A new year often brings a renewed focus on finances. For many investors, that means asking a simple but important question: how can I grow my wealth with minimal effort?

This is where exchange-traded funds (ETFs) really shine.

Instead of researching and trying to pick individual winners, ETFs allow investors to gain diversified exposure to entire markets or powerful long-term themes in a single trade.

For those looking to build wealth steadily in the year ahead and beyond, here are three ASX ETFs that stand out.

BetaShares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC)

The BetaShares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF could be worth considering for 2026 and beyond. Rather than relying on traditional banks or miners, this ETF focuses on ASX stocks driving digital transformation.

Its holdings include tech stocks such as WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO), and TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE). These companies operate globally and generate a significant portion of their revenue offshore, giving investors exposure to international growth through Australian-listed stocks.

It has been a tough year for the Australian tech sector, which means investors are able to buy this fund at a deep discount to recent highs. It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

Cybersecurity has become a non-negotiable part of the modern digital economy. Governments, corporations, and consumers all rely on secure networks, and spending in this area continues to rise regardless of economic conditions.

The BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF provides exposure to a global portfolio of stocks that are at the forefront of cybersecurity. Its holdings include names like Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), Infosys (NYSE: INFY), and Cloudflare (NYSE: NET).

Rather than betting on a single cybersecurity winner, this ETF spreads risk across the sector. This makes it a practical way to tap into a structural growth trend that is likely to persist for decades.

BetaShares Diversified All Growth ETF (ASX: DHHF)

For investors who want a true set-and-forget option, the BetaShares Diversified All Growth ETF is hard to ignore. This ASX ETF provides exposure to thousands of stocks across Australian and global share markets in one simple investment.

This fund holds a mix of Australian shares, global developed market shares, and emerging markets, with no exposure to defensive assets like bonds. This makes it suitable for investors with a long time horizon who are focused purely on growth.

Its diversified structure helps reduce the risk of relying too heavily on any one region or sector, while still capturing long-term equity market returns. It was also recently recommended by Betashares.

The post The smartest ASX ETFs to build wealth in the new year appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• These are the ASX ETFs I would buy if the market crashed tomorrow
• Meet the ASX ETF that has returned 17.8% for 9 years
• 3 Australian ETFs to buy and hold forever
• 3 stellar ASX ETFs for growth investors to buy in 2026
• 3 excellent ASX ETFs to buy with $3,000 in December

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Technology One, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF, Cloudflare, Technology One, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Palo Alto Networks. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global and Xero. 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.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to end the shortened week with a decline. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is down 0.6% to 8,742.5 points.

Four ASX shares that are falling more than most today are listed below. Here’s why they are dropping:

Brightstar Resources Ltd (ASX: BTR)

The Brightstar Resources share price is down 8% to 52.2 cents. Investors have been selling this gold miner’s shares following the release of a production revision. Brightstar revealed that it achieved production and sales of 4,652 ounces of gold in November. This is down from its unreconciled production update, which initially indicated total recovered gold production of 6,300 ounces. Brightstar’s managing director, Alex Rovira, commented: “Whilst this is an unfortunate set-back to the November processing campaign, all stakeholders remain confident that optimal conditions in future processing will see a material lift in recoveries in line with historical processing data.”

EVT Ltd (ASX: EVT)

The EVT share price is down 2% to $12.82. This morning, this hotel, cinema, restaurant, and resorts operator announced the acquisition of QT Auckland. It is a premium lifestyle hotel located in Auckland’s Viaduct precinct. EVT has agreed to pay NZ$87.5 million (~A$76 million) to secure the asset. Management believes the acquisition secures long-term brand presence in a key strategic location and further strengthens its owned hotel portfolio. EVT also announced the sale of Rydges Geelong for $24.5 million. It was previously designated as a non-core asset.

Monash IVF Group Ltd (ASX: MVF)

The Monash IVF share price is down 15% to 69.5 cents. This has been driven by news that the consortium comprising Genesis Capital Investment Management and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL) has withdrawn its non-binding indicative proposal. It was looking at a deal to acquire 100% of Monash IVF at $0.80 per share by way of a scheme of arrangement. No reasons were given for the withdrawal of the proposal. It only stated: “If there are material developments in the future, Monash IVF will inform shareholders as required under its continuous disclosure obligations.”

