• Why Monash IVF, Pro Medicus, Telix, and Woodside shares are storming higher today

    Excited couple celebrating success while looking at smartphone.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is having a reasonably poor start to the week. In afternoon trade, the benchmark index is down 0.45% to 8,921.3 points.

    Four ASX shares that are not letting that hold them back today are listed below. Here’s why they are rising:

    Monash IVF Group Ltd (ASX: MVF)

    The Monash IVF share price is up 14% to 75.7 cents. This morning, the fertility treatment company revealed that it has received a new non-binding takeover proposal from a consortium that includes Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL). The consortium had previously offered 80 cents per share. This has now been increased to 90 cents per share and “represents the highest amount the Consortium is prepared to offer as its Offer Price, absent a competing proposal emerging for all or a material part of Monash IVF.” The company advised that its board is assessing the proposal, including obtaining advice from its financial and legal advisers.

    Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

    The Pro Medicus share price is up 5% to $133.14. This morning, the health imaging technology company announced that it has signed a five-year contract renewal with Northwestern Medicine. Importantly, the $37 million contract has increased minimums and an increased fee per transaction. Commenting on the deal, Pro Medicus’ CEO, Dr Hupert, said: “We are extremely pleased that in addition to committing to a second five-year term at an increased fee per exam, NM have also committed to an increase in their minimums reflecting the growth in their exam volumes since standardising on our platform five years ago.”

    Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX)

    The Telix Pharmaceuticals share price is up 8% to $15.87. Investors have been buying the radiopharmaceuticals company’s shares after it announced a major collaboration with US-based Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: REGN). The company notes that there is potential to earn up to US$2.1 billion in development and commercial milestone payments plus low double-digit royalties if Telix opts out of co-funding any program. Telix’s managing director and CEO, Christian Behrenbruch, said: “The collaboration with Regeneron reflects a highly complementary set of capabilities and a unique opportunity to explore what true ‘next gen’ biologics-based radiopharmaceuticals can potentially do for patients.”

    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

    The Woodside Energy share price is up almost 3% to $34.19. This energy giant’s shares are rising today after oil prices jumped above US$100 a barrel. The catalyst for the jump was news that US President Donald Trump is threatening to blockade Iranian ports after initial peace talks between the two countries failed.

    The post Why Monash IVF, Pro Medicus, Telix, and Woodside shares are storming higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Monash IVF 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 Monash IVF 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…

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Pro Medicus and Woodside Energy Group Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Telix Pharmaceuticals, and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Pro Medicus and Telix Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • This beaten-down ASX small cap is sliding again despite a major US milestone

    Woman presenting financial report on large screen in conference room.

    Metallium Ltd (ASX: MTM) shares are back in the red on Monday amid another weak session on the ASX.

    In early afternoon trade, the Metallium share price is down 3.94% to 61 cents.

    The move leaves the stock down about 42% in 2026 as investors continue weighing its US scale-up timeline.

    Despite today’s decline, the company’s quarterly update continued to show progress at its Texas campus.

    The weaker share price appears more tied to the softer ASX backdrop, which has weighed heavily on small-cap stocks.

    Here’s what investors are looking at.

    Texas commissioning keeps moving forward

    According to the release, Metallium’s March quarter report showed continued progress at its Gator Point Technology Campus in Texas. Its flash joule heating platform is being scaled at the site.

    During the quarter, more than 40 processing campaigns were completed across printed circuit boards and catalytic converter scrap, with management reporting better throughput, improved recoveries, and stronger system performance.

    The next key milestone is the parallel operation of multiple reactors, targeted for the June quarter.

    That would mark a major step toward the company’s planned 8,000 tonnes per annum run-rate demonstration and remains central to Metallium’s long-term plans.

    The quarter also brought commercial progress.

    The company secured its first long-term binding e-scrap feedstock agreement with Glencore for up to 2,400 tonnes per annum. It also locked in a long-term offtake agreement with Indium Corporation covering gallium, germanium, gold, copper, tin, and indium.

    Broader ASX weakness may be driving the slide

    Monday’s share price drop looks to have less to do with Metallium’s quarterly and more to do with the broader market backdrop.

    The ASX opened lower after weekend US-Iran negotiations broke down. That has reignited concerns around the Strait of Hormuz and pushed brent crude back above US$101 a barrel.

