Stock Pick

  • 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday

    Broker looking at the share price on her laptop with green and red points in the background.

    On Tuesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was out of form again and dropped into the red. The benchmark index fell 0.4% to 8,598.9 points.

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

    ASX 200 expected to fall

    The Australian share market looks set to fall on Wednesday following another poor night of trade on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 13 points or 0.15% lower this morning. In late trade in the United States, the Dow Jones is down 0.7%, the S&P 500 fell 0.4%, and the Nasdaq is down 0.15%.

    Oil prices sink

    ASX 200 energy shares Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have a difficult session after oil prices sank overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 2.7% to US$55.30 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 2.6% to US$58.96 a barrel. This was driven by Russia-Ukraine peace talk optimism and means oil prices are trading at their lowest levels since 2021.

    Treasury Wine update

    Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) shares will be on watch on Wednesday when the wine giant releases an update on its outlook. Earlier this week, it requested a trading halt until the update has been made. It said: “As disclosed to the market, TWE will hold an investor and analyst call on Wednesday, 17 December 2025. The Company is in the final stages of preparing for this update, which will include information regarding the Company’s outlook.”

    Gold price edges higher

    ASX 200 gold shares including Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) will be on watch on Wednesday after the gold price edged higher overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up slightly to US$4,337.5 an ounce. The precious metal rose in response to weak US economic data.

    Buy Ausgold shares

    The team at Bell Potter thinks that Ausgold Ltd (ASX: AUC) shares are being undervalued by the market. This morning, the broker has put a speculative buy rating and $1.70 price target on the gold developer’s shares. It said: “AUC’s management team has a demonstrated track record of advancing assets from exploration through development, positioning the company to unlock substantial value as the KGP [Katanning Gold Project] de-risks toward production.”

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

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

    Before you buy Ausgold 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 Ausgold Limited wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    See the 5 Stocks

    * Returns as of 18 November 2025

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    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 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.

  • This ASX gold miner’s shares have exploded nearly 200% since last year, and there’s more upside ahead

    Woman with gold nuggets on her hand.

    Predictive Discovery Ltd (ASX: PDI) shares closed 4.93% lower on Tuesday afternoon, at 68 cents a piece. 

    The latest dip has barely dented gains made over the past year though. Predictive Discovery shares have rocketed 64.63% higher over the past 6 months and are now a huge 193.48% higher than this time last year.

    For context, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) closed 0.42% lower on Tuesday afternoon. For the year the index is 4.24% higher.

    What does Predictive Discovery do?

    Predictive Discovery is a gold exploration company concentrated on finding and developing major gold deposits in Guinea, West Africa. The miner is focused on turning its flagship Bankan Gold Project into a Tier-1 African gold mine as well as exploring for other gold deposits within the highly prospective Bankan permits.

    The miner’s Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) was approved in January 2025 and the Certificate of Environmental Compliance (ECC) was issued. 

    What has driven the ASX gold miner’s share price higher this year?

    Predictive Discovery completed a Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) for the Bankan Gold Project in June. According to the company, the study confirms that its Bankan Gold Project is a rare gold asset, with large-scale, a long-life production profile, robust margins, and the ability to generate strong returns through the cycle. 

    The miner’s shares have recently been boosted by a takeover bidding war. In October, the company announced a merger with fellow Robex Resources (ASX: RXR) but the merger was challenged by a superior bid from Perseus Mining (ASX: PRU) in early December 2025. Robex, however, successfully exercised its matching rights and Predictive Discovery accepted a revised Robex deal last week. This ended Perseus’s bid and confirmed the Robex merger. 

    It’s possible that some investors were counting on a bidding war breaking out between Perseus and fellow suitor Robex Resources, but now it has been resolved it has caused the latest share price slump.

    What’s ahead for Predictive Discovery?

    While the exciting bidding war has come to an end, there is still plenty of potential ahead for the ASX gold miner.

    The amended Robex deal could help to strengthen the medium to long-term value for Predictive Discovery shareholders. The merged entity could boost potential production and also gain higher visibility in key investment indices like the ASX 200 and VanEck Junior Gold Miners.

    Analysts are also bullish that there is a robust upside ahead for the ASX gold miner’s shares. Data shows that 3 out of 4 analysts have a strong buy rating on the stock with a target price as high as $1 per share. At the time of writing, that implies a potential 48.15% upside ahead for investors over the next 12 months.

