• This ASX materials stock could rise 100% in the next 12 months according to top broker

    A man in his 30s holds his laptop and operates it with his other hand as he has a look of pleasant surprise on his face as though he is learning something new or finding hidden value in something on the screen.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has enjoyed two consecutive strong days of trading. Investors have piled back in on positive news out of the Iran/US conflict. 

    Australia’s benchmark index has now leapt 3% higher since last Friday. 

    As optimism returns for many Australian equities, one ASX materials stock to watch is Wildcat Resources Ltd (ASX: WC8). 

    Company overview

    Wildcat Resources is a Perth based lithium exploration and development company. It is focused on advancing its 100% owned Tabba Tabba project, located 80km from Port Hedland in Western Australia. 

    A July 2025 Pre-Feasibility Study outlined a two-stage development scenario to reach production of 565ktpa spodumene concentrate 5.5% at an upfront capital cost of $687m.

    Additionally, a Definitive Feasibility Study is scheduled for 3Q 2026.

    Funding discussions and permitting activities are advancing. Bell Potter said it expects first production could commence in late 2028.

    It has already generated plenty of excitement amongst investors, as its share price has risen more than 200% in the last 12 months. 

    This includes a 26% rise year to date.

    Why investors should be excited 

    This ASX materials stock is positioned to benefit from an improving lithium market and leverage it through its Tabba Tabba project.

    It offers high leverage to a recovering lithium cycle, backed by a large, advanced Pilbara asset and ongoing exploration success. 

    If lithium remains strong through 2026-2027, developers such as Wildcat could see outsized valuation gains relative to established producers. 

    If lithium demand from EVs and battery storage keeps rising, this stock could be well positioned for a major rerating.

    Bell Potter tips big upside

    A new report from Bell Potter has tipped this ASX materials stock could rise by 106% in the next 12 months. 

    The broker noted that the Tabba Tabba project is one of the only near-term Australian hard rock lithium developments. 

    Additionally, it is also the only large scale near-term development positioned to commence production during the current lithium price cycle. 

    The project is strategically located 80km from Port Hedland and WC8 enters financing discussions with 100% of offtake uncommitted. The company trades on undemanding EV/Resource multiples compared with Western Australian spodumene producers. We expect its share price will re-rate as Tabba Tabba reaches key feasibility and permitting milestones and transitions into development.

    The broker also has a speculative buy recommendation and $1.00 price target on this ASX materials stock, making it an intriguing option for investors. 

    The post This ASX materials stock could rise 100% in the next 12 months according to top broker appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Wildcat Resources right now?

    Before you buy Wildcat Resources 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 Wildcat Resources 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 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.

  • Could this ASX 200 share double by 2030?

    Young businesswoman sitting in kitchen and working on laptop.

    Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) shares have had a wild ride over the past few years.

    The buy now, pay later sector went from market darling to market warning sign in a short period of time.

    Rising interest rates, funding concerns, credit losses, and questions about long-term profitability all weighed heavily on investor confidence.

    But Zip today looks very different to the business many investors remember from the boom years.

    It is more focused, more disciplined, and now being judged on earnings rather than only transaction growth. That makes the current valuation worth a closer look.

    The numbers look interesting

    Zip shares are currently trading around $2.78.

    Based on consensus forecasts from CommSec, the company is expected to generate earnings per share of 9.2 cents in FY26, 10.9 cents in FY27, and 17 cents in FY28.

    That means Zip is trading on roughly 30 times FY26 earnings, 26 times FY27 earnings, and 16 times FY28 earnings.

    For a lower-growth business, that would not look especially cheap. But Zip is expected to grow earnings strongly over the next few years. If those forecasts prove accurate, the valuation starts to look much more reasonable as investors look further out.

    The FY28 number is the one that stands out to me. A price-to-earnings ratio of around 16 times does not look demanding for a business that is still expected to be growing quickly.

    That is why I think Zip shares could be undervalued based on the current forecasts.

    Could Zip double?

    Could Zip shares double by 2030?

    That is hard to predict with confidence. A lot needs to go right between now and then, and Zip remains a higher-risk ASX 200 share.

    But I do not think the idea is outlandish.

    Zip’s 52-week high is $4.93. A return to that level would already be close to a double from the current share price. Reaching that point again by 2030 would require stronger investor confidence, continued earnings growth, and evidence that the company can keep building a sustainable, profitable business.

