• Accent share price races 10% higher after half-year profits triple

    An athlete runs fast with a trail of yellow smoke billowing out behind him.

    An athlete runs fast with a trail of yellow smoke billowing out behind him.

    The Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1) share price has raced to a 52-week high on Friday.

    In morning trade, the youth fashion and footwear retailer’s shares are up 10% to $2.36.

    This follows the release of a strong half-year result from Accent.

    Accent share price jumps on strong earnings growth

    • Total sales up 39% to $825 million
    • Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) up 70.9% to $170.2 million
    • Net profit after tax up 290% to $58.3 million
    • Fully franked interim dividend up 380% to 12 cents per share
    • Net debt down 30% to $63.6 million

    What happened during the half?

    For the six months ended 31 December, Accent reported a 39% increase in sales to $825 million.

    This reflects strong in-store sales, softer online sales, the opening of 53 new stores, significant store closures in the prior corresponding period, and one extra trading week.

    On the bottom line, Accent posted a 290% increase in net profit after tax to $58.3 million. Management advised that this was driven by stronger gross margins, lower costs, and improved earnings from its online business. Although the latter posted a decline in sales, its earnings were stronger year over year.

    This ultimately allowed the Accent board to increase its interim dividend by 380% to a fully franked 12 cents per share.

    Management commentary

    Accent’s CEO, Daniel Agostinelli, was very pleased with the half. He said:

    I am delighted with the results achieved in H1 FY23. The continued focus on customers, new product, full margin sales and return on investment has delivered a terrific H1 result. What is most pleasing is the strength and consistency of performance across our large core banners, including Skechers, Platypus, Hype DC, The Athlete’s Foot (TAF), Vans and Dr Martens, along with the progress that we have made in our new banners now that trading conditions have normalised.

    One of the key initiatives for H1 was driving the profitability of the Accent Group digital business. Overall online sales have grown 160% to $134 million compared to FY20. Whilst sales were down on last year due to the lockdowns in 2021, we have improved our digital business and online EBIT was ahead of last year.

    Outlook

    While no guidance has been provided for the second half, management notes that trading has been strong. Like for like sales were up 16% for the first seven weeks of the half.

    Pleasingly, management appears optimistic that this positive form can continue thanks to its focus on younger consumers. Mr Agostinelli concludes:

    Whilst we recognise that there is some uncertainty in the economic outlook, to this point we have not yet seen any significant change to consumer spending in our categories. Many of our brands target a younger customer demographic who tend to be less impacted by interest rates and cost of living pressures.

    In conclusion, I am pleased with the ongoing progress that has been made on our key growth strategies as we continue to build a strong, defensible business in Australia and New Zealand. Our portfolio of global distributed brands, owned vertical brands, integrated digital capability and large store network are core assets of the Group and position the Company well for growth into the future.

    The post Accent share price races 10% higher after half-year profits triple appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you consider Accent 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 Accent 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 Accent 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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  • Passive income watch: 4 ASX 200 shares that announced boosted dividends this week

    Green dollar sign rocket on the back of a man.

    Green dollar sign rocket on the back of a man.

    Well ASX 200 earnings season is in full swing, and we have certainly seen some dramatic reports so far. Some of the most watched metrics when an ASX share reveals its earnings is what kind of dividend income is coming investors’ way in the next few weeks.

    Not only does a dividend give an insight into the financial health of a company, but investors just like to see that passive income in their hands.

    Some ASX 200 shares have given investors a dividend pay cut this season, such as BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL). But let’s discuss four ASX 200 shares that have gone the other way and ramped up their dividend payments for investors.

    4 ASX 200 dividend shares upping their payouts in 2023

    Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

    ASX 200 blue chip Woolworths is first up. Woolies delighted its investors with its latest dividend announcement on Wednesday. The grocery giant will be forking out a fully-franked 46 cents per share in April.

    That’s a good 17.9% higher than the interim dividend of 39 cents that investors received last year. But it comes in at the same level as Woolies’ interim dividend from 2021. At yesterday’s close, Woolworths stores now have a dividend yield of 2.49%.

    Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)

    And that brings us to Woolworths’ arch-rival Coles. Coles also upped its dividend game this earnings season. The supermarket operator announced its own earnings on Tuesday this week, and these also included a dividend boost for investors.

    Coles paid out an interim dividend of 33 cents per share in 2022, but announced a hike of its own this week, with investors now in line to bag a fully-franked 36 cents per share interim dividend in 2023. That’s the largest dividend Coles has paid out since listing on the ASX in 2018.

    That’s a 9.1% boost though, which isn’t quite as large of an increase as Woolies managed. Coles now trades on a dividend yield of 3.69%.

    Ramsay Health Care Limited (ASX: RHC)

    Another ASX 200 share giving investors a pay rise this earnings cycle is the healthcare heavyweight Ramsay. This company used to have one of the best dividend streaks on the ASX, raising its payouts every single year between 2000 and 2019. Alas, the pandemic sadly brought this to an end in 2020.

    But Ramsay seems to be getting back on that horse, and just yesterday announced a fully-franked interim dividend of 50 cents per share for 2023. That’s a 3% increase over 2022’s corresponding dividend of 48.5 cents per share. Ramsay shares are yielding 1.43% right now.

    Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL)

    Our final ASX 200 share worth checking out today is another healthcare share in Medibank Private. Medibank was another ASX stock that reported yesterday. In these earnings, the insurer revealed an interim dividend of 6.3 cents per share, fully franked.

    That’s a rise of 3.28% over 2022’s interim dividend of 6.1 cents per share. Medibank is another ASX 200 share that is building up a solid dividend streak. It paid out 12 cents per share in total in 2020, 12.7 cents per share in 2021 and 13.4 cents in 2022.

    With this latest dividend, it is on track to raise its annual total in 2023 as well. Medbank shares have a dividend yield of 4.09% today.

    The post Passive income watch: 4 ASX 200 shares that announced boosted dividends this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Where should you invest $1,000 right now? 3 dividend stocks to help beat inflation

    This FREE report reveals 3 stocks not only boasting sustainable dividends but that also have strong potential for massive long term returns…

    See the 3 stocks
    *Returns as of February 1 2023

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    Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen has positions in Ramsay Health Care. 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 Coles 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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  • Invested $1,000 in Evolution Mining shares in 2013? Here’s how much dividend income you’ve received

    Gold bars and Australian dollar notes.Gold bars and Australian dollar notes.

    It’s been 10 years since Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) introduced its revenue-linked dividend policy, and it’s provided those invested in its shares with more than 20 payouts since. In the meantime, stock in the gold producer has risen 122%.

    Indeed, a $1,000 investment in Evolution Mining shares in February 2013 likely would have bought 800 securities at $1.25 apiece.

    Today, that parcel would be worth $2,224. The Evolution Mining share price last closed at $2.78.

    For comparison, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has gained around 45% in that time.

    But how much have long-term Evolution Mining investors made when it comes to dividends? Let’s take a look.

    Own Evolution Mining shares? Here are all the company’s dividends

    Here are all the dividends that have been paid to those invested in Evolution Mining shares since 2013:

    Evolution dividends’ pay date Type Dividend amount
    August 2022 Final 3 cents
    March 2022 Interim 3 cents
    September 2021 Final 5 cents
    March 2021 Interim 7 cents
    September 2020 Final 9 cents
    March 2020 Interim 7 cents
    September 2019 Final 6 cents
    March 2019 Interim 3.5 cents
    September 2018 Final 4 cents
    March 2018 Interim 3.5 cents
    September 2017 Final 3 cents
    March 2017 Interim 2 cents
    September 2016 Final 2 cents
    March 2016 Interim 1 cent
    October 2015 Final 1 cent
    March 2015 Interim 1 cent
    October 2014 Final 1 cent
    March 2014 Interim 1 cent
    September 2013 Maiden 1 cent
    Total:   64 cents

    As the chart above shows, each Evolution Mining share has yielded 64 cents of dividends since the company’s maiden payout.

    That means our figurative $1,000 parcel has probably provided $552 of passive income over its life – bringing its return on investment (ROI) to 178%.

