• Clarity Pharmaceuticals shares are up 12% today. Here’s what’s driving the move

    Happy healthcare workers in a lab.

    Clarity Pharmaceuticals (ASX: CU6) shares are up around 12% today (at the time of writing), extending a strong run that has seen the share price rise roughly 41% over the past year.

    Why are Clarity shares rising?

    The catalyst for today’s move was Clarity’s announcement of a large-scale manufacturing agreement with US-based company Theragenics, which gives Clarity access to a 134,000 square foot production facility with 14 cyclotrons capable of producing copper 64 at scale.

    Why this matters

    This is a meaningful step for a company transitioning from clinical development toward potential commercialisation.

    Clarity’s lead prostate cancer imaging product is currently in Phase III trials. As the company moves closer to potential approval, the focus increasingly shifts from clinical progress to execution.

    Manufacturing capacity is a critical part of that equation.

    This agreement strengthens Clarity’s supply footprint in the US and builds on its existing network of manufacturing partners. It positions the company to meet potential demand across large oncology markets if its product reaches approval.

    Theragenics alone has the capacity to produce enough copper 64 for around 2,000 patient doses per day per cyclotron.

    That level of output reflects readiness for commercial scale rather than just clinical supply.

    The structural advantage

    According to the company, Copper 64 offers a key advantage over traditional isotopes due to its longer half life of around 12.7 hours, enabling a shelf life of up to 48 hours.

    This allows for centralised manufacturing and broader distribution, reducing logistical constraints that have historically limited the radiopharmaceutical market.

    It also supports a more efficient and scalable operating model, which becomes increasingly important as volumes grow.

    What investors should watch

    Today’s share price reaction reflects growing investor confidence in Clarity’s ability to execute beyond the clinical stage.

    The company is building the infrastructure required to support a commercial launch, an area that can often become a bottleneck if left too late.

    However, the core risk remains unchanged. The lead product is still unapproved, and regulatory outcomes will ultimately determine the size of the opportunity.

    For now, though, there is plenty of optimism as Clarity evolves from a clinical stage story into a company preparing for scale.

    The post Clarity Pharmaceuticals shares are up 12% today. Here’s what’s driving the move appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Clarity Pharmaceuticals right now?

    Before you buy Clarity Pharmaceuticals 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 Clarity Pharmaceuticals 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…

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    Motley Fool contributor Kevin Gandiya has no positions 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.

  • Down 15% in March, should you buy Qantas shares today?

    a man stands with travel documents in hand with a roller wheel suitcase and extended handle next to him holding his forefinger to his lip as he ponders his next move in a deserted airport. as the Qantas share price falls

    Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN) shares are lifting off today.

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) airline stock closed yesterday trading at $8.34. In late morning trade on Wednesday, shares are swapping hands for $8.56 apiece, up 2.6%.

    For some context, the ASX 200 is up 1.3% at this same time.

    While today’s outperformance is welcome, the airline stock has materially underperformed since the onset of the Iran war at the end of February.

    Pressured by the resultant surge in oil prices and potential global travel disruptions, Qantas shares have slumped by 14% since market close on 27 February, trailing the 7.8% loss posted by the benchmark index over this same period.

    Though it’s worth noting that Qantas traded ex-dividend on 10 March. While the airline won’t pay the fully franked interim dividend of 19.8 cents per share until 15 April, that passive income payout will go to investors who held the stock at market close on 9 March.

    Qantas trades on a fully franked 5.4% trailing dividend yield.

    With this picture in mind, we return to our headline question.

    Should you buy the dip in Qantas shares?

    DP Wealth Advisory’s Andrew Wielandt recently analysed the outlook for the ASX 200 airline stock (courtesy of The Bull).

    “Qantas is a well-managed domestic and international airline, holding a 70% market share in Australia,” Wielandt noted.

    Addressing the recent selling pressure, he said, “The shares were trading at $10.65 on February 25, a day prior to the company posting its first half year result in fiscal year 2026. The stock was trading at $8.46 on March 19.”

    And on a positive note, the company is working through the last of its pandemic related headaches.

    “Qantas announced on March 13, 2026 that it had settled a class action for $105 million regarding flight credits during COVID-19,” Wielandt said.