    The post This ASX gold miner’s shares have exploded nearly 200% since last year, and there’s more upside ahead appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Predictive Discovery 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 Predictive Discovery Limited wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    See the 5 Stocks

    * Returns as of 18 November 2025

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    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 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.

  • Guess which ASX 300 defence stock has already rocketed 51% this week (Hint, not DroneShield)

    Army man and woman on digital devices.

    The S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) has lost 1.2% over the first two days of trade this week, despite the best lifting efforts of this rocketing ASX 300 defence stock.

    And no, it’s not DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO). Though DroneShield shares come in a close second, having already gained 35.8% this week following the announcement of a new contract order.

    Instead, the rocketing company in question is remote weapon systems developer Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS).

    Electro Optic Systems shares closed last Friday trading for $5.01. When the closing bell sounded on Tuesday, shares were swapping hands for $7.56 apiece.

    That sees shares in the ASX 300 defence stock up a whopping 50.9%. In just two days.

    And investors who bought EOS shares 12 months ago, when the stock was trading for $1.05, are now sitting on gains of 620.0%. Or enough to turn an $8,000 investment into $57,600.

    Boom!

    Now, here’s what just sent the Electro Optic Systems share price rocketing again this week.

    ASX 300 defence stock inks new laser weapons deal

    Laser weapons have well and truly moved from Hollywood fantasy to real world reality. And Electro Optic Systems is helping supercharge their development.

    On Monday, the ASX 300 defence stock closed up 28.9% after announcing it had signed an agreement to supply a 100kW laser weapon to an undisclosed South Korean customer.

    The binding conditional contract was valued at US$80 million (AU$120 million). The two parties also agreed to establish a joint venture in the country.

    “The EOS laser weapon development program included three years of field testing and numerous firing trials of the laser in close collaboration with customers,” management said. “To ensure high performance, it is supplied with algorithms, radar, threat detection, target acquisition and beam locking systems.”

    And demand for the new high energy laser appears to be growing.

    Management added:

    This conditional contract represents EOS’ second export order for a 100kW class laser defence system and follows a first export order to a Western European customer, announced on 5 August 2025.

    Is it too late to buy Electro Optic Systems shares?

    After surging 620% in a year, is it too late to buy the ASX 300 defence stock?

    Not according to the analysts at Bell Potter.

    Following on Monday’s US$80 million laser weapon sales announcement, the broker noted, “We view this award as further evidence of the significant revenue opportunity available to EOS from the directed energy counter-drone (C-UAS) vertical.”

    Bell Potter increased its price target on Electro Optic Systems shares from $8.10 to $9.00.

    That represents a potential further upside of 19% from Tuesday’s closing price.

    The post Guess which ASX 300 defence stock has already rocketed 51% this week (Hint, not DroneShield) appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy DroneShield 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 DroneShield Limited wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    See the 5 Stocks

    * Returns as of 18 November 2025

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    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended DroneShield and Electro Optic Systems. 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.

  • 4 takeaways from the final jobs report of the year

    Hiring sign
    Economists said new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics still show a stagnant job market.

    Joe Raedle/Getty Images

    • The Bureau of Labor Statistics published the final national employment report for the year.
    • Economists think the job market is stagnant.
    • Unemployment was above 4.5%, wage growth has moderated, and job growth remains unequal among industries.

    This week brought a vanishingly rare jobs report on Tuesday after the longest government shutdown in history threw a wrench in federal data collection, and it was a mixed bag.

    The new data emphasized trends we've been seeing this year, including unemployment inching up and a tougher market for many job seekers.

    The Bureau of Labor Statistics delayed the report from December 5 to extend data collection and processing after its activities were affected by the government shutdown that lasted from October to about mid-November.

    The new data allowed economists, job seekers, reporters, and more to understand how job growth looked in both October and November; the BLS didn't produce an October jobs report last month. While the report was missing items like the October unemployment rate, it gives us a fresh look at the labor market.

    Here are four takeaways from the latest jobs report.

    The job market is still frozen

    Both Nicole Bachaud, a labor Economist at ZipRecruiter, and Laura Ullrich, the director of economic research in North America at the Indeed Hiring Lab, described the job market as still stagnant.

