• Top ASX shares to buy in March 2023

    A happy looking woman holding a colourful umbrella against a grey cloudy sky.A happy looking woman holding a colourful umbrella against a grey cloudy sky.

    As the Autumn leaves turn brown and begin to fall, investors will be hoping their ASX shares remain firmly in the green.

    This follows an event-filled earnings season, after which many shareholders will be taking stock of their holdings and making some changes based on those ASX companies that performed, and those that failed to deliver.

    If you’re looking to usher out the old and welcome some new investments to your portfolio this month, here are a few ideas to get you started.

    Because, as always at the start of a new month, we asked our Foolish writers which ASX shares they think offer top buying in March.

    Here is what the team came up with:

    7 best ASX shares for March 2023 (smallest to largest)

    • Aeris Resources Ltd (ASX: AIS), $476.75 million
    • Propel Funeral Partners Ltd (ASX: PFP), $519.02 million
    • Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1), $1.27 billion
    • Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV), $2.61 billion
    • Block Inc (ASX: SQ2), $3.56 billion
    • Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS), $12.59 billion
    • Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS), $48.07 billion

    (Market capitalisation as of 28 February 2023)

    Why our Foolish writers love these ASX stocks

    Aeris Resources Ltd

    What it does: Aeris calls itself a mid-tier base and precious metals producer, with copper forming the biggest part of its portfolio. The All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) miner also produces gold and zinc.

    By Tristan Harrison: I believe the acquisition of Round Oak has boosted this miner’s prospects. It has recently reported a number of exploration successes that could help it become bigger in the coming years.

    Aeris is also debt free, meaning its balance sheet is in good shape to pursue opportunities.

    Furthermore, I think copper has a very promising future as the world looks to decarbonise and electrify economies. Improving the electric grid and manufacturing electric vehicles will need more copper.

    Commsec numbers suggest Aeris could make 15 cents of earnings per share (EPS) in FY24, putting the Aeris Resources share price at just five times FY24’s estimated earnings.

    Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison does not own shares in Aeris Resources Ltd.

    Propel Funeral Partners Ltd

    What it does: Propel Funeral Partners is the second-largest private provider of death care services across Australia and New Zealand. The company holds a vast presence across its 152 operating locations, including 35 cremation facilities and nine cemeteries.

    By Mitchell Lawler: There is a combination of characteristics I find highly desirable in the ASX shares I look to invest in. These being businesses that are hard to disrupt, operate in fragmented industries, have a proven track record for growth, and are run by management with skin in the game. Propel is a company that ticks all of these boxes, from where I’m standing.

    There are two big players in this industry – InvoCare Limited (ASX: IVC) and Propel. Outside of these two, there is around 70% market share – made up of primarily small, family-run operations – which is arguably just waiting to be consolidated. The Propel team has proven its ability in this regard, having grown its operations from one location in 2013 to now more than 150.

    In my opinion, a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 27 times is far too cheap for a company that just posted a 35% increase in operating net profits in the latest half. While I suspect this could slow as funeral volumes return to historical averages, I believe the long-term trend is favourable.

    Motley Fool contributor Mitchell Lawler does not own shares in Propel Funeral Partners Ltd.

    Accent Group Ltd

    What it does: Accent Group is a footwear and clothing retailer and distributor. It’s behind such stores as Platypus, The Athlete’s Foot, Skechers, Dr Martens, and Vans.

    By Brooke Cooper: Accent dropped its first-half earnings last week, delivering impressive growth and a positive outlook.

    It posted a 39% jump in sales and a 290% increase in net profit after tax (NPAT). The retailer also declared a 12 cent per share fully franked interim dividend, while its debt levels fell to $63.6 million.

    To top it off, Accent hasn’t seen any significant change in consumer spending despite economic uncertainty, perhaps as its younger target market likely isn’t highly impacted by rising interest rates or cost of living pressures.

    Goldman Sachs has a buy rating and a $2.90 price target on Accent shares. This represents around 30% upside based on the current share price.

    Motley Fool contributor Brooke Cooper does not own shares of Accent Group Ltd.

    Lovisa Holdings Ltd

    What it does: Lovisa is a fast-fashion jewellery retailer with a rapidly-growing global footprint.

    By James Mickleboro: I think Lovisa would be a great long-term option for investors due to its strong brand, relatively low price point, and bold global expansion plans.