    And, of course, if an investor were to have reinvested their dividends, they could have realised further gains through the power of compounding.

    Not to mention, all Evolution Mining dividends since September 2017 have been fully franked. Thus, they’ve had the potential to bring tax benefits.

    Right now, Evolution Mining shares boast a 2.16% dividend yield.

    The ASX 200 company also declared its next dividend last week. It comes in at 2 cents per share and will be paid in June.

    The post Invested $1,000 in Evolution Mining shares in 2013? Here’s how much dividend income you’ve received appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you consider Evolution Mining 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 Evolution Mining 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 Brooke Cooper 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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  • Invest $1,500 each month in this ASX dividend stock to actually create a $1 million portfolio

    A tattooed man stands in front of a chalkboard with lots of cash notes drawn on it, as if it's raining money.

    A tattooed man stands in front of a chalkboard with lots of cash notes drawn on it, as if it's raining money.

    ASX dividend stocks have a very useful ability of being able to pay dividends and grow both the underlying value of the business plus the payout over time. Investing $1,500 a month could turn into $1 million.

    There are some ASX shares that have been very generous dividend payers over the last decade, like BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA). But, with how large they are, I don’t believe they have enormous capital growth potential.

    However, businesses that have more growth potential could be an excellent choice to deliver a steady stream of dividends as well as compound growth in the coming years.

    I wouldn’t advocate putting all of someone’s money into just one business. However, some investments do have a lot of underlying diversification. While there are a number of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that offer compelling diversification in just one investment, many don’t provide good dividend yields.

    But, there are a few different ASX dividend stocks that could provide that diversification, good dividends instantly and long-term growth. Today, I’m going to tell you about Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd (ASX: SOL).

    It’s an ‘investment conglomerate’. It’s like Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway because Soul Pattinson invests in listed businesses and private businesses/assets.

    Dividend yield

    One of the most important aspects of an ASX dividend stock is the income we’re going to get. I like large dividends, but I’m happy to receive a smaller yield if it gives a better chance of dividend growth each year and more re-investment.

    Soul Pattinson grew its FY22 full-year dividend by 16.1% to 72 cents. At the current Soul Pattinson share price, that translates into a trailing grossed-up dividend yield of 3.6%.

    While dividend growth is not guaranteed, the company has grown its dividend every year since 2000, so I think the future yield-on-cost will be even more compelling.

    The dividend is funded by the cash flow that Soul Pattinson receives from its portfolio of investments. As its investments grow profit and pay larger dividends, that means Soul Pattinson can fund higher dividends too.

    Long-term growth

    Soul Pattinson aims to find resilient investments that it believes can grow both the dividends and capital value over time.

    That has resulted in a portfolio of names like TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPG), Brickworks Limited (ASX: BKW), Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), as well as private investments like agriculture and an electrical parts business called Ampcontrol.

    At the company’s annual general meeting (AGM) it said that over the prior 20 years, the ASX dividend stock had delivered an average total shareholder return (TSR) per annum of 12.5%.

    Past performance is certainly not a reliable indicator of future performance. However, investing $1,500 per month and achieving an average return per annum of 12.5% would take 18 years to reach a $1 million portfolio. If the returns going forwards are lower than 12.5% per annum then it will take longer to achieve the $1 million goal.

    ‘Revolving diversification’

    I think one of the most underrated factors that makes a good investment is longevity.

    It seems somewhat inevitable that many companies and technologies are replaced over time. Kodak, Blackberry and IBM are not the giants they used to be.

    There are very few companies that we can hold, own forever and likely see good returns.

    What I like about ETFs and Soul Pattinson is that their portfolios can change, removing the losers and investing in the current/future winners. I think it’s this ability that will help the ASX dividend stock continue to be a solid performer for the next 10 to 20 years.

    The post Invest $1,500 each month in this ASX dividend stock to actually create a $1 million portfolio appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Washington H. Soul Pattinson And Company Limited right now?

