• AGL share price slides amid $450 million tech cash splash

    A worker with a clipboard stands in front of a nuclear energy facility

    The AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL) share price is taking a tumble today.

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) energy provider closed on Friday trading for $10.49. During lunch hour trading, shares are swapping hands for $10.39 apiece, down 0.95%.

    However, for some context, the ASX 200 is also struggling today, down 1.46% at this same time.

    Here’s what AGL investors are mulling over today.

    AGL share price slides amid tech costs

    The AGL share price is in the red today after the company reported it has entered into an agreement with Kaluza, a United Kingdom-based technology platform that digitises and simplifies energy billing. Kaluza currently services more than six million meters at OVO Energy in the UK.

    The agreement is part of AGL’s ongoing Retail Transformation Program.

    AGL expects to realise significant cost reduction, noting the platform also enables faster product innovation to facilitate the energy transition. The ASX 200 utility will transfer its four million consumer electricity and gas customer services onto the Kaluza platform over the next three years.

    The company’s Retail Transformation Program aims to cut operating costs and capital expenditure. Net benefits are expected to commence in FY 2028 with pre-tax cash savings of approximately $70 million to $90 million a year from FY 2029.

    But the AGL share price could be under some pressure with management estimating $300 million in costs over four years (commencing in FY 2024) to cover the residential and small business customer solution component of its Retail Transformation Program.

    AGL also said it will invest around $150 million in the form of preference shares in Kaluza to fund the next phase of its growth. This will see AGL holding a 20% interest directly in Kaluza.

    What did management say?

    Commenting on the agreement that’s yet to boost the AGL share price, CEO Damien Nicks said, “This represents a significant milestone in our transformation journey to connect more customers to a sustainable future.”

    Nicks added:

    The technology market is changing materially with the emergence of new core utility platforms offering greater flexibility and speed, which makes it imperative to partner with industry leaders, and is why we have chosen Kaluza.

    Kaluza is owned by OVO Energy. AGL acquired a majority stake in OVO’s Australian business in 2021.

    On that front, Nick said:

    OVO Energy Australia has experienced strong customer growth, with all customers migrated to Kaluza in 2023 while achieving a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 40+.

    As a result of the OVO Energy Australia investment and our proposed 20% equity interest in Kaluza, AGL has strengthened its relationship with the OVO Group which will enable us to accelerate our strategic ambition to support customers as they decarbonise and electrify.

    The AGL share price is up by around 7% so far in 2024.

    The post AGL share price slides amid $450 million tech cash splash appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Agl Energy Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Agl Energy Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

    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.

  • ASX 200 shares vs. property: AMP reveals predictions for 2024 growth

    a man sits on a ridge high above a large city full of high rise buildings as though he is thinking, contemplating the vista below.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is tumbling on Tuesday, down 1.3% to 7,758 points in early trading.

    ASX 200 shares have risen by 1.71% in the year to date. The benchmark index’s journey in 2024 has been bumpy, but it has included a new all-time record high of 7,910.5 points set on 2 April.

    Shares vs. property: Which one is winning in 2024?

    Meantime in the property arena, bricks-and-mortar investments in most capital city and regional markets have experienced a smoother ride this year.

    The national median home value is up 3% in the year to date, according to the latest CoreLogic data.

    Regional property values are growing faster than city values. The combined regional markets’ median is up 3.3%, and the combined capital city markets’ median is up 2.9%.

    Therefore, property is outperforming ASX 200 shares in the year to date.

    But AMP chief economist Dr Shane Oliver reckons that’s going to change.

    ASX 200 shares to deliver 9% growth in 2024: AMP

    AMP anticipates 9% growth for ASX 200 shares in 2024 vs. 5% average growth in property values.

    In a new blog, Dr Oliver says ASX 200 shares should rise from here.

    He tips the benchmark index to settle at about 7,900 points by year’s end. That’s just below its April peak and indicates there is more volatility ahead for ASX 200 shares.

    Dr Oliver said:

    Easing inflation pressures, central banks moving to cut rates and prospects for stronger growth in 2025 should make for reasonable investment returns this year.

    However, with a high risk of recession, delays to rate cuts and significant geopolitical risks, the remainder of the year is likely to be rougher and more constrained than the first three months were.

    Property prices to rise but at a slower pace vs. ASX 200 shares

    In terms of property values, Dr Oliver expects lower average price growth this year compared to 2023.