    With respect to the latter, during the first half of FY 2023, Lovisa opened 86 net new stores, bringing its total to 715. While this is a large number, I believe it’s well short of what could be achieved in the future.

    For example, in the United States, the company now has 155 stores. This is less than the 163 stores it operates in Australia, despite the US population being around 13 times greater than ours.

    And with its talented management team highly experienced in global rollouts for retail brands, including Guess and Zara, I believe the company could be destined to grow its store network into the thousands by the end of 2020s.

    It’s no wonder that Morgans has previously suggested that Lovisa could “prove to be one of the biggest success stories in Australian retail“.

    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro does not own shares in Lovisa Holdings Ltd.

    Block Inc

    What it does: Block is the US tech giant formerly known as Square. It runs several highly successful apps and provides payment services, including Afterpay.

    By Sebastian Bowen: Block is an S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) share that has had a very turbulent year or two. But the company’s latest quarterly report showed some very pleasing numbers.

    The fintech company reported a 14% jump in revenues, as well as a 40% spike in gross profits and a 53% increase in earnings.

    Block’s Cash App continues to go from strength to strength, with the app’s profits rising 64% year on year and Afterpay netting Block $200 million in profits over the quarter.

    Block is an exciting fintech company, and one with exposure to multiple markets across different countries. As such, I think it is well worth looking at this March.

    Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen does not own shares in Block Inc.

    Pilbara Minerals Ltd

    What it does: Pilbara Minerals is an ASX 200-listed lithium and tantalum producer. Its 100% owned Pilgangoora Lithium-Tantalum Project, located in Western Australia, is said to be the world’s largest, independent hard-rock lithium operation.

    By Bernd Struben: I believe Pilbara Minerals is doing a great job executing its development and growth strategies, as demonstrated by its half-year results.

    Compared to the prior corresponding period, the lithium miner saw sales revenue surge 305% to $2.2 billion and statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) leapt 989% to $1.2 billion.

    The company also declared its first-ever dividend of 11 cents per share, fully franked. That represents a 2.6% yield at the current price. Pilbara trades ex-dividend on Thursday, 2 March.

    The Pilbara Minerals share price is up by around 60% in 12 months. But I believe the miner has far more to offer long term, as the growth outlook for EVs and grid storage batteries – most of which require lithium – remains very strong.

    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben does not own shares in Pilbara Minerals Ltd.

    Telstra Group Ltd

    What it does: Telstra is Australia’s largest provider of telecommunications and information products and services.

    By Bronwyn Allen: Australia’s biggest telco and the largest ASX communications stock by market cap is currently a favourite among several top brokers.

    Macquarie has placed Telstra at the top of its model income portfolio with an 8.8% weighting. It likes Telstra’s higher earnings certainty, strong cash flows, and fully-franked dividends.

    Macquarie has an outperform rating and a 12-month price target of $4.64. After Telstra released its half-year earnings earlier this month, Goldman Sachs reiterated its buy rating with a price target of $4.60.

    Morgans says the telco industry “has the strongest tailwinds in a decade” and has a $4.70 price target on Telstra shares. At market close on Tuesday, the Telstra share price was sitting at $4.16.

    Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen does not own shares in Telstra Group Ltd.

    The post Top ASX shares to buy in March 2023 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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    The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Block and Lovisa. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Block and Telstra Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Accent Group, Lovisa, and Propel Funeral Partners. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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  • Fortescue share price rebounds on possible China supply restrictions

    Three miners stand together at a mine site studying documents with equipment in the backgroundThree miners stand together at a mine site studying documents with equipment in the background

    The Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) share price increased almost 3% today amid news out of China.

    Fortescue shares closed at $21.40 apiece on Tuesday, up 2.84%. That was well above the S&P/ASX 200 Index‘s (ASX: XJO) gain of 0.47%.

    As one of the world’s biggest iron ore miners, sentiment about the company is susceptible to changes in the iron ore price. In turn, this can be impacted by changes in the relationship between supply and demand, or even the perceived future changes.

    China is the key buyer of iron ore globally, so anything happening within the borders of the Asian superpower can have a large impact on the Fortescue share price.

    What’s happening in China?

    According to reporting by the Australian Financial Review, China is focusing more stringently on environmental impacts and regulations once again.