    The key point is that Zip does not need to reach some distant, never-seen-before valuation to make the idea possible. The shares have traded much higher within the past year.

    Of course, a previous high is not a target or a guarantee. The market will need a reason to re-rate the stock. That reason would likely have to come from earnings momentum, better margins, credit discipline, and stronger confidence in the US opportunity.

    Brokers are positive

    Another factor worth noting is broker sentiment.

    According to CommSec, the consensus rating on Zip is a strong buy. That includes 10 strong buy ratings, 2 moderate buy ratings, and no hold, moderate sell, or strong sell ratings.

    I would never buy a share only because brokers are positive. Analysts can be wrong, and ratings can change quickly if the numbers disappoint.

    But that level of support does suggest the market’s professional watchers see more upside than downside from here.

    What needs to happen

    For Zip shares to double by 2030, the company will need to keep executing.

    It needs to grow strongly beyond FY28, maintain sensible credit settings, manage funding costs, and keep attracting customers without chasing poor-quality growth.

    That last point is important. The buy now, pay later boom showed that growth without discipline can destroy value. The more attractive version of Zip is a company that grows transactions, but also protects margins, controls losses, and keeps improving earnings per share.

    If management can do that, I think the share price has room to move a lot higher over the next few years.

    Foolish takeaway

    Zip shares are still risky, and I would not treat a potential double as a simple base case.

    But I do think the setup is interesting. The shares are trading well below their 52-week high, the forward valuation looks much more attractive, and brokers are strongly positive on the stock.

    If Zip keeps growing earnings, proves the quality of its customer base, and shows that its profit momentum can continue beyond the next few years, I think a much higher share price by 2030 is possible.

    The post Could this ASX 200 share double by 2030? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Zip Co right now?

    Before you buy Zip Co 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 Zip Co 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 Grace Alvino 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.

  • Bell Potter just raised its price targets on these 2 ASX lithium stocks

    Buy now written on a red key with a shopping trolley on an Apple keyboard.

    A rising tide lifts all ships and that’s exactly what’s been happening with global lithium prices and ASX lithium stocks.

    In the last 12 months: 

    • Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) shares have risen over 230%
    • Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) have climbed over 200%. 

    Liontown and Mineral Resources both focus on the development of high-quality lithium projects in Western Australia.

    Lithium lift off

    According to Trading Economics, the lithium price has risen by more than 180% in the last 12 months. 

    The main reason lithium prices have risen sharply over the past year is that the market has swung from oversupply toward a much tighter balance between supply and demand.

    A few years ago, lithium prices collapsed because mines expanded rapidly while EV growth slowed. By mid-2025, prices had fallen roughly 90% from their 2022 peak. 

    While electric vehicle growth has moderated compared with the boom years, lithium demand continues to expand because of:

    • EV production
    • Grid-scale battery storage systems
    • Renewable energy deployment
    • Growing electricity-storage needs for power grids and data centers. 

    The rise can continue for Mineral Resources

    New analysis from Bell Potter has pointed towards a continued rise for these ASX lithium stocks. 

    Both have received buy recommendations from the broker. 

    The broker has increased its price target on Mineral Resources shares to $83.00 (previously $80.50). 

    Bell Potter expects the company to deliver a solid quarter, driven primarily by much higher lithium prices.

    Lithium production guidance implies lower sales volumes at Wodgina and Mt Marion versus the previous quarter.

    However, Bell Potter believes actual production and sales could exceed guidance due to strong operating momentum and favourable market conditions.

    Iron ore sales from Onslow are expected to rebound after cyclone disruptions affected the previous quarter.

    Although diesel costs have increased, Bell Potter expects higher commodity prices to more than offset the cost pressure.

    MIN’s mining services platform delivers a stable earnings stream that is expected to expand with internal and third-party volume growth. The company is well positioned to execute its next phase of growth with potential to reinstate fully franked dividends.

    From yesterday’s closing price, the updated target from Bell Potter indicates a 16% upside for this ASX lithium stock. 

    Liontown also set to continue

    Bell Potter has also increased its price target on Liontown shares to $2.90 (previously $2.65). 

