Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) shares have entered a trading halt, pending an update about a significant fire at its Geelong Refinery.

What did Viva Energy report?

• No new financial results have been released in this announcement.
• The company requested a trading halt on the ASX.
• The trading halt is related to the impact of a significant fire at the Geelong Refinery.
• Securities will remain halted until either the pending announcement or the open of trading on Monday, 20 April 2026.

What else do investors need to know?

Viva Energy Group has paused trading in its securities after a serious incident at its Geelong Refinery. The company said it will provide further details regarding the fire and its potential impact in an upcoming announcement.

This move aims to ensure all investors have equal access to material information before trading resumes. Viva Energy said it is not aware of any other information that needs to be disclosed at this time.

What’s next for Viva Energy?

Until the company releases its update, trading in Viva Energy shares will remain halted. Investors should watch for the forthcoming announcement for clarity on the extent of the fire’s impact and the company’s next steps.

Once disclosed, more information may help the market re-assess any operational or financial effects stemming from the incident.

Viva Energy share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Viva Energy shares have risen 65%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 16% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Viva Energy share price halted pending update on Geelong Refinery fire appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Whitehaven Coal announces US$900m notes issue and debt refinancing
• AMP posts Q1 2026 results, launches $150m buyback
• Netwealth Group lifts FUA to $125.8B with strong quarterly flows
• PLS Group prices US$600m in senior notes for growth and refinancing
• Genesis Minerals posts March 2026 quarterly results

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.

There are plenty of options for investors to choose from in the uranium industry.

One popular share in the space is Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE). But is it an ASX share to buy now for uranium exposure?

Let’s see what Bell Potter is saying about the uranium producer following its production update this week.

What is the broker saying?

Bell Potter notes that Boss Energy has downgraded its production guidance for FY 2026 due to several rain events. It said:

BOE have reduced its production guidance of 1.6Mlbs for FY26 to 1.4-1.45Mlbs (drummed). The downgrade is in relation to several rain events which impacted site access (and importantly reagent deliveries) in March 2026.

Costs remain within guidance of C1 A$36- 40/lb and AISC A$60-64/lb, however, are likely to track to the upper end of the range. The rainfall event also impacted construction of NIMCIX column 4, however BOE are targeting the completion of 4 & 5 by the end of FY26. Transportation and deliveries to site have now resumed.

Reading between the lines, the broker remains optimistic that a major upcoming potential share price catalyst is still in play. It explains:

The downgrade represents a 24-15% revision on production for the 3Q (assuming 4Q production was 490-520klbs).and a 9.3-12.5% downgrade on FY26 guidance. We suspect that the quarter was impacted by more than weather, with previously flagged decline in leach tenors, however it is difficult to tell. The reagent disruption has resulted in the drop in pH in the IX columns, which will take some time to restabilize, hence the flow on impacts through to 4QFY26.

There appears to be no slippage in the timeline for results of the upcoming wide-spaced drill pattern test work, which is due for release around June. This is the key, near-term catalyst for the story, with success or failure beyond 1.6Mlbpa processing rates resting on the result. On a recent site visit we were pleased to hear examples of ~100m spacings being utilized in Kazakhstan.

Should you buy Boss Energy shares?

According to the note, the broker has retained its buy rating on Boss Energy shares with a trimmed price target of $1.80 (from $1.95).

Based on its current share price of $1.57, this implies potential upside of almost 15% for investors over the next 12 months.

Commenting on its buy recommendation, Bell Potter said:

We continue to see the market positioning for a negative outcome in the upcoming wide-spaced wellfield program, creating an asymmetric risk opportunity in our opinion. Adding to this thesis, the continued increase in uranium prices (Spot US$88/lb or A$124/lb and Term US$89/lb A$125/lb), increases near-term margins and cashflow, further bolstering the balance sheet.

The post Should you buy Boss Energy shares for uranium exposure? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why Boss Energy, Telix, Woodside, and Yancoal shares are falling today
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• These are the 10 most shorted ASX 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 no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

ASX gold shares surged during 2025 as investors flocked to the safe-haven asset. 