    The AFR reported that China’s leading lithium production hub, known as Yichun, was ordered to “halt output” as investigators probed alleged environmental infringements at lithium mines, according to Bloomberg. This accounts for between 8% to 13% of global lithium supply.

    The newspaper also reported that iron prices dropped after Chinese authorities ordered steel output to be reduced at the Tangshan production hub with forecasts of “heavy air pollution”. Lower production of steel could mean that iron ore demand falls.

    Is this going to happen more regularly?

    Senior commodity strategist at ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) Daniel Hynes was quoted by the AFR:

    Traders in the lithium market are becoming increasingly concerned about a supply shock.

    It does appear that Beijing is re-focusing on environmental issues again following a period of weak industrial activity due to COVID lockdowns. With China’s reopening now ramping up, though, these crackdowns are likely to become more common.

    The iron ore price dropped 3% overnight to US$122 per tonne.

    Why is the Fortescue share price rising?

    Sometimes the market movements of shares don’t quite make sense.

    Keep in mind that the 3% rise in the Fortescue share price today follows the 7% fall on Monday after the company went ex-dividend. Going ex-dividend means new investors are no longer entitled to the announced dividend.

    The Fortescue dividend that’s going to be paid to shareholders is 75 cents per share. That payment is due on 29 March 2023.

    So, over the two days, the Fortescue share price has dropped 4.6%.

    Also, it’s worth keeping in mind that Fortescue is investing billions of dollars into decarbonising its business. That could mean that its ‘green’ iron is more likely to tick the box for Chinese authorities and may end up being worth more of a premium than if it wasn’t ‘green’.

    The post Fortescue share price rebounds on possible China supply restrictions appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you consider Fortescue Metals Group Limited, you’ll want to hear this.

    Motley Fool Investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Fortescue Metals Group Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.* And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that are better buys.

    See The 5 Stocks
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    Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has positions in Fortescue Metals Group. 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.

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  • Are Lynas shares a buy following Monday’s 6% dive?

    Female miner in hard hat and safety vest on laptop with mining drill in background.

    Female miner in hard hat and safety vest on laptop with mining drill in background.

    The Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) share price is hurting as the ASX mining share goes through another dip.

    It has been a volatile last 12 months for the business, with the share price going through a series of bumps. We’re currently sitting at a low point for one of those bumps.

    With the volatility of updates, investment sentiment and resource prices, it’s understandable why the Lynas share price is moving about so much.

    After the latest decrease, it’s worth considering whether the ASX mining share is a buy or not.

    Expert views on the Lynas share price

    According to reporting by The Australian, some of the leading brokers in Australia have had their say on whether the rare earth miner is a buy or not.

    JPMorgan has decided to increase its rating on the business to neutral. JPMorgan’s price target on the business is $8.60 – a price target implies where the broker believes the share price could be trading in 12 months from the date that the target is issued.

    This means that JPMorgan is suggesting that the Lynas share price could increase by around 6%.

    The broker UBS is less positive on Lynas than it used to be, with a cut of the rating to neutral. The price target was reduced, to $9. So, it still sees a decent upside for the Lynas share price from here – a possible rise of 11%.

    Is this a good time to buy?

    Unless my crystal ball starts working, it’s hard to know what the Lynas share price is going to do next.

    Lynas seems to be doing what it needs to do to achieve growth in its operations, even if it can’t control the price of rare earths.

    In the FY23 half-year result, it reported that revenue rose 17.5% to $370 million, but net profit after tax (NPAT) fell 4.3% to $150.1 million. A key part of the decline came about after a rise of almost 32% of cost of sales.

    Lynas suffered from “significant” production challenges due to water supply issues in the first quarter and the start of the second quarter as well as “rapid increases in costs, particularly for chemical inputs.”

    The ASX rare earth miner said that construction activity on the Kalgoorlie rare earths processing facility accelerated, with recruitment of the operational leadership team now complete.

    Lynas said the Kalgoorlie facility is important for business continuity as well as growth. The company said:

    Its importance is highlighted following the announcement of the renewal of the Lynas Malaysia operating licence with conditions prohibiting the import and processing of lanthanide concentrate from 1 July 2023. If not removed, these conditions would require the closure of the Malaysian cracking and leaching plant. Due to the inherent unpredictability of commissioning, Lynas continues to plan for several potential ramp up scenarios.