    That broader risk-off mood has weighed heavily on smaller ASX growth stocks. This is especially true for companies still moving from pilot success toward scaled commercial operations .

    Metallium appears to be getting caught in that broader sell-off.

    Foolish Takeaway

    The company’s latest quarterly update continues to show steady progress across Texas commissioning, commercial partnerships, and its broader US strategy.

    But today’s share price weakness looks more closely tied to the softer ASX backdrop and renewed geopolitical nerves.

    The next major milestone remains the June quarter multi-reactor demonstration. This could become the next major catalyst if successfully delivered, and potentially send the Metallium share price soaring.

    The company is currently valued at $449 million.

    The post This beaten-down ASX small cap is sliding again despite a major US milestone appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Mtm Critical Metals right now?

    Before you buy Mtm Critical Metals 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 Mtm Critical Metals wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras 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.

  • Why A2 Milk, Metallium, Northern Star, and St Barbara shares are sinking today

    Frustrated stock trader screaming while looking at mobile phone, symbolising a falling share price.

    In afternoon trade, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to start the week with a decline. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is down 0.55% to 8,912.2 points.

    Four ASX shares that are falling more than most today are listed below. Here’s why they are tumbling:

    A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M)

    The A2 Milk Company share price is down almost 15% to $7.90. Investors have been selling the infant formula company’s shares after it downgraded its guidance for FY 2026 due to supply chain disruptions. A2 Milk now expects revenue growth in the low to mid double-digit range, which is down from its previous guidance of mid double-digit growth. Furthermore, its EBITDA margins are now expected to be between 14% and 14.5% in FY 2026. This is down from its prior guidance of 15.5% to 16%. In light of this, the company’s net profit after tax is now expected to be similar to or lower than in FY 2025. Another negative is that cash conversion is expected to fall significantly to around 50%. This is down from prior expectations of 80% for the financial year.

    Metallium Ltd (ASX: MTM)

    The Metallium share price is down 4% to 61 cents. This morning, the metals recovery company released its quarterly update and reported an operating cash outflow of $5.7 million and an investing activities outflow of $15.2 million. However, thanks to a $75 million capital raising, the company finished the period with cash and equivalents of $82 million.

    Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

    The Northern Star share price is down 3.5% to $23.60. Investors have been selling Northern Star and other ASX gold stocks on Monday after the gold price pulled back following the failure of peace talks between the US and Iran. And with the US now threatening to blockade Iranian ports, causing oil prices to surge beyond US$100 a barrel again, there are concerns that inflation could rise and lead to interest rate hikes. The latter is seen as a negative for gold.

    St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM)

    The St Barbara share price is down 3% to 70.2 cents. Not even the release of this gold miner’s quarterly update this morning has been able to offset weakness in the gold industry. St Barbara reported a 49% jump in gold production to 13,522 ounces. This underpinned gold sales of 11,974 ounces at an average sale price of A$6,892 per ounce. The company has not finalised its all-in sustaining costs for the third quarter. However, it revealed that it expects a fourth-quarter AISC in the range of $4,100 to $4,500 per ounce.

    The post Why A2 Milk, Metallium, Northern Star, and St Barbara shares are sinking today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in The a2 Milk Company Limited right now?

    Before you buy The a2 Milk Company 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 The a2 Milk 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 may be better buys…

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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.

  • How ASX 200 energy stocks like Woodside and Santos are surging in Monday’s sinking market

    Image of a fist holding two yellow lightning bolts against a red backdrop.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) energy stocks are jumping higher on Monday even as the broader market is in retreat.

    In late morning trade on Monday, the ASX 200 is down 0.4%, while the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) is up 2.8%.

    Here’s how these leading Australian oil and gas producers are tracking at this same time:

    • Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) shares are up 3.6%
    • Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) shares are up 2.7%
    • Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) shares are up 5.6%
    • Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) shares are up 6.0%

    Now, here’s why investors are flocking to the energy sector today.

    ASX 200 energy stocks lift off on unsuccessful peace talks

    Aussie investors went into the weekend with hopes, albeit faint ones, that peace talks between the US and Iran might lead to a rapid end to the war.

    By market open this morning, investors knew that those talks had failed to reach an agreement. Investors also learned that a disappointed President Donald Trump said the US will now implement a blockade on all ships using Iranian ports. That blockade will reportedly commence on Monday night Aussie time.