    The US economy added 64,000 jobs in November, surpassing the 50,000 expected. That comes after a big net loss in October, largely because federal workers who took the deferred resignation offered as part of the DOGE job cuts earlier this year finally appeared in the data after the deferment ended.

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    Data published by the BLS last week showed job openings have been trending upward as of October, although they're still far below what job seekers were accustomed to a few years ago. Workers' confidence has also been low, as October's quit rate was the lowest since 2020.

    "Job growth has been very slow over the course of 2025, and it doesn't seem like we've turned around quite yet to translate the pent-up demand for hiring and the recent increase in job openings into actual hires," Bachaud said, adding that uncertainty over tariffs, inflation, and geopolitical issues has added to companies holding back on hiring plans.

    "That's the big question mark — when is that uncertainty going to finally ease up?" she said.

    Healthcare's job growth masks weakness in many other sectors

    The better-than-expected growth in November was largely helped by job growth in healthcare, so Ullrich said this "doesn't show a whole lot of strength in the macro labor market."

    Healthcare and social assistance sectors together had a net gain of 64,000 over the month. Most industries had a decline or a small rise in employment. Manufacturing, for instance, has continued its ongoing net loss.

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    Healthcare has been a bright spot throughout the year, and Bachaud said there will still be demand for workers as the population ages. However, it could be challenging for job seekers to pivot into these positions. Ullrich said many jobs in the sector typically require certain training and education.

    "Construction is the other industry that we saw really strong growth in, as there is demand for continued skilled trades," Bachaud said. Construction added 28,000 jobs, with the largest growth from specialty trade contractors.

    Employers still have the upper hand

    Wage growth has gradually cooled and reached the lowest point so far this year in November. Average hourly earnings rose 3.5% from a year ago.

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    The generally softer job market has made it harder for workers to negotiate higher wages. Ullrich said physicians have better wage-setting power than roles that aren't seeing a lot of openings and where talent is waiting on the sidelines for a role.

    She said employers can probably offer lower raises to current talent, too, since more people are staying put.

    "If you know people aren't quitting, you might not have to offer them the same bump in pay that you would if the quits rate was higher," she said. "That being said, there's still very tight competition for certain roles."

    Unemployment is the highest since 2021

    The October 2025 unemployment rate won't ever be released because that data, typically gathered from a survey of around 60,000 households a month, couldn't be collected during or after the government shutdown. However, unemployment had been trending upward before that, and November was the same story.

    November's unemployment rate was the highest since September 2021 and slightly higher than expected. Still, the Bureau of Labor Statistics warned of data issues with unemployment and related figures over the next few months due to the missing October household survey, so economists and others will have to see how the rate continues to pan out.

    Despite the data challenges, Bachaud said the higher unemployment rate and stickier long-term unemployment, where people have been out of a job for at least 27 weeks and actively searching, indicate that it has become harder to land a job.

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    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • 9 things to know about Donald Trump Jr.’s fiancée Bettina Anderson

    Donald Trump Jr. and Bettina Anderson at a dinner for Donald Trump's inauguration.
    WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 19: Donald Trump Jr. and Bettina Anderson attend a candlelight dinner for U.S. President-elect Donald Trump at the National Building Museum on January 19, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump will be sworn in as the 47th U.S. president on January 20.

    Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

    • Donald Trump Jr. and Bettina Anderson are engaged after a year of dating.
    • Anderson, a socialite, model, and influencer, comes from a prominent Palm Beach family.
    • She attended the Republican National Convention and was linked to Trump Jr. in September 2024.

    Bettina Anderson was already well-known in Palm Beach, Florida, for her fashion modeling, passion for environmental conservation and charity work, and being from a prominent banking family.

    Then, she was photographed on what appeared to be romantic outings with Donald Trump Jr.

    The pair made their official debut as a couple during President Donald Trump's inauguration, where they were photographed holding hands, walking arm-in-arm, and dancing together at several events.

    In December, they announced their engagement after a year of dating.

    Here's what to know about Anderson's upbringing, career, and connection to the Trump family.

    Bettina Anderson grew up in Palm Beach, Florida, and comes from a prominent family.
    Harry Loy Anderson Jr. and Inger Anderson, Bettina Anderson's parents.
    (L-R) Jacqueline Kimberly, Harry Loy Anderson Jr., and Inger Anderson arrive at the opening of the Poinciana Playhouse's 15th season in Palm Beach, Florida, on January 10, 1972.