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

The Pro Medicus share price is down almost 3% to $225.64. This is despite there being no news out the health imaging technology company. However, it is worth noting that the tech sector is under pressure today ahead of the Christmas break. This has seen the S&P ASX All Technology index drop 1.2% on Wednesday.

The post Why Brightstar, EVT, Monash IVF, and Pro Medicus shares are dropping today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• EVT buys QT Auckland in $87.5m deal: hotel portfolio gets a boost
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• Bell Potter names the best ASX 200 growth shares to buy in 2026
• Is now the time to buy Pro Medicus shares?
• 3 of the best Australian shares to buy and hold until 2035

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

The copper price surged to a new all-time high on Tuesday, breaking above US$12,000 per tonne on the London Metal Exchange for the first time on record.

In total, the red metal has now rallied by almost 40% since the start of the year.

Not surprisingly, this powerful performance has outpaced the broader market, with the All Ordinaries Index up by 7% across the same period.

The latest leg higher appears to have been sparked by concerns over potential US copper tariffs.

Reports suggest this setting has triggered a rush of imports into the US, creating supply tightness amongst offshore manufacturers.

However, copper’s longer-term outlook also appears highly constructive, underpinned by both traditional and emerging applications.

Modern-day metal

Copper plays a key role in the global energy transition thanks to its use in electric vehicles (EVs) and associated charging infrastructure.

It is also a critical component in AI data centres due to its conductivity and efficiency in power distribution and cooling.

According to BloombergNEF, such trends could push copper into a structural supply deficit as early as 2026, as electrification-driven demand outpaces new mine supply.

The research firm believes copper is facing the most acute pressure amongst all transition metals.

This stems from rapid growth in data centres, grid expansion, and EV adoption worldwide. 

Overall, BloombergNEF estimates that energy-transition demand for copper could triple by 2045, pushing the market deeper into deficit unless investment into new supply ramps up.

And leading ASX 200 mining stocks appear to be taking notice.

In recent years, several of Australia’s largest mining companies have been actively increasing their exposure to copper.

Below, we present three ASX 200 mining stocks with a growing emphasis on copper.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

BHP is one of the world’s biggest diversified miners, best known for its iron ore and metallurgical coal production to support global steelmaking.

However, through a series of acquisitions and expansions, the company has significantly increased its exposure to copper in recent years.

Today, this ASX 200 mining stock is considered the world’s largest copper producer.

In FY25, BHP produced two million tonnes of copper from its portfolio of assets in Chile, Peru, South Australia, and Arizona.

Copper has also become a key earnings driver, accounting for 45% of the group’s underlying operating earnings (EBITDA) during the year.

In the past six months, BHP shares have jumped by 25% to $45.59 apiece at the time of writing.

They are trading near 52-week highs on Wednesday morning.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)

South32 is a diversified mining company producing a suite of commodities across three geographical regions: Australia, South America, and Southern Africa.

Its operations include the production of bauxite, aluminium products, nickel, zinc, lead, silver, metallurgical coal, and manganese.

And then there’s copper.

In 2022, South32 acquired a 45% interest in the Sierra Gorda mine in Chile, which is now helping to drive copper output for the company.

The project already boasts a mine life of more than 20 years, with potential for further upside through improved production efficiency, resource expansion, and exploration.

In FY25, copper production from Sierra Gorda grew by 20% from the previous year.

Separately, South32 has also been growing its pipeline of copper exploration opportunities.

In FY25, the group expanded its strategic alliance with Noronex Ltd (ASX: NRX) to explore for copper in Namibia and Botswana.

It also acquired a 19.9% stake in American Eagle Gold Corp and its NAK copper and gold project in Canada.

South32 shares have jumped by 21% over the past six months.

Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG)

Fortescue is renowned for its iron ore empire in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

However, behind the scenes, the company has been growing its exposure to critical minerals, with a particular focus on copper.

Earlier this month, Fortescue moved to broaden its exposure to copper by agreeing to acquire the remaining 64% of Toronto-listed Alta Copper Corp (TSX: ATCU).

The $151 million deal will now give Fortescue control of the Canariaco copper project in Peru.

A recent economic evaluation of Canariaco forecasts annual production to average 134,000 tonnes of copper across a 27-year mine life.

Fortescue shares have lifted by 46% since the tail end of June.