    With the potential loss of some two million barrels a day of Iranian oil that had still be passing through the Strait of Hormuz, global oil and gas prices rocketed on the news, offering a boost to ASX 200 energy stocks like Santos and Woodside shares today.

    Brent crude oil is up 7.7% overnight, currently trading back at US$102.54 per barrel.

    What are the experts saying?

    Commenting on the expected US blockade on vessels using Iranian ports, Mona Yacoubian, director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said (quoted by Bloomberg):

    It strikes me that that is quite an ambitious endeavour, and it doesn’t solve the problem of disruption… Experience suggests that the Iranians will not concede but will respond in kind.

    Haris Khurshid, chief investment officer at Karobaar Capital, noted that investors may have been overly optimistic heading into the peace talks, which is pressuring the broader market today while lifting ASX 200 energy stocks.

    “The market got ahead of itself on de-escalation,” Khurshid said.

    Prior to the blockade announcement, Dionissios Kontos, co-founder of Meyka AI, sounded a moderately positive note.

    “The nuance is worth watching,” Kontos said. “Iran’s foreign ministry left the door open for further talks, so this isn’t a full collapse, just prolonged uncertainty.”

    How have these ASX 200 energy stocks been tracking?

    With the overnight surge in global energy prices, the Brent crude oil price is up 68.5% in 2026.

    Here’s how the above four ASX 200 energy stocks have performed year to date (compared to a 2.4% gain posted by the benchmark index):

    • Woodside shares are up 45.7%
    • Santos shares are up 31.8%
    • Beach Energy shares are up 9.6%
    • Karoon Energy shares are up 35.6%

    The post How ASX 200 energy stocks like Woodside and Santos are surging in Monday’s sinking market 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 20 Feb 2026

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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.

  • Gold output rises again, but this ASX miner is slipping with the market today

    A woman with bright yellow hair wearing a brightly patterned blouse reacts to big news that she's reading on her phone.

    Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN) shares are edging lower on Monday despite another steady production and cash update from the gold miner.

    In late morning trade, the Kingsgate share price is down 0.96% to $5.17.

    The weakness comes amid a softer session for the broader ASX after failed weekend talks between the United States and Iran. This appears to have weighed on market sentiment and pushed investors away from risk assets.

    Despite today’s dip, Kingsgate shares are still up more than 233% over 12 months, ranking among the ASX’s best-performing gold stocks.

    Let’s take a closer look at today’s update.

    Another strong quarter keeps FY26 on track

    According to the release, Kingsgate reported March quarter production of 21,036 ounces of gold and 182,549 ounces of silver.

    That marks the 5th consecutive quarter of gold production above 20,000 ounces and takes year-to-date output to 65,915 ounces of gold and 545,932 ounces of silver.

    The company also lifted its total cash, bullion, and dore balance to $213 million at 31 March, up roughly 19% from the December quarter.

    Management said the result reflected another solid quarter from the Chatree mine in Thailand, supported by a new monthly production record in March after an additional excavator joined the fleet.

    The result also follows the recent payment of an interim dividend, with management reiterating that full-year guidance remains unchanged.

    So, why is the market still cautious today?

    The softer share price move likely reflects profit-taking and broader ASX weakness rather than disappointment with the release itself.

    After rallying more than 200% over the past year, Kingsgate shares had already priced in a lot of operational momentum.

    That can make even a solid quarterly update less likely to drive fresh buying unless the result materially exceeds market expectations.

    Gold stocks are also seeing some mixed sentiment today as investors weigh safe-haven demand against broader market selling pressure across the ASX.

    The stock also remains well below the low-$7 levels reached earlier this year, suggesting some investors are locking in gains after the strong run.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Kingsgate continues to deliver steady results from its established gold operation.

    Production remains consistent, cash generation is building, and the balance sheet continues to strengthen even after dividend payments.

    While today’s share price dip looks more like a reflection of weaker ASX sentiment and short-term profit-taking, the company’s operating momentum remains solid.

    Based on the current share price, Kingsgate has a market capitalisation of around $1.39 billion.

    The post Gold output rises again, but this ASX miner is slipping with the market today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Kingsgate Consolidated 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 Kingsgate Consolidated 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…

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras 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.

