• What happens if you invest $10,000 in ASX shares and leave it alone for 20 years?

    Woman and man calculating a dividend yield.

    Most investors spend a lot of time thinking about when to buy. Far fewer think about what happens if they simply don’t sell.

    It is tempting to check your ASX share portfolio constantly, react to headlines, or try to time market cycles. But some of the most powerful wealth creation stories come from doing very little at all.

    So, what might that look like with $10,000?

    Aiming for a 10% return

    Over very long periods, share markets have delivered average annual returns in the high single digits to low double digits. A 10% per annum return is not guaranteed in any given year, but it is broadly in line with long-term historical averages.

    On the ASX, this type of return could potentially be achieved by owning high-quality ASX shares such as Goodman Group (ASX: GMG), ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD), or REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA), all of which have strong competitive advantages and global exposure.

    Alternatively, broad-based ETFs such as the iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) or the Vanguard MSCI International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) have historically delivered similar long-term returns by tracking diversified global markets.

    The key isn’t chasing short-term spikes. It is staying invested in businesses or funds that can compound earnings over decades.

    Compounding with ASX shares over 20 years

    Now let’s come back to the original question. If you invested $10,000 and achieved an average return of 10% per year, and left it untouched for 20 years, how much would it be worth?

    After 10 years, your investments would grow to be worth approximately $26,000.

    Then, after a total of 20 years, your ASX share portfolio would have a market value of approximately $67,000.

    That’s without adding another dollar.

    The reason is compounding. In the early years, growth feels modest. But as the portfolio gets larger, each 10% gain adds more dollars than the year before. Over two decades, those gains begin to stack up in a meaningful way.

    Why most investors don’t see this outcome

    The maths is simple. The behaviour is not.

    Many investors interrupt compounding by selling during downturns, shifting strategies mid-cycle, or trying to outsmart the market. Even a few poorly timed decisions can dramatically reduce long-term returns.

    Leaving an investment alone for 20 years requires patience and confidence in the underlying assets. That means focusing on businesses with durable competitive advantages, strong balance sheets, and long growth runways.

    Foolish takeaway

    Investing $10,000 and leaving it untouched for 20 years may not sound exciting. But at a 10% average annual return, it could turn into roughly $67,000, without any additional contributions.

    The lesson isn’t about predicting the next hot stock. It is about time in the market, not timing the market. For long-term investors, patience can be more powerful than any short-term strategy.

    The post What happens if you invest $10,000 in ASX shares and leave it alone for 20 years? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Goodman 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 Goodman 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 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Goodman Group, REA Group, and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goodman Group, ResMed, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Goodman Group, Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Is there no stopping this groundbreaking ASX healthcare share?

    A medical professional uses a tablet showing a digital image of a human body.

    This ASX healthcare share has caught fire recently. Imricor Medical Systems Inc (ASX: IMR) has surged 52% over the past 12 months.

    On Wednesday the ASX small-cap healthcare stock gained another 7.8% at $2.20, bringing this year’s gain to 44%.

    Investors are clearly backing what the ASX healthcare share is building in a US$10 billion market. And is there more to come?

    Global first in cardiac care

    Imricor has been carving out a few global firsts in cardiac care recently. The US-based medical technology business focuses on MRI-guided cardiac ablation and claims to be the first to deliver commercially viable MRI-compatible consumables for these procedures.

    Last month the ASX healthcare share announced that its NorthStar Mapping System is the first MRI-native 3D mapping and guidance system cleared by the FDA. It also marks Imricor’s first capital equipment and first software-driven approval in the US.

    This wasn’t an overnight win. Imricor says NorthStar’s FDA clearance caps years of R&D, third-party collaboration, and regulatory heavy lifting. The system is built to anchor every interventional cardiac MRI (iCMR) lab as its central hub.

    Multiple clearances expected

    Crucially, FDA approval opens the door to commercial sales of NorthStar in the United States — the world’s largest electrophysiology market. And the pipeline isn’t slowing.