    He comments:

    So, after an average 8% gain last year, we expect that national average home prices will rise again this year but with national average gains a bit more constrained at 5% as still high interest rates act to restrict demand and rising unemployment boosts distressed listings.

    The supply shortfall points to upside risk, but the delay in rate cuts and talk of rate hikes risks renewed falls in property prices as it’s likely to cause buyers to hold back and distressed listings to rise.

    Dr Oliver expects a continuing divergence in the performance of capital city markets, commenting:

    Home price gains are likely to remain widely divergent though with continued strength likely in Perth, Brisbane and Adelaide for now partly helped by interstate migration but softness in other cities, particularly Melbourne and Hobart.

    CoreLogic points out that the supply of homes for sale is a key element keeping price growth strong in Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane. Stocks levels are currently 40% below their five-year average for this time of year in Perth and Adelaide and 34% lower in Brisbane.

    Looking ahead, Dr Oliver says there are signs of weakness in property.

    Interestingly, there are some signs of a softening at the margin: auction clearance rates have cooled from their highs; new listings are up sharply in some cities possibly reflecting rising distressed listings; and after leading early in the property upswing, top quartile property price gains are the weakest in most capital cities as affordability and borrowing constraints are starting to bite pushing buyers into lower-priced property.

    If you are considering ASX 200 shares vs. property for your next investment, check out our article on the pros and cons of each asset class.

    The post ASX 200 shares vs. property: AMP reveals predictions for 2024 growth appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Amp Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Amp Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

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

  • Why is the Woodside share price racing ahead of the benchmark today?

    An oil worker in front of a pumpjack using a tablet PC.

    The Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price is in the green.

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) oil and gas stock closed on Friday trading for $27.21. In earlier trade, shares were swapping hands for $27.49 apiece, up 1.0%.

    At the time of writing, the ASX 200 energy stock has given back some of those gains and is trading for $27.23 a share, up 0.1%.

    That still sees the Woodside share price racing ahead of the ASX 200 today, with the benchmark index down 1.3% at this same time.

    Here’s what’s happening.

    What’s supporting the Woodside share price today?

    The Woodside share price looks to be catching tailwinds from two fronts today.

    First, a rising oil price.

    Global oil prices saw a sizeable uptick over the long King’s Birthday weekend. On Friday, Brent crude oil was trading for $US79.62 per barrel. Today that same barrel is trading for US$81.88, up 2.8%.

    Oil prices have been under pressure recently following the decision by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and their allies (OPEC+) to begin unwinding their production cuts in the fourth quarter of 2024.

    Noting the three-week slide in oil prices, Fawad Razaqzada, a market analyst at City Index said (quoted by Bloomberg), “At the start of this week, traders have decided to buy the dip. With the US driving season underway, demand is likely to recover, keeping the downside limited for now.”

    Also likely helping the Woodside share price outperform today is the company’s announcement it has achieved its first oil from the Sangomar field, located 100 kilometres offshore of Senegal. Woodside highlighted that this marks the safe delivery of Senegal’s first offshore oil project.

    The deepwater Sangomar Field Development Phase 1 project includes a stand-alone floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) facility. The nameplate capacity stands at 100,000 barrels per day. The project includes subsea infrastructure designed to allow further development phases.

    “This is a historic day for Senegal and for Woodside,” Woodside CEO Meg O’Neill said.

    O’Neill continued:

    First oil from the Sangomar field is a key milestone and reflects delivery against our strategy. The Sangomar project is expected to generate shareholder value within the terms of the production sharing contract.

    Delivering Senegal’s first offshore oil project safely, through a period of unprecedented global challenge, demonstrates Woodside’s world-class project execution capability. We are proud of the relationships we have formed with PETROSEN, the government of Senegal and our key international and local contractors to develop this nationally significant resource.

    Commenting on the first oil milestone that could help support the Woodside share price longer-term, Thierno Ly, general manager of PETROSEN said:

    First oil from the Sangomar field marks a new era not only for our country’s industry and economy, but most importantly for our people…

    We have never been so well positioned for opportunities for growth, innovation, and success in the economic and social development of our nation.

    Woodside said the project’s cost estimate remains within the provided range of US$4.9 billion to US$5.2 billion.

    The drilling campaign is ongoing, and Woodside said it expects to continue commissioning activities and ramping up production through 2024.

