There are a lot of shares to choose from on the ASX 200 index.

To narrow things down for investors, let’s see what analysts at Morgans are saying about these popular options.

Are they buys, holds, or sells? Let’s find out.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

This gaming technology company’s shares could be good value according to Morgans. The broker recently upgraded them to a buy rating with a $73.00 price target.

Morgans thinks that recent share price weakness has created a buying opportunity for investors. Especially given its belief that there has been no structural shift in market dynamics. It explains:

Aristocrat Leisure (ALL) delivered a solid FY25 result, posting healthy yoy growth following the sale of Plarium and full inclusion of NeoGames. Headline numbers were broadly in line with both our and market expectations, though a few soft spots emerged beneath the surface. Interactive (online casino-style games) was weaker than expected and punished, given it’s a smaller, faster growing segment, core to longer-term growth plans. Gaming Operations in North America (NA) were also soft, with only 4.1k net adds and lower-than-expected fee-per-day metrics weighing on performance.

Encouragingly, management expects the business to return to its normalised growth range moving forward. We see no structural shift in market dynamics and remain comfortable with the outlook. ALL reiterated its qualitative guidance for constant currency NPATA growth in FY26 (MorgansF: +10%). Following the result, our EPSA forecasts decrease ~6% across FY26-27F. Given recent share price weakness and a more compelling valuation, we upgrade ALL from Accumulate to Buy, with our 12-month target price reduced to $73 (from $77).

James Hardie Industries PLC (ASX: JHX)

Another ASX 200 share that the broker has been looking at is building materials company James Hardie.

A recent note reveals that a better than expected quarterly update has led to its analysts upgrading the company’s shares to a buy rating with a $35.50 price target.

Commenting on the investment opportunity, Morgans said:

Whilst the headline 2QFY26 result was largely released in early Oct-25, the details and outlook were incrementally more positive than previously anticipated. Upgraded guidance reflects a c.6% organic decline (vs pcp), as a challenging environment sees volume declines exceed price increases. However, this is better than feared and may prove to be a bottoming in the cycle as demand stabilises.

JHX is trading on c.17.1x FY26F as the business navigates its acquisition missteps, earnings downgrades and a challenging consumer environment in North America (NA). However, at EPS of c.U$1.04/sh in FY26 we see upside from both earnings and an undemanding PER (ave PER. 20x). It is on this basis we upgrade to a BUY recommendation and $35.50/sh target price.

TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE)

Finally, this enterprise software provider just misses out on a buy rating. Morgans has an accumulate rating and $34.50 price target on its shares.

The broker believes the company is on track to deliver on its long term annual recurring revenue (ARR) growth targets despite slightly softer numbers in FY 2025. It said:

TNE’s FY25 result was largely in line with our expectations with the group delivering, PBT growth of +19% to $181.5m ahead of its 13-17% guidance range, and in line with consensus. The negative share price reaction appears to have been driven by softer than expected ARR/NRR print, which saw a 2% miss to ARR growth expectations vs consensus, despite this, the group continues to deliver, with ARR of $554.6m (+18% YoY), which along with its NRR growth of 115% continues to see TNE On track to achieve its long-term ARR growth aspirations.

We modestly pare our EPS forecasts by 1-3% in FY26-28F. and move to an ACCUMULATE rating, with our target price $34.50 now reflecting a TSR of +19% following TNE’s post result share price movement.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Aristocrat, James Hardie, and TechnologyOne shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 ASX shares I want to buy in 2026
• Shocking declines: Australian shares that disappointed investors in 2025
• 3 ASX 200 bargain buys heading into the new year
• The Australian stocks I’d trust for the next 10 years
• 10 ASX shares I would buy in 2026

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

S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO) shares rose by 7.11% and delivered total returns, including dividends, of 10.56% in 2025.

The All Ords outperformed the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which rose 6.8% and produced a total return of 10.32%.

As always, there were losers in the pack, and here we reveal the five worst ASX All Ords shares for price growth.

It’s interesting to note that some brokers see four of these stocks potentially turning around in the new year.

We include their assessments here.

5 ASX All Ords shares that fell off a cliff in 2025

All five of these ASX All Ords shares lost more than half their value last year.

1. Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

This ASX All Ords tech share tumbled 72% to close out 2025 at $1.80.