However since the commodity price peaked in late January, it has declined significantly. 

Along with it, many ASX gold shares have dropped too. 

According to VanEck, this kind of movement is typical of similar geopolitical events. 

Gold’s March performance surprised many investors. Despite a sharp escalation in geopolitical tensions, gold prices pulled back after briefly retesting record highs. That kind of price action may seem counterintuitive, but it is not unusual in periods of crisis.

VanEck reinforced that gold and gold equities have come under pressure, but once the current period of volatility subsides, the same drivers that supported gold above US$5,000 remain in place.

With that in mind, here are three ASX gold shares generating positive outlooks from experts. 

Brightstar Resources Ltd (ASX: BTR)

Brightstar Resources Ltd. is a gold development company. It is currently working on bringing its Sandstone and Goldfields projects in Western Australia into production. 

Recently, the team at Canaccord Genuity placed a $2.40 price target on this ASX gold stock. 

Analysts said its recent capital raise means the company should be “comfortably funded” through to first gold production.

From yesterday’s closing price of $0.41, this price target indicates a big upside potential of more than 480%. 

Saturn Metals Ltd (ASX: STN)

This ASX gold stock is primarily focused on its 100% owned Apollo Hill Gold Project, located in Western Australia.

The stock price has doubled over the last 12 months. 

It is also drawing a positive outlook from Canaccord Genuity, driven by three shifts: 

• Decades of management experience reduces risk
• WA offers ideal conditions
• Modern workflows assess heap leach viability earlier and more accurately.

Subsequently, the broker has a speculative buy rating and a price target of $1.00 a share.

From yesterday’s closing price of $0.56, this indicates a potential further gain of 78%. 

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

Evolution Mining is another ASX gold stock with upside, this time, according to the team at Bell Potter. 

It is one of Australia’s largest listed gold miners. The company engages in exploration, development, and production activities in both Australia and Canada.

The team at Bell Potter recently retained its buy rating on the ASX 200 gold stock with a price target of $16.45 following the company’s quarterly report. 

From yesterday’s closing price of $14.45, this indicates a healthy 14% upside.

The broker is also forecasting an attractive 3.5% dividend yield over the period.

The post 3 ASX gold shares to buy after the recent pullback appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• Why is this $25 billion ASX mining stock charging higher today?
• Evolution Mining delivers record cash flow and moves to net cash

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell 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.

Starting out in the share market can feel like a lot to take in.

For me, the focus would be on finding businesses that are easy to understand, have clear long-term drivers, and offer a mix of stability and growth. That kind of foundation can make it easier to stay invested and build confidence over time.

Here are four ASX 200 stocks I think fit that approach.

Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB)

Hub24 is a platform business that sits behind how many Australians invest their money.

It provides technology and administration services to financial advisers, allowing them to manage client portfolios more efficiently. That might not be something most investors see directly, but it plays an important role in the broader investment ecosystem.

What stands out to me is the structural shift taking place. More advisers are moving toward platform-based solutions, and funds under administration tend to grow as more clients and assets come onto the platform. That creates a growth profile that builds over time.

For a beginner, I think this is a useful example of a business that benefits from a broader industry trend rather than relying on a single product or outcome.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

BHP offers exposure to something very different. It is one of the world’s largest mining companies, producing commodities like iron ore and copper that are essential to the global economy.

What I like here is the simplicity of the underlying demand. These are materials that support infrastructure, construction, and the transition toward electrification. While commodity prices can move around, the long-term need for these resources remains.

BHP also provides income through dividends, which can be appealing for investors looking to build income over time.

Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG)

Macquarie is a more complex business, but I think it is a good example of how diversification can work within a single company.

This ASX 200 stock operates across asset management, infrastructure, energy, and financial services, with a global footprint.

What I like is its ability to evolve. Macquarie has a long history of identifying areas of growth and allocating capital accordingly. That flexibility allows it to adapt as markets change, which I think is valuable over the long term.