    Fairchild Archive/WWD/Penske Media via Getty Images

    Anderson's father, Harry Loy Anderson Jr., became the youngest bank president in the US in 1970 when he took over Worth Avenue National Bank at 26 years old. He was also a philanthropist who supported numerous charitable causes including the American Red Cross, of which he was a board member. He died of Alzheimer's in 2013 at 70 years old, according to his obituary.

    Her mother, Inger Anderson, is a philanthropist and business owner who operates Palm Beach Groves, an orange orchard and souvenir shop that she and her husband bought in 1978.

    Anderson, 39, grew up on a Palm Beach estate known as Oasis Cottage that once belonged to fashion designer Lilly Pulitzer Rousseau. Inger Anderson sold the state for $11.88 million in 2016, the Palm Beach Daily News reported.

    Anderson has five siblings, including a twin sister.

    Anderson is an Ivy League graduate.
    Bettina Anderson.
    PALM BEACH, FLORIDA – MARCH 03: Bettina Anderson attends the Daily Front Row 20th Anniversary Palm Beach, sponsored by Zacapa No. 23 Rum on March 3, 2022 in Palm Beach, Florida.

    Alexander Tamargo/Getty Images for Zacapa No. 23 Rum

    Anderson earned a bachelor's degree in art history from Columbia University in 2009, according to her LinkedIn profile.

    She's worked as a business development professional as well as a model and influencer.
    Bettina Anderson in a swimsuit.
    MIAMI, FL – JULY 19: Model Bettina Anderson attends Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Party at SLS South Beach on July 19, 2012 in Miami, Florida.

    Gustavo Caballero/Getty Images for Omega Boutiques USA

    Anderson's résumé includes working as a business development manager for the pharmaceutical company TherapeuticsMD and as an independent consultant for the Florida-based investment company Merrick Ventures.

    She has modeled for Quest Magazine, Palm Beach Illustrated, and Modern Luxury Palm Beach, in which she was referred to as an "ambassador of Palm Beach style and local 'it' girl."

    Anderson also has over 106,000 followers on Instagram, where her profile features affiliate links to skincare products and her Amazon Shop.

    She co-founded an environmental charity with her siblings called Project Paradise.
    Bettina Anderson at a charity event.
    Bettina Anderson and Joshua Sagman at a cocktail reception to introduce junior committee for the Race of Hope.

    USA TODAY NETWORK via Reuters Connect

    Project Paradise funds filmmaking grants for documentaries about environmental conservation.

    The organization released a short documentary, "The Water State," calling attention to the fragility of Florida's freshwater springs.

    "One of the greatest focuses of my life is how I can be of service to others and a be steward of the environment," Anderson told fashion blog The Daily Front Row in 2022.

    Anderson also volunteers with the Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach County and is a young patron of The Everglades Foundation.

    Anderson attended the Republican National Convention in July 2024, months before she was first linked to Donald Trump Jr. that September.
    Bettina Anderson, wearing a red pantsuit, was seated behind Donald Trump Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle at the Republican National Convention.
    Bettina Anderson, wearing a red pantsuit, was seated behind Donald Trump Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle at the Republican National Convention.

    Brian Snyder/Reuters

    At the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Anderson was seated behind Donald Trump Jr., his former fiancée Kimberly Guilfoyle, and other members of the Trump family.

    In September 2024, the Daily Mail reported that Anderson and Trump Jr. were seen kissing and eating brunch together in Palm Beach. Neither responded to a request for comment about the nature of their relationship.

    She co-hosted a fundraiser for Donald Trump's presidential campaign at Mar-a-Lago in October 2024.
    President -elect Donald Trump gestures as he speaks, in front of two American flags, during a press conference at Mar-A-Lago on December 16, 2024.
    President-elect Donald Trump at a press conference at Mar-A-Lago on December 16, 2024.

    Evan Vucci/AP Photo

    The event featured former Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Vivek Ramaswamy, all of whom went on to become members of Trump's administration.

    Attending the dinner cost $100,000 per couple, and admission to a fireside chat cost $30,000 per couple, the Palm Beach Daily News reported.