    The broker said its Kathleen Valley lithium operations exited the last quarter with strong momentum as increased underground clean ore production led to improving recoveries. 

    This trend should continue as the underground mine incrementally scales to mid-2027.

    Over FY26-27, LTR will continue to ramp up and de-risk Kathleen Valley. With current lithium price strength, LTR can rapidly generate cash to support incremental production expansions and shareholder returns. Kathleen Valley is highly strategic in terms of scale, long project life and location in a tier-one mining jurisdiction.

    From yesterday’s closing price, the updated target from Bell Potter indicates a 29% upside for this ASX lithium stock. 

    The post Bell Potter just raised its price targets on these 2 ASX lithium stocks appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Liontown 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 Liontown 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 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.

  • This ASX lithium stock is close to an all time high – can it keep rising?

    A man checks his phone next to an electric vehicle charging station with his electric vehicle parked in the charging bay.

    ASX lithium stock PLS Group (ASX: PLS) has brought investors massive returns over the last 12 months. 

    Since June last year, the stock price has risen nearly 400%.

    Formerly Pilbara Minerals, PLS Group is an Australian lithium-tantalum producer positioning itself at the forefront of the rapidly growing global lithium industry. Its flagship development, the 100%-owned Pilgangoora Lithium-Tantalum Project, is located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

    Lithium rebound

    This rise has been driven by a strong recovery in lithium prices and renewed optimism in the sector. 

    The market has become more optimistic about demand from:

    • Electric vehicles
    • Grid-scale battery storage
    • Residential energy storage systems. 

    PLS also significantly increased production at its Pilgangoora operation. 

    Record output and stronger recovery rates showed the company could generate more tonnes when the market improved. This higher production gives more leverage to rising lithium prices. 

    With PLS shares now sitting close to all-time highs, investors may be wondering if the strong run can continue. 

    A new report from Bell Potter has provided an updated outlook on what could be to come over the next 12 months. 

    Long-term fundamentals strong

    According to Bell Potter, after reviewing future supply and demand, it believes new mine supply is unlikely to grow fast enough to meet expected demand growth from EVs and battery storage.

    At current lithium market prices, PLS will generate substantial earnings and cash flow with the restart of the 200ktpa Ngungaju processing plant. P2000 and Colina development studies are being progressed, providing substantial organic growth optionality in markets with strong underlying EV and BESS-led long term demand fundamentals.

    The higher lithium price outlook flows directly into higher profits, leading Bell Potter to increase its earnings forecasts for PLS by 12% for FY26, 14% for FY27, and 34% for FY28.

    The broker also said FY26 production guidance looks cautious. Management’s guidance implies lithium concentrate production could fall in the final quarter. 

    However Bell Potter expects production to be stronger than guidance suggests and forecasts 872kt for FY26, above what the market may be assuming.

    Costs are likely to rise modestly due to restarting the Ngungaju plant and higher diesel prices, but operating costs remain under control and are tracking near the lower end of guidance.

    Hold recommendation 

    Despite the positive outlook, Bell Potter has retained its hold recommendation on this ASX lithium stock. 

    The broker has increased its price target to $6.15 (previously $5.50). 

    However, this target is 5% below current levels, suggesting the ASX lithium stock could slide from here.

    The post This ASX lithium stock is close to an all time high – can it keep rising? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Pls Group 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 Pls Group 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 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.

  • How much superannuation does a 40-year-old actually need to retire comfortably?

    A young woman sits with her hand to her chin staring off to the side thinking about her investments.

    Most 40-year-olds think about superannuation the same way they think about the dentist.

    They know they should be paying more attention. But they keep putting it off.

    For a 40-year-old Australian today, retirement at age 67 is just 27 years away.

    The decisions made in the next five years will determine more of the final outcome than those made in the five years before retirement.

    Here is the honest picture of what you need and how to get there.

    The superannuation number a 40-year-old needs to retire comfortably

    According to ASFA’s February 2026 Retirement Standard, a comfortable retirement now costs $51,278 per year for a single person and $77,375 per year for a couple.

    To fund that lifestyle from age 67, ASFA estimates homeowners need $630,000 in superannuation for singles and $730,000 for couples.

    Those figures are at all-time highs, driven by inflation pushing up the cost of healthcare, energy, food, and services.