The post Record copper price shines a light on BHP shares and these two other ASX 200 mining stocks appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Fortescue shares may have peaked but this ASX iron ore stock could rise 50%
• Did the ASX 200, NASDAQ 100, or S&P 500 perform better this year?
• Are BHP shares a buy, sell or hold for 2026?
• At record prices, why don’t ASX gold miners pay high dividends?
• Guess how much $10,000 invested in these VanEck ASX ETFs a year ago is worth today?

Motley Fool contributor Bart Bogacz 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.

In afternoon trade, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to end the shortened week in the red. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is down 0.6% to 8,744.3 points.

Four ASX shares that are not letting that hold them back are listed below. Here’s why they are rising:

Clarity Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: CU6)

The Clarity Pharmaceuticals share price is up 5% to $3.34. Investors have been buying this pharmaceuticals company’s shares after it released an update on its Co-PSMA (NCT06907641) Investigator-Initiated Trial. Clarity revealed that its abstract has been accepted for oral presentation at the upcoming European Association of Urology (EAU) Congress 2026. It is Europe’s biggest urological conference, which will be held 13-16 March 2026 in London. Clarity’s executive chair, Dr Alan Taylor, commented: “This recognition not only highlights the impact of this research but also underscores the significant potential of 64Cu-SAR-bisPSMA to advance PSMA imaging and improve prostate cancer management. The abstract summary will be announced in mid-February, followed by the oral presentation in mid-March 2026.”

DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

The DroneShield share price is up 3% to $3.36. This morning, this counter drone technology company announced that it has received a standalone contract for $6.2 million from an in-country reseller for delivery to a military end-customer in an Asia Pacific country. The solutions that have been ordered include selected 3rd party hardware, interoperable with DroneShield’s command-and-control software platform, DroneSentry-C2. It is an advanced command-and-control (C2) platform that delivers a unified, real-time counter-drone operating picture. Management expects to complete this delivery and receive payment in 2026.

St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM)

The St Barbara share price is up 3% to 60.2 cents. As well as getting a boost from a rising gold price, this morning the gold miner revealed that the $32 million deposit has been received from Lingbao Gold in relation to its strategic investment. The company advised that the deposit will be held in escrow and will be utilised towards the $370 million subscription amount to acquire 50% of St Barbara Mining. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of St Barbara, which will own 80% of the Simberi Gold Project.

Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE)

The Treasury Wine share price is up 7% to $5.37. This appears to have been driven by news that French billionaire Olivier Goudet has built a 5.05% position in the beaten down wine giant. Goudet has been buying the Penfold owner’s shares since early October.

The post Why Clarity, DroneShield, St Barbara, and Treasury Wine shares are charging higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why are DroneShield shares racing higher again today?
• DroneShield secures $6.2 million Asia Pacific contract
• Up 106% in December, this stock has one of the biggest Santa Claus rallies on the ASX
• Up 83% in a month, is it too late to buy DroneShield shares now?
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Treasury Wine Estates. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended DroneShield and 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.

Many ASX investors buy shares in order to start a second stream of passive income. The dividends that ASX shares can pay make stock market investing a reliable and potentially lucrative source of secondary income. But exactly how much income can you realistically receive from an ASX dividend stock? Can you really get $1,000 a year from a $5,000 investment?

Well, on the surface, that looks to be a lofty goal. Investing $5,000 to get $1,000 back in dividends every year would require one to find an ASX dividend share with a dividend yield of 20%. Seeing as most investors would regard a yield of 5% as on the more generous side, 20% is a big ask.

I’ll be upfront. You are not going to get a reliable 20% yield straight up, unless you get incredibly lucky and find some under priced market gem that everyone else has overlooked.

However, not all hope is lost. A 20% yield on your capital is possible. You just need to give it some time.

To demonstrate, let’s use an example of one of the ASX’s best dividend growth stocks. Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL) shares are a dividend favourite on the ASX. This investing house has the best dividend track record on our market, having increased its annual dividends every single year since 1998.

How can ASX dividend growth stocks build a second income?

Between 2021 and 2025, Soul Patts has raised its annual payouts from 62 cents per share to $1.03. That’s a compounded annual growth rate of 13.5% per annum.

Let’s, for a moment, assume that this rate of dividend growth will continue indefinitely (which is by no means guaranteed). Investing $5,000 today would get you approximately 138 shares at the current price of $36.18. You would start with a trailing dividend yield of 2.96%. Based on 2025’s payouts, this represents a starting cash flow of $142.14 in annual second income.

