents a cash dividend payout ratio of 75%, which is generous and leaves some profit within the business for more growth.

    That means the business currently has a fully franked dividend yield of around 5% and a grossed-up dividend yield of approximately 7%.

    How much passive income would 200 NAB shares pay?

    If NAB were to repeat the last two declared dividends as the next two dividends, it would be an annual payout of $1.68. Owning 200 NAB shares would mean receiving $336 of cash and $480 of grossed-up dividends if we include the franking credits.

    But that’s assuming the dividends don’t change in the coming years. Some analysts think the NAB dividend may grow in the next few years.

    The estimate on Commsec suggests the bank could pay a passive income of $1.70 per share in FY25 and $1.71 per share in FY26.

    That means that if an investor owned 200 NAB shares, it could pay $340 in cash dividends and $486 in grossed-up dividends, with the franking credits as a bonus.

    Outlook for NAB shares

    The NAB dividend could be heavily influenced by how the economy performs for the foreseeable future. NAB had this to say regarding the economic outlook:

    In Australia, household consumption growth slowed sharply in the second half of 2023, impacted by interest rates and cost of living pressures. This is weighing on real GDP growth which is expected to remain below-trend over the near term.

    However, some relief is anticipated later this year with expected tax cuts and a forecast easing in monetary policy from November should inflation continue to moderate. Following 1.5% GDP growth over 2023, growth of 1.7% is forecast over 2024, before improving to around 2.25 % in 2025.

    Pressure has eased in the labour market and wage growth is expected to slow from elevated rates in 2023. The unemployment rate is expected to continue to drift higher, peaking at around 4.5% by end 2024, but most indicators of labour demand remain healthy suggesting employment will continue to grow.

    The post How much passive income would I make from 200 NAB shares? 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

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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.

  • 2 magnificent ASX dividend shares I’ll be buying more of in May

    A baby reaches into the bottom drawer of a chest of drawers.

    Rather than ‘sell in May and go away’, I like to ‘buy while the cash is cold and hold’ — there has to be something catchier… nevertheless, the point still stands. No old saying will prevent me from pulling the trigger on buying if there are looming opportunities in the market.

    The fight against inflation waged by the Reserve Bank of Australia continues to threaten a ‘genuine’ recession. Warren Buffett recently said the investment landscape isn’t ‘attractive’. And I haven’t purchased any individual shares since February… that’s bearish, right?

    I don’t think so.

    It might mean those no-brainer buys are harder to find, but I reckon a keen-eyed investor can spot a beauty even now.

    Why buy ASX dividend shares?

    I try not to place too much emphasis on income in my portfolio. While still in my younger years, my goal is to maximise wealth growth. Hence, I’m not looking for companies with the highest dividend yield, trying to squeeze out every last dollar I can to fund my next year of activities.

    However, if I can find a great quality company that just happens to pay dividends… That’s the investing equivalent of finding loose chips in the bottom of the Maccas bag after devouring your fries. You weren’t expecting it, but you’re glad to see them.

    After a while, those dividends add up. I’ve purchased other ASX shares with money solely sourced from dividends. It feels like I’ve stumbled upon some sort of money glitch. Whatever ‘math’ you want to call it, investments funded by income from ASX dividend shares are pretty magical.

    I’ve prattled on long enough. Here’s what I’m buying this month.

    My bottom drawer buy

    It mightn’t be a dividend aristocrat, but it’s close enough for me. Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL) has steadily grown its dividends for 30 years. That’s worthy of some sort of term. Maybe dividend stalwart is fitting.

    The laboratory, pathology, and radiology services provider is a cornerstone of healthcare systems worldwide. However, investors have sold down the stock by more than 40% from its all-time high as COVID testing revenues have evaporated.

    In my view, the market is overlooking the quality of Sonic’s base business. Pathology and laboratory testing is a difficult industry to crack. The value typically accrues to the players with the greatest scale — that’s what Sonic Healthcare is in multiple markets.

    Due to the sell-off, this ASX dividend share is currently trading on a dividend yield of 4%.

    Pouncing on the pullback

    Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) posted a lacklustre full-year result last week. Net profit for the 12-month period was down 32% versus the prior year, prompting the financial dynamo to dial back its final dividend by 14.4% to $3.85 per share.

    The Macquarie share price is now roughly 5% below its 52-week high.

    At first glance, the result appears worthy of selling. But let’s not be hasty.

    I believe Macquarie will still be a frontrunner in the long term. The company houses an immense array of expertise in funding and managing infrastructure. Such skills could be in high demand over the coming decades.

    This ASX dividend share is yielding 3.4%.

    The post 2 magnificent ASX dividend shares I’ll be buying more of in May 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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    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor Mitchell Lawler has positions in Macquarie Group and Sonic Healthcare. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie 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.

  • 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursday

    A male ASX 200 broker wearing a blue shirt and black tie holds one hand to his chin with the other arm crossed across his body as he watches stock prices on a digital screen while deep in thought

    On Wednesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) continued its winning run and pushed higher. The benchmark index rose 0.15% to 7,804.5 points.

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

    ASX 200 expected to fall

    The Australian share market looks set for a subdued session on Thursday following a mixed night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 16 points or 0.2% lower this morning. In the United States, the Dow Jones was up 0.45%, but the S&P 500 was flat and the Nasdaq fell 0.2%.

    Oil prices rise

    ASX 200 energy shares including Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) could have a good session after oil prices charged higher overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 1.1% to US$79.22 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 0.7% to US$83.77 a barrel. This was driven by a surprise stockpile decline in the United States.

    CBA Q3 update

    The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) share price will be on watch on Thursday when the banking giant releases its third quarter update. One area of focus for investors will be productivity. Goldman Sachs recently commented: “In light of the soft revenue growth environment, it has become increasingly important for the sector to take a more proactive approach in cost management. Adding to this challenge has been stickier than expected inflation which was a headwind to costs in FY23 with its impact broadly based across i) staff, ii) third party, iii) and investment spend. Overall we are of the view the key to offsetting these inflationary pressures will be the banks’ ability to deliver productivity improvements.”

    Gold price softens

    It looks set to be a subdued day for ASX 200 gold shares Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) after the gold price softened overnight. According to CNBC, the spot gold price is down 0.3% to US$2,316.4 an ounce. The precious metal appears to be in a holding pattern while waiting for rate cut clues.

    Westpac goes ex-dividend

    Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) shares are going ex-dividend on Thursday and look likely to drop into the red. Earlier this week, Australia’s oldest bank released its half year results and posted a 4% year on year decline in net operating income to $10,590 million. However, this couldn’t stop the bank from increasing its fully franked interim dividend by 7.1% to 75 cents per share and declaring a special fully franked 15 cents per share dividend. These dividends will be paid to eligible shareholders on 25 June.

    The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursday 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Westpac Banking Corporation and Woodside Energy Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group. 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.