    Management expects multiple regulatory clearances this year as it rolls out its full MRI-guided electrophysiology platform. Investors in the ASX healthcare share are eagerly awaiting what management will reveal on 25 February when it delivers its second-half 2025 results.

    Management said NorthStar’s clearance was the company’s second FDA win. It followed 510(k) approval for the VisionMR Diagnostic Catheter earlier in January. The approval further cements Imricor’s push to lead the MRI-guided interventional market.

    Technology that matters

    The innovations of the ASX healthcare share matter. Traditional ablation relies on X-ray guidance. Imricor’s iCMR platform lets doctors see the heart in real time using MRI.

    That means better soft tissue visibility, no radiation exposure, and potentially better outcomes. If adoption builds, MRI-guided ablation could shift from niche to standard practice.

    What next for the ASX healthcare share?

    In March last year, the medical company raised $70 million to fund global expansion, commercial growth and R&D. Imricor isn’t thinking small. It is rolling out across four key regions: the US, Australia and New Zealand, the Middle East, and Europe, where it holds CE Mark approval.

    It’s expanding into Germany, the Netherlands, France and Italy, running more US trials to secure FDA clearance, and has already signed exclusive distribution deals in the Middle East, including first sales in Qatar.

    Analyst coverage is limited. TradingView data show that 3 brokers rate the $660 million ASX healthcare a strong buy. They have set an average 12-month price target of $2.49, which points to a 13% upside.

    The most bullish analyst sees a possible gain of 26% for the next 12 months.  

    The post Is there no stopping this groundbreaking ASX healthcare share? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Imricor Medical Systems, Inc. right now?

    Before you buy Imricor Medical Systems, Inc. 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 Imricor Medical Systems, Inc. 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 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in Imricor Medical Systems. 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.

  • 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursday

    Broker looking at the share price.

    On Wednesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was on form again and pushed higher. The benchmark index rose 0.55% to 9,007 points.

    Will the market be able to build on this on Thursday? Here are five things to watch:

    ASX 200 expected to rise

    The Australian share market looks set for another good session on Thursday following a relatively positive night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 46 points or 0.5% higher this morning. In late trade in the United States, the Dow Jones is up 0.3%, the S&P 500 is up 0.6%, and the Nasdaq is 1% higher.

    Rio Tinto results

    Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares will be on watch today when the mining giant releases its eagerly anticipated full-year results. According to a note out of Morgans, its analysts expect the miner to report a 4.3% increase in revenue to US$55.96 billion and a 13.8% lift in EBITDA to US$26.54 billion. This is expected to underpin total dividends of US$4.54 per share, which will be a 13.6% increase year on year. The broker said: “Supported by a solid Q4 operationally, and rising metal prices, RIO is positioned for a healthy FY25 result, although this appears at least partly factored in given recent share price support.”

    Oil prices jump

    ASX 200 energy shares Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have a very good session on Thursday after oil prices stormed higher overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 4.5% to US$65.17 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 4.3% to US$70.33 a barrel. This was driven by reports that Iran has ignored key US demands.

    Buy TechnologyOne shares

    TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE) shares are good value according to analysts at Bell Potter. This morning, the broker has upgraded the enterprise software provider’s shares to a buy rating with a trimmed price target of $29.00 (from $33.00). It said: “The risk to our upgrade is now a lack of catalysts and even the H1 result in May may not provide one given the PBT growth will only likely be high single digit. But we do expect the company to reiterate the guidance at the result and this confidence or visibility in the H2 outlook we expect to be well received.”

    Gold price rises

    ASX 200 gold shares including Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a good session on Thursday after the gold price raced higher overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up 2.1% to US$5,010.6 an ounce. Traders were buying the precious metal ahead of the release of US Federal Reserve meeting minutes and in response to rising Iran-US tensions.

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

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

    Before you buy Beach Energy 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 Beach Energy Limited wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 2026

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

  • 3 ASX shares tipped to fall more than 30% in 2026

    Disappointed woman at the falling share price with her hand oh her had.