    The Woodside share price is down 20% over the past 12 months.

    The post Why is the Woodside share price racing ahead of the benchmark today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Woodside Petroleum Ltd right now?

    Before you buy Woodside Petroleum Ltd shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Woodside Petroleum Ltd wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

    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.

  • 2 ASX large-cap stocks that look cheap right now

    A woman smiles as she looks out an aeroplane window.

    Today, I will be looking at two ASX large-cap stocks that are catching investors’ eye with their recent performance.

    ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) and Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN) have both seen significant gains this year and are on expert’s radars.

    And with the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) advancing just a little more than 2% this year to date, these could be attractive options for anyone looking to add solid performers to their portfolio.

    Here’s why these two ASX large caps could be cheap right now.

    Is ANZ a cheap ASX large-cap stock?

    ANZ shares are currently trading at $29.18 just after the open on Tuesday. This marks a nearly 13% increase this year year-to-date. According to Goldman Sachs and UBS, ANZ shares could continue to deliver impressive returns.

    UBS has set a price target of $30 for ANZ shares, implying an around 3% upside from the current level. According to my colleague Tristan, the broker reckons ANZ will generate earnings per share (EPS) of $2.29 in FY24, with a growth of 5.7% to $2.42 in FY25.

    This growth could stem from ANZ’s recently announced $2 billion share buyback, which reduces the number of shares on issue and enhances EPS.

    Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs analysts rate ANZ a buy thanks to its “large pipeline available which can be used to offset cost inflation”.

    “We continue to see upside for [ANZ] Group returns due to accretive mix shifts in the Institutional business towards higher ROE Payments and Cash Management business”, the broker said, adding ANZ trades at a discount to the sector, excluding dividends.

    ANZ has outperformed the ASX 200 Index by over 18% in the last 12 months, with a 26% rise compared to the index’s 9% gain. It currently trades at a price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) of 12.8.

    This tells me investors are paying less for $1 of the banks’s earnings than they are for the iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF (ASX: IOZ), the index fund tracking the benchmark, with a P/E of 18 times.

    The earnings yield is 7.7% at this P/E. When combined with the ASX large-cap stock’s trailing dividend yield of 6.1%, this represents potential value in my opinion.

    Are Qantas shares undervalued?

    The Qantas share price is up 15% this year and currently trades at $6.20 apiece. Despite this rise, many analysts believe Qantas shares are still undervalued compared to its peers.

    Goldman Sachs recently added Qantas to its June Asia-Pacific conviction list. The broker says the airline is primed to grow beyond its pre-pandemic ranges. It expects Qantas to produce EPS of 85 cents in FY24 and 96 cents in FY25, which is significantly higher than the 57 cents per share reported in 2019.

    Qantas currently trades at a P/E ratio of 6.7, which is well below the average P/E of 9.1 for its regional and US competitors, according to Goldman.

    If Qantas hits its projected EPS of 96 cents in FY25 and its P/E converges to the peer average, this implies a potential share price of $8.64, as I’ve discussed previously.

    Goldman Sachs has set a price target of $8.05 for Qantas shares, implying a potential upside of 29% from the current price.

    This valuation makes Qantas shares look cheap in my view. It offers potential upside for investors with a substantial margin of safety.

    But it’s not just the potential disconnect in valuation. Several factors could drive Qantas shares higher. Goldman Sachs highlights that the airline’s cost-out program, operational performance improvements and potential positive trading updates could also boost investor confidence.

    It also expects Qantas to potentially return $1.2 billion to shareholders as dividends over FY 2025-2027.

    Conclusion

    ANZ and Qantas might present compelling opportunities for investors seeking ASX large-cap stocks with strong growth potential.

    With their solid performance and attractive valuations, experts say these stocks could be worth considering for your portfolio.

    As always, conduct your own due diligence and remember to consider your personal financial circumstances.

    The post 2 ASX large-cap stocks that look cheap right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Australia And New Zealand Banking Group right now?

    Before you buy Australia And New Zealand Banking Group shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Australia And New Zealand Banking Group wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Zach Bristow 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.

  • Another Tesla shareholder came out against Elon Musk’s multibillion-dollar pay package, saying the billionaire should ‘focus on going to Mars’

    Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
    Tesla CEO Elon Musk.

    • The list of Tesla investors who oppose Elon Musk's multibillion-dollar pay package is growing.
    • The chief investment officer of CalSTRS, a major California pension fund, told CNBC that the fund opposes the figure.
    • Chris Ailman said Musk needs to focus in on his endeavors. 