  • Up 194% in a year, ASX 300 gold stock gets ‘big confidence boost’ from Canada

    gold, gold miner, gold discovery, gold nugget, gold price,

    S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) gold stock St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM) is slipping today.

    St Barbara shares closed Friday trading for 72.5 cents. In morning trade on Monday, shares are changing hands for 71.0 cents apiece, down 2.1%.

    For some context, the ASX 300 is down 0.4% at this same time. And, in a better comparison of golden apples to golden apples, the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) is down a steeper 3.4%.

    That comes as the gold price fell 2% to US$4,668 per ounce overnight after failed peace talks with Iran saw US President Donald Trump vow to blockade the Strait of Hormuz to starve Iran of funds.

    Despite today’s dip, the St Barbara share price remains up a very impressive 193.8% over 12 months.

    Now, here’s what the Aussie gold miner just reported.

    ASX 300 gold stock gets restart green light

    Before market open, St Barbara announced that the Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Climate Change (NSECC) had approved amendments to the Industrial Approval permit conditions to allow the Touquoy Restart.

    The ASX 300 gold stock expects to recommence ore processing at its Touquoy gold mine, located in Canada, by the end of calendar year 2026.

    In early February, St Barbara earmarked C$2.9 million (AU$3.0 million) to accelerate the refurbishment of the Touquoy processing facility.

    The gold miner forecasts operating cash flow from the Touquoy Restart will be C$118 million at US$4,000 per ounce over a 13-month period. St Barbara said it anticipates gold production of 38,000 ounces over this time, stemming from 3.0 million tonnes of stockpiles grading 0.4 grams of gold per tonne.

    “This will be a big confidence boost to the industry,” St Barbara CEO Andrew Strelein said.

    Strelein added:

    We are very pleased to have received approval of Industrial Approval permit conditions necessary for the restart of Touquoy. This approval has been received within the Province’s target timeframe for approvals and demonstrates the constructive engagement and sense of urgency of the new Large Infrastructure File Team within the Department of Environment and Climate Change.

    St Barbara quarterly gold production surges

    In a separate price sensitive release this morning, the ASX 300 gold stock reported its preliminary third quarter (Q3 FY 2026) results.

    Highlights for the three months included gold production of 13,522 ounces, up 49% quarter on quarter. Gold sales in the March quarter came to 11,974 ounces. St Barbara received an average sale price of AU$6,892 per ounce.

    Looking ahead to the fourth quarter, the ASX 300 gold stock forecast gold production in the range of 14,000 to 17,000 ounces from the New Simberi Gold Project, located in Papua New Guinea. St Barbara’s anticipated 40% attributable share of gold production is forecast to be in the range of 5,600 to 6,800 ounces in Q4.

    The post Up 194% in a year, ASX 300 gold stock gets ‘big confidence boost’ from Canada appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy St Barbara 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 St Barbara 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 20 Feb 2026

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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.

  • Buy, hold, sell: AGL, Origin Energy, and Woodside shares

    Business people discussing project on digital tablet.

    There are a lot of ASX shares to choose from on the local market.

    To narrow things down, let’s see what Shaw and Partners is saying about three big names, courtesy of The Bull.

    Are they buys, holds, or sells this week? Let’s find out:

    AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL)

    Shaw and Partners currently rates this energy giant as a hold.

    While there are positives, it has concerns over the challenges that AGL Energy faces with respect to asset transitions and evolving policy settings. It explains:

    AGL provides exposure to Australia’s energy sector during a period of structural change. The company benefits from its scale and essential service positioning, but faces ongoing challenges as it navigates asset transitions and evolving policy settings. Earnings stability has improved, yet execution risk still remains. In our view, AGL warrants a hold rating, balancing its strategic importance against longer term capital requirements.

    Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG)

    Shaw and Partners is far more positive on rival Origin Energy. This week, the broker has put a buy rating on its shares.

    It likes the company due to its attractive income profile and exposure to the domestic energy transition. However, it warns that an investment is not without risk. Shaw and Partners said:

    Origin combines an attractive income profile with leveraged exposure to Australia’s evolving energy market. The company benefits from scale in electricity generation and retailing, while its yield remains appealing in a market still sensitive to income certainty. That said, regulatory risk and energy price volatility remain key risks. We see Origin as well placed to balance defensive income characteristics with longer term opportunities tied to the domestic energy transition.