If Soul Patts increases its dividend by another 13.5% in 2026, its annual dividend would rise to $1.17 per share, meaning our second income would increase to $161.46.

This would continue to compound. By year five, we would be getting almost $236 in second income, rising to $444.30 by year ten.

Like a rolling snowball, the rate of increase gets faster and faster. We would reach our goal of $1,000 ($1,078 to be precise) in annual secondary income by year 17, and that’s assuming no additional investment or dividend reinvestment. Thanks to the power of compounding, it would only take another five years for our second income to double again to over $2,000.

Investing additional amounts, or reinvesting dividends each year (or both) would speed up the process and have our investor reach their goal even faster. ASX stock investing is generally not a get-rich-quick process. But I hope this exercise shows that if an investor is patient and disciplined, it can be an effective way of obtaining a reliable second income.

The post Is investing $5,000 enough to earn a $1,000 second income? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Retirement wealth plan: Create $1 million with a single Australian stock
• 1 impressively awesome Australian dividend stock down 20% to hold for decades!
• Where I’d invest $10,000 into ASX dividend shares right now
• $5,000 to invest? Consider 4 no-brainer ASX dividend shares with over 20 years of growth
• 3 Aussie passive income stocks delivering decades upon decades of dividends

Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen has positions in Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. 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 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.

The Brightstar Resources Ltd (ASX: BTR) share price is under pressure today after the company released an update this morning.

At the time of writing, the emerging gold producer’s shares are trading at 51 cents, down 9.73%.

So, what did Brightstar announce, and why are investors selling today?

What was announced this morning?

According to the release, Brightstar confirmed it has formally completed corporate arrangements that were already approved by shareholders and the courts.

The update relates to tidying up the company’s structure as part of its broader asset consolidation plans. It’s worth noting that none of this was new, and the changes had already been flagged in earlier ASX announcements.

Importantly, the update did not include any new drilling results, production guidance, or resource upgrades.

That lack of fresh operational news appears to be what disappointed the market.

Why the share price is falling

Today’s sell-off looks to be more about expectations than fundamentals.

Brightstar shares had enjoyed a strong run in December, rising to a two-month high of 57 cents yesterday. This was supported by higher gold prices and growing confidence in the company’s Western Australian asset base.

Against that backdrop, some investors were likely hoping for something more concrete, such as exploration results or clearer development progress.

Instead, the update failed to provide any new details, giving the market little reason to push the share price higher in the short term. As a result, some investors have chosen to lock in profits heading into the holiday period.

The bigger picture hasn’t changed

Despite today’s share price move, nothing has changed in Brightstar’s broader strategy.

In recent months, the company has delivered solid growth in its gold resources, particularly across its Menzies and Sandstone projects. In turn, this has helped strengthen its position as a growing gold developer.

Brightstar continues to focus on building scale across its Western Australian portfolio, with the longer-term goal of progressing toward sustained gold production.

That work is also taking place against a strong gold price backdrop, with gold trading near record highs. That environment remains supportive for developers like Brightstar, particularly as projects move closer to production decisions.

Foolish Takeaway

There was nothing wrong with today’s update, but there was nothing in it to excite the market either.

Until Brightstar delivers its next operational milestone, the share price is likely to remain volatile. That comes with the territory for development-stage gold stocks.

For now, I’m happy to sit on the sidelines and wait for the next update.

The post ASX gold share sinks 10% on Xmas Eve update appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why Brightstar Resources, Immutep, Pilbara Minerals, and Race Oncology shares are roaring higher

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.

If you have a high tolerance for risk, then Bell Potter thinks it could be worth taking a look at 6K Additive Inc (ASX: 6KA) shares.

In fact, the broker believes that this exciting ASX stock could rise materially from current levels.

What is the broker saying?

6K Additive is a newly listed US-based manufacturer, upcycling metal scrap into premium metal powders and alloying additives.

Its patented UniMelt technology can produce spherical powders for Additive Manufacturing (AM) across a range of high-end reactive metals, refractory metals, and alloys. This includes titanium, Inconel, C103, and tantalum.

Bell Potter notes that compared with incumbent spheroidisation processes, UniMelt has materially lower energy consumption. It also achieves higher product yield and upcycles manufacturing waste.