    Another major Tesla shareholder is publicly opposing Elon Musk's multibillion-dollar pay package just days before investors are set to vote on the enormous figure ahead of the automaker's annual shareholder meeting on Thursday.

    Christopher Ailman, chief investment officer for the California State Teachers' Retirement System, told CNBC on Monday that the massive state pension fund is voting no on Musk's astronomical compensation package. The package, which was worth $56 billion when investors initially voted on it in 2018, was down to about $46 billion as of Friday's closing price.

    "We need to have a serious salary," Ailman said. "We'll pay him 140 times the average worker pay. How about that deal? I think that's more than fair. "

    Ailman skewered the record-breaking compensation package as "ridiculous" and "absurd." A Delaware judge struck down the package in January, calling the final price "unfair" and the process to determine that number "deeply flawed." Investors are now voting on whether to reinstate the package.

    CalSTRS, which represents more than one million public school educators in California, has been a Tesla investor since 2000, when the automaker was based in the Golden State. The pension fund currently holds 4.6 million shares in the company. 

    Ailman praised Musk for building Tesla from the ground up but implored the billionaire leader to let professional managers lead the car company while he focuses on his myriad other pursuits. 

    "He needs to focus in on, either cars, on X, or on going to Mars. And I think his heart really is in going to Mars," Ailman said.

    Musk did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

    Despite Musk's other endeavors, Tesla remains a car company — and the automaker's output and stock valuation should reflect that, Ailman said.

    "Even if these cars had AI in them, they are not worth 60-times earnings. That is absurd," he told CNBC.

    Ailman critiqued Musk's board governance at Tesla and the billionaire's penchant for "temper tantrums" but ultimately said he would be disappointed to see Musk leave the car company. 

    "I love the fact that he owns the company. He is the leader. He is the star. He designed the cars," Ailman told the outlet.

    The results of the investor vote will be announced Thursday. One Wall Street analyst told BI this week that the compensation package is likely to fail, which could lead to a drop in Tesla stock. Proxy advisors are recommending investors vote no on the pay package, advice which Tesla's passive investors — about 20% of investors in total — are likely to follow, Bernstein analyst Toni Sacconaghi told BI. 

    Other institutional investors who had already publicly said they were voting no on the deal told BI last week that Musk's decision to redirect a shipment of highly sought-after Nvidia chips away from Tesla and to X instead solidified their vote.

    Regardless of Thursday's outcome, Ailman said CalSTRS has no plans to sell its Tesla shares, even if Musk continues to reach for the stars.

    "He wants to go to Mars," Ailman told CNBC. "Let's let him fly away."

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • Guess which ASX 200 share just rocketed 15% on a $1.8 billion takeover offer

    A man in his 30s holds his laptop and operates it with his other hand as he has a look of pleasant surprise on his face as though he is learning something new or finding hidden value in something on the screen.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 1.1% today, but you can’t blame this rocketing ASX 200 share.

    Shares in the auto parts company closed on Friday trading for $4.36. In earlier trade on Tuesday, shares were swapping hands for $4.99 apiece, up 14.5%. After some likely profit-taking, shares are currently trading for $4.88, up 11.9%.

    This comes after management confirmed media speculations of a potential takeover offer at a significant premium to Friday’s closing price.

    Any guesses?

    If you said Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP), give yourself a virtual gold star.

    Here’s what’s happening.

    ASX 200 share in takeover crosshairs

    The ASX 200 share is rocketing today after reporting it had received a non-binding, indicative proposal from Bain Capital after market close on Friday.

    The United States-based private investment firm is seeking to acquire all of Bapcor’s shares by way of a scheme of arrangement. This would see Bapcor shareholders receive $5.40 cash per share, adjusted for any dividends paid or declared after this proposal.

    That’s almost 24% higher than Friday’s closing price, explaining why the Bapcor share price is having such a stellar run today.

    Bain’s offer values the ASX 200 share, which has some 1,100 Autobarn, Autopro and Burson stores, at more than $1.8 billion.

    Amid the media speculations of a takeover offer, the board said it was disclosing its receipt of the indicative proposal before concluding its assessment. The board stressed that the proposal remains subject to a number of conditions being met.