    However, Wielandt issued a sell recommendation on Qantas shares, flagging a number of potential headwinds.

    According to Wielandt:

    The company has hedged jet fuel supply prices in the shorter term, but I’m concerned about the impact of possibly higher crude oil prices over the longer term. I’m also mindful of the expense involved in Qantas upgrading its airline fleet after years of under investment by previous management as well as COVID-19.

    On 26 February, prior to the onset of the Middle East conflict, Qantas said it expected its jet fuel costs for H2 FY 2026 to be approximately $2.5 billion, inclusive of hedging and carbon costs.

    But it’s not just variable costs that have Wielandt concerned over further pressure on Qantas shares.

    He concluded, “Qantas has a high fixed cost base. In my view, it’s a cyclical stock due to its reliance on consumer and business sentiment. Other stocks appeal more at this point.”

    The post Down 15% in March, should you buy Qantas shares today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Qantas Airways 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 Qantas Airways 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…

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  • Metrics Master Income Trust announces March 2026 distribution

    Man holding Australian dollar notes, symbolising dividends.

    The Metrics Master Income Trust (ASX: MXT) share price is in focus today after the trust announced a monthly unfranked distribution of 1.33 cents per unit, with payment expected on 10 April 2026.

    What did Metrics Master Income Trust report?

    • Declared unfranked distribution of $0.0133 per unit for March 2026
    • Ex-distribution date: 31 March 2026
    • Record date: 1 April 2026
    • Payment date: 10 April 2026
    • Distribution relates to one month ending 31 March 2026
    • Distribution Reinvestment Plan (DRP) available with no discount

    What else do investors need to know?

    The March distribution from Metrics Master Income Trust is entirely unfranked, in line with the trust’s usual practice. Investors can opt to participate in the trust’s Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP), which allows distributions to be reinvested into additional Metrics Master Income Trust units at the prevailing price and with no discount.

    The deadline for lodging DRP election notices is 5pm on 2 April 2026. If no election is made, the default is to receive the distribution in cash.

    What’s next for Metrics Master Income Trust?

    Metrics Master Income Trust continues to provide regular monthly distributions to unitholders, aiming to deliver a steady income stream. The trust remains focused on its strategy of lending to Australian corporates and managing risks in a diversified loan portfolio.

    Investors may wish to watch for future distribution updates and consider whether DRP participation aligns with their investment goals.

    Metrics Master Income Trust share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, Metrics Master Income Trust shares have declined 3%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Metrics Master Income Trust announces March 2026 distribution appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Metrics Master Income Trust right now?

    Before you buy Metrics Master Income Trust 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 Metrics Master Income Trust 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…

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart 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. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • ASX 200 jumps as inflation surprises to the downside

    Inflation written on a coffee mug with coins in it.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was up 1.7% at 11:30am AEDT.

    Then the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released February’s inflation data.

    Over the following minutes, the ASX 200 marched higher to be up 2.1% at the time of writing as investors mulled over how the latest inflation print might impact the interest rate outlook from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA).

    With inflation already ticking higher prior to the onset of the Iran war, the RBA opted to hike rates at both its meetings this year, bringing the official Aussie cash rate back up to 4.10%.

    The RBA will announce its next rate decision on 5 May. Prior to the latest inflation data, markets were pricing in around a 70% chance that the central bank would lift rates again in May.

    Here’s how today’s data might move those odds.

    ASX 200 lifts on February inflation data

    The ABS reported that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 3.7% in the 12 months to February 2026, down a tick from last month.

    “The 3.7% annual CPI inflation to February eased slightly from the 3.8% annual CPI inflation to January,” ABS head of prices statistics Sue-Ellen Luke said.

    ASX 200 investors look to be taking the latest inflation data positively, with consensus estimates forecasting a 3.8% increase in inflation. Though today’s print is still significantly outside of the RBA’s 2% to 3% target range.

    Driving the ongoing price increases, housing costs rose by 7.2% in the 12 months to February, while food and non-alcoholic beverage prices increased by 3.1%. Recreation and culture costs were up 4.1% over the year.