    The All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) has gone from strength to strength so far in 2026 as strong earnings results and improving investor confidence continues to drive many ASX shares higher. 

    But there are some ASX shares which are tipped to travel in the other direction, with analysts tipping downsides of 30% (or more) over the next 12 months.

    Helia Group Ltd (ASX: HLI)

    Helia shares closed higher on Wednesday afternoon, up 3.05% to $5.75 a piece. The share price is now 3.6% higher for the year-to-date and 15.23% higher over the year, albeit with significant peaks and troughs along the way.

    Analysts are bearish on the ASX stock, with many tipping more volatility ahead for the currently-overpriced stock. Analysts have a consensus sell position on Helia shares, with a target price of $3.95 a piece. That implies a 31.30% downside at the time of writing. 

    Dominos Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP)

    Domino’s shares closed 1.6% higher on Wednesday afternoon at $21.60 a piece. It’s positive news for investors after the share price plunged 8% earlier last week following news of a leadership shakeup

    Last Wednesday, the company announced it had appointed Andrew Gregory as its incoming Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director.

    The news has come right before the pizza chain is due to report its half-year result, which is due on 25 February 2026.

    For the year-to-date, Domino’s shares are down 1.01%, and 33.92% below where they were this time last year.

    Analysts are split on where the shares could travel from here. TradingView data shows that out of 17 analysts, six have a hold rating. Another five have a buy or strong buy rating, and six have a sell or strong sell position. 

    The average target price is $20.89, which implies a 3.29% downside at the time of writing. But then some analysts think the shares could sink even further to just $13.00 a piece. That implies a 39.81% downside from the share price at the close of the ASX on Wednesday.

    Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE)

    At the close of the ASX on Wednesday, Boss Energy shares were 3.45% higher for the day at $1.65 a piece. The hike means the shares are now 5.1% higher for the year-to-date but a whopping 46.08% below just one year ago.

    The Uranium miner is heavily reliant on uranium prices, which skyrocketed in mid-January before crashing back down to normalised levels earlier this month after a fresh increase in global supply momentarily outweighed the view of soaring growing demand expectations that carried prices in recent quarters, Trading Economics explained. 

    While analyst sentiment about the outlook of the stock is mixed, the majority of experts have a bearish stance. TradingView data shows that out of 16 analysts, seven have a sell or strong sell rating. Another five have a hold rating and four have a strong buy rating. 

    The average target price is $1.725 per share, which implies a 4.55% upside at the time of writing. But the more bearish analysts think the shares could sink 39.39% to just $1 within the next 12 months. 

    The post 3 ASX shares tipped to fall more than 30% in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Boss Energy Ltd right now?

    Before you buy Boss Energy Ltd 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 Boss Energy Ltd 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 1 Jan 2026

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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 positions in and has recommended Domino’s Pizza Enterprises. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Domino’s Pizza Enterprises. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Does this broker prefer Baby Bunting or Seek shares following earnings results?

    Confused African-American girls in casual clothing standing outdoors and comparing information on smartphones.

    Baby Bunting Group Ltd (ASX: BBN) and Seek Ltd (ASX: SEK) shares are in focus after both companies released important earnings results. 

    On Tuesday, both companies reported earnings from 1H FY26. 

    However it hasn’t been smooth sailing as both Baby Bunting and Seek shares fell yesterday. 

    Following results, the team at Morgans released updated guidance. 

    It seems the broker sees one as a clear buy. 

    Let’s see what it had to say. 

    Baby Bunting shares get slight decrease

    For H1 FY26, Baby Bunting reported: 

    • Total sales of $271.4 million, up 6.7% on the prior corresponding period
    • Gross profit increased 10% to $111.4 million
    • Net profit after tax (NPAT) came in at $5 million, up 4.1% on last year and in line with guidance.

    Investors reacted positively to this news, with Baby Bunting shares up 10% since Monday.

    However the team at Morgans seem to think investors should proceed with caution. 