    Before you consider Washington H. Soul Pattinson And Company 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 Washington H. Soul Pattinson And Company 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 positions in Brickworks and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Berkshire Hathaway, Brickworks, and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Brickworks, Macquarie Group, and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Berkshire Hathaway and Tpg Telecom. 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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  • Up 45% in a year! But this boom ASX 200 tech share is still a buy: expert

    A woman wearing yellow smiles and drinks coffee while on laptop.A woman wearing yellow smiles and drinks coffee while on laptop.

    It’s pretty incredible, but there is actually a technology stock in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) that’s risen 46% over the past year.

    This is a pretty remarkable effort during a time when the S&P/ASX All Technology Index (ASX: XTX) lost 7.8%. If you go back to November 2021, the tech index has lost a third of its value.

    That outlier is Brisbane’s TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE).

    “TechnologyOne is Australia’s largest enterprise resource planning (ERP) software-as-a-service (SaaS) provider,” Fairmont Equities managing director Michael Gable said in a blog post.

    The reason for its outperformance compared to its industry peers is the demographics of its clients.

    “Around 85% of revenue is generated from the government, education and health sectors, which are highly defensive. The company has a customer retention rate of +99% and [a] very low customer churn rate.”

    ‘Consistent performance’ and ‘highly attractive’ fundamentals

    According to Gable, TechOne’s “fundamentals are highly attractive”, citing the business’ 90%+ recurring revenue profile, a less than 1% churn rate, “a highly cash generative business model” and a clean balance sheet.

    The software provider has a history of “consistent performance”, and currently has “achievable medium-term targets”.

    That includes a profit before tax margin of 35% by the 2026 financial year and a three-year earnings growth profile of +14% per annum.

    Although the TechOne share price has gone sideways for the past month, Gable expects it to resume its climb.

    “With the shares currently trading on a one-year forward P/E multiple of ~44x, which is above the upper end of the trading range over the last four years (35 to 43x), we consider that the market is starting to factor in TechOne’s medium-term targets.”

    About 18 months ago, the company acquired UK software vendor Scientia in an effort to gain clientele in the education sector.

    Gable is looking forward to seeing what impact that has on TechOne’s performance.

    “Evidence of a step-change in ARR performance in the UK following the Scientia acquisition, as well as maintaining a higher rate of additional customers per year onto the SaaS platform are two key factors that would support a more positive view on the shares.”

    Gable’s peers are somewhat divided on TechOne shares.

    According to CMC Markets, seven out of 12 analysts currently reckon the stock is a hold. Two rate it a buy and three urge a sell.

    The post Up 45% in a year! But this boom ASX 200 tech share is still a buy: expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you consider Technology One 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 Technology One 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 Tony Yoo 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 Technology One. 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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  • Pilbara Minerals share price on watch amid 989% profit surge

    Man in yellow hard hat looks through binoculars as man in white hard hat stands behind him and points.Man in yellow hard hat looks through binoculars as man in white hard hat stands behind him and points.

    The Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS) share price is on watch this morning.

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) lithium stock closed up 5.1% yesterday trading for $4.48 apiece.

    The price action will be one to keep an eye on this morning, after the company reported its half-year results for the six months ending 31 December (1H FY23).

    Pilbara Minerals share price on watch following inaugural dividend

    • Sales revenue of $2.18 billion, up 305% from the $292 million reported in 1H FY22
    • Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $1.81 billion, up 1,091% year on year
    • Statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) of $1.24 billion, up 989%
    • Inaugural fully franked dividend of 11 cents per share

    What else happened during the half year?

    The Pilbara Minerals share price could also see some sizeable moves today on some other strong metrics.

    That included an 83% year on year increase in production, with the ASX 200 lithium miner producing 309,255 dry metric tonnes (dmt) of spodumene concentrate over the six months. 286,876 dmt were shipped during the period, an increase of 68%.

    The miner said it enhanced its output after adopting a production and marketing strategy focused on maximising sales volumes by “deliberately targeting a lower product grade to optimise product yield and maximise concentrate production”.

    This all came on the back of a 305% lift in the average realised sales price Pilbara Minerals received, which came in at US$4,993/dmt ~ SC5.4 basis (CIF China).