Nuix is an investigative analytics and intelligence software provider.

For FY25, Nuix reported an 8% increase in annualised contract value (ACV) to $228.4 million but a loss after tax of $9.2 million.

That was largely due to a significant increase in the expensed proportion of research and development (R&D) spending, plus elevated net non-operational legal costs and restructuring costs.

In a trading update in November, Nuix issued FY26 ACV guidance in the range of $240 million to $260 million.

Moelis Australia has a buy rating on Nuix shares with a 12-month price target of $3.37.

In a note, Moelis said Nuix stock “seems oversold”, commenting:

Nuix’s share price has retraced significantly as recent operating performance fell below market expectations.

On our estimates the current price undervalues the company.

2. Myer Holdings Ltd (ASX: MYR)

This ASX All Ords retail share fell 61% to 48 cents on 31 December.

FY25 was a shocker for the company, which booked an underlying net profit of $37 million, down 30% on FY24.

The retailer also reported a statutory net loss of $211 million due to the write-down of goodwill for the new division, Myer Apparel Brands.

Myer shares did not pay a final dividend.

Morgan Stanley equity analyst Julia de Sterke sees a turnaround opportunity from the Apparel Brands’ integration and other factors.

The broker has a buy rating on Myer shares with a target of 69 cents.

3. HMC Capital Ltd (ASX: HMC)

HMC Capital shares tanked in 2025, falling 60% to $3.96 apiece.

This was despite the diversified investment company reporting strong profit growth in FY25.

FY25 pre-tax operating earnings was $224.6 million, up 74%, and pre-tax operating earnings per share (EPS) was 56 cents, up 51%.

HMC Managing Director and CEO, David Di Pilla, described FY25 as “a landmark year” and said:

This growth highlights the scalability of our business model and the strength of our diversified platform spanning real estate, private equity, private credit, digital infrastructure and energy transition.

Each of these verticals is now generating meaningful earnings while also providing strong optionality for future expansion.

Morgans has a buy rating and $4.85 price target on HMC Capital shares.

In a note, the broker said: 

The current price essentially implies that HMC is ex-growth with a questionable NTA – a view we do not share.

So, whilst re-rating of the stock remains contingent on these elements coming to fruition, we believe it to be highly achievable over the next 12 months.

4. Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1)

Like Myer, ASX All Ords shoe retailer Accent experienced a big share price fall in 2025.

Accent shares dropped 60% to close the year at 95 cents.

Accent owns several brands, including The Athlete’s Foot, Hoka, HypeDC, Platypus, Vans, and Skechers.

For FY25, Accent reported a net profit after tax (NPAT) of $57.7 million, down 3% on FY24.

The final dividend was 1.5 cents per share, down 67% on the previous year’s final dividend.

However, a positive trading update in November has brokers seeing a buying opportunity for 2026.

Goldman Sachs reiterated its buy rating on Accent shares but cut its 12-month target from $1.70 to $1.20.

5. Coronado Global Resources Inc (ASX: CRN)

This ASX All Ords coal share fell 58% over the year to finish at 32 cents on 31 December.

A persistently low metallurgical coal price was a headwind for Coronado last year.

The miner reported a realised price of US$145.10 per tonne in the third quarter of 2025, down 30% year over year.

However, the miner said its 3Q saleable production was 21% higher than for the previous quarter at 4.5 million tonnes, which was the best result since 2021.

Managing director Douglas Thompson expects an even better 4Q result due to project expansion and cost reductions.

The third quarter was the second in a row in which unit production costs came in below guidance.

In the month of September, the unit cost was US$80 per tonne.

Brokers are yet to be convinced, with many giving this ASX All Ords mining share a hold or sell rating.

Last month, UBS reiterated its sell rating but lifted its 12-month target from 19 cents to 25 cents.

The post 5 worst ASX All Ords shares of 2025, and why brokers rate 4 of them a buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• These were the worst performing ASX 200 shares in 2025
• 5 top ASX dividend shares to buy now
• How to make $50,000 of passive income in 2026
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• My 5 top stocks to buy in 2026

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 positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group and HMC Capital. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Accent Group, HMC Capital, Myer, and Nuix. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Shares in 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX) are back in the spotlight after the company released an update to the market.

At the time of writing, the 4DMedical share price is up 14.25% to $4.49. This adds to what has already been a strong run for the healthcare stock over the past year.