    The broker has reiterated its hold recommendation on the consumer discretionary stock, along with a slight price target decrease to $2.60 (previously $2.70). 

    From yesterday’s closing price, this indicates an upside of 10.6%. 

    BBN’s 1H26 pro-forma NPAT was up 4.1% yoy to $5.0m which was in the middle of guidance range ($4.5-$5.5m) driven by comps sales growth, gross margin expansion offset by higher costs. Nine stores have been refurbished to the new store design, and have performed strongly, sales up 25%, which is at the upper end of guidance range of 15-25%. FY26 NPAT guidance has been narrowed to $17.5-$19.5m (was $17-20m).

    Seek shares have big upside

    Morgans seems much more optimistic on Seek shares moving forward. 

    The communications stock reported H1 FY26 results on Tuesday that included: 

    • Sales revenue rose 21% to $647 million
    • Net revenue up 12% to $601 million
    • EBITDA increased 19% to $267 million
    • Record fully franked interim dividend of 27 cents per share, up 13%. 

    Its share price edged higher following this result, but Morgans believes there’s more room to run for Seek shares. 

    Seek shares are still down more than 30% year to date.

    The broker upgraded its rating to a buy, and kept its price target at $27.50. 

    From yesterday’s closing price of $16.10, this indicates an upside of 70.8%. 

    Whilst our DCF-derived price target remains unchanged at A$27.50 the recent sharp share price pullback now results in ~70% TSR upside.

    We move to a Buy recommendation accordingly, though SEK has still many questions to answer on the AI threat.

    The post Does this broker prefer Baby Bunting or Seek shares following earnings results? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 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.

  • What to do if your ASX investments just crashed

    Three colleagues stare at a computer screen with serious looks on their faces.

    It never feels good to open your portfolio and see red everywhere.

    This month, a number of ASX shares, particularly in the tech sector, have pulled back sharply. Some have fallen on the back of weaker-than-expected results. Others have simply been caught up in broader tech weakness and shifting sentiment.

    When that happens, the instinct to react is strong. But in my opinion, this is exactly when discipline matters most.

    Here’s how I think about it.

    First, separate price from business performance

    A falling share price does not automatically mean a broken business.

    Sometimes results genuinely disappoint. Growth slows. Margins compress. Guidance is cut. In those cases, I think it’s important to revisit the original investment thesis and ask an honest question: has something structural changed?

    But often, the move is more about expectations resetting than about long-term fundamentals deteriorating.

    If revenue is still growing, customers are sticking around, balance sheets remain strong, and competitive advantages are intact, then a sharp pullback can be more about sentiment than substance.

    I always go back to the basics. What did I believe about this business when I bought it? Is that still true?

    If the answer is yes, then volatility alone is not a reason to sell.

    Second, stay calm and avoid forced decisions

    Big drawdowns create emotional pressure.

    When you see a stock down 20%, 30%, or even more in a short period, it can feel like you need to do something. But acting purely to relieve discomfort is rarely a good strategy.

    I try to avoid making portfolio decisions on my worst days emotionally. Instead, I give myself space to think clearly. Sometimes that means doing nothing for a few days while I reassess.

    Markets move in cycles. Tech stocks, in particular, tend to overshoot in both directions. They can become overly loved during rallies and overly punished during sell-offs.

    If your time horizon is measured in years rather than weeks, short-term volatility should be viewed in that context.

    Third, consider buying more (carefully)

    If the investment thesis remains intact and your position size is reasonable, a sharp sell-off can be an opportunity rather than a disaster.

    I’m not suggesting doubling down recklessly. But if a high-quality business is now trading at a significantly lower valuation, and you were comfortable owning it before, I think it’s logical to at least consider adding more.

    That said, position sizing matters. If a single stock has already grown to dominate your portfolio, averaging down may increase risk rather than reduce it. In that case, diversification or rebalancing might be more appropriate.

    For me, the key question is whether the risk-reward has improved. Lower prices can mean higher future returns, but only if the underlying business still deserves your capital.