    Trimmed mean inflation, which takes out certain volatile items like automotive fuel, came in at 3.3% for the 12 months to February, in line with the January print.

    That also modestly beat consensus estimates of a 3.4% trimmed mean inflation print.

    Now what?

    While the slightly cooling inflation figures for February look to be boosting ASX 200 investor sentiment today, this data comes from before the onset of the Middle East conflict and the subsequent spike in global energy prices.

    On 27 February, Brent crude oil was trading for US$72. Today, that same barrel is fetching US$98, up more than 36%.

    So, we’re not out of the inflationary woods just yet.

    Commenting on Australia’s inflation outlook, Josh Gilbert, market analyst at eToro, said:

    With the February data unlikely to capture the full impact of the oil shock, the inflation story is only going to get more complicated from here. Petrol prices are climbing week on week, and those costs are flowing through to everything from groceries to transport. Treasurer Jim Chalmers has warned inflation could reach 5% this year.

    With today’s intraday gains factored in, the ASX 200 is up 7.7% since this time last year.

    The post ASX 200 jumps as inflation surprises to the downside appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Wondering where you should invest $1,000 right now?

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for over ten years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    Scott just revealed what he believes could be the ‘five best ASX stocks’ for investors to buy right now. We believe these stocks are trading at attractive prices and Scott thinks they could be great buys right now…

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  • A major funding move is lifting this ASX stock today

    ASX bank share price represented by white Piggy Banks on green background

    The EVT Ltd (ASX: EVT) share price is pushing higher on Wednesday after the company released an update this morning.

    At the time of writing, EVT shares are up 1.28% to $12.69.

    Despite today’s gain, the stock remains under pressure over a longer period, down close to 7% over the past 12 months.

    Here’s what the company announced to the market.

    Refinancing lifts flexibility

    EVT revealed it has successfully completed a refinancing of its debt facilities, increasing its total available funding to $750 million.

    This marks an uplift from the previous $650 million facility and comes alongside the group’s ongoing divestment of non-core assets.

    Management said the new structure provides greater flexibility as EVT continues shifting its earnings mix toward its hotel operations.

    The updated facilities include a $750 million revolving multi-currency loan and a smaller $5 million credit support facility, with a 3-year term.

    Pricing on the debt is linked to leverage levels, with margins ranging between 1.25% and 2% per annum. EVT expects a weighted average of around 1.59%.

    Backing from major lenders

    The refinancing has been supported by a group of major banks, including Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), HSBC, National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), and Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC).

    The facilities are secured against a portion of EVT’s property portfolio, with mortgages linked to 14 of the group’s 34 properties.

    At the time of refinancing, EVT reported drawn debt of around $610 million, along with more than $90 million in cash.

    This leaves the company with additional liquidity and headroom to manage operations and potential investment opportunities.

    Management noted strong support from lenders throughout the process, which may help reinforce confidence in the group’s financial position.

    What’s driving the share price?

    The gain seems to be driven by clearer visibility around EVT’s debt position, with the refinancing giving investors more confidence in how the company is financed.

    By refinancing the debt, this removes near-term uncertainty and provides a clearer picture of funding costs and the capital structure.

    It also aligns with EVT’s broader strategy of simplifying its portfolio and focusing more heavily on its hotel segment.

    Foolish Takeaway

    EVT’s refinancing strengthens its balance sheet position and provides additional flexibility as it continues to reshape the business.

    While the share price has lifted on the news, the stock remains below levels seen in August 2025.

    The update reduces funding uncertainty, but longer-term performance depends on how the company executes its strategy and grows earnings over time.

    The post A major funding move is lifting this ASX stock today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Evt right now?

    Before you buy Evt 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 Evt 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…

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    HSBC Holdings is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. 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 recommended HSBC Holdings. 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.

  • Challenger jumps 4%, Pepper Money sinks as takeover collapses

    Worried woman calculating domestic bills.

    Shares in Challenger Ltd (ASX: CGF) have risen around 4% in morning trade (at the time of writing), while Pepper Money Ltd (ASX: PPM) shares initially fell as much as 6% before paring back some of the losses, after both companies confirmed (here and here) that takeover talks are officially over.

