• Gina Rinehart backed ASX rare earths stock jumps 17% on big news

    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 price

    Brazilian Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: BRE) shares are on the move on Thursday.

    In morning trade, the ASX rare earths stock is up 17% to $4.34.

    What’s going on with this ASX rare earths stock today?

    Investors have been buying the company’s shares today after it announced the results of the scoping study for its 100%-owned Amargosa Bauxite-Gallium Project in Brazil.

    Brazilian Rare Earths, which counts Gina Rinehart as a major shareholder, notes that the study was led by SLR Consulting, with support from other industry specialists. This includes MIPTEC Engenharia & Consultoria, which is a leading Brazilian engineering firm focused on project design and cost estimation for bulk-commodity projects. CM Group, which is an independent bauxite market consultant, also supported the study.

    According to the release, the scoping study confirms that the Amargosa Project has the potential to be a large-scale, capital-efficient, direct-ship bauxite (DSB) project with strong economic returns.

    Benchmarking by CM Group positions Amargosa as a first quartile project on the global seaborne bauxite cost curve.

    Scoping study results

    It highlights that the current development pathway is a ~5 million tonne per annum truck-and-shovel DSB operation that leverages existing road infrastructure and an established export port to deliver high-quality, low-silica bauxite into the global seaborne market.

    The ASX rare earths stock advised that the operation is forecast to generate robust cashflow and strong earnings.

    The study estimates that it will generate average EBITDA of US$102 million per annum. Whereas free cash flow (FCF) of US$84 million per annum is expected over a 17-year life. This is based on a spot bauxite price of US$71 per tonne.

    This is expected to lead to strong economic returns. The project is forecast to have an after-tax net present value (8%) of US$630 million and a payback of 1.2 years.

    Commenting on the study results, the ASX rare earths stock’s managing director and CEO, Bernardo da Veiga, said:

    The Scoping Study supports Amargosa’s potential as a leading, capital-efficient and high-quality DSB project: simple to execute, scalable and highly advantaged by direct access to established road and port infrastructure. Amargosa’s location in Bahia provides a foundation for development, with an experienced mining workforce, favourable taxes and royalty settings, mature regulation and clear government support. Importantly, the Study also evaluates the Southern FIOL rail option that underpinned prior feasibility studies.

    We see FIOL as a valuable longer-term expansion pathway at higher bauxite prices, but the optimal starting point is our low-capex 5 Mtpa DSB base case, which materially reduces development risk and capital by deferring rail, major infrastructure and beneficiation requirements. These results highlight the potential for strong margins and durable free cash flow generation from a high-quality bauxite product in a tightening seaborne market, subject to further studies, approvals and financing.

    The company’s leader also confirmed that the plan is still to demerge this asset into a separate listing. He adds:

    In line with our strategy, we are targeting a 2026 de-merger of Amargosa via an in-specie distribution into a new ASX-listed company, while BRE continues to focus on building value across our exceptional rare earth and critical minerals portfolio.

    The post Gina Rinehart backed ASX rare earths stock jumps 17% on big news appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Brazilian Rare Earths right now?

    Before you buy Brazilian Rare Earths 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 Brazilian Rare Earths 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 18 November 2025

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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.

  • ACCC blocks Insurance Australia Group’s RAC Insurance acquisition: What investors need to know

    A woman crosses her hands in front of her body in a defensive stance indicating a trading halt.

    The Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) share price is in focus today after the ACCC blocked IAG’s proposed takeover of RAC Insurance Pty Limited. The regulator concluded the deal would substantially lessen competition in Western Australia’s car and home insurance markets.

    What did Insurance Australia Group report?

    • The ACCC has formally opposed IAG’s proposed acquisition of RAC Insurance Pty Limited.
    • If approved, the deal would have combined two market leaders in WA’s insurance sector.
    • IAG’s combined market share in WA would have lifted to around 55–65% for motor insurance and 50–60% for home insurance.
    • The ACCC found RACI is a strong competitor and would likely remain so if not acquired.
    • No impact reported on IAG’s other operating brands and partnerships across Australia.

    What else do investors need to know?