    When selling ASX investments might make sense

    There are times when selling is the right move.

    If the competitive position has eroded, management credibility is damaged, or the business model no longer makes sense in the current environment, then holding purely out of hope can be costly.

    Patience should not become stubbornness in my opinion.

    But it’s important to distinguish between a broken narrative and a broken business. They are not the same thing.

    Foolish takeaway

    Market pullbacks, especially in the tech sector, are uncomfortable. I’ve felt it too, including with DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO).

    But I try to remind myself that volatility is the price we pay for long-term returns.

    If the fundamentals are intact, I believe patience is usually the right response. In some cases, buying more can make sense. In others, simply holding steady is enough.

    The worst response, in my view, is panic. As long as the original investment thesis hasn’t been broken, staying calm and thinking long term is often the smartest move of all.

    The post What to do if your ASX investments just crashed 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…

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 2026

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

  • Two ASX shares with big upside post earnings results

    A male ASX investor on the street wearing a grey suit clenches his fist and yells yes after seeing on his ipad that the Paladin share price is going up again today

    As earnings season rumbles on, two ASX shares that have generated positive results are HealthCo Healthcare and Wellness REIT (ASX: HCW) and MLG Oz Ltd (ASX: MLG). 

    Thanks to positive earnings results, both have received strong ratings from the team at Morgans. 

    Here is what the broker had to say. 

    HealthCo Healthcare and Wellness REIT

    HealthCo Healthcare and Wellness REIT holds a $1.6 billion portfolio of 36 properties including hospitals, aged care, childcare, life sciences and research facilities as well as primary care and wellness assets.

    In its HY26 results, the company reported: 

    • Revenue from ordinary activities up 6% to $30.5 million
    • Revenue, including income from the share of losses/profits of equity accounted investees was down 51% to $14.7 million. 

    Additionally, the company could be set to pay a dividend yield of 9%.

    Its share price has jumped almost 10% since Monday on the back of this news. 

    Following the results, the team at Morgans upgraded this ASX REIT to a speculative buy recommendation. 

    This included a price target of $1.05 per share. 

    From yesterday’s closing price of $0.71, that indicates an upside of 47.8%. 

    HCW is edging towards a negotiated resolution for the Healthscope assets. Importantly, rent has been paid in full across the portfolio and HCW has executable agreements with alternative operators for all 11 hospitals – with new long-term leases at unchanged face rents (with incentives), should Healthscope breach the lease. Moderate gearing of 28.5% leaves HCW well-positioned to navigate the uncertain timing and gearing impacts from a managed decline to asset values.

    MLG Oz

    MLG Oz Ltd is a Kalgoorlie-based integrated mining services and resource asset management company.

    It released HY26 Results on Tuesday that included: 

    • Statutory Revenue of $287.2 million, up 5.2%, compared to the prior corresponding period (pcp).
    • Statutory Net Profit After Tax (NPAT) up 73.2% to $7.1 million (pcp $4.1 million).
    • Pro-forma Earnings before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA) of $36.5 million, up 24.5% on the pcp; pro-forma EBITDA margin of 12.8% (pcp 10.9%).

    Its share price climbed higher on these results and is now up 23% year to date. 

    In a note out of Morgans, the broker increased its price target following these results to $1.20 (previously $1.00). 

    From yesterday’s closing price of $1.07, that indicates a further upside of 12.15% for these ASX shares.

    1H26 was ahead of expectations at all operating metrics. Earnings grew substantially (EBITDA +25% YoY) despite a relatively subdued top-line (+5%), which is indicative of a steady portfolio of haulage projects and a renewed focus on margins. MLG reinstated dividends which signals confidence in the outlook and the company’s financial position.

    The post Two ASX shares with big upside post earnings results appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Healthco Healthcare And Wellness Reit right now?

    Before you buy Healthco Healthcare And Wellness Reit shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Healthco Healthcare And Wellness Reit wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 Jan 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.