    The company also said that the Mt Weld expansion project is “progressing well”, while it continues to make progress on the development of a US rare earths separation facility.

    If I were looking to buy a piece of the miner, I think this is a good Lynas share price to do it at. I like its plans to grow, and it seems to be a strategically important business for the US to diversify the country’s source of supply of rare earths.

    The post Are Lynas shares a buy following Monday’s 6% dive? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you consider Lynas Corporation Limited, you’ll want to hear this.

    Motley Fool Investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Lynas Corporation 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 are better buys.

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of February 1 2023

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    Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has 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.

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  • Here are the top ten ASX 200 shares today

    A woman with a broad smile on her face holds up ten fingers.A woman with a broad smile on her face holds up ten fingers.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) regained some of its Monday losses today, closing 0.47% higher at 7,258.4 points.

    Leading the charge were energy stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) gaining 1.5% with the Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) coming in as its best performer.

    The energy giant posted its full-year earnings – detailing a US$5 billion profit – yesterday.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) also posted a strong session’s trading, gaining 1.5% following yesterday’s 3.15% tumble.

    On the other hand, the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) slumped 1.3% on Tuesday, weighed down by the 1.7% fall in the Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) share price.

    So, with all that in mind, which ASX 200 share outperformed all others to post today’s biggest gain? Let’s take a look.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    Today’s top-performing ASX 200 stock was De Grey Mining Limited (ASX: DEG). It gained 7.7% to close at $1.395 amid a positive note from a top broker.

    These shares made today’s biggest gains:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    De Grey Mining Limited (ASX: DEG) $1.395 7.72%
    Lake Resources NL (ASX: LKE) $0.625 6.84%
    Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) $6.98 6.24%
    Gold Road Resources Ltd (ASX: GOR) $1.47 5.76%
    West African Resources Ltd (ASX: WAF) $0.925 5.71%
    Chalice Mining Ltd (ASX: CHN) $6.36 5.47%
    Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) $1.74 5.14%
    Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) $3.79 4.99%
    Downer EDI Ltd (ASX: DOW) $3.16 4.64%
    Link Administration Holdings Ltd (ASX: LNK) $2.29 4.57%

    Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary to let you know which companies were making 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 ten ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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    Motley Fool contributor Brooke Cooper 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 Link Administration. 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.

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  • 3 ETFs for smart ASX investors in March

    a group of smart looking kids, wearing formal clothes and all with spectacles, sit in a line and smile charmingly.

    a group of smart looking kids, wearing formal clothes and all with spectacles, sit in a line and smile charmingly.With a new month upon us, what better time to look at your portfolio and see if there’s room for a new addition or two.

    If you’re a fan of exchange traded funds (ETFs), then listed below are three that could be worth getting better acquainted with.

    Here’s what you need to know about these ETFs:

    BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

    The first ETF to look at is the BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF. As its name suggests, this ETF provides investors with exposure to the leaders in the growing global cybersecurity sector. Among the companies you’ll be buying a slice of are cybersecurity giants Accenture, Crowdstrike, Okta, and Palo Alto Networks. These companies appear well-positioned for growth over the coming decade thanks to increasing demand for cybersecurity services as more infrastructure shifts to the cloud and cyber attacks increase.

    BetaShares NASDAQ 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

    The BetaShares NASDAQ 100 ETF could be another ETF for investors to consider in March. This very popular ETF gives investors access to the 100 largest non-financial shares on the famous NASDAQ index. These are many of the largest companies in the world such as Amazon, Alphabet, Apple, Facebook, Microsoft, Netflix, Nvidia, and Tesla. And with the ETF down 14% from its 52-week high, this could make it an opportune time to invest with a long term view.

    VanEck Vectors Video Gaming and eSports ETF (ASX: ESPO)

    A third and final ETF for ASX investors to look at in March is the VanEck Vectors Video Gaming and eSports ETF. This ETF gives investors access to a portfolio of the largest companies involved in video game development, hardware, and eSports. Among the tech companies that you’ll be owning a slice of are Activision Blizzard, AMD, Electronic Arts, Nintendo, Nvidia, Roblox, and Take-Two. These companies all look well-placed to benefit from the increasing popularity of video games and eSports.