    At the centre of it was a non-binding proposal from Challenger to acquire Pepper at $2.25 per share, an offer which was positioned as its “best and final” offer.

    Whilst Pepper shares increased sharply when the offer was first announced, Pepper’s independent board committee ultimately decided the deal wasn’t executable and walked away.

    So what actually happened here, and why did Pepper shares react so differently to Challenger shares?

    Why Pepper shares fell

    Pepper shares are falling because the Challenger takeover proposal was made at a premium to Pepper’s share price before the takeover talks began, and with the deal now off, the market is repricing Pepper shares accordingly.

    On 9 February, Challenger announced a non-binding proposal to acquire Pepper Money for $2.60 per share.

    At the time, Pepper shares had closed the previous Friday at $1.76, meaning the proposal represented a significant premium for shareholders.

    The market reacted immediately. Pepper’s share price surged 28% to $2.26 as investors priced in the possibility of a deal at a much higher valuation. Challenger subsequently revised its offer to a lower price of $2.25 per share, citing changing market conditions, and Pepper shares fell then.

    Following today’s drop, Pepper shares are now trading around $1.60, but whilst the rejection may seem to be primarily about valuation, the language used by Pepper’s board to explain the decision is interesting.

    Pepper’s independent board committee concluded that Challenger’s proposal was “not reasonably capable of execution.” That’s corporate speak for too many risks and too much uncertainty.

    It comes at a time when there is greater focus on private credit markets, but Pepper also said it is experiencing strong momentum in early 2026, with applications up 21% and originations up 34% year on year.

    Why Challenger shares rose

    Challenger’s share price reaction tells a different story.

    Rather than being punished for a failed deal, the stock moved higher, likely because investors were sceptical of the deal’s merits from Challenger’s perspective.

    Acquisitions always carry risk, including integration challenges, execution complexity, and the possibility of overpaying.

    By not proceeding, Challenger avoids those risks and instead continues with its $150 million share buyback plan, which is (from an investor’s perspective) a cleaner, more predictable way to return capital to shareholders.

    What this means for investors

    For Pepper shareholders, the drop reflects the loss of takeover upside. The bid premium is gone, and the stock is resetting to fundamentals.

    For Challenger investors, the takeaway is more positive, and they can look forward to more share buybacks.

    The broader lesson?

    M&A deals are never a done deal until they are actually done.

    The post Challenger jumps 4%, Pepper Money sinks as takeover collapses appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Challenger 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 Challenger 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…

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    Motley Fool contributor Kevin Gandiya has no positions 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 Challenger. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Sims Group posts robust US growth through SA Recycling in FY26

    A young woman wearing a blue blouse with white polkadots holds her phone up with an intrigued and happy look on her face as she reads some news.

    The Sims Ltd (ASX: SGM) share price is in focus today, with SA Recycling reporting robust growth, highlighted by an 8.3% compound annual sales volume increase from FY21 to FY26 and 147 facilities now operating in 15 states across the US.

    What did Sims Group report?

    • FY21-FY26 compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in sales volume of 8.3%.
    • HY26 sales volume annualised at over 3,750,000 tonnes.
    • 147 operational facilities and 22 shredders as part of SA Recycling’s US footprint.
    • 48% gearing ratio and estimated asset base of USD $2.26 billion as at HY26.
    • Average annual EBITDA of $496 million (FY21–FY25).
    • Average operating cash flow of $353 million between FY21–FY25.

    What else do investors need to know?

    The group is benefitting from favourable US policy settings, which have supported strong industry investment and demand for recycled metals. Through a dense network of regional facilities and established local sourcing relationships, Sims Group aims to secure consistent scrap supply and maintain stable margins, especially in non-ferrous metals.

    Sims continues its disciplined growth strategy by investing in bolt-on acquisitions and advancing operational leverage, with significant utilisation headroom across shredders and yards. The business remains well-capitalised, with ongoing investment capacity for strategic growth.

    What’s next for Sims Group?

    Looking ahead, Sims Group plans to unlock further value in non-ferrous recovery through process improvements and technology upgrades, as well as capitalising on growing domestic demand for segregated aluminium. The company expects utilisation rates and organic growth to create earnings leverage as the steel cycle improves.