    “The board cautions that at this time there is no guarantee that the indicative proposal put forward by Bain Capital will result in a binding offer or that any transaction will eventuate,” they stated.

    Macquarie Capital has been appointed as Bapcor’s financial adviser and Allens as its legal adviser.

    Investors in the ASX 200 share were advised they do not need to take any action at this time.

    How have Bapcor shares been tracking?

    Bain Capital is lobbing its bid for Bapcor after a sizeable share price retrace for the auto parts retailer.

    Before market open today, the ASX 200 share was down almost 27% over the past 12 months. Though that doesn’t include the 21 cents a share in fully franked dividends Bapcor paid out over this period.

    The stock has been under pressure following profit downgrades amid rising costs. The company has also struggled with its top management, with Paul Dumbrell backing out of his appointment as CEO in April, just days before he was meant to take up the helm.

    The post Guess which ASX 200 share just rocketed 15% on a $1.8 billion takeover offer appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Bapcor Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Bapcor Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

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

  • This low-profile $7.8 billion ASX share has risen 70% in 6 months. I’d still buy it!

    two ASX share investors sharing a secret

    The GQG Partners Inc (ASX: GQG) share price has delivered excellent performance over the last six months, surging more than 70%. In comparison, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has gained around 9% over the same time period.

    Despite the huge rise in the GQG share price, I still think it’s a long-term opportunity due to the progress the business is making and what I believe is still a good valuation.

    The fund manager, based in the US, offers clients a variety of different investment strategies including US shares, emerging market shares, and global shares. It also offers investment options like dividend shares.

    There are a few reasons I’m still excited about this company.

    Solid growth rate

    GQG’s growth is reliant on an increase in its funds under management (FUM).

    The company’s main investment strategies have outperformed their respective benchmarks, which helps organically grow the FUM and also helps attract more FUM from clients.

    As of 31 May 2024, GQG’s FUM had reached US$150.1 billion, up from US$120.6 billion at 31 December 2023. That’s an increase of 24% in just five months.

    In the five months to May 2024, the ASX All Ords company experienced net inflows of US$9.1 billion – it’s seeing a lot of extra client money flowing in, which is compelling and suggests inflows could continue at a decent rate in the coming months.

    The business charges minimal (or no) performance fees via its funds, so nearly all of its revenue comes from management fees. FUM growth is key to delivering revenue growth.

    Operating leverage

    Fund managers can deliver rising profit margins as they grow because their costs may not rise as much as revenue.

    For example, a funds management business doesn’t need an additional 10% more people or a 10% bigger office if its FUM grows by 10%.

    The business has rapidly grown in the last two years, so it has increased its expenditure to reflect the global fund manager it has become, including geographic expansion (such as Australia). But, I believe operating leverage will be displayed in the next few years and the company’s profit margins can increase.

    In GQG’s 2023 result, net revenue rose 18.5% and net profit after tax rose 18.7%.

    Low earnings multiple

    Fund managers don’t usually trade on a high price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio, so we’re able to buy the earnings at a reasonable multiple compared to some other sectors.

    GQG is valued at 16x FY23’s distributable earnings and the fund manager has grown significantly since FY23. Its average FUM for FY23 was US$101.9 billion – the ASX share’s FUM (as at May) is currently 47% higher than this, suggesting pleasing earnings growth over the next 12 months.

    The company is committed to a dividend payout ratio of 90% of its distributable earnings. Based on Commsec’s dividend estimate for FY24 and FY25, GQG is valued at 13x FY24’s estimated distributable earnings and 12x FY25’s estimated earnings.

    Good dividend

    GQG is predicted to pay an annual dividend per share of 18.2 cents in FY24 and 19.9 cents per share in FY25, translating into forward dividend yields of 6.9% and 7.5%, respectively (GQG’s financial year runs on the calendar year, so the FY24 annual dividend is still a prediction).

    While these are not the biggest dividend yields on the ASX, I think they could be among the better yields from a company that’s still growing at a decent pace.

    The post This low-profile $7.8 billion ASX share has risen 70% in 6 months. I’d still buy it! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Gqg Partners Inc. right now?

    Before you buy Gqg Partners Inc. shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Gqg Partners Inc. wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

    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.

  • 6 ASX retail shares to buy this month

    There are a good number of options on the Australian share market for investors looking for exposure to the retail sector.

    But which ASX retail shares are in the buy zone right now? Well, six that analysts at Bell Potter are bullish on are listed below.