So, what did the company announce, and why are investors buying?

A familiar face steps into the CFO role

Before market open, 4DMedical announced that Julian Sutton has been appointed as its new Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director, effective immediately.

Sutton has been involved with 4DMedical since 2017. He has previously served as a Non-Executive Director and was also an early investor in the company. During that time, he has worked closely with management on strategy, capital raising, governance, and investor relations.

The board stated that the appointment reflects the company’s shift from developing its technology to focusing more on selling it and expanding the business. Sutton will now take on a more hands-on role as the company expands globally.

Why this matters right now

This change comes at an important time for 4DMedical.

The company’s main lung imaging product, CT:VQ, has now received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is already being used at leading medical centres across the United States.

4DMedical also has a global distribution deal with Philips, which gives it access to a large number of hospitals around the world.

With approvals secured and sales underway, the focus is now on getting more hospitals using the product and growing revenue.

Management said Sutton’s experience and long history with the company make him well-suited to help guide this next stage.

What did management say?

Founder and CEO Andreas Fouras said Sutton has been a trusted adviser and has played an important role in the company’s growth so far.

Fouras said that as demand for CT:VQ continues to grow, strengthening the leadership team was the right step to support global expansion.

Sutton said 4DMedical is entering a key phase, supported by FDA-approved technology, strong partnerships, and a clear path toward long-term growth.

Foolish Takeaway

Investors appear to see it as a sign that 4DMedical is preparing for long-term commercial growth. Combined with recent share price gains and increasing use of its technology in the US, today’s update adds another positive signal for investors.

4DMedical remains a high-risk, high-reward healthcare stock. But for investors who believe in the technology and management’s ability to deliver, this announcement is another step in the right direction.

The post Why 4DMedical shares are jumping 14% today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why 4DMedical, Elsight, Judo, and Nickel Industries shares are pushing higher today
• Why 4Medical, Guzman Y Gomez, Lynas, and Predictive Discovery shares are falling today
• Why did these ASX shares outperform their peers in 2025?
• Why 4DMedical, Core Lithium, Fenix, and Goodman shares are storming higher today
• My 5 top stocks to buy in 2026

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras 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.

Shares in Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) continue to show signs of life. The prestigious wine stock traded at $5.34 on Friday early afternoon trade, another gain of 1.9%.

In the past five trading days, Treasury Wine shares have increased in value by 4.5%. The sentiment boost stems from a high-profile investor stake, which has attracted short-term trading flows and a re-entry by value buyers.

Flirting French billionaire

In late December, Treasury Wine shares jumped sharply after French billionaire Olivier Goudet disclosed a 5% stake in the company. Goudet has increased his stake to 41 million shares in the Penfolds producer, worth about $220 million at the time of writing.

This move was interpreted by traders as a vote of confidence in Treasury Wine’s long-term prospects.

After a long, bruising 2025 that pushed Treasury Wine shares toward decade lows, the winemaker’s stock has climbed off its worst levels. Market sentiment has shifted a little, and key headlines spark fresh buying interest.

Soft demand in US and China

That uptick follows heavily oversold conditions. For much of 2025, Treasury Wine shares were one of the ASX 200’s worst performers. Its share price slumped more than 50% year on year.

Despite the recent lift, Treasury Wine shares are down significantly from their 12-month highs of $11.48, achieved almost a year ago. The company recently wrote down the value of its US business by $687 million and warned in mid-December of ongoing weakness in the US and China. As a result, investors piled out as demand in China and the US softened and strategic uncertainty mounted.

The drop is painful for a prestigious 68-year-old company known for premium wine labels, including Penfolds, 19 Crimes, and Lindeman’s, which are sold in more than 70 countries worldwide.

Strategic reset, paused buyback

Management’s strategic reset included pausing the planned $200 million share buyback program. The company also withdrew FY26 guidance amid weaker luxury wine demand. Those actions weighed on the stock through the second half of the year.

Market watchers caution that the gains, while welcome, come from a very low base. They don’t yet reflect any reversal of the fundamental headwinds facing the luxury wine maker’s core activities in China and the US.

Until stronger evidence of sustainable demand returns, any rally is likely to be fragile and sentiment-driven.

The market consensus on Treasury Wine shares is neutral. The average 12-month price target for the wine producer is $5.51, a modest 3% upside.