For a beginner, it offers exposure to a wide range of activities without needing to pick each one individually.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

Lastly, Commonwealth Bank is one of the most recognisable companies on the ASX.

It has a dominant position in the Australian banking sector and generates earnings through lending, deposits, and financial services.

What I like here is the consistency. The bank has delivered strong returns over time and pays regular dividends, which can help provide a steady foundation for a portfolio.

It also gives beginners exposure to the financial sector, which plays a central role in the economy.

Foolish Takeaway

For a beginner, building a portfolio comes back to choosing businesses that are understandable and supported by long-term trends.

Hub24 benefits from the shift toward platform-based investing, BHP provides exposure to essential global resources, Macquarie offers diversification and adaptability, and Commonwealth Bank adds stability and income.

They are not the only ASX 200 stocks worth considering, but I think they provide a solid starting point for anyone looking to begin their investing journey.

The post Why I’d buy these ASX 200 stocks if I were a beginner appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Macquarie shares soar 21% to a 52-week high: Buy, sell or hold?
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• 10 years to retirement? Here’s how to build a solid income
• 3 excellent ASX ETFs for income investors to buy
• How I would build the ultimate beginner portfolio with $10,000

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Commonwealth Bank Of Australia and Hub24. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Hub24 and Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group and Hub24. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) share price is in the spotlight today, with first quarter 2026 results showing 45% growth in Platforms net cashflows to $1.1 billion and improved Superannuation & Investments (S&I) net cash outflows down to $80 million, a 26% year-on-year improvement.

What did AMP report?

• Platforms net cashflows increased 45% to $1.1 billion (1Q25: $740 million)
• Superannuation & Investments net cash outflows improved 26% to $80 million (1Q25: $108 million)
• New Zealand Wealth Management net cashflows were $41 million (1Q25: $57 million)
• China Life Pension Company AUM up 17% to ~RMB 2.4 trillion (~A$515 billion)
• AMP Bank GO deposits rose to $942 million, up $632 million from 4Q25
• Total AUM across wealth businesses at $155.9 billion; AMP Bank loan book steady at $24.1 billion

What else do investors need to know?

AMP has launched a $150 million on-market share buyback, aiming to return surplus capital to shareholders. The release of the North Interactive Wealth Portal is one of several enhancements to AMP’s Platforms, delivering new features for advisers that have contributed to positive cashflow momentum.

In the superannuation space, AMP expanded its employer offer for small and medium businesses, in partnership with leading payroll providers, to enhance member retention and acquisition. In New Zealand, cashflows reflected market uncertainty, but the company is targeting opportunities in the retirement segment.

What did AMP management say?

AMP Chief Executive Blair Vernon said:

Accelerating organic growth in our wealth businesses is one of my top priorities. The continued improvement in cashflows across Platforms and Superannuation & Investments demonstrates the momentum that we have… I’m pleased that our $150 million share buyback is now commencing, demonstrating our commitment to returning surplus capital to our shareholders.

What’s next for AMP?

Looking ahead, AMP expects AMP Bank GO deposits to surpass $1.5 billion for the full year 2026 while maintaining its existing market guidance elsewhere, subject to broader market conditions. The company is focused on deepening adviser relationships, improving operational leverage in its platforms, and exploring capital relief strategies for the bank to enhance returns.

AMP is also planning to build on its position in China and leverage retirement expertise in New Zealand, responding to ongoing sector tailwinds despite recent market headwinds and shifts in client sentiment.

AMP share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, AMP shares have risen 26%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 16% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post AMP posts Q1 2026 results, launches $150m buyback appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Whitehaven Coal announces US$900m notes issue and debt refinancing
• Viva Energy share price halted pending update on Geelong Refinery fire
• Netwealth Group lifts FUA to $125.8B with strong quarterly flows
• PLS Group prices US$600m in senior notes for growth and refinancing
• Genesis Minerals posts March 2026 quarterly results

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.

The Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) share price is in focus today as the wealth management platform posted $4.0 billion in FUA net flows and boosted total funds under administration (FUA) to $125.8 billion, up 20.9% year-on-year.