    Anderson has featured Trump Jr. on her Instagram and joined him at Mar-a-Lago.
    Donald Trump Jr. at Mar-a-Lago wearing a tuxedo.
    PALM BEACH, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 14: Donald Trump Jr. speaks with other guests at the America First Policy Institute Gala held at Mar-a-Lago on November 14, 2024 in Palm Beach, Florida. President-elect Donald Trump has been announcing a number of nominees for his upcoming administration.

    Joe Raedle/Getty Images

    On her birthday in December 2024, Anderson posted a photo of a bouquet of flowers on an Instagram Story and tagged Trump Jr.

    The card accompanying the flowers read, "Many have said you're aging out but I think you're perfect…happy birthday!"

    Anderson and Trump Jr. were also photographed holding hands while exiting a restaurant in Palm Beach and celebrating Trump Jr.'s birthday together at Mar-a-Lago on New Year's Eve.

    In December 2024, Trump Jr. stopped short of confirming his breakup with Guilfoyle, but told Page Six in a statement that he and Guilfoyle "will always keep a special bond" and that he "could not be more proud of her and the important role she'll continue to play in my father's administration" as ambassador to Greece.

    Anderson and Trump Jr. made their public debut as a couple at Trump's inauguration in January 2025.
    Donald Trump Jr. and Bettina Anderson with JD Vance.
    WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 19: (from left to right) Donald Trump Jr., Bettina Anderson, U.S. Vice President-elect JD Vance, and Alina Habba, Senior Advisor to President Donald J. Trump, attend the Turning Point USA Inaugural-Eve Ball at the Salamander Hotel on January 19, 2025 in Washington, DC.

    Samuel Corum/Getty Images

    Anderson and Trump Jr. appeared together throughout the inauguration festivities.

    Anderson and Trump Jr. attended a reception together at Trump National Golf Club in Washington, DC. The night before the inauguration, they held hands and danced at the Turning Point USA Inaugural-Eve Ball.

    Anderson attended Trump's inauguration ceremony at the US Capitol, but was not seated with Trump Jr. or other Trump family members.

    Guilfoyle was at the Capitol Rotunda for the swearing-in ceremony and was not seated with the Trump family, either. She was also an honorary cochair of the Bienvenido Ball, which Trump Jr. attended.

    She has since attended numerous official White House events.
    Bettina Anderson and Donald Trump Jr. at the White House.
    Bettina Anderson and Donald Trump Jr. at the White House.

    Oliver Contreras/AFP/Getty Images

    Anderson appeared at Trump Jr.'s side at the White House Easter Egg Roll in April, the US Army's 250th anniversary military parade in June, Charlie Kirk's posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony in October, and a White House dinner for Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud of Saudi Arabia in November.

    The couple announced their engagement at a White House holiday party in December.

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • CSL and more blue-chip ASX 200 bargains I’d buy before 2026

    A smiling woman holds a Facebook like sign above her head.

    The ASX has spent most of 2025 swinging between optimism and anxiety, with inflation scares, rate hike speculation, and an AI-driven tech wobble keeping investors on edge.

    But beneath is a rare opportunity to buy several high-quality ASX 200 blue chip shares at meaningful discounts.

    Here are three bargains I’d be buying today.

    CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

    CSL is rarely cheap. For most of the last decade, the biotech giant traded at a premium thanks to its global leadership in plasma therapies, vaccines, and emerging specialty medicines. But 2025 has been an unusually bumpy year. Slower margin recovery at CSL Behring, uncertainty around the Seqirus spin-off, falling influenza vaccine rates, and concerns about potential US tariff impacts have pushed its share price down by over a third.

    What hasn’t changed is the company’s long-term earnings power. Plasma collection volumes are rising, CSL’s R&D engine remains strong, and its therapy pipeline is expanding.

    Trading on a valuation rarely seen for CSL, for long-term investors this could be a buying opportunity that doesn’t come around very often.

    Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG)

    Macquarie’s reputation as Australia’s financial powerhouse wasn’t built on smooth economic cycles. It was built through the company’s ability to generate growing profits whatever the market throws at it.

    That’s why the current weakness in its share price, is looking like an opportunity. Macquarie has four engines: asset management, banking, commodities, and investment banking. When one slows, another usually accelerates. The company has also positioned itself for the next decade through investments in renewables, digital infrastructure, and global energy transition assets.