The post Treasury Wine shares keep the good times flowing appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• These were the worst performing ASX 200 shares in 2025
• Shocking declines: Australian shares that disappointed investors in 2025
• Down over 50%, is this the ASX 200’s greatest recovery share for 2026?
• Treasury Wine shares pile on the gains after French billionaire buys in
• Down over 40% this year, could these 3 ASX shares bounce back in 2026?

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 Treasury Wine Estates. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Treasury Wine Estates. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Getting started in the share market can feel intimidating, especially for first-time investors who are worried about picking the wrong stock.

The good news is that exchange-traded funds (ETFs) remove much of that pressure and offer a simple way to invest.

With a single investment, you can gain instant diversification and exposure to hundreds or even thousands of companies.

For Australians starting their investing journey in 2026, here are five ASX ETFs that stand out as sensible, beginner-friendly options.

Vanguard Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VAS)

The Vanguard Australian Shares ETF is often considered a cornerstone ETF for local investors. It provides exposure to the 300 largest shares listed on the ASX, making it an easy way to invest in the Australian economy as a whole.

Its portfolio includes blue-chip names such as BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), and Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES). For beginners, this fund offers simplicity, diversification, and a steady stream of income over time.

iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)

If you want global exposure without complexity, the popular iShares S&P 500 ETF is a strong place to start. It tracks the S&P 500 Index, giving investors access to 500 of the largest stocks in the United States.

Holdings include Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT), Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA), Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ), and Visa Inc (NYSE: V). For beginners, this fund offers exposure to some of the world’s most profitable businesses with a single, low-cost investment.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF could be worth considering. It is designed for investors who want broad international diversification beyond Australia. It invests across developed markets such as the United States, Europe, and Japan.

Its holdings include companies like Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ: GOOGL), Nestlé (SWX: NESN), Toyota Motor Corp (TYO: 7203), and LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (FRA: MOH).

Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT)

The Betashares Australian Quality ETF takes a quality-focused approach to Australian shares. Rather than simply tracking the biggest companies, it targets businesses with strong balance sheets, reliable earnings, and solid cash flow.

Top holdings include Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS), Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS). This ETF could suit beginners who want a more selective take on the local market. It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

Finally, the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF adds a growth tilt to a beginner portfolio by tracking the Nasdaq-100 Index. It provides exposure to innovative companies shaping technology, healthcare, and consumer trends.

Holdings include Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN), Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META), Broadcom (NASDAQ: AVGO), and Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX).

The post 5 fantastic ASX ETFs for beginners in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Own Betashares ASX ETFs? Here’s your next dividend
• How did the BHP share price perform in 2025?
• How did the CBA share price perform in 2025?
• What are the 2 top artificial intelligence (AI) stocks to buy right now?
• Keen to invest outside the ASX? UBS reveals 2026 forecast for US, China, and Euro stocks

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, CSL, and Woodside Energy Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, CSL, Macquarie Group, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Netflix, Nvidia, Visa, Wesfarmers, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Broadcom, Johnson & Johnson, and Nestlé and has recommended the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, Macquarie Group, and Telstra Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, BHP Group, CSL, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Netflix, Nvidia, Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF, Visa, Wesfarmers, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO) shares rose by 7.11% and delivered total returns, including dividends, of 10.56% in 2025.

The ASX All Ords slightly outperformed the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

The ASX 200 increased by 6.8% and provided total returns of 10.32%, according to S&P Global data.

These were the five best-performing ASX All Ords shares in terms of capital growth in 2025.

5 best ASX All Ords shares for price growth

1. DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

ASX 200 defence share Droneshield leapt 300% to close at $3.08 on 31 December.

Droneshield is benefiting from the rising global defence spending investment theme.

However, investor sentiment soured in November when CEO Oleg Vornik sold more than $49 million worth of shares.

In response, DroneShield announced a mandatory minimum shareholding policy for all directors and senior managers. 

Analysts at investment platform Stake commented:

DroneShield spent 2025 swinging between euphoria and fear.

After rallying to fresh highs mid-year on the back of booming global demand for counter-drone technology, the stock unwound much of those gains as short interest climbed and investors questioned valuation froth.

2. Pantoro Gold Ltd (ASX: PNR)

The Pantoro share price rose 220% to close at $4.89 on 31 December.