What did Netwealth Group report?

• Total FUA at 31 March 2026 of $125.8 billion, up 20.9% on the prior corresponding period (PCP)
• FUA net inflows of $7.6 billion for the quarter, up 19.4% on PCP
• Managed Account net flows reached $1.2 billion, up 34.8% on PCP
• Total number of accounts rose 13.4% year on year to 176,675
• Total FUM (funds under management) increased to $31.8 billion, up 28.5% on PCP
• Non-custodial FUA up 56.6% year on year to $1.2 billion

What else do investors need to know?

Netwealth’s positive flow momentum came despite a tough quarter for markets, with the ASX All Ordinaries sliding 3.7%. The business added 41 new intermediary relationships and 4,454 new client accounts during the period, indicating strong ongoing demand for its platform.

Key strategic initiatives progressed during the quarter included the pilot phase of Netwealth’s individual HIN solution for private wealth clients and numerous platform enhancements, such as new onboarding, workflow, and reporting capabilities. These innovations aim to boost adviser efficiency and client satisfaction.

What’s next for Netwealth Group?

Looking ahead, Netwealth expects FUA net flows for FY26 to remain broadly in line with FY25, and projects an EBITDA margin of approximately 49% (excluding any First Guardian impacts). The business is investing around $12 million in capitalised software development and plans to base future dividends on underlying earnings, excluding any one-off items.

Management says the business remains highly profitable and cash generative, supported by recurring revenue and a strong balance sheet. They also see a sizeable opportunity in the Australian broking market as they prepare to launch the individual HIN solution more broadly in July 2026.

Netwealth Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Netwealth shares have declined 6%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 16% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Netwealth Group lifts FUA to $125.8B with strong quarterly flows appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Whitehaven Coal announces US$900m notes issue and debt refinancing
• Viva Energy share price halted pending update on Geelong Refinery fire
• AMP posts Q1 2026 results, launches $150m buyback
• PLS Group prices US$600m in senior notes for growth and refinancing
• Genesis Minerals posts March 2026 quarterly results

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 positions in and has recommended Netwealth Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Netwealth Group. 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.

The PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), formerly known as Pilbara Minerals, share price is in focus today as the company announced the successful pricing of its US$600 million 6.875% Senior Notes due 2031, up from earlier plans for a US$500 million offer.

What did PLS Group report?

• Priced US$600 million Senior Unsecured Notes, due 2031, at 6.875% annual interest
• Initial offer size increased by US$100 million from US$500 million
• Settlement expected on 22 April 2026, subject to customary closing conditions
• Interest payable semi-annually, starting 1 November 2026
• Certain wholly-owned subsidiaries will guarantee the Notes
• Proceeds to refinance A$375 million drawn on revolving credit facility and for general use

What else do investors need to know?

The move will allow PLS Group to refinance its existing A$375 million balance on its A$1 billion revolving credit facility. Upon closing the Notes offering, the size of this facility will be reduced to A$500 million, strengthening the company’s capital structure and flexibility.

PLS Group remains a major player in global lithium supply with its large-scale Pilgangoora operation in Australia and a strategic joint venture with POSCO in South Korea to produce battery-grade lithium hydroxide. The company’s assets and partnerships put it at the forefront of the fast-growing battery materials sector.

What’s next for PLS Group?

With proceeds from the Notes partially allocated to refinance existing debt and the remainder for broader corporate purposes, PLS Group looks set to maintain its investment in current projects and potential new opportunities in lithium. The company remains committed to advancing its role in the global energy transition and building on relationships with leading international partners.

Investors can expect PLS Group to focus on sustainable growth and maintaining a competitive position in battery materials, supported by prudent capital management and a robust asset base.

PLS Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, PLS Group shares have risen 293%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 16% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post PLS Group prices US$600m in senior notes for growth and refinancing appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Genesis Minerals posts March 2026 quarterly results
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• Contact Energy lifts sales and generation in March 2026 monthly update
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• National Storage REIT to exit ASX 200 after takeover announcement

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.

The Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GNE) share price is on the move today after the gold miner released its March 2026 quarterly results, highlighting a cash balance rising to $600 million and quarterly gold production of 67,497 ounces at an all-in sustaining cost of A$2,685 per ounce.

What did Genesis Minerals report?

• Gold sales of 65,049 ounces at an average price of A$6,755/oz, generating revenue of $439.4 million
• Quarterly (unaudited) NPAT between $145 million and $155 million
• Cash and equivalents rose by $196 million over the quarter to $599.9 million, with Genesis remaining bank debt-free
• Quarterly gold production reached 67,497 ounces across Leonora and Laverton operations
• All-in sustaining cost for the quarter was A$2,685/oz
• Underlying cash build of $252.8 million for the quarter before investing $56.6 million in growth and exploration

What else do investors need to know?

Genesis completed all third-party ore purchases during the quarter, with production from its Genesis mines ramping up in their place. The company continues to invest in sector-leading growth, including the Tower Hill open pit project, which is moving ahead of schedule with site works underway.

A major highlight was the proposed acquisition of Magnetic Resources for $639 million, anticipated to complete by June 2026 subject to conditions. This transaction will boost Genesis’ growth strategy, potentially lifting group milling capacity to 8–9 million tonnes per annum. Additionally, Genesis has expanded its undrawn corporate financing facility to $300 million, further strengthening its balance sheet ahead of this deal.

What did Genesis Minerals management say?

Executive Chair Raleigh Finlayson said:

We continue to generate exceptional free cashflow while also investing in the ongoing growth of our business. This reflects an ideal combination of rising production from our mines, tight cost control, a robust gold price and no bank debt. We are also laying the foundations for the next chapter of growth, including the start of site works at the Tower Hill project, and look forward to providing an update on our long-term plan in the September quarter.

What’s next for Genesis Minerals?

Genesis remains on track for its FY26 production outlook of 260,000–290,000 ounces at an AISC of A$2,500–A$2,700/oz. The company expects to finalise the Magnetic Resources acquisition in June and release an updated long-term production and cost plan—including FY27 guidance—in the September quarter 2026.

Site works and procurement at Tower Hill are well underway, aiming for first ore in FY28. Further, drilling and resource conversion work continues at other growth projects like Bruno Lewis, as Genesis looks to maintain its strong operating and financial momentum.

Genesis Minerals share price snapshot

Over the past 12 month, Genesis Minerals shares have declined 11%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 16% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Genesis Minerals posts March 2026 quarterly results appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• PLS Group prices US$600m in senior notes for growth and refinancing
• Fletcher Building posts positive Q3 volumes amid new global risks
• Contact Energy lifts sales and generation in March 2026 monthly update
• New Hope launches $300m convertible notes offer and buyback
• National Storage REIT to exit ASX 200 after takeover announcement

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.

Morgans has busy looking closely at a number of ASX shares this week.

Three of which are named below. Does the broker rate them as buys, holds, or sells? Let’s find out:

Bank of Queensland Ltd (ASX: BOQ)

Morgans has been looking ahead to this regional bank’s half-year results. Unfortunately, it is predicting a sharp decline in profits for the first half.

Combined with recent share price strength, the broker feels this makes its shares fully valued now. As a result, Morgans has downgraded Bank of Queensland’s shares to a hold rating with a $7.39 price target. It said:

We expect a material decline in 1H26 earnings, with recent share price strength driven by the expected capital return from the equipment finance whole-of-loan sale. Share price strength has compressed total return potential to c.5%. As such, we moderate our rating from ACCUMULATE to HOLD. Target price $7.39.

The Koala Company (ASX: KOA)

This newly listed furniture seller has caught the eye of Morgans.

This week, it has initiated coverage on Koala’s shares with a buy rating and $5.13 price target. Morgans highlights that its shares are trading at a discount to peers despite having a strong growth profile. It explains:

We initiate coverage on Koala Company with a BUY recommendation and $5.13 target price. We think there is a degree of conservatism embedded in both our forecasts and valuation, with the balance of risk skewed to the upside.