Key demand sources are the aerospace, defence, energy and medical sectors, with AM Research estimating the global AM powder market to grow by an average of 19% each year to around US$4.6 billion by 2033.

Bell Potter believes that this leaves the ASX stock well-positioned to be generating EBITDA of approximately US$36 million by 2028. It said:

Metal powders represent around 65% of current revenues from installed capacity of 290tpa. 6KA are expanding powder capacity to 1,340tpa over 2026-27, as part of a US$31m capital program. Funding includes a US$23m US Department of War Defence Production Act grant, the proceeds from its recent A$48m (US$32m) ASX IPO and a US$27m US EXIM Bank loan. By 2028, we estimate 6KA’s annual EBITDA run-rate at around US$36m.

ASX stock tipped to rocket

According to the note, Bell Potter has initiated coverage on the ASX stock with a speculative buy rating and $1.45 price target. Based on its current share price of 81 cents, this implies potential upside of almost 80% for investors over the next 12 months.

To put that into context, a $1,000 investment would be worth approximately $1,800 by this time next year if Bell Potter is on the money with its recommendation.

Though, with a speculative buy rating, investors need to be aware that they could just as easily make a loss on investment.

Commenting on its initiation, the broker said:

6KA has a competitive advantage in the production of high-value metal powders for the fast-growing global Additive Manufacturing sector. The company’s UniMelt systems are energy efficient, high yield and accept recycled metal feedstock. 6KA is supporting US-based reshoring of critical metal supply.

Company value is highly leveraged to the take-up of Additive Manufacturing, which has lead-time advantages over incumbent casting and forging production methods. We expect Additive Manufacturing to be a beneficiary of the US Department of War’s Acquisition Transformation Strategy to support rebuilding the country’s Defense Industrial Base.

The post Bell Potter says this newly listed ASX stock could rocket 80% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• ASX gold share sinks 10% on Xmas Eve update
• Merry Christmas
• Fortescue shares may have peaked but this ASX iron ore stock could rise 50%
• Why are DroneShield shares racing higher again today?
• Guess which ASX 200 stock is rising on $3.7b contract win

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.

The countdown is on.

Soon – once the kids are in bed – the jolly fat man will start his worldwide ride.

My son has regularly reminded me this morning of how many hours there are until Christmas Day.

The carols are on in our house (I shop online almost exclusively, so the shopping centre muzak hasn’t ruined that for me).

Tonight, our family will sit down and watch Carols by Candlelight together… after coming home from a Christmas Eve screening of Die Hard at our local cinema.

(Yes. It is. Case closed. IYKYK)*

The only thing I can’t abide (much to the chagrin of some of my colleagues) is Mariah on repeat.

And yet, even that, plus all of the other things, tell us that it’s Christmas time.

It is, as the song goes, the most wonderful time of the year.

Sure, a little more wonderful in 2025 given we’ve already wrapped up The Ashes, but it’s wonderful every year.

The thing is, it’s not wonderful, by itself. There’s nothing magical about the date, or the time of year (singing ‘White Christmas’ in summer tells us a much!).

For some, it’s magical because of what it represents, religiously.

For most, these days, it’s because of what Christmas represents, more secularly.

It’s a generally warm, lazy time of year. The kids are off school, work tends to wind down a little (and a lot of us head off on holidays), the days are longer, the newspapers get thinner, and we make time to see family and friends.

Now, I’m not going to pretend to be an expert on what Christmas means to different people, but I reckon ‘peace and goodwill’ is pretty high on the list, even if we don’t consciously use those words.

We find time to see people. We wish a Merry Christmas to friends and strangers alike, and we smile more, even through the shopping crush.

It’s all voluntary (except the muzak!) of course – but in that lies its beauty.

Whether you’re religious or not, there is something communal about Christmas that we can all choose to share in, and the vast, vast bulk of us do.

You know by now that I’m an inveterate optimist. I was just born and raised that way, but I also think it’s – despite the world’s imperfections – the best way to be, because optimists win. Why? Because things get better, over time.

And because people are overwhelmingly good, and true, and positive. Because we are social animals who value community, and who want the best for others.

Everyone? No. All the time? No.

But overwhelmingly, and almost all the time. It brings out our best, and for a time, reminds us of how much better we can be.

I am conscious that I write those words after a horrific terror attack at Bondi Beach. It was an atrocity committed as an act of hatred against people simply because of their religion and culture. And one that happened at one of Australia’s most iconic places.