    As you’d expect, the surge in revenue saw a huge improvement in the company’s cash balance, which increased by $1.63 billion between 30 June and 31 December. At 31 December, the company had a net cash position of $2.08 billion.

    What did management say?

    Commenting on the results that have put the Pilbara Minerals share price on watch this morning, CEO Dale Henderson said:

    This is an exceptional financial result… The strong cash generation from the Pilgangoora Project has further strengthened the company’s balance sheet, putting us in an enviable position with $2.23 billion in the bank as at 31 December 2022 – a $1.63 billion increase on the prior corresponding period…

    This strong financial performance provides the Company a great platform, supporting our growth and diversification strategy to become a leading, sustainable battery materials supplier.

    What’s next?

    Looking at what might impact the Pilbara Minerals share price in the months ahead, Henderson said, “The company and its stakeholders are poised to continue to thrive. The combination of a world-class asset, operating expertise and team spirit is coming together and delivering into a growing market.”

    Henderson ended on this optimistic note, “The stage is set for Pilbara Minerals to take massive growth steps in the months and years ahead. This is just the beginning.”

    Pilbara Minerals share price snapshot

    As you can see on the chart below, the Pilbara Minerals share price has been a strong performer, up 71% over the past 12 months.

    We’ll wait and see how the market reacts to today’s results.

    The post Pilbara Minerals share price on watch amid 989% profit surge appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you consider Pilbara Minerals 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 Pilbara Minerals 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 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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  • Earnings preview: Here are the ASX shares reporting on Friday

    Happy office workers throw reports in the airHappy office workers throw reports in the air

    The excitement of reporting season is nearly behind us. It is now the last few stragglers left to post their financials. This means a much quieter day for ASX shares reporting today compared to yesterday.

    Nevertheless, there are still some important names in the lineup that are worth checking out. Each report could be a window of opportunity into the next investment. There can be incredible insights to glean from earnings season, so let’s make the most of it.

    To help you on your merry way, here is a quick summary of today.

    These ASX shares are releasing their results today

    Ranked in order of market capitalisation (largest to smallest)

    Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1), $1.2 billion

    Allkem Ltd (ASX: AKE), $7.3 billion

    Block Inc CDI (ASX: SQ2), $64.2 billion

    Brambles Limited (ASX: BXB), $16.8 billion

    Jumbo Interactive Ltd (ASX: JIN), $917.4 million

    Mayne Pharma Group (ASX: MYX), $262.5 million

    Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN), $16.2 billion

    Perpetual Ltd (ASX PPT), $2.9 billion

    What can we expect to see?

    It’s time for another ASX buy now, pay later (BNPL) share to do the walk around the block. Afterpay acquirer, Block Inc CDI (ASX: SQ2), is set to post its fourth quarter and full-year earnings for FY2022 today.

    Although, Aussie investors can already get a glimpse of the fintech giant’s numbers due to its US parent company already publishing the details earlier this morning.

    By the looks, Block had a fairly solid performance in Q4. Total net revenue increased 14% year on year to US$4.65 billion and gross profits jumped 40% to US$1.66 billion. Furthermore, it appears the company’s BNPL segment assisted in boosting gross profit growth given Block’s comparables excluding this segment weren’t as strong.

    However, like Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP), Block reported steepening losses for the quarter and the full year. In Q4, net losses reached US$114 million compared to US$77 million a year prior.

    A completely different ASX share that will be grabbing some attention today is lithium producer, Allkem.

    The price of lithium began a swift move downwards from mid-November through to the end of the financial period. As such, shareholders will be nervously awaiting clarity on the extent of the impact of weakening lithium prices.

    Earlier in the week, I covered the rumblings among analysts on the deteriorating lithium outlook. Fortunately, Allkem’s guidance could shed some light on the expected supply and demand dynamics.

    The Allkem share price is now only slightly higher in 2023. On 30 January, shareholders were sitting on a tidy return of 27%, which has since largely disappeared.

    Don’t forget to check back in throughout the day for our earnings coverage.