    A comfortable retirement includes private health insurance, a reliable car, regular dining out, domestic holidays, and an overseas trip every few years.

    It is the retirement most Australians believe they deserve. Unfortunately, many will not have enough to fund it.

    Where does a typical 40-year-old stand?

    According to APRA’s most recent superannuation statistics, the average superannuation balance for a person in their early 40s is approximately $130,000 for women and $180,000 for men.

    Those figures are well below what is needed.

    A 40-year-old with $150,000 in super today, contributing 12% of an $85,000 salary and earning 8% per annum, would accumulate approximately $870,000 by age 67.

    Now that is above the ASFA benchmark for a single person. But earning 8% per annum is not guaranteed.

    In a balanced fund earning 5% per annum, the same person would accumulate approximately $490,000, falling $140,000 short of a comfortable retirement.

    That gap is the difference between private health insurance and the public system.

    Between flying interstate once a year and staying home.

    Why what you invest in inside superannuation matters

    Reaching that 8% target is as important as ever.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has returned approximately 8.5% per annum including dividends since inception. Inside a 15% superannuation tax environment, this figure is among the most powerful compounding returns available to Australian investors.

    For investors wanting broad exposure to Australian shares inside their SMSF, the Betashares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200) offers a simple and effective solution.

    A200 ETF charges a management fee of just 0.04% per annum, the lowest of any Australian shares ETF on the market. Furthermore, the ETF pays quarterly franked distributions.

    On the flipside, for investors who prefer individual stocks, Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) is the most widely held stock inside Australian superannuation funds for good reason.

    CMC Invest forecasts CBA will pay a fully franked dividend of approximately $5.15 per share in FY2026. The franking credit refunds that inside a super fund are taxed at 15% boost the effective after-tax yield above what a term deposit can offer.

    The 30 June deadline for a 40-year-old

    There’s action that Aussies can take now.

    The concessional contributions cap for FY2026 sits at $30,000, including employer contributions.

    A 40-year-old earning $85,000 with $10,200 in employer contributions already made has room for a further $19,800 in salary sacrifice before 30 June.

    Making those contributions at the 15% concessional rate rather than at a marginal rate of 32.5% saves approximately $3,465 in income tax immediately.

    Compounded inside superannuation for 27 years at 8% per annum, that single year’s additional contribution grows to approximately $29,000.

    But be quick! The window closes on 30 June 2026.

    Foolish takeaway

    A 40-year-old Australian needs approximately $630,000 in superannuation to retire comfortably as a single person.

    Most are not on track to reach that number on employer contributions alone.

    The gap can be closed with additional contributions, smart investment choices inside superannuation, and the compounding power of time.

    But time is the one resource that only gets scarcer.

    The post How much superannuation does a 40-year-old actually need to retire comfortably? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Commonwealth Bank Of Australia right now?

    Before you buy Commonwealth Bank Of Australia 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 Commonwealth Bank Of Australia 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 Mark Verhoeven 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.

  • 3 reasons to buy Cochlear shares in June

    Young girl shows hearing aid while smiling.

    After one of the most dramatic sell-offs in recent ASX healthcare history, Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) shares may finally be showing signs of life.

    The hearing implant leader remains down around 60% year to date, but it has quietly staged a comeback in recent weeks, climbing 8.5% over the past month. At the time of writing, Cochlear shares trade at $104.45.

    So, is this modest recovery the start of something bigger?

    Here are three reasons investors may want to consider buying the healthcare stock in June.

    The bad news may already be priced in

    It’s worth remembering just how brutal April was for shareholders.

    Most of the pain arrived on 22 April following the release of a decidedly unwelcome trading update.

    Cochlear shares closed down 40.7% in a single session after the company reported falling demand for its implants in developed markets. Management also flagged cancellations and delivery delays in the Middle East due to the ongoing conflict.

    The update forced the company to slash its FY2026 underlying net profit guidance to between $290 million and $330 million, down from its prior guidance range of $435 million to $460 million.

    The downgrade shocked investors. But after such a severe reset in expectations, the market may have already priced in much of the near-term weakness.

    Cochlear remains the industry leader

    While earnings expectations have changed, Cochlear’s competitive position has not.

    The company still commands roughly 50% of the global cochlear implant market, making it the clear industry leader.

