Category: Stock Market

Many investors’ portfolios have been on a rollercoaster this month. This volatility has been influenced by the developing conflict in the Middle East. 

A new report from VanEck has shed light on the sectors that may hold up in this current environment. 

Global energy fragility 

According to VanEck, The Middle East crisis has reinforced how fragile global energy security is, particularly given Iran’s role in oil production and the Strait of Hormuz chokepoint. 

As a result, investors are wondering how best to position themselves for the turmoil.

VanEck said we may be moving from a short-lived shock to a conflict that could last months, disrupting crude oil and LNG supply and affecting the energy system’s core infrastructure, transport, production, and refining.

We think gold, defence, commodities and quality are structurally positioned for this environment.

Gold still a safe-haven 

VanEck said gold is supported by central bank accumulation, fiscal deterioration and geopolitical uncertainty.

Since the crisis broke out, gold has risen back above US$5,200/oz on safe-haven demand, and we think it is expected to push further.

According to the report, the structural drivers for gold, central banks accumulating at the fastest pace since Bretton Woods, US fiscal deterioration and the slow unwinding of dollar hegemony were in place before the Middle East conflict. 

The Strait of Hormuz threat, if it materialises, introduces the prospect of an inflationary oil shock on top of an already uncertain rate environment. That combination, geopolitical uncertainty plus inflation risk, is an environment in which gold has historically performed best.

For investors looking to gain exposure to gold shares, options include: 

• Vaneck Gold Bullion ETF (ASX: NUGG)
• VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX) – gives investors instant access to 92 of the largest and most liquid global gold mining companies.

Defence 

VanEck also noted defence spending was already in a structural upcycle; the conflict has accelerated the long-term repricing of security.

In terms of defence, if investors think long-term yields are near their highs, they could consider layering in duration, at the same time, with short-term rates rising, the yields on floating rate exposures will increase as rates rise. In addition, US Treasuries offer a potential portfolio hedge against risk-off periods and periods of rising rates.

ASX ETFs to consider in this sector include: 

• Vaneck Global Defence Etf (ASX: DFND)
• Betashares Global Defence ETF – Beta Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR). 

More information on global defence ETFs can be found here.

Energy and quality 

Furthermore, demand for traditional energy has increased, and investors are once again turning to traditional resources as well as critical minerals for strategic portfolio exposures. 

In terms of quality investing: 

The uncertainty creates volatility and quality companies tend to do relatively well in these environments as investors seek companies with stronger balance sheets and stable earnings.

Real assets also tend to perform relatively well because they provide tangible, consistent cash flows and act as inflation hedges.

For investors seeking energy and quality focussed exposure: 

• VanEck Vectors Msci World Ex Australia Quality ETF (ASX: QUAL)
• VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

The post How to position your ASX portfolio in the current environment – Expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 2 ASX ETFs I’d buy for returns and to sleep well at night
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• Where to invest $10,000 into ASX ETFs in March
• Australia’s next great ASX mining boom: Are we already in it?
• If you think global instability will persist, these ASX ETFs might be for you

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.

Investors in their 30s often have one major advantage on their side: time.

With decades before retirement, many investors in this age group can afford to focus on long-term growth opportunities rather than prioritising income today.

This can allow them to invest in sectors and industries that may experience volatility in the short term but have strong long-term potential.

Exchange traded funds (ETFs) can be a simple way to gain exposure to these growth trends while maintaining diversification.

With that in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that could be strong picks for investors in their 30s.

BetaShares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

One ASX ETF that could be worth considering is the BetaShares Asia Technology Tigers ETF.

This fund provides exposure to leading technology companies across Asia, including businesses involved in ecommerce, internet platforms, and digital services.

Its holdings include search giant Baidu (NASDAQ: BIDU), WeChat owner Tencent Holdings (SEHK: 700), and Temu owner PDD Holdings (NASDAQ: PDD).

Many of these companies operate in fast-growing economies with large populations and rapidly expanding digital adoption. As internet usage, online shopping, and digital payments continue to grow across the region, technology platforms could benefit from powerful long-term demand trends.

For investors looking to gain exposure to the growth of Asia’s digital economy, this ETF could be an interesting option.

BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

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

Cybersecurity has become a critical industry as businesses, governments, and individuals rely increasingly on digital systems and online services.

As more data is stored online and more infrastructure becomes connected to the internet, protecting networks and information from cyber threats has become essential. This has created strong demand for cybersecurity solutions across the global economy.

By investing in a portfolio of companies that specialise in protecting digital systems and data, this ETF provides investors with easy access to a sector that could experience strong long-term growth.

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

A final ASX ETF that could be worth considering is the BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF.

This fund focuses on companies involved in robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence such as Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) and ABB Ltd (SWX: ABBN). These technologies are expected to play a major role in shaping the future of industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and transportation.

Automation and AI are already being adopted across many sectors to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and unlock new capabilities.

For investors with a long investment horizon, gaining exposure to companies developing these technologies could provide access to one of the most important technological trends of the coming decades.

This fund was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

The post 3 ASX ETFs that could be strong picks for investors in their 30s appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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 Abb, Baidu, BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF, Nvidia, and Tencent. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Nvidia. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have become one of the simplest and most popular ways to invest in the share market.

It’s clear to see why this is the case. Instead of picking individual shares, investors can buy a single ETF and gain exposure to dozens or even hundreds of businesses at once. 

For investors looking for broad exposure to Australian shares, one of the most favoured options is the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS).

So if I had $2,000 ready to invest, would I consider putting it into this ETF? Personally, I think it could be a very sensible option.

VAS ETF offers exposure to many of Australia’s biggest shares

One of the biggest advantages of the VAS ETF is diversification.

The ETF tracks the S&P/ASX 300 Index, which means it provides exposure to roughly 300 companies listed on the Australian share market. This includes many of the country’s largest and most established businesses.

Major holdings include companies such as Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), and National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB).

At the same time, the fund also includes smaller companies that many investors might not otherwise own individually. Businesses like TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE), Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV), and Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) are also part of the index.

That mix gives investors exposure to both the stability of large blue chips and the growth potential of smaller companies.

A simple way to back the Australian economy

Another reason I like broad-market ETFs such as the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF is that they effectively allow investors to back the long-term growth of the Australian economy.

Over time, companies rise and fall, industries evolve, and new businesses emerge. Because the VAS ETF tracks the index, it naturally adjusts as the market changes. In fact, we are currently in the process of the latest quarterly rebalance.

If one company declines in importance and another grows, the index gradually reflects that shift.

For investors who prefer not to constantly research and select individual ASX shares, this can be an easy way to stay invested in the broader market.

A slightly better entry point after the pullback

Like many parts of the market, the VAS ETF has experienced some volatility recently.

After hitting a record high not long ago, the fund has pulled back roughly 6%.

While that is not a huge decline, it does make the entry point a little more attractive than it was just a few weeks ago.

Long-term investing still matters most

Of course, buying an ETF doesn’t guarantee positive returns in the short term.

The share market will continue to experience periods of volatility, and prices can move both higher and lower in the months ahead.

But historically, long-term investors who remain invested in diversified share portfolios have benefited from the growth of corporate earnings and dividends over time.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF provides a simple way to capture that long-term trend.

Foolish takeaway

If I had $2,000 to invest and wanted broad exposure to Australian shares, the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF could be a very reasonable option.

It provides diversification across hundreds of companies, exposure to both large and smaller businesses, and a simple way to participate in the long-term growth of the Australian share market.

The post Should I invest $2,000 in the VAS ETF? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in CSL, Commonwealth Bank Of Australia, Lovisa, and Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL, Lovisa, Netwealth Group, and Technology One. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Netwealth Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group, CSL, Lovisa, and Technology One. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

ASX dividend shares can play an important role in a long-term portfolio. Companies with strong market positions and steady cash flows are often able to reward shareholders with consistent income year after year.

Three well-known ASX companies that have built reputations for dependable payouts are Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS), Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Ltd (ASX: SOL), and Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL).

Here’s why these dividend shares might be worth considering.

Telstra Group

Telstra is Australia’s largest telecommunications provider, with millions of mobile, broadband, and enterprise customers across the country.