    The post Earnings preview: Here are the ASX shares reporting on Friday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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    Motley Fool contributor Mitchell Lawler has positions in Block and Jumbo Interactive. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Block, Jumbo Interactive, and Zip Co. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Block. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Accent Group and Jumbo Interactive. 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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  • These ASX dividend shares offer huge yields: experts

    It's raining cash for this man, as he throws money into the air with a big smile on his face.

    It's raining cash for this man, as he throws money into the air with a big smile on his face.

    The good news for income investors is that there are a plenty of quality ASX dividend shares to choose from on the Australian share market.

    Two that are rated as buys and tipped to offer huge dividend yields are listed below. Here’s what you need to know about these shares:

    Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW)

    The first ASX dividend share that has been tipped to provide a big yield is the Charter Hall Long Wale REIT.

    It is a property company that invests in high quality real estate assets that have long weighted average lease expiries (WALEs).

    These properties certainly are in demand with end users, which are mainly corporate and government tenants. When the company released its half-year results, it reported a WALE of 11.8 years and a 99.9% occupancy rate.

    Citi was pleased and has retained its buy rating with a $5.00 price target.

    As for dividends, the broker is expecting dividends per share of 28 cents in FY 2023 and 29 cents in FY 2024. Based on the current Charter Hall Long Wale REIT unit price of $4.54, this will mean yields of 6.15% and 6.4%, respectively.

    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

    Another ASX dividend share that analysts are expecting a big dividend yield from is Woodside Energy.

    It is of course one of the world’s leading energy producer’s with a collection of world class assets across the globe.

    A note out of Morgan Stanley reveals that its analysts are expecting the energy giant to pay fully franked dividends of $3.86 per share in FY 2022 and then $2.72 per share in FY 2023. Based on the current Woodside share price of $34.37, this equates to sizeable 11.2% and 7.9% dividend yields for investors.

    Morgan Stanley has an overweight rating and $41.00 price target on the energy producer’s shares.

    The post These ASX dividend shares offer huge yields: experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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    *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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  • Looking to get in on the boosted Santos dividend? You better hurry!

    A bearded man holds both arms up diagonally and points with his index fingers to the sky with a thrilled look on his face over these rising Tassal share priceA bearded man holds both arms up diagonally and points with his index fingers to the sky with a thrilled look on his face over these rising Tassal share price

    If you’re wanting to receive the outsized Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) dividend payment, you don’t have much time. 

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) energy stock released its full-year results on Wednesday.

    The strong results – including a 221% year on year increase in net profit to US$2.1 billion – saw the Santos share price finish the day up 3.1%. It also saw the board declare an unexpectedly juicy, unfranked final dividend.

    So, when does Santos trade ex-dividend?

    When do Santos shares trade ex-dividend?

    Santos trades ex-dividend on Monday, 27 February.

    Meaning today is the last day investors have to buy stock in the ASX 200 dividend share to receive the payout.

    And what a payout it is.

    Santos’ 15.1 US cent per share final dividend is up 78% from the 2021 final dividend payout.

    You’ll notice that the figure is quoted in US currency. Aussie investors, however, will receive their payout in Australian dollars, to be calculated at the going exchange rate on 2 March.

    At the current exchange rate, the final dividend works out to 22.1 Australian cents per share.

    At yesterday’s closing price that works out to an almost instant yield of 3.2%. Though, keep in mind, the Santos share price is likely to fall on Monday when the stock trades ex-dividend.

    If you own the stock before market close today, you can expect to be paid on 29 March.

    And Santos’ dividend reinvestment plan (DRP) is active for interested investors.

    How has this ASX 200 energy share been performing?

    As you can see in the chart below, the Santos share price is down 2% so far in 2023, not including the passive income the stock offers.

    The post Looking to get in on the boosted Santos dividend? You better hurry! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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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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  • 7 more ideas for buying ASX shares this reporting season: expert

    a man smiles broadly as he holds up five fingers on one hand and two fingers on the other hand.a man smiles broadly as he holds up five fingers on one hand and two fingers on the other hand.

    Reporting season continues amid a background of geopolitical tensions and economic turbulence.

    Morgans analyst Andrew Tang has been monitoring all the financial reports and regularly declaring his favourites to buy.