    For investors with patience, buying Macquarie during periods of temporary earnings softness has historically paid off handsomely. I believe the same could happen for investors buying at today’s levels.

    Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

    Finally, I think Woolworths has quietly become one of the more attractive large-cap opportunities on the ASX after a challenging 12 months. The retailer has been under pressure due to consumers trading down, competition from Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), and higher operating costs. But these headwinds are cyclical, not structural.

    Woolworths still owns one of the most defensible business models in the country. Food and essentials spending remain remarkably resilient, and it continues to grow its digital footprint, loyalty program, and supply-chain efficiencies.

    So, with the share price sitting well below its 52-week high and margins set to recover as cost pressures ease, Woolworths could be a top blue chip pick in the current market.

    The post CSL and more blue-chip ASX 200 bargains I’d buy before 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy CSL 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 CSL wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    See the 5 Stocks

    * Returns as of 18 November 2025

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

  • 3 things about Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (VGS) every smart investor knows

    A cute young girl wears a straw hat and has a backpack strapped on her back as she holds a globe in her hand with a cheeky smile on her face.

    The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) can be one of the most effective exchange-traded funds (ETFs) for building wealth, in my view.

    There is a wide array of ETFs that can be used to build wealth, but there are only a few that tick as many boxes as this one does.

    The goal of the ETF is to provide exposure to many of the world’s largest companies listed in major developed countries. Vanguard created this fund to offer low-cost access to a broadly diversified range of shares that allow investors to participate in the long-term growth potential of international economies outside of Australia.

    The VGS ETF has strong diversification

    I believe it’s important for Aussies to remember that the ASX only accounts for 2% of the global stock market. There are lots of other businesses that are appealing to own. Plus, the global share market is not dominated by slow-growing bank stocks and mining stocks.

    The VGS ETF had 1,284 holdings at the end of November 2025, which I think is an enormous amount of diversification. Even 100 holdings would be adequate diversification, in my opinion.

    But the fund is diversified not just by the number of holdings, but also by the sector allocation.

    At the end of November, these are the exposures:

    • Information technology (27.7%)
    • Financials (16.1%)
    • Industrials (11%)
    • Consumer discretionary (10.1%)
    • Healthcare (9.9%)
    • Communication services (9.1%)
    • Consumer staples (5.6%)
    • Energy (3.4%)
    • Materials (2.9%)
    • Utilities (2.7%)
    • Real estate (1.8%)

    I think it’s useful that the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF is invested across an array of sectors.

    The fund is also invested in a variety of markets.

    While the US accounts for a sizeable majority of the portfolio, there are many other markets with a weighting of at least 0.4% including Japan, Canada, the UK, France, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Sweden, Spain, Italy, Hong Kong, Denmark and Singapore.  

    I truly believe that Australians would benefit from gaining exposure to companies listed in different countries.

    Growing weighting to a few large US stocks

    While there are over a thousand holdings, there are a few names that are becoming an increasingly large part of the VGS ETF. That comes with both positives and negatives.

    The largest seven positions in the fund account for more than 25% of the portfolio, which I think investors should be aware of. We’re talking about Nvidia, Microsoft, Apple, Meta Platforms, Alphabet, Amazon and Broadcom. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, considering how strong these businesses are and how they regularly produce pleasing shareholder returns.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is even more heavily weighted to its largest holdings, so it’s not a unique situation. But, the fund doesn’t appear to be quite as diversified as it used to be, with a few large businesses becoming larger pieces of the pie.

    Excellent financial characteristics

    One of the key reasons why the fund has managed to perform so strongly – an average return of 15.7% per year over five years – is the ongoing good earnings growth of the businesses.

    According to Vanguard, the fund’s portfolio of companies has seen an overall earnings growth rate of 22.1% over the previous year, which I’d say is an excellent rise considering how large the businesses already are.

    Another positive is the return on equity (ROE) ratio of 19.6%, which says how much profit the businesses make on the retained shareholder money within the businesses. It’s a sign of quality but also implies what sort of return the businesses could make on future retained profits.

    The ROE is why I’m expecting the VGS ETF can continue to perform adequately over the long-term, even if the valuation seems higher than normal today. Re-investing cash for a good profit boost should unlock shareholder returns over time.