It was an attack directly on Jewish Australians, and indirectly on all of us who value the things I just mentioned.

Their friends and families will be in all of our thoughts as we sit around our tables, this Christmas. May their memories be a blessing.

I’m also mindful that Christmas has its modern origins in Christianity, as I mentioned above, and that other religions either don’t recognise it, or have their own celebrations at this time of year.

I hope and believe that modern Australia has room for those differences, observed peacefully and with the goodwill I mentioned.

Indeed, from experience, those of different faiths are usually more than happy to engage in what we know as the Christmas spirit, even if the observance of the event itself is different for them.

Because, as I said, Christmas is now as much a time of year, and a mindset, as it is a religious observance.

And, as I do each year, I want to specifically mention two groups. First, those who will do it tough this Christmas. Perhaps you’ll be spending Christmas alone, or you’ll have an empty chair at your table, having lost someone this year. I hope Christmas isn’t too hard for you, and that your memories and interactions with others will carry you through.

And to those working this Christmas, so we can take some time off, thank you. Particularly to those who will be away from family, including our defence forces. To those who will be keeping us safe in the emergency services and health system. And to those who are keeping the country’s wheels turning: essential services, retail and lots more. Thank you.

And so, whatever your faith, creed, or traditions at this time of year, the whole team here at The Motley Fool wishes you a very Merry Christmas. We hope you find peace and joy.

Oh, you expected something investing-related? It’s Christmas! Normal service will resume soon.

I will leave you, though, with another Motley Fool Australia tradition: our Foolish Christmas Carol… somewhere between a cringey Dad Joke and a lighthearted way to say thanks, and share an investing idea or two.

Enjoy! (Or just stop reading now. It’s on you if you keep scrolling though!)

Frosty The (Investing) Snowman

Frosty the snowman was a kind investing soul

With portfolio full of well-picked stocks

His snowball was on a roll

Long term investing’s not a fairy tale they say

Build it strong and slow ‘cos the children know

You won’t make it in a day

There must have been some magic in

That jester’s cap they found

For when they placed it on his head

Buffett quotes they did abound

Frosty the snowman was relaxed as he could be

And the children say the course he could stay

Though the volatility

Frosty the snowman knew that stocks get hot some day

So he said don’t run losing cash ain’t fun

If it’s hype just stay away

Down to the village with a checklist in his hand

Looking here and there all around the square

For ideas to add as planned

He led them down the streets of town

To every store and shop

He was looking out for scuttlebutt

To help him add and chop

Frosty the snowman kept investing just this way:

Buying quality, be long term, low fees

Compounding will win the day

Thumpety-thump-thump

Thumpety-thump-thump

Look at Frosty go

Thumpety-thump-thump

Thumpety-thump-thump

That how his wealth will grow

Merry Christmas!

* The question of whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie is asked every year – usually by media outlets desperate to fill some column inches or airtime minutes when there’s not much other news – but yes, it clearly is a Christmas movie, because John McClane does his thing at a Christmas party. Oh, and if you’re wondering, ‘IYKYK’ is ‘if you know, you know’.

Fool on, merrily!

The post Merry Christmas appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• ASX gold share sinks 10% on Xmas Eve update
• Bell Potter says this newly listed ASX stock could rocket 80%
• Fortescue shares may have peaked but this ASX iron ore stock could rise 50%
• Why are DroneShield shares racing higher again today?
• Guess which ASX 200 stock is rising on $3.7b contract win

Motley Fool contributor Scott Phillips 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 it comes to iron ore, many investors will look for exposure to the base metal with Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) shares.

And that’s not been a bad move this year. Since the start of 2025, the mining giant’s shares have risen approximately 18%. And that doesn’t include the dividends the ASX iron ore stock has paid to shareholders over the period.

However, with many analysts believing that Fortescue shares are now fairly valued to overvalued, better returns could potentially be found elsewhere.

Bell Potter certainly thinks that could be the case. It has a hold rating and $19.30 price target on Fortescue’s shares, but a buy rating and sky-high price target on one of its rivals.

Which ASX iron ore stock?

The iron ore miner that Bell Potter is recommending to investors is Fenix Resources Ltd (ASX: FEX).

The broker notes that it is aiming to unlock stranded mining assets across the Mid-West region of Western Australia through three wholly owned business pillars.