That closing price actually represents a retreat from the miner’s 52-week high of $6.61 recorded in October.

Like all ASX gold shares, Pantoro benefited from the astounding 65% gold price rally last year.

It was the yellow metal’s strongest year of gains in more than four decades.

The gold price hit a record high of US$4,533 per ounce in December.

A combination of tailwinds, including interest rate cuts, geopolitical tensions, and strong central bank buying, is behind the surge.

3. Predictive Discovery Ltd (ASX: PDI)

This fellow ASX All Ords gold mining share also soared in 2025.

The Predictive Discovery share price also ripped 220% to close the year at 74 cents per share.

Predictive Discovery is developing gold deposits within the Siguiri Basin in Guinea.

Its key asset is the Tier-1 Bankan Gold Project, which has a mineral resource estimate of 5.53Moz.

The Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) was completed in June.

The Guinea Government has approved the environmental Impact assessment, and the exploitation permit application is in the final stages.

4. Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG)

Resolute Mining is another ASX All Ords gold share.

The Resolute Mining share price soared 206% to finish the year at $1.23.

Resolute is an African-focused gold miner and is currently in a growth phase.

It’s developing its Doropo project in Cote d’Ivoire to supplement existing production from Syama in Mali and Mako in Senegal.

5. Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO)

This ASX All Ords lithium share leapt 206% higher to close out 2025 at 28 cents per share.

Core Lithium shares have benefited from rising lithium prices due to improving demand for batteries, EVs, and new infrastructure.

Analysts at Trading Economics say the lithium carbonate price is now at a 19-month high.

Core Lithium’s flagship Finniss Project remains in care and maintenance.

However, the miner released a restart plan last year and will be ready to roll once it finds new financial partners and lithium prices are sufficiently stronger.

Core Lithium also raised its ore reserve estimate for the Grants deposit by 33% to 1.53Mt at 1.42% Li2O last year.

Finniss was put into care and maintenance in early 2024 due to weak lithium prices.

The post These 5 ASX All Ords shares were the fastest risers of 2025 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• After soaring 310% in 2025, are Droneshield shares still a buy in 2026?
• 12 best performing commodities of 2025
• Gold stars: 5 best ASX 200 gold shares of 2025
• Best and worst performing ASX 200 sectors of 2025
• These were the best performing ASX 200 shares in 2025

Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has positions in Core Lithium. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended DroneShield. 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.

Droneshield Ltd (ASX: DRO) shares ended 2025 on a high, up 310.67% from when the ASX opened for the first day of the year, to be exact.

At the time of writing on Friday afternoon, the first day the ASX has opened for 2026, the shares are up another 5.52% and are changing hands for $3.25 each.

What happened to Droneshield shares in 2025?

Droneshield shares peaked at an all-time high of $6.60 each in early October. The share price then began a slow and steady tumble back to levels seen earlier in the year.

By the end of the year, the shares had fallen 53.33% from their peak.

During the first 9 months of 2025, the counter-drone technology developer benefited from several tailwinds. A substantial increase in global defence spending was the key driver of share price growth amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. 

In mid-October, a market meltdown on Wall Street spooked some investors. But other than that, there wasn’t any significant news out of the company during the month to explain the sell-off.

In the same month, the company revealed it had launched a new software program, DroneSentry-C2 Enterprise (C2E) platform. It also posted a record 1,091% increase in quarterly revenue.

The absence of any real news to explain the tumbling share prices suggests that the downturn was caused by investors taking their profits following very strong gains.

But the downward spiral didn’t end there. 

Later, in November, the company released an update relating to share options. It said that almost 44.5 million performance options were vested on the 5th November after it met a performance hurdle of $200 million cash receipts in a 12-month rolling period.

This was shortly followed by another ASX announcement that CEO Oleg Vornick sold 14.81 million shares between 6 and 12 November. The shares totalled $49.79 million. There was no other price-sensitive news out of the company, but this type of selling activity tends to raise red flags for investors. It implies that management thinks the stock is overvalued. 

Droneshield shares appeared to reach the bottom at $1.72 a piece in late November and have now recovered around 88% at the time of writing.

So what’s ahead for Droneshield in 2026?

It looks like Droneshield shares have well and truly hit the bottom and are now continuing their recovery. We’re still a long way from the all-time peak seen last October, but I’m confident that the company’s growth strategy this year will put Droneshield shares back on track after a volatile end to 2025.

