This ASX healthcare share has been one of the standout success stories in the sector for decades.

However, in the past 6 months, ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD) has seen its share price tumble by 17% to $35.71 at the time of writing.

Investors are asking whether now is the right time to buy. A closer look at the ASX healthcare share suggests there are several compelling reasons to be optimistic.

Global leader, structural tailwinds

The $52 billion ASX healthcare share dominates the global sleep apnoea market, with its CPAP devices and masks deeply embedded in hospitals, clinics, and homes worldwide.

Sleep apnoea remains significantly underdiagnosed, and rising obesity rates, ageing populations, and greater awareness continue to expand the addressable market. That creates a steady flow of new patients, while existing users generate recurring revenue through masks, accessories, and consumables.

This combination gives ResMed resilience, pricing power, and visibility that few ASX healthcare shares can match.

Growing digital ecosystem

ResMed is no longer just a hardware manufacturer. Its connected devices, cloud platforms, and software solutions are increasingly central to the business. Digital health platforms such as patient engagement and care management software add higher-margin, recurring revenue, and deepen customer relationships.

At the same time, ongoing innovation in masks and devices helps protect market share and supports margin expansion. With strong cash flow and a disciplined balance sheet, the ASX healthcare share has the financial firepower to keep investing in growth while returning capital to shareholders.

Outlook and risks to watch

Looking ahead, ResMed is positioned to benefit from both demographic trends and technology-driven healthcare change. Continued innovation, digital adoption, and expanding treatment rates underpin a positive medium-to-long-term outlook.

That said, risks remain. Competition for the San Diego ASX healthcare share could intensify if rivals regain momentum. Pricing or reimbursement changes in key markets could pressure margins. Emerging alternative treatments for sleep apnoea may also reshape the landscape over time. And as a global business, currency movements can influence reported earnings for ASX investors.

What’s next for ResMed shares?

Analysts remain broadly constructive on ResMed. The consensus view sees the ASX healthcare stock as a high-quality compounder, capable of delivering steady long-term earnings growth.

Many brokers point to improving supply conditions, resilient demand, and operating leverage as key drivers of future profit growth. While the stock isn’t cheap on traditional metrics, supporters argue the premium reflects ResMed’s consistency, global scale, and long runway for expansion.

Most analysts see the ASX healthcare share as a strong buy. In a recent broker’s note, Morgans said the company’s recent share price weakness is “unjustified given sound fundamentals”.

The broker has a buy rating and a 12-month price target of $47.73 on ResMed. This implies a potential gain of 33% at current levels and is a bit higher than the average target of $44.50.

The post 3 reasons to buy this heavyweight ASX healthcare share appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Buy, hold, sell: Credit Corp, PLS, and ResMed shares
• What can investors expect from ResMed, Cochlear and CSL shares this reporting season?
• Instead of Westpac shares, I would buy these ASX blue chips
• 3 Aussie stocks to buy and hold forever
• 3 ASX 200 large-cap healthcare shares just re-rated by experts

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

S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) gold stock Black Cat Syndicate Ltd (ASX: BC8) enjoyed another strong run on Wednesday.

Black Cat shares closed the day up 4.23%, changing hands for $1.48 apiece.

For some context, the ASX 300 gained 0.75% yesterday.

Atop from a rebound in the gold price to US$5,064 per ounce on Wednesday, the ASX 300 gold stock grabbed investor interest after announcing it had completed the acquisition of 90 square kilometres of tenements adjacent to its 1.2 million tonne per annum (mtpa) Lakewood processing facility.

Lakewood is part of Black Cat’s Kal East Gold Operation, located in Western Australia.

Commenting on that acquisition, Black Cat managing director Gareth Solly said, “The acquisition ticks numerous boxes including providing longer-term TSF [tailings storage facilities] capacity and potential additional water sources.”

Solly added that the miner’s Lakewood 1.5 mtpa expansion study “is well underway”. Black Cat expects the outcomes of the expansion study in the March 2026 quarter.

“Consequently, we look forward to ongoing production growth from Kal East as part of our More Gold Sooner strategy,” Solly said.

With the gold price having surged 80% in a year, and investors eyeing the gold miner’s growth potential, the Black Cat share price has rocketed 110% over the past 12 months.

And according to the analysts at Moelis Australia, the gold miner is well-placed to deliver more share price growth.

ASX 300 gold stock striking out on its own

Moelis noted that Black Cat is in the final stages of extricating itself from a series of historic joint venture agreements, freeing the miner up to operate independently.

According to Moelis:

BC8 has two operations. One of them (Paulsen’s) is gaining momentum after its restart, while Kal East continues to ‘tidy up’ numerous legacy commercial agreements for mining in a JV and toll-treatment of both others’ ore at its mill as well as its own ore at another facility.

Sound confusing?

What is important is that this structure is winding up, with progress towards wholly owned ore treatment on track thanks to the development of the Fingals and Majestic mines.