    But first, let’s take a look at what the broker is saying about the sector. Commenting on the retail sector, Bell Potter said:

    We make earnings changes to LOV & TPW driven by medium to long term revisions and PFP as we factor in the acquisitions announced yesterday. We also increase our target earnings multiples for LOV & UNI which see our LOV, UNI, TPW & PFP price targets increasing 17%, 9%, 6% and 2% respectively. We’ve seen the Consumer Disc. sector (ASX200) testing its 10-year median P/E multiple (20.5x) back in Jul-23, however materially re-rating since then towards a high point in late Mar-24 (25.8x), and thereafter a correction back to 22.5x.

    In this backdrop, we identify key opportunities where the valuations are well supported by distinctive growth traits and also clearly identifiable large TAM opportunities. Our key picks are the two global rollout names, LOV & PMV and also AX1 & UNI given the potential income tax cut benefit from 1Q25 to the younger consumer demographic and short-term catalysts for UNI associated with fast-approaching supportive comps.

    Let’s now take a look at six ASX retail shares that the broker is recommending as buys. They are as follows:

    Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1)

    Bell Potter has a buy rating and $2.50 price target on this footwear retailer’s shares. This implies potential upside 25% for investors from current levels.

    Cettire Ltd (ASX: CTT)

    This online luxury products retailer’s shares could be great value following recent weakness. The broker has a buy rating and $3.01 price target on its shares, which suggests potential upside of 28% for investors.

    City Chic Collective Ltd (ASX: CCX)

    Bell Potter has a buy rating and 62 cents price target on this plus sized women’s fashion retailer’s shares. Based on its current share price of 28 cents, this implies that its shares could more than double in value from current levels.

    Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV)

    Another ASX retail share that the broker is bullish on is fashion jewellery retailer Lovisa. It has a buy rating and $36.00 price target, which suggests that they could rise of 15% for investors.

    Premier Investments Limited (ASX: PMV)

    Bell Potter thinks that Smiggle and Peter Alexander owner Premier Investments could be in the buy zone. The broker has a buy rating and $35.00 price target on its shares. This implies potential upside of 21% for investors.

    Universal Store Holdings Ltd (ASX: UNI)

    A final ASX retail share that could be a buy is Universal Store. Bell Potter has a buy rating and $6.15 price target on the youth fashion retailer’s shares. Based on its current share price of $5.12, this would mean potential upside of 20%.

    The post 6 ASX retail shares to buy this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Accent Group Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Accent Group Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Lovisa and Universal Store. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Lovisa. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Accent Group, Cettire, Lovisa, and Premier Investments. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Here is the earnings forecast out to 2026 for A2 Milk shares

    Older man and young boy smiling while drinking milk with milk moustaches

    A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M) shares have risen around 70% in 2024 to date, as shown on the chart below. Despite recent Chinese headwinds, the company is expected to see growing profit in the coming years.

    This leading New Zealand infant formula business has managed to navigate the difficulties and uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and investors now seem to be looking forward to a positive outlook.

    With the FY24 half-year result, the company noted it had gained a “significant” market share in the Chinese label infant formula over the prior few years, leading to revenue and earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) growth.

    The A2 Milk Chinese infant formula market share has reached 6.4%, “becoming one of the most successful brands in China and in the top-5 overall.” The business has focused on more ‘controlled’ channels, away from the daigou channel.

    A2 Milk warned that due to China’s annual birth rate declining, it may take until FY27 (or later) to reach its $2 billion target of annual revenue rather than FY26. It’s still targeting an EBITDA margin “in the teens”.

    Having said all of that, the business is still expected to deliver growth in the next few years, according to the broker Goldman Sachs’ estimates on Commsec.

    FY24

    In FY23, the business generated NZ$1.59 billion of revenue, NZ$219.3 million of EBITDA and NZ$155.6 million of net profit after tax (NPAT).

    Goldman Sachs expects growth across all those financial metrics in the 2024 financial year, which ends this month.

    The broker thinks A2 Milk’s annual revenue can increase to NZ$1.69 billion (up 6%), which could support EBITDA rising by 8% to NZ$237.4 million. The NPAT could increase 9% to NZ$169.8 million based on the projections.

    If those predictions come true, it shows the company’s profit margins could grow, which would be a positive for A2 Milk shares.

    FY25

    Goldman Sachs suggests the business could continue growing in FY25.