    A robust pipeline of bolt-on acquisitions remains in sight, particularly in highly fragmented markets, supporting Sims Group’s ongoing expansion and consolidation in the US recycling sector.

    Sims Group share price snapshot

    Over the past year, Sims Group shares have risen 34%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Sims Group posts robust US growth through SA Recycling in FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Sims Metal Management Limited right now?

    Before you buy Sims Metal Management 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 Sims Metal Management 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…

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart 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. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • Rio Tinto just locked in a major deal. Here’s why investors are buying today

    A woman in high visibility clothing and a hard hat stands in front of an aluminium smelter.

    The Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) share price is pushing higher on Wednesday after the mining giant released a major update before market open.

    At the time of writing, Rio Tinto shares are up 2.18% to $147.56.

    Despite today’s gain, the stock remains under pressure in the short term, down close to 8% over the past month.

    Here’s what the company announced.

    Landmark deal secures smelter future

    According to the release, Rio Tinto has partnered with the Queensland and Commonwealth governments to secure the long-term future of the Boyne aluminium smelter in Gladstone.

    The agreement includes up to $2 billion in government support over 10 years through to 2040. This builds on earlier power purchase agreements (PPAs) signed by Rio Tinto, which underpin around $7.5 billion in new renewable energy projects.

    The deal is aimed at ensuring the smelter remains internationally competitive once its current power contract expires in 2029.

    Boyne Smelters is a key asset in Rio Tinto’s aluminium division and plays a central role in its broader Australian operations. The facility is one of the largest aluminium smelters in the country and supports thousands of jobs across the supply chain.

    Management noted the agreement will allow the smelter to transition towards lower-cost and lower-emissions energy over time.

    Shift towards renewable energy

    A key part of the announcement is Rio Tinto’s continued move towards renewable energy to power its aluminium operations.

    The company has already contracted more than 2.8GW of renewable energy capacity in Queensland, alongside over 600MW of storage.

    This includes projects such as the Upper Calliope solar development, the Bungaban wind project, and the Smoky Creek and Guthrie’s Gap solar and battery system.

    In addition, Rio Tinto has agreed to purchase 40% of the output from the Lower Wonga solar and battery project.

    These developments are expected to provide a more stable and potentially lower-cost energy mix over time. They also reduce exposure to fossil fuel pricing.

    What’s driving the share price higher?

    The share price gain suggests investors are reacting positively to the added long-term certainty from the agreement.

    Aluminium production is energy-intensive, and securing a reliable and competitive power supply is critical to maintaining margins.

    The deal reduces a key risk for Rio Tinto ahead of the 2029 contract expiry and supports the continued operation of a major asset within its portfolio.

    It also aligns with the company’s broader strategy to decarbonise its operations while maintaining output.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Rio Tinto’s latest agreement strengthens visibility over one of its key aluminium assets and reduces uncertainty around future energy costs.

    While the stock has pulled back in recent weeks, this morning’s update shows the company is progressing its long-term initiatives.

    The post Rio Tinto just locked in a major deal. Here’s why investors are buying today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Rio Tinto 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 Rio Tinto 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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    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.

  • HomeCo Daily Needs REIT announces Q3 2026 distribution and DRP details

    a graphic image of three houses standing next to each other in ascending order of height.

    The HomeCo Daily Needs REIT (ASX: HDN) share price is in focus after the trust announced a quarterly distribution of 2.15 cents per unit, payable on 22 May 2026. Eligible investors have the option to participate in its Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP).

    What did HomeCo Daily Needs REIT report?

    • Quarterly distribution: 2.15 cents per unit (fully unfranked)
    • Ex-date: 30 March 2026
    • Record date: 31 March 2026
    • Payment date: 22 May 2026
    • DRP election closes: 2 April 2026, 5:00pm
    • DRP price based on 5-day VWAP, to be announced 14 April 2026

    What else do investors need to know?

    This distribution relates to the March 2026 quarter and will be paid in Australian dollars. The full amount is unfranked, meaning investors will not receive any franking credits with this payout.