    The post 3 things about Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (VGS) every smart investor knows appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF right now?

    Before you buy Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF 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 Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF wasn’t one of them.

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    See the 5 Stocks

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    Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, and Nvidia. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Broadcom 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 recommended Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • I spent years trying to hide my face. Today, I’m a proud woman who embraces my facial differences.

    A split image of a baby with a facial difference and the same girl as an adult.
    Brooke Parrish as a baby in the mid-1990s and as an adult today.

    Courtesy of Brooke Parrish

    • Brooke Parrish was born with the rare genetic condition called Pfeiffer syndrome.
    • Characterized by anomalies of the skull, face, and limbs, it's caused by early fusion of the bones.
    • Parrish tried to hide her facial differences as a child and teenager, but now she embraces them.

    This story is based on a conversation with Brooke Parrish, 29, a higher education admissions advisor and TikToker who lives in Louisville, Kentucky. It has been edited for length and clarity.

    The doctors in the rural area in Kentucky, where I was born in March 1996, were unsure of my condition when I was born.

    They referred me to a hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, a two-hour drive away, where I was diagnosed with Pfeiffer syndrome.

    The genetic condition — which is caused by early fusion of the bones in the uterus — strikes people differently. In my case, it led to the premature fusion of my skull and elbows, also affecting some of my fingers and toes.

    My parents, Angela and Chip, now 55, relocated to Louisville, where I had several cranial procedures when I was young.

    A little girl wearing a halo device after surgery on her cranium.
    Parrish had a series of complex surgeries when she was young.

    Courtesy of Brooke Parrish

    Mom and Dad were incredibly supportive. Mom didn't treat me any differently, as if I were fragile. I would climb the stairs just as much as my cousins did.

    I tried not to limit myself, despite being challenged by the lower range of motion in my arms. I couldn't lift them beyond my breastbone and could only touch my face with two fingers.

    I never saw myself falling in love or getting married

    Meanwhile, the pain was intense from the operations and healing.

    There is a difference between knowing that you have a certain condition and accepting the reality of it. I didn't speak about it for years.

    In fact, I internalized it. I never saw myself falling in love or getting married.

    Thankfully, I wasn't bullied, but the other kids would often stare at me. Between the ages of 13 and 18, I grew bangs to cover my eyes, which were my main concern. I could hardly see where I was going.

    A little girl with facial differencs wearing an angel oufit.
    Parrish was loved and supported by her parents.

    Courtesy of Brooke Parrish

    Then, as I grew older, I began to gain confidence. My bangs got shorter over the years. It was a sign that I'd become more accepting of myself.

    I realized that going through so much at a young age gave me the strength and resilience I needed to overcome challenges. Over time, I began to accept my differences.

    I wished I could have given my younger self a hug and told her that she'd become grounded and happy.

    I started dating at the age of 18

    When I got a job as a cashier at a retail store, I dealt with the stares I got by being super friendly. I'd strike up a conversation, rather than deal with any awkwardness. It worked. People were receptive.

    I went on several dates between 18 and 21 because I had a lot of catching up to do.

    My preference was online dating. Unfortunately, as much as I would have liked someone to fall for my personality, I wanted the men on the site to make an initial decision based on my photograph. I was fully transparent.

    A woman with a facial difference wearing a green dress and a sparkling headband.
    Parrish is so much more confident now.

    Courtesy of Brook Parrish

    One guy I was involved with for a few months couldn't cope with the stares. He couldn't handle what came with someone with multiple disabilities. And that's OK. It's not for everyone.

    I met my future husband, Joe, now 30, on Tinder eight years ago. It was cute because, two days before our official first date, he popped into the store I worked in unannounced.

    He said that he wanted to take away the nerves of getting ready and driving to our first date. We walked around the store to get to know each other a little. He was right because our first date was more relaxed.

    A couple celebrates their wedding day.
    Parrish and her husband. Joe, on their wedding day in October 2021.

    Courtesy of Brooke Parrish

    We've been together ever since, and our beautiful wedding was in October 2021. I never expected a man to be so attentive and devoted. He does anything for me that I can't do with my arms. He can braid my hair and create updos. He puts on my necklaces and earrings. It's the little things that count, and they're wonderful.

    Social media is a way of spreading my message of hope

    I want people with facial differences to know that, through TikTok, you can feel powerful and proud. I've had an overwhelming response from people with or without craniofacial disabilities.