    The post 3 ETFs for smart ASX investors in March appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Scott Phillips’ ETF picks for building long term wealth…

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    He’s painstakingly sorted through hundreds of options and uncovered the small handful he thinks are balanced and diversified. ETFs he thinks investors could aim to hold for years, and potentially build outstanding long term wealth.

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    *Returns as of February 1 2023

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF and BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF and BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended VanEck Vectors Video Gaming And eSports ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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  • Why ASX 200 lithium shares are eyeing this surprising new Chinese move

    Three miners stand together at a mine site studying documents with equipment in the background

    Three miners stand together at a mine site studying documents with equipment in the background

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) lithium shares will be watching how a surprising new move by Chinese authorities plays out.

    The ASX 200 lithium stocks have been buoyed by soaring demand for lithium, a critical element in most EV batteries.

    Although lithium prices have tumbled some 30% since hitting record highs last year, as short-term supply catches up to demand, the big miners are still handily outperforming the benchmark.

    Here’s how their share prices have moved over the last 12 months:

    • Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS) shares are up 54%
    • Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) shares are up 20%
    • Allkem Ltd (ASX: AKE) shares are up 25%
    • IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) shares are up 19%
    • Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) shares are up 82%

    So, why are these ASX 200 lithium shares watching China?

    ASX 200 lithium shares eyeing 10% cut in global lithium supply

    China is not only the world’s top producer of EVs, but it also produces some 75% of the world’s lithium-ion batteries. And according to the International Energy Agency, the Middle Kingdom accounts for around 60% of global lithium supplies.

    And it’s this supply-side factor that will be drawing the interest of ASX 200 lithium shares.

    This comes as news breaks that environmental officials are investigating lithium miners in Yichun, Jiangxi province for breaching regulations.

    Yichun produces approximately 10% of the annual global lithium supply.

    As Bloomberg reports, ore-processing operations in Yichun have been brought to a halt as the investigation takes place. It’s not yet known how long the closure orders will remain in place.

    The refineries are still running.

    What are the experts saying?

    Commenting on the environmental crackdown that’s being followed by ASX 200 lithium shares and miners around the world, Susan Zou, an analyst at Rystad Energy said, “This supervision may mean that the inspection and control over lepidolite mining in China will be more stringent in the future.”

    Lepidolite is a lithium-bearing mineral. And analysts had expected Jiangxi province would provide significant new supplies.

    The big question now, and one which could well impact the price of lithium and hence ASX 200 lithium shares, is how long the shutdowns will last.

    China’s annual parliamentary meetings take place in March.

    “At present, the market speculation is that the probe may stop after the two sessions in China next month,” Zou said.

    Chris Berry, president of industry consultancy House Mountain Partners, added (quoted by Bloomberg):

    Any mine would typically have a stockpile of ore in place, so as long as the refineries are operating, you aren’t likely to see any whipsaw in lithium pricing. Should these mines be halted for months, then this becomes a different story.

    Certainly, a story worth following.

    The post Why ASX 200 lithium shares are eyeing this surprising new Chinese move appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

    Scott just revealed what he believes could be the ‘five best ASX stocks’ for investors to buy right now. These stocks are trading at near dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks they could be great buys right now…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of February 1 2023

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    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has 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.

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  • How I’d generate a $10,000 second income from IAG shares

    A trendy woman wearing sunglasses splashes cash notes from her hands.

    A trendy woman wearing sunglasses splashes cash notes from her hands.

    Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) shares have been a favourite of income investors over the long term.

    That’s because the insurance giant has a tendency to return a decent portion of its earnings to shareholders through dividends each year.

    One legendary investor that has been pocketing IAG dividends for a number of years is Warren Buffett. The Oracle of Omaha’s Berkshire Hathaway business acquired a stake in the company in 2015 and then topped up its position in a capital raising in 2021.

    Generating a second income from IAG shares

    What if you wanted to follow in Buffett’s footsteps and generate a $10,000 second income from IAG shares? Well, it certainly is possible.

    According to Citi, its analysts are expecting a 17 cents per share partially franked dividend in FY 2023.

    This means that if you wanted a $10,000 passive income from its shares, you would need just under 59,000 IAG shares.

    Based on the current IAG share price of $4.65, that would mean a sizeable investment of $275,000. However, if you’re willing to be patient, you could potentially make a much smaller investment.