  • 2 Vanguard ETFs to buy and hold forever

    young woman reviewing financial reports at desk with multiple computer screens

    If I were building a portfolio designed to last decades, I would keep it simple.

    For true buy-and-hold investing, I want broad diversification, structural growth exposure, and low costs. Two Vanguard exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that tick those boxes for me right now are Vanguard FTSE Asia Ex-Japan Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAE) and Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG).

    They play very different roles, but together they capture both global growth and disciplined diversification.

    Vanguard FTSE Asia Ex-Japan Shares Index ETF

    This ETF provides exposure to around 1,800 stocks across fast-growing Asian economies, excluding Japan. Its country allocation is heavily weighted toward China (32%), Taiwan (22.1%), India (18.6%), Korea (14.5%), and Hong Kong (4.8%).

    In other words, it gives investors direct exposure to the engines of global economic expansion.

    Its top holdings include Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Tencent, Samsung Electronics, Alibaba, and SK hynix. These are not speculative micro-caps. They are dominant regional champions operating in semiconductors, technology, banking, insurance, and consumer sectors.

    I like this Vanguard ETF because it captures demographic growth, rising middle classes, and increasing digital adoption across Asia. It also diversifies away from the US-heavy nature of many global portfolios.

    It won’t outperform every year. Emerging markets can be volatile. But over a multi-decade horizon, I believe exposure to Asia is essential. That is why I see the VAE ETF as a buy-and-hold forever ETF.

    Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF

    This ETF invests across multiple Vanguard index funds, targeting approximately 90% growth assets and 10% defensive assets. Its strategic asset allocation includes Australian shares, international shares (both hedged and unhedged), emerging markets, international small caps, and fixed income.

    For investors who want simplicity, I think this structure could be incredibly powerful.

    Instead of picking regions or rebalancing manually, the Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF handles the diversification internally. It spreads capital across Australian shares (around 36%), international shares (over 40% combined when including hedged exposure), emerging markets, small companies, and bonds.

    That built-in diversification reduces reliance on any single country, sector, or theme. It also smooths out some volatility compared to a pure equity portfolio, while still maintaining a strong growth tilt.

    I see this Vanguard ETF as an ideal set and forget ETF. If someone told me they wanted one fund to hold for 20 or 30 years and didn’t want to tinker with allocations, this would be near the top of my list.

    Foolish takeaway

    For me, buy-and-hold investing is about owning broad exposure to long-term growth without constantly trying to outsmart the market.

    The VAE ETF gives direct access to Asia’s expanding economies. The VDHG ETF offers a diversified, growth-focused portfolio in a single trade.

    Different roles, different risk profiles, but both are ETFs I would feel very comfortable holding forever.

    The post 2 Vanguard ETFs to buy and hold forever appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Vanguard FTSE Asia ex Japan Shares Index ETF right now?

    Before you buy Vanguard FTSE Asia ex Japan Shares Index 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 FTSE Asia ex Japan Shares Index ETF 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 1 Jan 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 Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing and Tencent. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Alibaba Group. 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 ASX ETFs that could beat the market in 2026

    Two men look excited on the trading floor as they hold telephones to their ears and one points upwards.

    Beating the market isn’t easy. Most exchange traded funds (ETFs) simply aim to track an index. But some funds are designed to tilt toward specific regions, factors, or styles that can outperform when conditions are right.

    If 2026 turns into a year of sector rotation and shifting leadership, these three ASX ETFs could have what it takes to outperform the broader market.

    Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

    The first ETF that could beat the market in 2026 is the Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF.

    While US tech giants have dominated headlines for years, parts of Asia’s technology ecosystem remain relatively underappreciated. This fund focuses on leading technology stocks across China, South Korea, Taiwan, and other key Asian markets.

    This includes firms involved in ecommerce, semiconductors, internet platforms, and digital payments. Many of these companies sit at the heart of regional consumption and manufacturing supply chains.

    If global investors rotate toward Asia in search of growth at more reasonable valuations, the Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF could benefit from both earnings momentum and multiple expansion.

    Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY)

    Another ASX ETF with potential to outperform is the Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF.

    It focuses on shares with strong balance sheets, high returns on equity, and consistent earnings growth. In uncertain markets, quality tends to matter more.

    When investors become selective and move away from speculative names, capital often flows toward businesses with competitive advantages and predictable cash flows.

    That quality bias could prove advantageous in 2026, particularly if volatility remains elevated and markets reward earnings resilience over hype. This fund was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

    VanEck MSCI International Value ETF (ASX: VLUE)

    The third ASX ETF to consider is the VanEck MSCI International Value ETF.

    After a long stretch where growth stocks led global markets, value shares have periodically shown signs of revival. This fund targets international stocks that screen attractively on valuation metrics such as price-to-book and earnings multiples.

    If 2026 sees a rotation away from expensive growth stocks and toward more reasonably priced businesses, value strategies could outperform.

    The VanEck MSCI International Value ETF offers diversified exposure to this theme across developed markets, without requiring investors to pick individual contrarian stocks. It was recently recommended to investors by analysts at VanEck.

    The post 3 ASX ETFs that could beat the market in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Betashares Capital Ltd – Asia Technology Tigers Etf right now?

    Before you buy Betashares Capital Ltd – Asia Technology Tigers 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 Betashares Capital Ltd – Asia Technology Tigers Etf 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 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers Etf. 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.

  • Buy, hold, sell: BHP, SEEK, and Treasury Wine shares

    A man looking at his laptop and thinking.

    The team at Morgans has been working overtime looking at the countless results releases this week.

    Let’s see what the broker thinks of three very big results and whether it thinks these ASX 200 shares are now buys, holds, or sells. Here’s what you need to know:

    BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

    Morgans was impressed with BHP’s performance during the first half, noting that its copper business drove the strong result. But its main positive was the announcement of a silver stream for the Antamina operation.

    However, due to its current valuation, the broker has held firm with its hold rating on BHP’s shares. It said:

    A strong copper-driven 1H26 result, but the highlight was a savvy deal monetising Antamina’s silver stream for value equal to consensus valuation of the entire asset. Earnings quality continues to step forward, maintaining robust operational and cost performances across the portfolio. Injecting >US$6bn cash in H2 more than offsets Jansen. Maintain HOLD rating.

    Seek Ltd (ASX: SEK)

    This job listings company’s half-year result was in line with expectations. And while the broker has AI disruption concerns, it believes the risk-reward is favourable at current levels and has upgraded Seek shares to a buy rating with a $27.50 price target. It said:

    SEK’s 1H26 result was largely as per expectations with net revenue (+12% on pcp), Adjusted EBITDA (+19% on pcp) and adjusted NPAT (+35% on pcp) all broadly in line with Visible Alpha consensus and MorgansF. We make only marginal adjustments to our forecasts taking into account the updated guidance.

    Whilst our DCF-derived price target remains unchanged at A$27.50 the recent sharp share price pullback now results in ~70% TSR upside. We move to a Buy recommendation accordingly, though SEK has still many questions to answer on the AI threat.

    Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE)

    Wine giant Treasury Wine delivered a result that was in line with expectations but weak overall.

    The broker isn’t sure that 2027 will be much better and expects a return to growth in 2028. In light of this, it continues to rate the company’s shares as a hold. It said:

    TWE’s 1H26 result was weak but was broadly in line with guidance. Leverage was well above the company’s target range. Consequently, and in line with our expectations, the Board did not declare an interim dividend. TWE reiterated that 2H26 EBITS is expected to be higher than the 1H26. It is too early to call whether TWE can grow earnings in FY27.

    We think this will not occur until FY28 given the priority to reduce customer inventory in the US and China. It will take time for new management to deliver more acceptable returns and for TWE to rebuild credibility with the market. We maintain a HOLD rating.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: BHP, SEEK, and Treasury Wine shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy BHP 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 BHP 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 1 Jan 2026

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