Koala offers an attractive growth profile, underpinned by strong sales growth, margin expansion and significant NPAT growth. The stock screens cheap on a multiple basis, trading on 18.5x FY27 PER versus the peer set average at 27.0x, despite offering one of the strongest growth profiles.

Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC)

Morgans notes that Australia’s oldest bank released a trading update this week.

It was disappointed with the update and in response has downgraded Westpac’s shares to a sell rating with a $34.06 price target  It said:

WBC published a trading update ahead of its 1H26 result due for release on 5 May. Implied revenues were weaker, costs lower, and credit impairment charges higher than our and market expectations.

We revise our rating from TRIM to SELL as total return expectations at current prices have fallen below the -10% trigger. We estimate c.18% price downside risk partly offset by c.3.8% forecast cash yield. Target price $34.06.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Bank of Queensland, Koala, and Westpac shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Are Westpac and Bank of Queensland shares a buy, hold or sell?
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• Why Westpac, Cleanaway and Qantas shares are catching ASX investor interest on Tuesday
• Why Westpac shares are holding near record highs after a $75 million hit
• Westpac Banking Corporation: Items impacting first-half 2026 results

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.

It hasn’t been an easy year for some of the highest-quality ASX shares.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA) shares are down around 13% year to date, while Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW) has fallen roughly 21%.

Both are leaders in their fields. Both ASX shares have strong long-term growth stories.

So, is this weakness an opportunity?

REA Group: a digital powerhouse

When it comes to dominant platforms, this ASX share is hard to beat.

The company sits at the centre of Australia’s property market through realestate.com.au. That position gives it significant pricing power and a highly scalable business model.

Agents need eyeballs and REA controls them. That dynamic has allowed the company to consistently lift prices through premium listings and depth products, even when property volumes fluctuate.

While the housing cycle can create short-term volatility, the long-term trajectory remains intact. Growth is also supported by international expansion, adding another lever beyond the domestic market.

And the recent pullback hasn’t gone unnoticed. Trading View data show that 12 out of 16 brokers rate REA Group as a buy or strong buy. They have set a 12-month average price target of $213.62, which points to a 32% potential gain.

Analysts at Morgan Stanley currently have an overweight rating on the ASX share, with a $230.00 price target. That suggests potential upside of roughly 44% from current levels.

For long-term investors, that’s a strong signal that the market may be underestimating REA’s staying power.

Light & Wonder: growth across multiple fronts

Light & Wonder offers a different kind of growth story, but one that’s just as compelling.

The company operates across land-based gaming, iGaming, and social gaming through its SciPlay division. That diversified model allows it to tap into both traditional casino revenue and the fast-growing digital gaming market.

It’s a powerful combination. By straddling physical and digital channels, the ASX share is positioned to capture multiple industry tailwinds at once. And that’s exactly why analysts are paying attention.

Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) has named the ASX share its top pick in the Australian gaming sector, pointing to its ability to win market share and its “wide moat from disruption.” That’s a big call in a competitive space.

The upside case is hard to ignore. Macquarie has set a $205 price target on the stock, compared to its current price of $122.77. That implies potential upside of more than 65%.

Of course, risks remain. Consumer spending cycles, regulatory changes, and execution all matter. But the long-term positioning is clear.

Foolish Takeaway

REA Group and Light & Wonder have both taken a hit in 2026. But their core strengths haven’t disappeared. These are dominant businesses with scalable models, strong competitive advantages, and clear growth pathways.

For investors willing to look beyond short-term volatility, they could be the kind of shares you buy — and forget about for years.

The post Buy and forget? 2 top ASX shares built for the long term appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• 2 ASX growth shares to buy now while they’re on sale
• The ASX 200 shares I think smart investors are buying after the tech selloff
• Could these ASX stocks double by the end of 2026?
• 2 high-quality ASX stocks to buy and hold long term

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Light & Wonder Inc. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Light & Wonder Inc. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.