    Even more importantly, the long-term growth opportunity for Cochlear shares remains enormous. The addressable market exceeds six million patients in developed markets alone, yet penetration sits at only around 3%.

    Over more than four decades, Cochlear has invested heavily in research and development, building a product moat that competitors have struggled to replicate.

    With ageing populations, growing awareness of hearing loss, and continued adoption of implantable hearing technology, the long-term demand outlook remains compelling.

    Analysts and management see a brighter future

    Broker sentiment has become increasingly constructive following the sell-off.

    Both Jarden and Wilsons Advisory believe the market reaction has been excessive, with each seeing upside of more than 60% in Cochlear shares over the next 12 months.

    Management also continues to argue that the recent volume weakness is temporary rather than structural.

    CEO Dig Howitt stated the following in the company’s April trading update:

    The clinical need for cochlear implants continues to grow, particularly for the adult and seniors segment. Cochlear implants are also associated with a lower incidence of dementia, with dementia rates lower than in hearing aid users and comparable to those with normal hearing.

    Those comments highlight an important point. The factors that drove Cochlear’s long-term growth story before April’s shock downgrade remain firmly in place today.

    If demand stabilises and delivery disruptions ease, investors buying Cochlear shares after the sell-off could be well positioned to benefit from a recovery in both earnings expectations and market sentiment.

    The post 3 reasons to buy Cochlear shares in June appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Cochlear 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 Cochlear 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 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 Cochlear. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Cochlear. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • CSL shares trade at just 12 times forecast earnings. Here’s why they could be the buy of the decade

    patient with doctor, medical company, medical insurance

    CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) has crashed 60% from its all-time high. It now trades at just 12 times forecast FY2026 earnings.

    That is a multiple more commonly associated with slow-growth industrial companies than with the world’s second-largest plasma-derived therapies business.

    For long-term investors looking to buy quality businesses at basement prices, this could be the opportunity of the decade.

    Why CSL shares crashed

    The selling has been brutal and perhaps partially overdone.

    Three forces converged on CSL shares in 2025 and 2026.

    First, the broader ASX healthcare sector was sold aggressively as investors rotated into resources and energy stocks during the Middle East conflict.

    Second, CSL delivered a series of earnings downgrades as plasma collection volumes normalised more slowly than expected following the COVID-19 disruption, and China albumin pricing weakened.

    Third, the appointment of interim CEO Gordon Naylor following Paul McKenzie’s departure created leadership uncertainty at perhaps the wrong moment.

    Management cited weakness in China albumin pricing, with revenue down $200 million from market value decline.

    What’s more, US immunoglobulin inventory normalisation is expected to have a $300 million impact as the primary revenue headwinds.
    The company  also flagged approximately US$5 billion in additional non-cash pre-tax impairments to be recognised across FY2026 and FY2027, largely relating to the CSL Vifor acquisition.

    Interim CEO Gordon Naylor said:

    Our growth initiatives are working, but the financial benefits will take longer than previously anticipated to materialise.

    The sell-off was so severe that insiders began buying CSL shares on market in May 2026, with interim CEO Gordon Naylor purchasing 1,100 shares as a direct signal of his confidence in the business at current prices.

    The sell-off looks overdone

    CSL is the world’s second-largest plasma-derived therapies company, with an irreplaceable position in a market that has taken decades to build.

    The barriers to entry in plasma collection, fractionation, and biopharmaceutical manufacturing are among the highest of any industry.

    No competitor has meaningfully eroded CSL’s market position in the past 30 years.

    The issues that drove the earnings downgrades, (plasma collection normalisation and China pricing) are both temporary.

    Furthermore, the gross profit margin at CSL Behring, the core plasma business, is on a clear recovery path. UBS expects the margin to recover toward pre-COVID levels of approximately 57% by FY2028, with the biggest improvement occurring in FY2026.

    That margin recovery, combined with volume growth as plasma collection catches up, has created an earnings recovery trajectory over the next two to three years.

    What the brokers are saying about CSL shares

    The broker community has remained largely constructive through the selloff.

    Morgans carries a buy rating on CSL shares with a price target of $293.83, noting the restructuring augments rather than masks the underlying business. The broker added that streamlining operations and cost savings could support double-digit earnings growth over the medium term.

    Macquarie retained its outperform rating on CSL shares following the most recent guidance update.