    The ACCC’s decision comes after a detailed investigation into how the deal might affect everyday insurance customers in Western Australia. The regulator highlighted concerns about reduced competition, potential for higher premiums, and lower service quality if IAG proceeded with its planned acquisition.

    The ACCC also noted that while other big insurers like Suncorp, Allianz, and QBE are active in WA, they are unlikely to provide enough competitive pressure to offset the loss of rivalry between IAG and RACI. Importantly, the ruling only relates to insurance businesses – RAC’s broader automotive and member services are not part of the deal.

    What’s next for Insurance Australia Group?

    With the ACCC opposing the acquisition, IAG will need to reassess its WA growth ambitions. Investors can watch for further updates from the company on possible responses or revised strategies, including how it will pursue expansion in Western Australia without RAC Insurance’s portfolio.

    The company may also continue exploring new distribution partnerships and investments in its existing brands, like NRMA, CGU, and WFI, to drive growth across Australia and New Zealand.

    Insurance Australia Group share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, IAG shares have declined 6%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 3% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post ACCC blocks Insurance Australia Group’s RAC Insurance acquisition: What investors need to know appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Insurance Australia Group 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 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 may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 18 November 2025

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • Is WiseTech shaping up as a bargain after its steep decline?

    A warehouse worker is standing next to a shelf and using a digital tablet.

    The WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) share price has been under pressure in recent months, giving back a large chunk of the gains it built earlier in the year.

    For context, the stock was trading near $130 in February. As of yesterday’s close, it is sitting around $72, which marks a sizeable drop of 45%.

    The debate now is whether this fall reflects a real shift in outlook or if the market has simply pushed the share price too low.

    Why has the WiseTech share price stumbled?

    WiseTech’s pullback has not come as a complete surprise. The company has been working through a period of slower revenue growth as some logistics customers reduced spending and global freight volumes settled after a number of turbulent years.

    At the same time, WiseTech has been investing heavily in product development and integrating past acquisitions, which added some short-term pressure to its margins.

    This prompted several brokers to trim their 12-month price targets following the company’s softer growth guidance.

    On top of that, the broader tech sector has been volatile, with the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) down almost 20% this year. This led short-term traders to close their positions, which created sharper swings in the WiseTech share price.

    What the market might be missing

    Despite the recent share price slump, there is plenty to like about WiseTech’s longer-term outlook. The company remains the clear global leader in logistics software through its CargoWise platform, and its customer base includes some of the world’s largest freight forwarders and supply chain operators.

    Demand for end-to-end digital logistics solutions continues to grow, and WiseTech is well-placed to capture that growth. Revenue is projected to continue rising, margins are expected to improve as integration winds down, and the company remains well-supported by a strong balance sheet.

    Several analysts believe the market reaction has been too harsh. Recent broker price targets are sitting up to 70% above current levels. Macquarie is suggesting WiseTech shares could see meaningful upside over the next couple of years as growth stabilises.

    Signs that could point to a turnaround

    A number of catalysts could help WiseTech turn the corner. A lift in global freight activity, increased use of new CargoWise tools, smoother acquisition integration, and clearer margin improvement could all help shift investor sentiment.

    If the company can deliver on even a few of these points, the WiseTech share price might quickly rebound.

    A buying opportunity for investors?

    I believe the recent fall has opened up an opportunity that does not come around often for a business of this magnitude. WiseTech remains a global leader in a market that continues to expand, and its long-term fundamentals are still very much intact.

    If management continues to deliver, I think today’s share price could look cheap in hindsight. For long-term investors, WiseTech is beginning to look like a far more interesting proposition than it did just a few months ago.

    The post Is WiseTech shaping up as a bargain after its steep decline? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in WiseTech Global right now?

    Before you buy WiseTech Global 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 WiseTech Global 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 18 November 2025

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

  • Google stands to make $111 billion if SpaceX goes public at a $1.5 trillion valuation

    WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 20: Google CEO Sundar Pichai (L) talks with Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk at the inauguration of President Donald Trump at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on January 20, 2025 in Washington, DC. Donald Trump takes office for his second term as the 47th president of the United States.
    WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 20: Google CEO Sundar Pichai (L) talks with Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk at the inauguration of President Donald Trump at the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on January 20, 2025 in Washington, DC. Donald Trump takes office for his second term as the 47th president of the United States.