Analysts are bullish about the shares, too. TradingView data shows analyst consensus of a strong buy rating on Droneshield shares. The average 12-month target price is $4.70, which implies a 43.29% upside at the time of writing. However, some think the increase could be as high as 52.44% to $5 a piece in 2026.

The post After soaring 310% in 2025, are Droneshield shares still a buy in 2026? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• These 5 ASX All Ords shares were the fastest risers of 2025
• These were the best performing ASX 200 shares in 2025
• These were the best-performing ASX 200 shares in December
• 10 ASX shares I would buy in 2026
• 6 most traded ASX shares of 2025

Motley Fool contributor Samantha Menzies has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended DroneShield. 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 S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to start the year with a small gain. In afternoon trade, the benchmark index is up 0.15% to 8,726.4 points.

Four ASX shares that have failed to follow the market higher today are listed below. Here’s why they are falling:

Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC)

The Capstone Copper share price is down 3.5% to $14.64. Investors have been selling this copper miner’s shares following the release of an update. This morning, Capstone Copper revealed that a union at the Mantoverde mine in Chile, representing approximately 50% of site employees, will take strike action from today. As a result, certain activities at the mine will be gradually reduced in a safe manner. The company stated: “Capstone Copper remains willing to participate in meetings to reach a resolution, and will continue to adhere to legal procedures, respecting the rights of all its employees, inviting the union to engage in a constructive dialogue, and providing the authorities with all requested information.”

Life360 Inc (ASX: 360)

The Life360 share price is down 3% to $32.48. This follows a pullback in the location technology company’s NASDAQ listed shares after broad weakness in the tech sector on New Year’s Eve. While this is disappointing, Life360 shares are still up over 40% since this time 12 months ago.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

The Northern Star share price is down 10% to $24.09. Investors have been selling this gold miner’s shares following a production downgrade. Due to a softer than expected operational performance, the company has revised its annual production guidance to between 1.6 million ounces and 1.7 million ounces. This is from its previous guidance of between 1.7 million ounces and 1.85 million ounces. In addition, the company advised that its lower gold sales are expected to impact its cost performance. It plans to provide its December quarter costs and revised annual cost guidance with its quarterly results later this month.

Weebit Nano Ltd (ASX: WBT)

The Weebit Nano share price is down 2% to $4.95. This is likely to have been driven by profit taking after a very strong gain in December. Investors were buying the semiconductor company’s shares after it revealed that it signed a licensing agreement for its ReRAM technology with Texas Instruments (NASDAQ:TXN). Weebit Nano also released revenue guidance for FY 2026, revealing that it expects revenue of at least $10 million.

The post Why Capstone Copper, Life360, Northern Star, and Weebit Nano shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why are Northern Star shares crashing 10% today?
• Northern Star Resources trims FY26 gold guidance after soft December quarter
• 12 best performing commodities of 2025
• Here’s what I think investors in Northern Star shares can look forward to in 2026
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Life360. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Life360 and Texas Instruments. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Life360. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

ASX exchange-traded fund (ETF) provider Betashares has announced its next round of distributions (dividends) for most of its ETFs.

Investors who own these Betashares ETFs below will receive their dividends on 19 January.

The ex-dividend date is today, and the record date is Monday.

How much in dividends will you receive?

Here are the dividends that investors will receive, rounded to the nearest cent, on 19 January.

The Betashares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200) will pay $1.15 per unit with 60% franking.

Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT) will pay 47 cents per unit with 93% franking.

The Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR) will pay 32 cents per unit.

The Betashares Global Gold Miners Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: MNRS) will pay 3 cents per unit.

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA) will pay 67 cents per unit.

Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC) will pay 6 cents per unit with 106% franking.

Betashares Diversified All Growth ETF (ASX: DHHF) will pay 30 cents per unit with 22% franking.

The Betashares Global Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: ETHI) will pay 4 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: FAIR) will pay 29 cents per unit with 65% franking.

More ASX ETFs paying dividends soon

The Betashares Geared Australian Equity Fund – Hedge Fund (ASX: GEAR) will pay 45 cents per unit with 225% franking.

The Betashares Australian Dividend Harvester Active ETF (ASX: HVST) will pay 6 cents per unit with 74% franking.