It is also in the process of growing its iron ore production to 10Mtpa by FY 2031 through its Weld Range Project.

What is the broker saying?

Bell Potter was pleased with the ASX iron ore stock’s scoping study results. It notes that the company is positioned to grow its production and cut its costs materially. The broker said:

FEX has announced results of a Scoping Study (SS) outlining a 10Mtpa iron ore operation at the Weld Range Project in Western Australia’s Mid-West. The study assesses production ramp-up from FY29, with the development of the Madoonga hub to produce in parallel with the Beebyn Hub, and construction of a 244km private road to leverage FEX’s integrated logistics business. Key SS financial metrics (net to FEX) include: Development capex of $521m (including 16% contingency); average C1 cash cost $55/wmt; average annual EBITDA $235m; and pre-tax NPV10 $1.2b (assumed average iron ore 61% Fe price of US$85/t and AUDUSD 0.65).

In response, the broker has retained its buy rating on Fenix’s shares with an improved price target of 70 cents (from 65 cents).

Based on its current share price, this implies potential upside of almost 50% for investors over the next 12 months.

Commenting on its buy recommendation, Bell Potter concludes:

FEX continues to grow its portfolio of low capital mining assets, leveraging its integrated logistics networks to underpin cash flows for growth and shareholder returns. The company holds the largest storage position at the strategic and fast-growing Geraldton Port. The expanded FEX-SMC agreement provides a clear pathway to 10Mtpa iron ore production at significantly lower unit costs.

The post Fortescue shares may have peaked but this ASX iron ore stock could rise 50% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday
• At record prices, why don’t ASX gold miners pay high dividends?
• Why 4DMedical, Core Lithium, Fenix, and Goodman shares are storming higher today
• Guess how much $10,000 invested in these VanEck ASX ETFs a year ago is worth today?
• Fortescue shares jumped 50% in 6 months. Is there any upside left?

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.

DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO) shares are having a strong session ahead of the Christmas break.

In morning trade, the counter drone technology company’s shares are storming 6.5% higher to $3.48.

This compares favourably to the S&P/ASX 200 index, which is down 0.4% at the time of writing.

Why are DroneShield shares storming higher?

Investors have been fighting to get hold of the company’s shares after it announced its second major contract win in as many weeks.

As a reminder, last week DroneShield announced that it received a contract worth $49.6 million. It was from an in-region European reseller that is contractually required to distribute the products to a European military end-customer.

Management advised that the contract was for handheld counter-drone systems, associated accessories, and software updates.

As DroneShield has a large portion of this stock available already, it expects to complete all deliveries in the first quarter of 2026.

What’s the latest contract?

This morning, DroneShield announced that it has received a standalone contract for $6.2 million from an in-country reseller for delivery to a military end-customer in an Asia Pacific country.

It notes that the reseller is a wholly-owned subsidiary of a multi-billion dollar, global, publicly listed customer that is contractually required to distribute solutions to a major Asia Pacific military government department.

DroneShield advised that the solutions include selected 3rd party hardware, interoperable with DroneShield’s command-and-control software platform, DroneSentry-C2.

DroneSentry-C2 is an advanced command-and-control (C2) platform that delivers a unified, real-time counter-drone operating picture. It has been designed for seamless interoperability with DroneShield sensors and third-party systems, and enables precise detection, tracking, and response to drone threats.

Management expects to complete this delivery and receive payment in 2026. No additional material conditions need to be satisfied.

This isn’t the first order from this reseller. It highlights that it has previously received 14 standalone contracts from this reseller over the past 2 years totalling over $48 million. Though, it warns that there is no obligation for any additional contracts from this customer.

Commenting about the decision not to name its multi-billion dollar, global, publicly listed customer, the company stated that “it does not consider the identity of the counterparty/customer to be information that a reasonable person would expect to have a material effect on the price or value of DroneShield’s securities.”

Following today’s gain, DroneShield shares are now up by almost 100% since this time last month.

The post Why are DroneShield shares racing higher again today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• DroneShield secures $6.2 million Asia Pacific contract
• Up 106% in December, this stock has one of the biggest Santa Claus rallies on the ASX
• Up 83% in a month, is it too late to buy DroneShield shares now?
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• Buy, hold, sell: DroneShield, Macquarie, and Wesfarmers shares

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended 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.