    The Dividend Reinvestment Plan is in place for this distribution, allowing eligible unitholders to reinvest part or all of their distribution into additional HDN units. The DRP price will be calculated using the volume-weighted average price over five trading days from 7 to 13 April. Investors not electing to join the DRP will receive their payment in cash.

    What’s next for HomeCo Daily Needs REIT?

    Looking ahead, investors should watch for more details on the DRP issue price on 14 April 2026. Unitholders interested in reinvesting should ensure their election is lodged by 2 April 2026. The trust remains focused on providing regular income streams to investors through its quarterly distribution strategy.

    The fund will likely keep informing the market about property portfolio performance and future distribution expectations as part of its ongoing transparency.

    HomeCo Daily Needs REIT share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, HomeCo Daily Needs REIT shares have risen 1%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post HomeCo Daily Needs REIT announces Q3 2026 distribution and DRP details appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Homeco Daily Needs REIT right now?

    Before you buy Homeco Daily Needs REIT 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 Homeco Daily Needs REIT 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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart 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 HomeCo Daily Needs REIT. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • Buy, hold, sell: Breville, Goodman, and Wesfarmers shares

    A male investor sits at his desk looking at his laptop screen holding his hand to his chin pondering whether to buy Macquarie shares

    If you are on the hunt for some new portfolio additions, then it could be worth hearing what analysts at Morgans are saying about the ASX 200 shares in this article.

    Is the broker bullish, bearish, or something in between on these names? Let’s find out.

    Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

    Morgans remains very positive on this appliance manufacturer following the release of a solid half-year result last month.

    In response, the broker has put a buy rating and $40.65 price target on Breville’s shares. Morgans highlights the company’s strong operational execution and powerful medium-term tailwinds as reasons to buy. It said:

    1H26 was better-than-feared, with double-digit sales growth (+10%) largely offset by tariff costs (~130bp GM impact) to deliver a flat NPAT outcome (+1% on pcp). Crucially, FY26 EBIT growth guidance provides much-needed earnings visibility, alleviating some concerns for an extended transition year and improving our confidence for a resumption of sustainable EPS growth from FY27+.

    We continue to be impressed by BRG’s strong operational execution, green shoots in Food Prep, and powerful medium-term tailwinds (geographic expansion, espresso tailwinds, NPD, Best Buy developments). Buy maintained.

    Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

    Another ASX 200 share that Morgans has been looking at is industrial property giant Goodman.

    It highlights that the market is becoming impatient with the longer development timelines for data centres (DCs), but thinks it is worth sticking with this one. As a result, it has put a buy rating and $32.45 price target on its shares. It said:

    GMG is leaning hard into data centre (DC) development across scarce, power-enabled metro locations, backed by long-dated capital partners and a conservative balance sheet. FY26 guidance is unchanged, with near-term results reflecting longer development timeframes and a larger share of balance-sheet originated developments. Execution now hinges on converting customer negotiations into commitments across key DC campuses while holding returns.

    Whilst the company has flagged the longer development timeframe for DCs, recent share price weakness points to impatience as the market discounts the uncertainty around hyperscale demand, investor appetite and potentially the lower likelihood of an FY26 EPS upgrade.

    Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

    Finally, Wesfarmers delivered a better than expected result in February.

    However, due to its current valuation, the broker thinks Wesfarmers shares are overvalued and feels that investors should wait for a better entry point. It has put a trim rating and $80.50 price target on its shares. It explains:

    WES’s 1H26 result was better than expected with productivity and efficiency improvements a key highlight. Earnings for all divisions except Industrial & Safety were either in line or above our forecasts. WES noted that despite a modest improvement in consumer demand, higher costs continued to weigh on many households and businesses, while residential construction activity remains subdued. We adjust FY26/27/28F group EBIT by +2%/+1%/+1%.

    Our target price rises slightly to $80.50 (from $79.30) and we maintain our TRIM rating with a 12-month forecast TSR of -2%. While we continue to view WES as a core long-term portfolio holding with a diversified group of well-known retail and industrial brands, a healthy balance sheet, and an experienced leadership team, trading on 30.7x FY27F PE we continue to see the stock as overvalued in the short term.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Breville, Goodman, and Wesfarmers shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Breville 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 Breville 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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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