    One of my pen pals is a 15-year-old with a condition like mine. It's like looking in a mirror. I want her to be strong, open about who she is, and to allow other people to love and help her.

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • OpenAI’s answer to Google’s viral Nano Banana Pro image model is here

    OpenAI's newly announced ChatGPT Images
    OpenAI's ChatGPT Images, announced December 16, appears to improve on the realism of the chatbot's AI image generation.

    OpenAI

    • Less than a month after Google generated buzz for its Nano Banana Pro AI image model, OpenAI's response is here.
    • The company announced a new version of ChatGPT Images on Tuesday, powered by a new flagship image generation model.
    • The new version is set to roll out to all ChatGPT users starting today.

    Google threw down the AI image gauntlet last month. Now, OpenAI has answered.

    The ChatGPT creator announced the rollout of a new flagship image generator on Tuesday, which the company says is capable of making faster, more precise edits to an AI image while maintaining details.

    The company is also rolling out a new Images feature within the ChatGPT app. While AI image generation was previously available within ChatGPT, OpenAI says the new dedicated Images feature is designed to "spark inspiration and make creative exploration effortless."

    ChatGPT's new Images feature within the app.
    ChatGPT's new Images feature within the app.

    OpenAI

    The news comes just over three weeks after Google released its Nano Banana Pro AI image model alongside its flagship Gemini 3 LLM — both of which have received widespread praise and reignited the debate around whether Google was finally overtaking OpenAI.

    Google's new AI image generator was lauded for its hyper-realistic AI images, which some people used over Thanksgiving to make it appear as if they had famous guests at the holiday dinner table.

    This is a developing post…

    Read the original article on Business Insider

  • The final batch of pennies sold for $16.7 million

    Treasurer of the United States Brandon Beach holds the last penny stamped at the US Mint on November 12, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Beach pressed the final pennies at an event held at the facility. The pennies pressed bear a special 'Omega' and will not be put in circulation, but will be auctioned off.
    The last US penny was minted on November 12 and will be auctioned off.

    Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images

    • The final sets of pennies ever minted sold for nearly $17 million.
    • Stack's Bowers Galleries worked with the US Mint to sell the small pieces of history.
    • In November, the final pennies were minted after President Donald Trump ordered the coin's discontinuation.

    Collectors paid a pretty penny to get their hands to get the very last minted pennies.

    Stack's Bowers Galleries, a specialized coin auction site, said it sold 232 three-coin sets featuring some of the final pennies ever struck for a grand total of $16.76 million.

    These coins aren't like the ones stuck between your couch cushions or floating around in a junk drawer. One coin was struck at the Philadelphia Mint, one was struck at the Denver Mint, and the final coin was a special 24-karat gold penny. Each of the final pennies also bears a small "Ω," the Greek letter of Omega, further signifying the end of an era that stretches back to the establishment of the US Mint in 1792.

    According to the auction site, the roughly $17 million is a record for special coins sold on behalf of the United States Mint.

    "They captured the public imagination like few rare coins we've ever handled," Stack's Bowers Galleries President Brian Kendrella said in a statement. "Even our staff of expert numismatists, who see the world's most famous and valuable rare coins day in and day out, were excited by the chance to handle the very last pennies struck before the suspension of circulating production."

    In February, President Donald Trump announced that he had instructed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to halt production of new pennies. For decades, leaders of both major political parties had talked about killing the single-cent coin due to the increasing cost of production. The US Mint reported losing over $85 million on penny production in FY 2024.

    It was unclear whether Trump had the authority to unilaterally eliminate the penny, but ultimately, the administration proceeded with its plans. A 2024 New York Times Magazine report popularized the legal theory that a section of the US Code gave the Secretary of the Treasury the power to effectively discontinue the penny.

    In May, the US Mint made its final order of penny blanks. By November, the final US penny was struck in a ceremonial process aided by Treasurer of the United States Brandon Beach.

    Fittingly, the final penny auction was broken down into 232 lots, one for each year of the coin's existence. The final lot "included the very last circulating penny intended for issuance struck at Philadelphia and Denver" in addition to the canceled dies used to strike the final series of coins.

    Set 232 sold for $800,000, or 16 million nickels.

    Read the original article on Business Insider