    • In 2015, Google invested around $900 million in SpaceX for a stake of around 7%.
    • SpaceX is reportedly planning to go public next year at a valuation of $1.5 trillion.
    • That would make Google's stake worth around $111 billion.

    Talk about the rich getting richer.

    Alphabet, parent company of Google, has been one of the best-performing stocks of the year, up nearly 70%, and now has a market capitalization of $3.8 trillion.

    The company also happened to make what could turn out to be one of the most lucrative startup investments of all time, which could finally bear fruit next year.

    In 2015, Google invested around $900 million in SpaceX for a stake of around 7% in Elon Musk's space company, which was then valued at $12 billion.

    Now SpaceX is reportedly planning to go public next year at a valuation of $1.5 trillion, which would make Google's stake worth around $111 billion.

    Even for a company as big as Google, SpaceX's success has already had a material impact on earnings.

    Earlier this year, Google reported an $8 billion gain from "non-marketable equity securities," which Bloomberg identified as SpaceX. That gain represented 25% of Google's net income for the first quarter of 2025.

    Google is one of the largest outside investors in SpaceX, along with VC firm Founders Fund and Fidelity.

    Google and SpaceX did not respond to requests for comment.

    Google's 2015 investment, which was focused on Starlink, now looks certain to be a towering success, but at that time, it was met with considerable skepticism.

    "One big technical and financial challenge facing the proposed venture is the cost installing ground-based antennas and computer terminals to receive the satellite signals," The Wall Street Journal wrote about Google's investment at the time. "Another unanswered question is how SpaceX plans to transmit Internet signals to Earth. The company isn't believed to control rights to radio spectrum."

    Most of those questions have been answered with Starlink, now used by everyone from the Ukrainian army to United Airlines.

    Aside from just the paper gains, Google's investment has also been a strategic advantage, as SpaceX has used Google Cloud to power Starlink.

    Read the original article on Business Insider
  • Brokers say buy these ASX stocks for 6% dividend yields in 2026

    Happy young woman saving money in a piggy bank.

    Fortunately for income investors, there are a lot of options out there for them to choose from on the Australian share market.

    But which ASX dividend stocks could be buys in December? Let’s take a look at two that analysts at are recommending as buys:

    Amcor (ASX: AMC)

    The first ASX dividend stock that analysts are tipping as a buy is packaging giant Amcor.

    Morgans is bullish on the company due to its positive outlook and attractive valuation. It has put a buy rating and $15.20 price target on its shares.

    Commenting on Amcor, the broker said:

    Following AMC’s solid 1Q26 result, management’s increased confidence in delivering FY26 synergy targets, and the reaffirmation of FY26 guidance, we believe the outlook remains positive. Trading on 10.4x FY26F PE with a 6.1% yield, we view the valuation as attractive. Potential positive catalysts include meeting or exceeding expectations in upcoming quarterly results and the successful completion of additional asset sales.

    Morgans believes that this positions the company to pay dividends per share of approximately 81 cents in FY 2026 and then 83 cents in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $12.24, this would mean dividend yields of 6.6% and 6.8%, respectively.

    GDI Property Group Ltd (ASX: GDI)

    Another ASX dividend stock that could be a buy is GDI Property Group.

    It describes itself as an integrated, internally managed property and funds management group with capabilities in ownership, management, refurbishment, leasing, and syndication of office properties.

    Bell Potter is a fan of the company and has put a buy rating and 85 cents price target on its shares.

    The broker highlights that GDI Property’s shares trade at a deep discount compared to their net tangible assets. This could be a buying opportunity for investors. It said:

    No change to our Buy recommendation. GDI continues to trade at a significant -41% discount to NTA which reflects no value for its FM OpCo, and while the Perth office market recovery could be a ‘slow burn’ with early leasing wins working through for GDI, we do still see upside from current levels which drops straight through to FFO gains.

    As for income, the broker is forecasting dividends of 5 cents per share in both FY 2026 and FY 2027. Based on its current share price of 65 cents, this would mean dividend yields of 7.7% for both years.