    Annual revenue is projected to rise another 6.25% to NZ$1.79 billion in FY25, with EBITDA increasing by 15.5% to NZ$274.2 million. NPAT could then grow another 13.3% to NZ$192.4 million. So, the predictions suggest another year where profit could rise faster than revenue, implying improving margins.

    FY26

    The broker thinks there could be yet another year of earnings growth for owners of A2 Milk shares in the 2026 financial year.

    A2 Milk’s annual revenue is predicted to rise another 5% to NZ$1.89 billion, with EBITDA projected to increase 10.7% to NZ$303.6 million and NPAT predicted to rise around 12% to NZ$215.2 million.

    The infant formula market has been difficult to forecast over the last five years with a lot of unpredictability. Still, if the company can keep growing earnings, it could be a helpful tailwind for A2 Milk shares.

    The post Here is the earnings forecast out to 2026 for A2 Milk shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in The A2 Milk Company Limited right now?

    Before you buy The A2 Milk Company Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and The A2 Milk Company Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 5 May 2024

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended A2 Milk. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Trump got special treatment from NYC probation, and defense lawyers are crying foul

    Donald Trump
    Former President Donald Trump

    • Trump was allowed to do his NYC pre-sentencing interview virtually and with his lawyer present.
    • New York lawyers say this is preferential treatment for a billionaire ex-president.
    • Low-income defendants are required to do their interviews in person and without a lawyer, they say.

    Donald Trump was allowed to do his pre-sentencing interview on Monday via video and with his lawyer at his side — and New York City defense attorneys with clients who are neither billionaires nor former presidents are crying foul.

    Defendants who are not in jail while awaiting sentencing are told to attend in person — and alone — when they sit for an interview with the city Department of Probation, multiple city-based defense attorneys told Business Insider.

    Trump's 30-minute interview was conducted virtually, not in person, from Mar-a-Lago, with attorney Todd Blanche at his side, the Associated Press reported.

    In New York, probation officers talk to the defendant and the prosecutor in separate pre-sentencing interviews in preparation for what's known as a pre-sentencing report.

    These reports are important because they recommend to the judge what punishment would be appropriate.

    Trump is due to be sentenced on July 11 for last month's conviction in Manhattan on 34 counts of falsifying business records in the so-called "hush-money" case.

    "All people convicted of crimes should be allowed counsel in their probation interview, not just billionaires," four New York City-based public-defender organizations said in a joint statement Monday.

    "This is just another example of our two-tiered system of justice," said the statement, issued by The Legal Aid Society, The Bronx Defenders, New York County Defender Services, and Neighborhood Defender Service of Harlem.

    Trump is not getting preferential treatment by being allowed to do his interview via video and with his lawyer, a city spokeswoman told Business Insider.

    "It's common — it's not unusual, and it's been an option from even before COVID," Ivette Davila-Richards, a deputy press secretary for the mayor's office, said of Trump's virtual interview. "No exceptions are being made because it's President Trump," she added.

    It is true that defendants who are locked up while awaiting sentencing typically do pre-sentencing interviews via video, defense lawyers told Business Insider.

    But defendants like Trump, who are at liberty, are almost always required to appear alone and in person for their probation interviews, lawyers told BI.

    Trump was able to have attorney Todd Blanche at his side only through the most uncommon of circumstances, attorneys also complained.

    The trial judge, New York Supreme Court Justice Manhattan Juan Merchan, on Friday ordered probation to allow Blanche to attend Trump's interview after prosecutors did not fight the request, court filings show.

    "I've never been present at a probation interview," said veteran Legal Aid attorney Sam Roberts. He estimated he's had well over 3,000 clients do these interviews.

    "In fairness, at least when clients are detained pending sentence, it will be a procedural nightmare to permit attorneys to attend," said Thomas Eddy, an attorney from Rochester, New York, who is fighting the no-counsel rule on the appellate level.

    He shared with Business Insider 2023 emails in which probation and court officials say it's policy for defendants to be interviewed without their lawyers unless there's an exceptional need for counsel to be present.

    "Defendants are prejudiced daily by damaging statements they make without counsel present," Eddy said.

    A negative probation report can hurt an inmate as they seek a lower security level, work release, and parole, he said.

    "How much trouble do you think Trump would get into today if Blanche wasn't there to muzzle him?" Eddy asked.

    Read the original article on Business Insider