    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

    Finally, Shaw and Partners rates Woodside shares as a sell this week.

    The broker believes investors should be taking advantage of a strong rise in its share price to sell at current levels. It explains:

    This energy giant has historically struggled to consistently meet market expectations. While the current commodity environment has supported its share price, we see this as an opportunity to exit. Capital intensity, project execution risk and long dated development timelines remain my concerns.

    Investors may want to consider taking advantage of its recent valuation and improved sentiment. The shares rose from $23.59 on January 9 to $35.80 on April 7. The shares were trading at $33.37 on April 9. The shares are also responding to volatile crude oil prices resulting from the Middle East conflict.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: AGL, Origin Energy, and Woodside shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy AGL 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 AGL 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Woodside Energy Group Ltd. 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.

  • Why this ASX stock is slipping today even as it lands a German project win

    Man in red jumper holds hand out in a vulcan salute.

    The Vulcan Energy Resources Ltd (ASX: VUL) share price is seesawing on Monday after the company announced another key project win before market open.

    In morning trade, the lithium developer’s shares are down 0.54% to $3.70. The stock briefly traded higher earlier in the session, but weakness across the broader ASX has since pushed it into the red.

    By comparison, the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) is 0.40% lower to 8,851 points.

    Even with today’s modest decline, Vulcan shares remain down around 16% in 2026 and well below their 52-week high of $6.29.

    Let’s take a closer look.

    German royalty exemption boosts Lionheart economics

    According to the release, Germany’s state of Rhineland-Palatinate has granted Vulcan a royalty exemption for lithium production tied to its Phase One Lionheart Project.

    The exemption applies to Lionheart’s upstream lithium production facilities, which are currently under construction. It runs through to 31 December 2030, subject to a review one year earlier.

    This removes a potential state royalty cost from one of Europe’s most strategic lithium supply projects.

    The company noted that geothermal energy in the region has operated under a similar state exemption since 2009, which fits with Vulcan’s integrated renewable geothermal and lithium extraction model.

    Lionheart is targeting annual production of 24,000 tonnes of lithium hydroxide monohydrate, enough for roughly 500,000 EV batteries each year. The project is also expected to produce renewable electricity and geothermal heat for local users.

    Why the deal is supporting the shares

    While the stock is now lower on the day, the modest pullback still suggests the update is helping limit the downside against a weaker market backdrop.

    Removing a royalty burden improves the long-term economics of the Lionheart Project and may be giving investors more confidence in future returns once production begins.

    It also reinforces the level of political and regulatory backing Vulcan continues to receive in Germany.

    The update also comes shortly after the company secured its lithium production licence, while Phase One construction continues to move ahead.

    At current levels, the company’s market capitalisation sits around $1.78 billion.

    Foolish takeaway

    Vulcan’s latest German royalty exemption looks like another incremental but valuable win for the Lionheart Project.

    On a day when geopolitical worries are weighing on the broader ASX, the stock’s limited decline suggests the positive project update is helping offset some of the market weakness.

    With construction now underway, the next focus is likely to be how smoothly Lionheart moves toward first production.

    The post Why this ASX stock is slipping today even as it lands a German project win appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Vulcan Energy Resources 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 Vulcan Energy Resources 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras 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.

  • Telix share price leaping higher today on $3 billion US news

    Happy healthcare workers in a lab.

    The Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) share price is charging higher today.

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) diagnostic and therapeutic product developer closed on Friday trading for $14.64. In early morning trade on Monday, shares are swapping hands for $15.39 apiece, up 5.1%.

    For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.8% at this same time.

    Here’s what’s catching investor interest.

    Telix share price jumps on collaboration deal

    The Telix share price is charging higher after the company announced it has entered into a strategic collaboration with United States based biotech giant Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ: REGN) for cancer treatment.

    The agreement will see the companies work together to jointly develop and commercialise next generation radiopharmaceutical therapies.

    Management said the 50/50 cost and profit-sharing model combines Telix’s radiopharmaceutical development and manufacturing capabilities with Regeneron’s antibody discovery platforms and oncology experience.

    The collaboration will include multiple solid tumour targets from Regeneron’s portfolio of antibodies. The companies said they also intend to develop radio-diagnostics to support patient selection and treatment response assessment.