    On the more cautious side, Sanlam Private Wealth holds a hold rating. The broker noted that while CSL appears good value over the longer term, other stocks could potentially deliver faster returns in the short to medium term.

    Foolish takeaway

    CSL shares at 12 times forecast earnings is not something that comes along often.

    The plasma collection recovery and margin improvement narrative is underway.

    Insiders are buying and Morgans sees upside to $293.83.

    For patient investors who can look past the near-term noise and focus on where CSL’s earnings will be in three years, the current entry point could prove to be one of the great buying opportunities this stock has ever offered.

    The post CSL shares trade at just 12 times forecast earnings. Here’s why they could be the buy of the decade 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…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Mark Verhoeven 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 CSL. 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.

  • Which top ASX tech shares would I buy for FY27?

    A smiling woman points with her pen at a computer where a colleague sits as though they are collaborating on a project.

    I’m still positive on ASX tech shares over the long term.

    The sector can be volatile, and expectations can shift quickly. But I think the best technology businesses are still finding ways to become more important to their customers.

    With FY27 approaching, I would be looking for companies that are not just attached to a popular theme but are building products and infrastructure that customers actually rely on. Here are three I would buy.

    WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

    WiseTech is the first ASX tech share I would buy.

    The company is best known for CargoWise, its software platform for the global logistics industry.

    I think the interesting thing about WiseTech is that logistics is full of friction. Freight forwarders, customs brokers, carriers, warehouses, importers, exporters, and regulators all need information to move accurately across borders, systems, documents, and time zones.

    That creates a natural role for specialist software. CargoWise helps customers manage more of that workflow in one place. The deeper it becomes inside a logistics business, the harder it can be to replace. That embedded position is what I like most.

    I also think logistics software could become more valuable as global trade becomes more demanding. Customers want better visibility, faster document handling, fewer manual errors, and more automation. Artificial intelligence (AI) could help with parts of that over time, but the platform still needs deep industry knowledge, data, and customer workflows behind it.

    WiseTech is not without risk. Expectations can be high, acquisitions need to be integrated well, and investors will keep a close eye on management execution. But I think the company has built a rare global software position from Australia.

    Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

    Wealth management platform provider Netwealth is another ASX tech share I would buy for FY27.

    A good investment platform can sit at the centre of an advice business. It can help advisers manage portfolios, reporting, administration, managed accounts, tax information, and client workflows.

    That may sound behind-the-scenes, but I think it is extremely important.

    Advisers do not want clunky systems when client needs are becoming more detailed. Retirees may need income strategies, younger investors may want transparency, and families may have several layers of financial goals. Platforms that make advice practices more efficient can become very valuable.

    Netwealth has built a strong position in that market. I like its brand, its independent platform model, and its ability to benefit as more money moves through modern wealth systems.

    It may have been growing strongly over the last decade, but I think Netwealth still has a long runway if it keeps winning adviser support and improving its technology.

    NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT)

    NextDC gives investors a very different type of technology exposure.

    Rather than selling software to customers, it provides the physical data centre infrastructure needed for the digital economy to function.

    That includes cloud computing, AI, cybersecurity, streaming, enterprise software, data storage, and online services. All of those activities need secure, reliable, power-hungry facilities behind them.

    I think this is one of the most important technology themes on the ASX.

    The digital world can look weightless from the outside, but the infrastructure behind it is very real. Companies need capacity, power, cooling, connectivity, security, and locations that support large-scale computing.

    NextDC is positioned in that infrastructure layer. And if the demand outlook continues to strengthen, I think the company could have many years of growth ahead.

    Foolish Takeaway

    The ASX tech shares I like most are not just selling into a fashionable theme. They are becoming part of the systems, workflows, and infrastructure that customers need to operate.

    That is what makes this group appealing to me. Each business has a different risk profile, and FY27 could still bring plenty of volatility. But I think specialist software, platform technology, and digital infrastructure remain powerful areas of long-term growth.

    The post Which top ASX tech shares would I buy for FY27? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Netwealth Group 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 Netwealth Group 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 Grace Alvino 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 and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Netwealth Group and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Qube Holdings scheme update: Dividend and key dates revealed

    Man holding a calculator with Australian dollar notes, symbolising dividends.