The broker said that the ASX 300 gold stock is unhedged, offering it unfettered exposure to the booming gold price. Black Cat also managed to hold its cash position in the December quarter while spending on its growth programs. The miner held $91 million in cash, bullion, and listed investments as at 31 December.

As for those pesky legacy commercial agreements, which are no longer part of Black Cat’s strategy going forward, Moelis said, “The March quarter should see the conclusion of the bulk of these agreements as the company rapidly approaches a more conventional structure where it mines its own ore and treats it through its own facilities.”

And patient investors should see the ASX 300 gold stock boost revenue without a material uptick in costs.

According to the broker:

The revenue line will grow as more of the gold it produces translates into revenue/receipts, while running costs remain broadly flat compared to activities today. This, along with exploration potential across the portfolio, should provide both momentum and catalysts for those seeking gold exposure who are willing to look into FY27 and beyond.

Connecting the dots, Moelis has a $1.80 price target on the ASX 300 gold stock.

That’s some 22% above Wednesday’s closing price.

The post Why this surging ASX 300 gold stock is forecast to keep on giving appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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.

Given its struggles over the past couple of years, it has been tempting to sell CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares on numerous occasions.

However, I’m hoping to never sell the biotechnology giant’s shares.

Why I’m never selling CSL shares

The reason I’m never selling CSL shares is simple. I believe the business can compound for decades.

That might sound like a bold claim, especially after a period where the share price has tested investor patience. But when you step back and look at what CSL actually does, how it reinvests, and the markets it operates in, the long-term picture still looks compelling.

A business built around lasting demand

CSL’s core strength starts with the nature of its products.

The company develops and manufactures life-saving therapies used to treat chronic and serious medical conditions. These are not discretionary purchases and they are not driven by fashion or economic cycles. Demand is underpinned by medical need, demographics, and improved diagnosis rates.

As global populations age and awareness of rare and chronic conditions increases, the need for plasma-derived therapies and vaccines is likely to grow rather than fade. That kind of demand profile is exactly what long-term compounding businesses are built on.

Relentless reinvestment

Another reason CSL stands out is how aggressively it reinvests.

Every year, the company commits over a billion dollars to research and development, manufacturing capacity, and plasma collection infrastructure. These investments are made with a long horizon in mind.

This approach has allowed CSL to expand its product portfolio, improve manufacturing efficiency, and maintain leadership positions in highly specialised areas of medicine. Over time, that reinvestment has been a key driver of earnings growth, even if the path has never been perfectly smooth.

Management that thinks in decades

Compounding for decades requires more than good products. It requires the right mindset at the top.

CSL’s management team has consistently demonstrated a willingness to make long-term decisions, even when they are unpopular in the short term. That includes investing through downturns, expanding capacity ahead of demand, and prioritising scientific capability over near-term profit optimisation.

This culture is not easy to replicate and is one of the reasons CSL has been able to build and defend its global position over such a long period.

M&A opportunities

CSL has also used mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to extend its reach and capabilities.

Not every deal has been a clear win. The acquisition of the Vifor business, for example, has delivered mixed results so far and has added complexity to the group. That said, it also highlights CSL’s willingness to pursue opportunities that can broaden its therapeutic footprint.

Over decades, a handful of imperfect acquisitions is not unusual for companies that continue to grow. What matters more is that CSL retains the balance sheet strength and discipline to pursue future opportunities when they make strategic sense.

Foolish takeaway

I’m never selling CSL shares because I don’t think the story ends in a year or two.

Between long-lasting demand for its therapies, heavy reinvestment in science and capacity, and a management team focused on building value over decades, CSL has many of the ingredients required for long-term compounding.

The post 1 reason I’m never selling CSL shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• What can investors expect from ResMed, Cochlear and CSL shares this reporting season?
• 3 Australian stocks that are my best buy and holds for 2026
• 10 most traded ASX shares among 1 million Aussie investors last year
• 3 ASX 200 large-cap healthcare shares just re-rated by experts
• Are CSL shares as a buy, hold, or sell ahead of its results?

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

A new report from Betashares has painted an optimistic picture for ASX resources and commodities. 

It’s been well documented the run being enjoyed by BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO). 

These two ASX mining giants are both hovering around all-time highs. 

Analysis from Betashares indicates this bull run could continue in 2026. 

Changing of the guard for Australian large-caps

Tom Wickenden, investment strategist at Betashares said in a report earlier this week that strong momentum in resource prices underpin the firm’s positive outlook. 

Iron ore has rallied and is holding above US$100 per tonne.

While further upside could be limited, he believes current levels support strong profitability for Australia’s large-cap miners.

He also reinforced the strategic pivot of Australia’s miners toward copper.

According to the report, BHP is now the world’s largest copper producer, with the metal contributing 45% of its earnings, up from 29% a year ago. 

Rio Tinto’s copper assets currently contribute ~15% of group earnings, but production is expected to grow significantly through to 2030. 