The ASX dividend share benefits from its dominant market position and essential infrastructure. The telecommunications giant has been investing heavily in 5G infrastructure and digital services while lifting average revenue per user.

Despite its scale, Telstra operates in a highly competitive industry. Rivals such as Optus and TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPG) can pressure pricing.

The company also faces ongoing capital expenditure requirements to maintain and upgrade its network, which can weigh on free cash flow in certain periods.

Telstra has long been popular with income investors thanks to its regular, fully franked dividends.

In its earnings report last month, Telstra lifted its FY2026 interim dividend by 10.5% to 10.5 cents per share. If the ASX dividend share maintains this pace through the rest of the year, shareholders could be on track for a fourth consecutive annual dividend increase.

Telstra shares remain close to their 52-week high at $5.24 at the time of writing. That means the ASX dividend share offers a solid yield of about 4%.

Washington H. Soul Pattinson

Soul Patts is a diversified investment company with stakes across industries including telecommunications, resources, agriculture, and property.

One of the company’s biggest strengths is diversification, which helps smooth earnings through different market cycles.

Another standout feature is its extraordinary dividend history. Remarkably, the ASX dividend share has paid shareholders a dividend every year since listing in 1903, weathering wars, pandemics, and economic crises.

On top of that, Soul Patts has increased its dividend every year since the late 1990s, giving it one of the longest dividend growth streaks on the ASX.

Soul Patts recently delivered a total dividend of about $1.03 per share for FY2025, representing another year of growth.

The stock typically offers a yield around 3% to 4%, with fully franked payments.

Importantly, management prioritises steadily growing dividends over time. This makes it a favourite among long-term income investors.

Medibank Private

Medibank Private is one of Australia’s largest private health insurers, serving millions of members through its Medibank and AHM brands.

Health insurance is generally considered a defensive industry. Demand for healthcare coverage tends to remain stable regardless of economic conditions, supporting reliable revenue streams.

Medibank’s large customer base and recurring premium income also provide predictable cash flow. That supports consistent shareholder returns.

Rising healthcare costs and claims inflation are always a risk, particularly if premium increases fail to keep pace with rising medical expenses. The health insurance sector is also heavily regulated and government policy changes can influence profitability.

Medibank has become a solid income stock. The ASX dividend share targets a payout ratio of around 75% to 85% of underlying profit, helping maintain relatively generous and sustainable dividends.

Broker UBS is expecting dividend growth from the ASX dividend share over the next few years.

The broker forecasts that the annual dividend per share could be 19 cents in FY26. This translates into a potential grossed-up dividend yield of 4.4%, including franking credit.

The post 3 legendary ASX dividend shares worth a closer look appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Telstra Group and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

ASX utilities stock Rivco Australia Ltd (ASX: RIV) is in focus today. The team at Bell Potter have just initiated coverage on it, with a positive outlook. 

Company overview

Rivco Australia is provides investors with exposure to the Australian water market.

As of February 2026, Rivco owns 58.8 gigalitres (GL) of water entitlements. These assets are worth about $1.79 per share before tax (or $1.62 per share after tax). Around 80% of the portfolio value is in high-security water rights, mainly located in the Southern connected Murray–Darling Basin.

Rivco makes money in three main ways:

• Leasing its water entitlements to farmers and others (about 53% of its portfolio is currently leased, with an average lease length of 3.2 years).
• Selling extra yearly water allocations in the spot market.
• Selling water entitlements if their market value rises above what Rivco paid for them.

It has recently moved to an internal management structure, which should reduce operating costs and management fees going forward.

In the last 12 months, this ASX utilities stock has risen almost 11%. 

This has slightly outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which is up just over 9% in that same span. 

Why this ASX utilities stock is an attractive buy

In a report from Bell Potter yesterday, the broker said over the past decade Southern Murray–Darling Basin entitlements have delivered average annual cash yields of 3.5% p.a. It has also delivered capital returns of 10.0-12.0% p.a. with periods of outperformance tied to permanent cropping development. 

The broker said over the past five years capital returns have been more modest, however, a period of Government buybacks (~160GL over 5yrs and 230GL slatted for purchase) and modest expansion in tree nut planting (+1.3% p.a.) may trigger a return to higher levels of capital growth.