    The post Brokers say buy these ASX stocks for 6% dividend yields in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Amcor plc right now?

    Before you buy Amcor plc 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 Amcor plc 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 18 November 2025

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

  • APA Group declares December 2025 half-year distribution

    Woman with headphones on relaxing and looking at her phone happily.

    The APA Group (ASX: APA) share price is in focus today after the company declared a distribution of 27.5 cents per security for the six months ending 31 December 2025, with payment set for 18 March 2026.

    What did APA Group report?

    • Distribution of 27.5 cents per fully paid stapled security, payable on 18 March 2026
    • Distribution relates to the six months to 31 December 2025
    • Record date is 31 December 2025, with ex-date on 30 December 2025
    • Distribution Reinvestment Plan (DRP) available with a 1.5% discount
    • New Zealand holders can elect NZD or AUD payment

    What else do investors need to know?

    APA Group has confirmed that securityholders can participate in the DRP, enabling reinvestment of distributions at a 1.5% discount. The DRP price will be calculated using a 10-day volume-weighted average price after the record date.

    For cash payments, New Zealand holders may nominate their preferred currency by the record date. If no election is made, payments to New Zealand addresses will be withheld in NZ dollars until banking details are provided.

    What’s next for APA Group?

    The distribution payment is scheduled for 18 March 2026, and the final amount will be confirmed on 19 February 2026. Investors who wish to participate in the DRP must lodge election notices by 2 January 2026.

    APA Group continues to offer investors flexible payment and reinvestment options, supporting consistent returns for securityholders.

    APA Group share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, APA Group shares have risen 23%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 3% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post APA Group declares December 2025 half-year distribution appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy APA 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 APA 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 18 November 2025

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Apa Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • St Barbara announces $470 million worth of deals to bolster its expansion plans

    A few gold nullets sit on an old-fashioned gold scale, representing ASX gold shares.

    Gold miner St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM) has announced two deals worth $470 million under which it will sell down interests in its Simberi gold operations in Papua New Guinea.

    The company has also announced a positive feasibility study for expansion of the Simberi mine, which would add another 13 years to its mine life.

    Two major deals announced

    Late on Wednesday, St Barbara said it had struck an agreement with Chinese company Lingbao Gold Group (HKG: 3330), which would pay $370 million for a half stake in a St Barbara subsidiary, which in turn would own 80% of the Simberi gold project.

    St Barbara separately announced a deal to sell 20% of Simberi to another company, Kumul Mineral Holdings, for $100 million.

    St Barbara said the transactions would mean it was fully funded for its share of the expected capital costs of the Simberi expansion project, “thereby significantly derisking the Simberi Expansion Project and accelerating the timeline to final investment decision and expanded production”.  

    Deal a boon for shareholders

    The company said in a statement to the ASX that the deal valued the Simberi project at more than St Barbara’s current market valuation.

    The transaction values 100% of the Simberi Gold Project at $800 million which represents a 31% premium to the current St Barbara market capitalisation. The transaction represents a materially higher premium to the current look through value of Simberi within St Barbara, with St Barbara’s market capitalisation also reflecting its 100% ownership of the development projects in Nova Scotia and substantial cash, bullion, gold sales receivables and investments.

    St Barbara said Lingbao was a major Chinese gold producer, which was listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with a valuation of about US$2.8 billion.

    St Barbara Managing Director Andrew Strelein said the two deals announced on Wednesday would help fast-track the Simberi expansion.

    The investments by Lingbao and Kumul in Simberi will help us accelerate the development of the Simberi Expansion Project and the delivery of its value to our shareholders and key stakeholders in PNG.” “This is a high-quality brownfields project with low capital intensity, a highly competitive operating cost structure and long-life resource that has potential to grow in the future. With Lingbao we have a committed, experienced and a well-funded partner. In addition, we welcome Kumul to the project as a co-investor.

    St Barbara also announced on Wednesday that the feasibility study into the Simberi expansion indicated it would produce 2.1 million ounces of gold over 13 years out to 2039.

    The initial project capital was estimated at US$275 million, with pre-expansion growth capital of a further US$50 million to US$70 million across FY26 and FY27.