    That’s because Citi is expecting a big jump in the company’s profitability in FY 2024 to underpin the almost doubling of its dividend to 30 cents per share.

    Based on that dividend, you would only need to buy 33,333 IAG shares to generate a $10,000 second income. That equates to an investment of $155,000.

    The good news is that with Citi then forecasting another dividend increase to 34 cents per share in FY 2025, those 33,333 IAG shares would provide investors with another $11,300 of income the following year if its analysts are on the money with their estimates.

    Incidentally, Citi also sees plenty of upside potential for the company’s shares with its buy rating and $5.70 price target. This represents approximately 22% upside and would value those 33,333 shares at $190,000. That’s a gain of $35,000 on your original investment before factoring in the dividends. Not bad!

    The post How I’d generate a $10,000 second income from IAG shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you consider Insurance Australia Group Limited, you’ll want to hear this.

    Motley Fool Investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Insurance Australia Group Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.* And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that are better buys.

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of February 1 2023

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

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  • Here are the 3 most heavily traded ASX 200 shares on Tuesday

    A pair of legs can be seen on the floor buried under a pile of paperwork, indicating a high volume day.

    A pair of legs can be seen on the floor buried under a pile of paperwork, indicating a high volume day.

    Well, this Tuesday has seen a reversal of fortunes for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO). After yesterday’s painful session, the ASX 200 has bounced back so far today. At the time of writing, the Index has gained a rosy 0.48%, which puts it back to just under 7,260 points.

    So let’s now dive a little deeper into these market moves by taking a look at the ASX 200 shares that are presently topping the share market’s trading volume charts, according to investing.com.

    The 3 most traded ASX 200 shares by volume this Tuesday

    Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

    ASX 200 telco Telstra is our first share worth a look at this Tuesday. So far today, a notable 15 million Telstra shares have been called in for trading. There’s been no news or major announcements out of Telstra today that might explain this volume.

    So it’s therefore likely to be the movements of the Telstra share price itself that is to thank for this volume. Telstra shares have indeed had a bouncy day of trading.

    The telco is currently up by 0.12% at $4.16 a share but swung to a temporary loss this morning at $4.12 before going as high as $4.18 a share soon afterwards. It’s probably this volatility that has resulted in so many Telstra shares changing hands.

    Sayona Mining Ltd (ASX: SYA)

    Next up this Tuesday we have the ASX 200 lithium stock Sayona Mining. This session has had a decent 24.21 million Sayona shares swap owners thus far. This is probably the result of Sayona’s pleasing share price gain that we’ve seen today.

    At present, Sayona shares are up a robust 3.11% at 23 cents apiece. As we went through this afternoon, it’s been a rough and volatile month for this ASX 200 lithium share. But investors seem to be in a forgiving mood today, with this gain the likeliest explanation for the high volumes on display.

    Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS)

    Our third and most-traded ASX 200 share today is none other than another lithium stock in Pilbara Minerals. A hefty 30.72 million Pilbara shares have been bought and sold so far this session. Again, there’s no fresh news out of Pilbara itself. So it could be a few things that are putting this company at the top of the trading tables this Tuesday.

    For one, Pilbara shares have bucked the market, and are currently down by 1.07% at $4.16 each. But there are also rumours flying around today that a very large parcel of Pilbara shares has changed hands.

    Put that on top of Pilbara’s ex-dividend date for its first-ever dividend payment fast approaching, and we have a potent mix of factors that could all be driving the elevated volumes we are seeing.

    The post Here are the 3 most heavily traded ASX 200 shares on Tuesday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

    Scott just revealed what he believes could be the ‘five best ASX stocks’ for investors to buy right now. These stocks are trading at near dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks they could be great buys right now…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of February 1 2023

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    Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen has positions in Telstra Group. 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 positions in and has recommended Telstra Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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  • How did the Flight Centre share price manage to leap almost 10% in February?

    A woman reaches her arms to the sky as a plane flies overhead at sunset.

    A woman reaches her arms to the sky as a plane flies overhead at sunset.

    The Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT) share price is on track to end the month on a positive note.

    At the time of writing, the travel agent’s shares are up 0.5% to $18.75.

    If the Flight Centre share price finishes here, it will mean a monthly gain of 9.5%.