Buy recommendation

Bell Potter has initiated coverage on this ASX utilities stock with a buy recommendation, along with a price target of $1.65. 

From yesterday’s closing price of $1.50, that indicates 10% upside. 

RIV enters FY26 with the highest level of contracted revenue and available allocation in five years supporting a positive near term earnings outlook. In addition, with rising lease rates (+40bp YoY and 5-6% implied yields in current market offers) we see the scope to lift the portfolio return as leasing and re-leasing opportunities emerge (which should emerge as a theme from 2H28e). 

At the asset level, we see the shift in aligning future dividends with operating earnings as potentially moving group strategy to sustain and grow the asset base.

The post Bell Potter just initiated coverage on this ASX utilities stock with a buy recommendation appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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.

When investors think about passive income on the ASX, the big banks usually get most of the attention.

But Australia’s large mining shares can also play an important role in an income-focused portfolio. Their dividends can fluctuate with commodity cycles, but the scale of their operations and strong cash generation often allow them to return large amounts of capital to shareholders.

That’s why I think BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares deserve consideration from investors looking to generate passive income over the long term.

A mining giant that generates enormous cash flow

BHP is one of the largest resources companies in the world, producing commodities that are essential to the global economy.

Its portfolio includes iron ore, copper, and other minerals used in construction, infrastructure, and energy systems. Because of the scale and quality of its operations, the company is capable of generating very large cash flows during favourable commodity cycles.

Those earnings often translate into sizeable dividends for shareholders. While payouts can vary depending on commodity prices, BHP has a long history of returning significant capital to investors.

For income investors who are comfortable with some cyclicality, I think that cash-generating ability is a major attraction.

Copper could become even more important

One reason I think BHP remains compelling for long-term income investors is its growing exposure to copper.

Copper is widely used in electrical systems, renewable energy infrastructure, and electric vehicles. As the global economy electrifies and decarbonises, demand for copper is expected to increase significantly.

BHP already has a major presence in copper production through its large operations in South America. In recent years, copper has become an increasingly important contributor to the company’s earnings.

If long-term demand for copper continues to rise as many analysts expect, BHP could benefit from both higher production and favourable prices over time.

That would support the company’s ability to continue generating strong cash flows and paying dividends.

Potash adds another long-term growth option

Another part of the story that often gets overlooked is BHP’s potash project.

The company is developing the Jansen potash mine in Saskatchewan, Canada, with production expected to begin in the coming years. Once fully ramped up, it is expected to become one of the world’s largest potash operations.

Potash is a key fertiliser ingredient used in agriculture. As the global population grows and food production becomes more important, demand for fertilisers could increase significantly.

For BHP, this project provides exposure to a completely different commodity market that is linked to global food demand rather than industrial activity.

Over time, that diversification could support both earnings stability and long-term growth.

Foolish takeaway

BHP’s dividends may not be perfectly predictable from year to year, but the company’s ability to generate enormous cash flows has made it a major income payer on the ASX for many years.

With growing exposure to copper and a new potash business on the horizon, the company also has several long-term growth drivers.

For investors seeking passive income with exposure to global resources markets, BHP shares could be well worth considering.

The post Should you buy BHP shares for passive income? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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

QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) shares closed on Monday trading for $20.56 apiece.

This sees shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) insurance giant up 3.9% in 2026, outpacing the 1.8% year to date loss posted by the benchmark index.

Longer-term, QBE shares are down 0.8% over 12 months. Though that’s doesn’t include the two partly franked dividends totalling $1.048 a share that the insurer paid (or shortly will pay) eligible stockholders over this time. QBE trades on a partly franked trailing dividend yield of 5.1%.

And looking ahead, Baker Young’s Toby Grimm believes QBE represents appealing value today (courtesy of The Bull).

Here’s why.

Should you buy QBE shares today?

“QBE offers attractive value at this stage of the cycle,” Grimm said.

The first reason he’s bullish on QBE shares is the company’s expectation beating results in calendar year 2025.

“In February, the global insurer reported better-than-forecast earnings growth of 23% in full year 2025, driven by a solid 7% increase in policy sales and relatively low claims rates,” he said.