The Betashares S&P Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: HYLD) will pay 12 cents per unit with 66% franking.

The Betashares Australian Financials Sector ETF (ASX: QFN) will pay 28 cents per unit with 89% franking.

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY) will pay 9 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE) will pay 11 cents per unit with 101% franking.

Betashares Global Uranium ETF (ASX: URNM) will pay 3 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (ASX: YMAX) will pay 13 cents per unit with 31% franking.

Betashares Global Banks Currency Hedged (ASX: BNKS) will pay 11 cents per unit.

Betashares Global Energy Companies Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: FUEL) will pay 9 cents per unit.

Want to reinvest your ASX ETF dividends?

A distribution reinvestment plan (DRP) is available for eligible Betashares ETFs.

Betashares’ registrar, MUFG Corporate Markets, must receive your DRP election by 5pm AEST on 6 January.

The post Own Betashares ASX ETFs? Here’s your next dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 fantastic ASX ETFs for beginners in 2026
• 10 excellent ASX ETFs to buy in 2026
• The ASX ETF portfolio I’d build if I wanted to sleep well at night
• This ASX ETF has returned 12.5% annually since inception
• 3 Betashares ASX ETFs that smashed the ASX 200 this year

Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has positions in BetaShares Australian Quality ETF, Betashares Capital – Global Quality Leaders Etf, Betashares Global Defence ETF – Beta Global Defence ETF, and Betashares S&P Asx Australian Technology ETF. 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.

In afternoon trade, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to open the year with a small gain. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is up 0.1% to 8,723.5 points.

Four ASX shares that are rising more than most today are listed below. Here’s why they are starting the year positively:

4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX)

The 4DMedical share price is up a further 15% to $4.51. Investors have been fighting to get hold of this respiratory imaging technology company’s shares in recent weeks. This has been driven by the announcement of a commercial arrangement for the clinical use of its CT:VQ platform with United States-based Cleveland Clinic. CT:VQ is a CAT scan-based ventilation-perfusion software. Commenting on the contract win, 4DMedical’s CEO, Andreas Fouras, said: “In just over three months since FDA clearance, we’ve established CT:VQ at three of America’s leading academic medical centres: Stanford, University of Miami, and Cleveland Clinic. This rapid adoption by elite institutions demonstrates the compelling clinical and operational advantages of CT:VQ over traditional nuclear VQ imaging.”

Elsight Ltd (ASX: ELS)

The Elsight share price is up 11% to $3.43. This morning, the uncrewed systems connectivity platform provider released an update on its strategic development program with a leading defence prime contractor. Elsight revealed that it has moved its Aura platform out of the development phase and has commenced the delivery of the initial batch of units ordered under the first phase of the program. The company’s CEO, Yoav Amitai, said: “Completing the development phase of Aura and moving into delivery is an important execution milestone for this program. In parallel, we are investing deliberately in the U.S. market, both through senior hires and through close engagement with government and OEM partners.”

Judo Capital Holdings Ltd (ASX: JDO)

The Judo Capital share price is up 5% to $1.81. This follows the release of an update from the small business lender. Judo Capital revealed that its unaudited closing balance for gross loans and advances (GLAs) at 31 December was approximately $13.4 billion. Judo’s CEO, Chris Bayliss, said: “We are pleased to have delivered strong loan growth in the first half of FY26, in line with our expectations. Our relationship-led value proposition continues to resonate with SME customers, and we are seeing good momentum across our business.” Management also reaffirmed its profit guidance for FY 2026.

Nickel Industries Ltd (ASX: NIC)

The Nickel Industries share price is up over 7% to 89.7 cents. This morning, this nickel producer revealed that Sphere Corp has agreed to acquire a 10% interest in the ENC HPAL project at a US$2.4 billion valuation. Sphere is a South Korean premium alloy and precision materials manufacturer for the global aerospace industry.

The post Why 4DMedical, Elsight, Judo, and Nickel Industries shares are pushing higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• ASX drone stock jumps 9% to record high on US news
• Nickel Industries partners with Sphere Corp in landmark ENC deal
• Judo Capital’s loan book tops $13.4bn in FY26 update
• Why 4Medical, Guzman Y Gomez, Lynas, and Predictive Discovery shares are falling today
• My top 10 ASX stocks to buy for 2026

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.