    Mr Strelein said the project was developing into a “highly compelling opportunity to create real value for St Barbara shareholders”.

    The expansion project would double the rate of mining from the current rate of 10 million tonnes of ore per year.

    The post St Barbara announces $470 million worth of deals to bolster its expansion plans 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 18 November 2025

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    Motley Fool contributor Cameron England 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.

  • AMP settles legacy class action for $29 million

    A silhouette shot of two business man shake hands in a boardroom setting with light coming from full length glass windows beyond them.

    The AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) share price is in focus after the company announced a $29 million in-principle settlement to resolve a commissions class action, addressing legacy legal issues dating back to 2014.

    What did AMP report?

    • Reached agreement in principle to settle a class action for $29 million
    • Claims relate to commissions paid from July 2014 to February 2021
    • Settlement covers AMP and former advice subsidiaries
    • Settlement is subject to Federal Court approval and final documentation

    What else do investors need to know?

    The class action was initiated in 2020 and relates to historical commissions paid by AMP and subsidiaries, including AMP Financial Planning, Charter Financial Planning, and Hillross Financial Services. The settlement also covers claims against Resolution Life Australasia (formerly AMP Life), which provided insurance products during the relevant period.

    AMP has emphasised that the agreement involves no admission of liability. The company is continuing to address historic legal matters while focusing on its ongoing operations and customer commitments.

    What did AMP management say?

    AMP Chief Executive Alexis George said:

    I’m pleased that we have resolved another legacy legal matter as we focus on the future and on delivering for our customers and members.

    What’s next for AMP?

    The $29 million class action settlement awaits approval from the Federal Court of Australia and final documentation processes. If approved, this will help AMP draw a line under a key legacy legal matter.

    AMP has been working to resolve legacy legal and regulatory issues, with management signalling an ongoing focus on operational performance and supporting customers in the future.

    AMP share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, AMP shares have risen 14%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 3% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post AMP settles legacy class action for $29 million appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy AMP 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 AMP 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 18 November 2025

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • 3 ASX dividend stocks to brighten your Christmas stocking

    Santa at the beach gives a big thumbs up, indicating positive sentiment for the year ahead for ASX share prices

    With Christmas only a few weeks away, some Australians are turning their attention to gifts, holidays, and long lunches. Others are quietly eyeing the share market, looking for ASX dividend stocks that might deliver a little extra cheer well into the new year.

    If you’re in the latter camp, three income-friendly ideas stand out thanks to resilient business models, improving outlooks, and ongoing commitments to shareholder returns.

    APA Group (ASX: APA)

    Energy infrastructure giant APA Group has spent the past two decades expanding and operating one of Australia’s most critical gas pipeline networks. Its steady, regulated-style earnings profile has long made it a favourite among dividend seekers, and FY25 results reinforced why.

    APA delivered underlying operating earnings (EBITDA) growth of just over 6%, supported by modest margin expansion and strong underlying demand for gas transport. The company is also guiding for further earnings growth in FY26 as it progresses key expansion projects, including upgrades to the East Coast Gas Grid.

    Dividends continue to edge higher, with management planning a small uplift in FY26. While not the fastest dividend growth story on the market, APA’s appeal lies in consistency. The current distribution yield sits around the mid-6% range, partially franked, and the company appears well-positioned to continue generating dependable cash flows backed by long-term contracts and essential infrastructure.

    For investors who prioritise stability, APA remains one of the sturdier ASX dividend stocks heading into 2026.

    Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL)

    Investment house Washington H. Soul Pattinson brings a different flavour of income altogether. Unlike traditional industrials or utilities, Soul Patts invests its capital across listed equities, private businesses, property, credit, and emerging ventures. The result is a diversified, long-term focused portfolio with a remarkable record of compounding value over decades.

    The share price has pulled back since its merger with Brickworks, bringing its fully franked dividend yield up towards the high 2% range. That may seem modest at first glance, yet Soul Patts has increased its dividend every year since 2000 — a feat few ASX companies can match.

    Recent updates have highlighted growing contributions from both established holdings and a pipeline of smaller private investments spanning multiple industries. Several of these early-stage businesses — from education services to financial advice — are being nurtured with an eye toward long-term growth.