As for the second reason he has a buy rating on the ASX 200 insurer, Grimm said, “With favourable operating conditions likely to persist into full year 2026, we see compelling financial sector value at around 11.5 times projected earnings and a dividend yield of 5%.”

Then there’s the diversified exposure that QBE shares offer.

According to Grimm:

Insurance is inherently risky and industry feedback suggests competition is increasing, which may limit further premium increases in coming years. However, QBE offers unparalleled geographical diversification among Australian insurers, which helps reduce earnings volatility.

Grimm concluded, “We’re comfortable accumulating the stock at current levels as an attractively valued, well diversified financial exposure.”

What’s the latest from the ASX 200 insurance stock?

QBE released its full year 2025 results on 20 February.

Atop the 23% year-on-year earnings growth that Grimm mentioned above, QBE achieved a 21% increase in statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) to US$2.16 billion.

That saw management boost the final dividend by 23.8% from the 2024 final payout to 78 cents a share.

“QBE delivered strong performance in 2025, exceeding our financial plan for the year,” QBE CEO Andrew Horton said on the day.

Looking ahead, Horton added, “Profitability remains attractive across the majority of lines and the year ahead appears constructive for further growth, and a continuation of solid returns.”

As for that increasing competition that Grimm mentioned, Horton said, “While competition has increased in some classes, QBE remains committed to our long-term strategy, underwriting discipline, and sustaining strong performance.”

QBE shares closed up 7.1% on the day of the 2025 results release.

The post 3 reasons to buy QBE shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has 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.

I’m excited about the potential behind Australian stocks looking to go global with their growth.

Australia is a great country to do business in, but with less than 30 million people in Australia it’s important to recognise there are other continents with much larger addressable markets to target.

I’m excited about the potential of the following Australian stocks. I expect both will be positions in my portfolio this year – I’m already a shareholder of the hotel software business I’m about to outline.  

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

Sigma owns three different brands in Australia – Chemist Warehouse, Amcal and Discount Drug Stores. It’s also one of the largest wholesalers in Australia. It also has Chemist Warehouse locations in New Zealand, Ireland, Dubai and China. I’m hopeful the business can expand to other international locations in the coming years.

The core Australian Chemist Warehouse (CW) business is performing strongly, with CW-branded store sales up 17.2% in the FY26 half-year result. This helped Sigma’s revenue climb 14.9% to $5.5 billion, with normalised operating profit (EBIT) rising 18.7% to $582.9 million, normalised net profit increasing 19.2% to $392 million.

I was particularly pleased to see that international growth accelerated, with retail network sales increasing by 24.5% year-over-year.

Comparing its international store networks between HY26 and the end of FY25, it grew its New Zealand store network by nine to a total of 70, Ireland stores grew by three to 17 and the Dubai network was flat at two. It’s expecting to open 11 stores internationally in the second half of FY26.

In China, the business is focusing on profitable online sales and plans to shut the physical store network by FY29.

With increasing operating leverage, growing store networks and an ageing and growing Australian population, there are multiple earnings tailwinds overall for the Australian stock.

According to the forecast on CMC Invest, the Sigma Healthcare share price is valued at 30x FY28’s estimated earnings.

Siteminder Ltd (ASX: SDR)

Siteminder is a leading ASX tech share that provides software to thousands of hotels around the world to help them with their operations and maximise their room revenue with distribution and room pricing.

The Australian stock has built its market share over the years thanks to its offering’s appeal, with the current focus being on larger hotels.

One of the most pleasing things about investing in this business today is that after falling close to 60% since October 2025, its revenue has continued growing strongly.

I like how the business has a target of revenue growth of 30% and it’s working hard to generate that growth from new and existing clients, partly by offering more advanced software modules.

In the FY26 half-year result, the business grew its revenue by 25.5% to $131.1 million, while the adjusted operating profit (EBITDA) more than doubled to $12.3 million.

With growing average revenue per user (ARPU), a growing list of hotel clients and rising profit margins, this Australian stock has a very exciting future ahead, in my view.

The post 2 strong Australian stocks to buy now with $6,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has positions in SiteMinder. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended SiteMinder. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended SiteMinder. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

On Monday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) started the week with a decline. The benchmark index fell 0.4% to 8,583.4 points.

Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Tuesday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 set to rebound

The Australian share market looks set for a good session on Tuesday following a decent start to the week in the US. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is poised to open the day 43 points or 0.5% higher. In late trade on Wall Street, the Dow Jones is up 0.8%, the S&P 500 is up 0.95%, and the Nasdaq is 1.1% higher.

Oil prices sink

It could be a poor session for ASX 200 energy shares Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) after oil prices sank overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 4.75% to US$93.89 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 2.7% to US$100.31 a barrel. This was driven by news that Donald Trump is pressuring allies to protect tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.

RBA meeting

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) shares will be on watch on Tuesday when the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) makes its decision on interest rates. According to the latest cash rate futures, the market is pricing in a 71% probability of the RBA lifting the cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.1%.

Gold price softens

ASX 200 gold shares Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) and Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) could have a subdued session on Tuesday after the gold price softened overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is down 0.85% to US$5,019.4 an ounce. Inflation fears have been weighing on the precious metal.

ASX 200 shares going ex-div

A number of ASX 200 shares are going ex-dividend today and could trade lower. This includes job listings company Seek Ltd (ASX: SEK), plumbing parts company Reece Ltd (ASX: REH), and debt collector Credit Corp Ltd (ASX: CCP). With respect to Seek, it will be rewarding its shareholders with a fully franked 27 cents per share interim dividend on 1 April.

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

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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.

If I had $3,000 ready to invest in the share market today, I would focus on buying shares that I believe can grow earnings per share steadily over many years.

With that in mind, here are three ASX growth shares I would happily buy and hold.

Catapult Sports Ltd (ASX: CAT)

Catapult is a sports technology company that provides performance analytics and wearable technology used by professional sports teams around the world.

Its platform helps teams track player performance, analyse training loads, and reduce injury risk. What I like about this business is that once teams integrate the technology into their operations, it tends to become a core part of how they manage athletes.

The company now works with thousands of teams across major global leagues such as the AFL, NFL, NBA, and EPL, and the data-driven nature of modern sport means demand for performance analytics continues to grow.

As the business expands internationally and continues to develop new software capabilities, Catapult has the potential to increase both its customer base and revenue per team over time.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Netwealth is one of the standout success stories in Australia’s wealth management platform industry.

The company provides investment administration and portfolio management platforms used by financial advisers. As more Australians accumulate wealth and seek professional advice, demand for high-quality platforms continues to grow.

What has impressed me most about Netwealth over the years is its ability to consistently attract strong inflows from advisers and their clients. The platform has built a reputation for technology, service quality, and innovation.

Because the platform earns fees based largely on funds under administration, Netwealth benefits not only from new client inflows but also from rising markets and additional services over time.

That combination has helped drive strong and growing cash flow, and I believe the long-term opportunity in Australia’s wealth management sector remains significant.

Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA)

Codan is a technology company that designs and manufactures specialised communications equipment and metal detection devices used around the world.

Its communications division supplies high-frequency radio systems used by governments, defence forces, and emergency services operating in remote or challenging environments. These systems are often mission-critical, which helps support steady demand and long-term customer relationships.

One area that I find particularly interesting is Codan’s exposure to the unmanned systems market. Through its DTC division, the company supplies communications technology used in unmanned aerial vehicles and other unmanned systems. As drones and other unmanned platforms become increasingly important for defence, surveillance, and security applications, reliable communications equipment becomes essential.

Codan’s metal detection business also continues to benefit from strong demand from gold prospectors around the world, particularly during periods of elevated gold prices.

With exposure to both specialised communications markets and metal detection, I see Codan as a company with multiple growth drivers that could support long-term expansion.

Foolish takeaway

Finding great growth shares often comes down to identifying businesses that are expanding their reach and building strong positions in their industries.

Catapult, Netwealth, and Codan are three companies that I believe have those characteristics, which is why they are the types of ASX growth shares I would be happy to buy and hold for the long term.

The post 3 ASX growth shares I’d buy and hold with $3,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Codan. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Catapult Sports and Netwealth Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Catapult Sports and Netwealth Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.