    Here are the latest seven ASX shares he likes:

    Explosive growth while the rest of the world struggles

    Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) has been a darling on the ASX, rising 51% over the past 12 months when most other non-mining stocks have been in the red.

    But the results just announced still exceeded Morgans’ expectations.

    “Lovisa reported net profit after tax [NPAT] of $50.5 million (pre-AASB 16) — 1% higher than our forecast,” Tang wrote on the Morgans blog.

    “Sales growth was 45%, driven by store rollout and +12.5% like-for-like sales growth.”

    The current growth is at breakneck pace.

    “Lovisa opened a net of 86 new stores in 1H23, more than in all of FY22.”

    Tang’s team is recommending a buy for Lovisa shares and has upgraded future earnings expectations for the company.

    ‘Momentum in the business is strong’

    Meanwhile, Superloop Ltd (ASX: SLC) exceeded Morgans’ expectations for earnings but slightly missed for net profit after tax.

    But the stock is a buy, with the broadband provider heading in the right direction.

    “Momentum in the business is strong with Superloop delivering 28% YoY organic revenue growth and EBITDA lifting more due to positive leverage,” said Tang.

    “Underlying EBITDA was up 89% YoY and operating cash flow conversion was impressive at 103%.”

    Healthcare goods distributor EBOS Group Ltd (ASX: EBO) enjoyed “a record 1H23 result”, showing off “double-digit gross order receipts and EBITDA growth through acquisitions and organically”.

    According to Tang, the company has successfully navigated through “an operationally challenging environment with supply chain issues and cost pressures”.

    “EBOS continues to be a leader and hold strong market positions in both healthcare and animal care operating segments,” he said.

    “We have upgraded our EPS forecast by ~1% in FY24/25.”

    Energy sector still in demand in 2023

    While Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR)’s wasn’t mind-blowing by any means, the result left the “valuation in its dust”, according to Tang.

    “Even the lower-than-expected 1H23 result with EBITDAX of US$176 million puts Karoon on an EBITDAX multiple of just ~2.0x, a sector low,” he said.

    “Karoon maintaining FY23 unit cost and production guidance highlights the bulk of earnings are skewed to 2H23.”

    Also in the energy sector, Tang noted Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) posted “record profits and cash flow, upsized shareholder returns and developments across several key assets”. 

    “On balance, a steady 2H22 result, falling just short of consensus expectations. Strong final dividend of 15.1 US cents, vs Morgans’ [forecast] 14.3 US cents.”

    Both these energy players are a buy right now for the Morgans team.

    ‘Remarkably strong’ businesses

    Insurance claims repairer Johns Lyng Group Ltd (ASX: JLG) posted a “remarkably strong” half-yearly result due to “unprecedented” amount of work from catastrophic (CAT) weather events.

    “EBITDA of $59.4 million — 15% above our forecast of $51.7 million — was up 63% vs pcp,” said Tang.

    “Underlying NPAT of $25.9 million was 10% above our forecast and up 82% vs pcp. FY23 guidance was upgraded by ~5.5% on a headline basis.”

    The stock is a buy, with more catalysts to come for the business.

    “We maintain our positive view on JLG, and continue to see it well placed to benefit from ongoing elevated claims activity, further market share gains across its four key growth pillars in Australia, US and New Zealand, and ongoing market consolidation via M&A.”

    Hotel Property Investments Ltd (ASX: HPI) is not a name often heard of, but Morgans likes the investor of pubs.

    Tang noted that its dividend guidance was maintained after the latest result, which indicates “an implied distribution yield of +5%”. 

    “The portfolio is valued at $1.25 billion, weighted average lease expiry +10 years, and hotel occupancy 100%.”

    The net tangible asset was recalculated to $4.06, which is far above the current stock price.

    “HPI’s focus remains on portfolio quality via the refurbishment program (well progressed), as well as potential asset divestments.”

    The post 7 more ideas for buying ASX shares this reporting season: expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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    Motley Fool contributor Tony Yoo has positions in Johns Lyng Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Johns Lyng Group, Lovisa, and Superloop. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Hotel Property Investments. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Johns Lyng Group and Lovisa. 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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