    The new agreement could see Telix earn development and commercial milestone payments of up to US$2.1 billion (AU$3.0 billion). The ASX 200 healthcare company will receive US$40 million upfront from Regeneron for four initial programs enabling access to its radiopharmaceutical manufacturing platform.

    Telix reported that it could also earn “low double-digit royalties” if it opts out of co-funding any program.

    What did management say?

    Commenting on the collaboration with Regeneron that’s helping to boost the Telix share price today, Telix CEO and managing director Christian Behrenbruch said:

    The collaboration with Regeneron reflects a highly complementary set of capabilities and a unique opportunity to explore what true ‘next gen’ biologics-based radiopharmaceuticals can potentially do for patients.

    We are well positioned to work toward the shared goal of advancing next generation precision radiopharmaceuticals for patients with hard-to-treat cancers.

    Israel Lowy, senior vice president clinical development unit head Oncology at Regeneron, said, “Telix brings deep expertise in radiopharmaceutical development and infrastructure that complements Regeneron’s antibody technologies and oncology portfolio.”

    Lowy continued:

    Regeneron is excited to enter the targeted radiopharmaceuticals space and explore the utility of these agents either as monotherapy or rationally combined with our immunotherapy platform, particularly in areas of high unmet patient need such as lung cancer, where our PD-1 inhibitor is a global standard of care.

    John Lin, senior vice president of oncology & antibody technology research at Regeneron, added, “Targeted radiopharmaceuticals represent a rapidly emerging frontier in oncology and an exciting opportunity to bring new treatment options to patients in need.”

    With today’s intraday lift factored in, the Telix share price is up 35.5% in 2026, racing ahead of the 1.9% year to date gains posted by the benchmark index.

    The post Telix share price leaping higher today on $3 billion US news appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Telix Pharmaceuticals right now?

    Before you buy Telix Pharmaceuticals 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 Telix Pharmaceuticals wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben 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 Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Telix Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Telix Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 2 ASX growth shares to buy now while they’re on sale

    A graphic of a pink rocket taking off above an increasing chart.

    What’s better than buying ASX growth shares? Investing in them after they’ve suffered a large decline, at much better value.

    It can make a big difference to invest in high-growth businesses when they sell off because of the much bigger change in the price/earnings (P/E) ratio.

    For example, if a business with a P/E ratio of 10 falls by 10%, the ratio drops to 9. If a business had a P/E ratio of 50 and it fell by 10%, the P/E ratio would become 45.

    With that in mind, the two businesses below look like great value to me.

    REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

    REA Group is the leading property portal company in Australia, with its realestate.com.au business, which sees significantly more visitors than competitors in terms of both property vendors and potential buyers. This market strength allows the business to charge more than rivals and increase prices regularly.

    With Australia’s growing population and increasing number of properties, the company’s addressable market is steadily growing. The recent (and potential upcoming) RBA rate hikes may lead to an increase in property listings, which could boost earnings

    The potential of AI hurting the ASX growth share’s earnings is not as strong as the market has priced in, in my view, as AI could assist REA Group’s earnings in a variety of ways on both the income side and the expense side. Plus, AI adoption by households may not become as widespread as expected (if that ends up being a headwind).

    After falling around 40% since August 2025, the REA Group share price is now valued at 33x FY26’s estimated earnings, according to CMC Invest.

    Siteminder Ltd (ASX: SDR)

    Siteminder is another technology company, it provides software for hotels for their operations and to generate revenue through room sales and distribution.

    The company has a really impressive goal of 30% annual revenue growth, which most businesses would be very happy with. Not only is the company winning more hotel customers, but it’s unlocking more revenue from existing clients by providing more modules.

    These additional offerings allow the hotel to analyse their data and finances more effectively so they can decide what price to charge for their rooms. Siteminder can even change the hotel’s room prices automatically for them.

    The operating leverage of a software business means that costs don’t grow at the same speed as revenue, so I’m expecting Siteminder to see its various profit margins (and bottom line) to improve significantly in the next few years.

    Following the Siteminder share price’s decline of 60% in the past six months, it now looks very good value to me. According to the projection on CMC Invest, it’s valued at 24x FY28’s estimated earnings.

    The post 2 ASX growth shares to buy now while they’re on sale appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy REA 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 REA Group wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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