    This compares very favourably to the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which is currently down 2.9% month to date.

    Why is the Flight Centre share price outperforming?

    On the very first day of the month, the Flight Centre share price surged higher after it released its unaudited numbers to support its capital raising.

    Flight Centre revealed the more than tripling of its revenue to $1 billion thanks to a significant rebound in the travel market and a particularly strong performance from its corporate business.

    And while the company’s revenue margins remain under a spot of pressure, this couldn’t stop Flight Centre from recording underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) of $95 million for the half. This was up from a $184 million loss a year earlier and 19% ahead of the midpoint of its original half-year guidance.

    New acquisition

    Also getting investors excited was news that the company has bolstered its offering with the acquisition of the Scott Dunn business for $211 million.

    The company notes that Scott Dunn is a high-margin leisure business in the luxury travel segment with large average booking values and strong repeat bookings. It pulled in $199 million of total transaction value (TTV) and $51 million of revenue last year.

    Commenting on the acquisition, Flight Centre’s managing director, Graham Turner, said:

    Scott Dunn provides us with the opportunity to grow our leisure presence in the large UK and US luxury markets in an attractive and growing segment, while also fast-tracking our objective of developing a global luxury collection of travel brands. High-net-worth, time poor customers highly value the services of Scott Dunn as shown by their customers’ loyalty.

    All in all, many in the market appear to believe the worst is now behind the company and the Flight Centre share price. Though, it is worth noting that Flight Centre shares remain one of the most shorted shares on the Australian share market.

    The post How did the Flight Centre share price manage to leap almost 10% in February? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Flight Centre Travel Group Limited right now?

    Before you consider Flight Centre Travel Group Limited, you’ll want to hear this.

    Motley Fool Investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Flight Centre Travel Group Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.* And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that are better buys.

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of February 1 2023

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Flight Centre Travel Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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  • 2 ASX All Ords stocks rocketing over 7% on strong results

    Rocket powering up and symbolising a rising share price.Rocket powering up and symbolising a rising share price.

    The All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) is in the green today, gaining 0.49% to trade at 7,455.9 points, helped along by these stocks.

    They’re each gaining more than 7% on the back of strong first-half earnings. Let’s take a look at what’s got the market bidding them sky-high today.

    2 ASX All Ords stocks outperforming on earnings releases

    Stock in All Ords neuroscience technology company CogState Limited (ASX: CGS) is roaring 12% higher this afternoon to trade at $1.58 following the release of the company’s first-half earnings.

    The company’s latest results were impacted by revenue delays. It posted US$19.5 million of revenue – down 15.6% on that of the prior comparable period (pcp).

    That’s expected to improve in the second half. Though, its full-year revenue is still forecast to come in 6% to 9% lower than that of financial year 2022 amid slower-than-expected trial enrolments.

    Beyond its earnings, CogState also announced a $13 million on-market share buyback to be conducted within the next 12 months.

    It’s also worth mentioning the CogState share price’s recent tumbles. It’s dropped 49% over the three sessions prior to today’s after a guidance update was released on Thursday.

    Joining the All Ords stock in the green is peer MoneyMe Ltd (ASX: MME). Shares in the digital consumer credit business are soaring 7.5% at the time of writing, trading at 21.5 cents.

    The financials company posted a 147% jump in net profit after tax (NPAT) for the first half – reaching $9 million. That’s the first time it’s posted a profit since financial year 2020.

    It responded to rising rates, recessionary concerns, and tightening capital markets last half. To do so, it moderated growth, lowered operating costs, managed credit risk, raised capital, and reset its corporate debt funding arrangements.

    Meanwhile, its gross revenue lifted 152% to $121 million. It expects that to come in above $220 million for the entirety of financial year 2023.

    The post 2 ASX All Ords stocks rocketing over 7% on strong results appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    FREE Guide for New Investors

    Despite what some people may say – we believe investing in shares doesn’t have to be overwhelming or complicated…

    For over a decade, we’ve been helping everyday Aussies get started on their journey.

    And to help even more people cut through some of the confusion “experts’” seem to want to perpetuate – we’ve created a brand-new “how to” guide.

    Yes, Claim my FREE copy!
    *Returns as of February 1 2023

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    Motley Fool contributor Brooke Cooper 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 Cogstate. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Cogstate. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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