    The Qube Holdings Ltd (ASX: QUB) share price is in focus after the company announced an update on its proposed scheme of arrangement. Key highlights include confirmation of the Special Dividend and changes to the indicative timetable for the scheme.

    What did Qube report?

    • The Board intends to declare a fully franked Special Dividend of $0.3465 per share if the scheme becomes effective
    • Scheme Meeting is scheduled for 16 June 2026
    • Second Court Hearing postponed to 7 July 2026
    • Proposed implementation date for the scheme is 14 August 2026
    • All dates are indicative and subject to regulatory and court approvals

    What else do investors need to know?

    The scheme still requires key regulatory approvals, including from the ACCC, FIRB, and New Zealand’s OIO. The ACCC’s Phase 1 determination deadline is 19 June 2026, with the OIO’s decision expected in early July.

    Qube will proceed with its Scheme Meetings as planned, first for general shareholders (excluding UniSuper) and then for UniSuper. The revised schedule allows time for the remaining conditions precedent to be completed or waived.

    What’s next for Qube?

    Looking ahead, Qube shareholders will vote on the scheme at the upcoming meetings. If approvals are secured, shareholders could receive the proposed fully franked Special Dividend, and the transaction could complete by August.

    The Board continues to unanimously recommend the scheme in the absence of a superior proposal and provided the independent expert maintains a positive opinion.

    Qube share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, Qube share have risen 18%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 4% over the sae period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Qube Holdings scheme update: Dividend and key dates revealed appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Qube 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 Qube 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 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.

  • Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

    Two friends giving each other a high five at the top pf a hill.

    It was a very happy return to trading indeed for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and most ASX shares this Monday. After a stellar end to last week’s trading on Friday, investors came back from the weekend having lost none of their pizazz.

    Perhaps reacting to some positive global geopolitical events over the weekend, the ASX 200 spent the entire session comfortably in the green and closed a happy 1.25% higher. That leaves the index at a flat 8.914 points – a near-two-month high.

    This celebratory session on the local markets followed a similarly joyous day that closed the American trading week last Friday night (our time).

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in a great mood, rising 0.7%.

    The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) wasn’t quite as enthusiastic, but still gained 0.31%.

    But let’s get back to this week and ASX shares now and dive a little deeper into how the various ASX sectors fared this Monday.

    Winners and losers

    Despite the unbridled optimism in the broader market, there were a few sectors that were left out in the cold.

    The most conspicuous of those were, naturally, energy stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) was smashed today, crashing 5.58% lower.

    Utilities shares had a rough one too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) diving 1.79%.

    Communications stocks also missed out. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) saw its value tank 1.19% today.

    Consumer staple shares were no safe haven either, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)’s 0.78% dip.

    Our final losers were healthcare stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) drifted 0.01% lower today.

    Let’s turn to the winners now. Leading the team were gold shares, with the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) rocketing 9.12%.

    Broader mining stocks were in favour too. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) shot up 4.06% by the closing bell.

    We could say the same for real estate investment trusts (REITs), as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)’s 1.52% spike.

    Financial shares found themselves on the right side of the fence, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) galloped up 1.12%.

    Then came tech shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) seeing a 1.05% improvement this Monday.

    Industrial stocks followed. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) ended up cruising 0.39% higher.

    Finally, consumer discretionary shares squeaked over the line, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ)’s 0.13% bump.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    Today’s top stocks were almost all gold miners, with Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX: OBM) coming in at the top spot.

    Ora Banda shares polevaulted 16.29% today, finishing at $1.29 a share. Today’s big move up for the gold price, combined with a new contract announcement, seems to be the catalyst for this leap.

    Here’s the rest of today’s best:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX: OBM) $1.29 16.29%
    Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) $4.60 14.71%
    Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) $6.63 13.33%
    Bellevue Gold Ltd (ASX: BGL) $1.52 13.01%
    Deep Yellow Ltd (ASX: DYL) $1.60 12.72%
    Catalyst Metals Ltd (ASX: CYL) $5.63 12.15%
    Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) $13.70 11.93%
    IDP Education Ltd (ASX: IEL) $2.37 11.27%
    Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) $13.36 11.15%
    Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC) $15.72 10.47%

    Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

    The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Ora Banda Mining right now?

    Before you buy Ora Banda Mining 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 Ora Banda Mining 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 Sebastian Bowen 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.