    For patient investors, Soul Patts continues to offer something rare: a conservative balance sheet, a long track record of prudent capital allocation, and dividends that have proven incredibly reliable over time.

    Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY)

    If diversification is your Christmas wish, the Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF could be a simple way to spread income risk across dozens of large, dividend-paying companies.

    The ETF screens for businesses forecast to pay higher dividends relative to the broader market while applying guardrails to avoid excessive concentration in any single sector or holding. As of the latest update, the fund holds a mix of banks, energy companies, infrastructure names, and defensive industrials — many of which have long histories of paying dividends.

    VHY has delivered strong total returns since 2022 and currently offers a yield in the high single digits, with franking levels that vary quarter to quarter. Distribution volatility can occur, but longer-term investors have generally been rewarded with rising payouts over time.

    For investors who prefer a hands-off approach to income investing, VHY may offer one of the simplest pathways to building a diversified basket of ASX dividend stocks.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Whether you favour infrastructure, diversified investment houses, or broad-market ETFs, this trio shows there are still opportunities for income-focused investors as the year winds down. 

    As always, a long-term mindset and a focus on quality remain the best gifts you can give your future self.

    The post 3 ASX dividend stocks to brighten your Christmas stocking appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy APA 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 APA 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 18 November 2025

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    Motley Fool contributor Leigh Gant 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 Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Apa Group and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • HomeCo Daily Needs REIT posts $219m gain and refinances $810m debt

    A couple working on a laptop laugh as they discuss their ASX share portfolio.

    The HomeCo Daily Needs REIT (ASX: HDN) share price is in focus today, after the company posted a $219 million preliminary unaudited valuation gain for the half-year ended 31 December 2025, representing a 4.5% lift in portfolio value, and completed an $810 million debt refinancing.

    What did HomeCo Daily Needs REIT report?

    • Preliminary unaudited valuation gain of $219 million, up 4.5% on June 2025 portfolio value
    • Gearing remains within target range at the midpoint of 30–40%
    • Refinanced $810 million of debt, now maturing July 2028, with a 42.5 basis point margin improvement
    • Distribution of 2.15 cents per unit for the December quarter declared
    • FY26 distribution guidance reaffirmed at 8.6 cents per unit; FFO guidance at 9.0 cents per unit

    What else do investors need to know?

    The valuation increase was driven by strong net operating income growth, solid tenant demand, and a slight tightening of capitalisation rates to 5.51%. This is the fourth straight period HomeCo Daily Needs REIT has posted positive net revaluation gains, bolstered by ongoing tenant-led developments.

    Approximately 70% of HomeCo Daily Needs REIT’s debt is hedged until December 2026, helping manage interest rate risk. The December quarter distribution comes with an active Distribution Reinvestment Plan, allowing unitholders to reinvest with no discount.

    What did HomeCo Daily Needs REIT management say?

    HomeCo Daily Needs REIT Fund Manager Paul Doherty said:

    This is the fourth consecutive period HDN has recorded positive net revaluation gains. The positive valuation gain has been driven by strong net operating income growth, accretive tenant led developments and capitalisation rate tightening.

    What’s next for HomeCo Daily Needs REIT?

    Looking ahead, HomeCo Daily Needs REIT has reaffirmed its guidance for FY26, expecting distributions of 8.6 cents per unit and FFO of 9.0 cents per unit. The company will continue focusing on high occupancy, tenant-led development opportunities, and maintaining a strong balance sheet.

    HomeCo Daily Needs REIT is also a strategic investor in the Last Mile Logistics fund, aiming to further grow its footprint in convenience-based, non-discretionary retail and essential last mile infrastructure.

    HomeCo Daily Needs REIT share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, HomeCo Daily Needs REIT shares have risen 15%, outpacing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 3% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post HomeCo Daily Needs REIT posts $219m gain and refinances $810m debt appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Homeco Daily Needs REIT right now?

    Before you buy Homeco Daily Needs REIT shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Homeco Daily Needs REIT wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    * Returns as of 18 November 2025

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended HomeCo Daily Needs REIT. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.