It could also be boosted further by a possible acquisition of Glencore plc (LSE: GLEN).

Mr Wickenden also said copper prices are at all-time highs.

Supply is constrained by multi-year project lead times, while demand is driven by the AI infrastructure buildout and energy transition.

For these reasons, we believe materials will drive large-cap returns in 2026, a notable shift from recent history. Over the last two years, financials accounted for 60% of the ASX 200’s gains led by the ‘Big 5’. While financials earnings expectations remain solid at 6.9% (which we expect can be met), we see meaningfully greater upside in materials given their earnings inflection from -18.0% in FY25 to 19.4% in FY26.

Commodities surge impact for small-caps

While Betashares now tips large-cap miners to lead the way in 2026, the report also said the rally in gold and critical minerals is set to be a key driver of Australian mid and small-cap outperformance in 2026.

The report said Australia’s gold exports are expected to grow by ~47% in FY25/26, surpassing coal and natural gas to become our second-largest export behind iron ore. 

Meanwhile, the October 2025 US-Australia Critical Minerals Framework, an US$8.5 billion partnership focused on rare earths and critical minerals including lithium and graphite, positions Australia as a strategic partner in countering China’s dominance in processing capacity. 

With escalating US-China trade tensions, we expect critical minerals to remain a focal point of geopolitical competition and national stockpiling.

Ultimately, mid and small-cap indices are positioned to benefit from this commodity rally. 

How do investors gain exposure?

The tailwinds benefiting small-cap stocks have been well documented.

For investors looking to capture exposure to this sector, there are a few options. 

BetaShares Australian Small Companies Select Fund (ASX: SMLL) provides access to a tailored portfolio of high-quality, profitable small-cap Australian companies. 

Another option for Australian small-cap exposure is VanEck Vectors Small Companies Masters ETF (ASX: MVS). 

For investors more focused on commodities, Betashares Energy Transition Metals ETF (ASX: XMET) offers exposure to global producers of copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite, manganese, silver, and rare earths elements.

Global X Green Metal Miners ETF (ASX: GMTL) offers exposure to global companies that produce critical metals for clean energy infrastructure and technologies, including lithium, copper, nickel, and cobalt.

It’s worth noting these ASX ETFs do not exclusively target Australian critical minerals. 

The post Why 2026 will be the year of ASX resources and commodities – Expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

There are a lot of ASX shares to choose from on the Australian share market. But which ones could be buys today?

To narrow things down, let’s take a look at three shares that Morgans has been running the rule over this week. Does it rate them as buys, holds, or sells? Let’s find out:

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

Morgans notes that this debt collector released a half-year result that was short of expectations. However, due to significant share price weakness, the broker thinks a buying opportunity has opened up. It is recommending Credit Corp shares as a buy with a trimmed price target of $19.35. It said:

CCP’s 1H26 NPAT of ~A$44m (flat on the pcp) was ~10% under consensus/MorgE. Whilst guidance was reiterated, the compositional mix shift towards AU debt purchases for FY26 (revised upwards) and the lowering of US purchasing guidance (noting some increased competitive pricing) saw the stock close ~17% lower.

Operational efficiency/productivity has improved, however delivering on US divisional growth is key to our long-term investment thesis and a key catalyst. At ~7x FY27 PE (MorgE) the valuation appears undemanding. BUY maintained.

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

This lithium miner’s shares could be fully valued now according to Morgans. In response to its strong quarterly update, the broker has upgraded PLS shares to a hold rating with a $4.60 price target. It explains:

Strong 2Q26 with a material spodumene sales and revenue beat vs MorgansF and consensus expectations. Cash balance +12% qoq with total liquidity of ~A$1.6bn leaving significant flexibility to fund growth and consider shareholder returns.

Management is assessing the potential restart of the 200ktpa Ngungaju plant and other growth options in P2000 and Colina. Upgrade to HOLD (previously TRIM) on recent share price weakness with an unchanged A$4.60ps target price.

ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD)

Morgans was impressed with the sleep disorder treatment company’s second-quarter update, which came in ahead of expectations.

The broker has responded to the result by upgrading ResMed shares to a buy rating with a $47.73 price target. It said:

2Q beat across the board, with double-digit revenue and earnings growth, further gross margin expansion and solid cash generation. Sleep and respiratory sales were strong in both regions, with above-market growth in the Americas and ROW returning to market growth, while SaaS beat expectations, but remained subdued by residential care headwinds.

Operating leverage improved again, with gross margin gains from manufacturing and logistics efficiencies, and FY26 guidance tightened to 62-63% (from 61-63%), reinforcing confidence in ongoing margin progression. We adjust FY26-28 forecasts modestly and move to BUY with a A$47.73 target price, viewing recent share weakness unjustified given sound fundamentals.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Credit Corp, PLS, and ResMed shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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

When I think about building wealth over the long term, I think the simple way to do it is to own great businesses for a very long time. Not trying to predict which market or sector will outperform next year, but making sure my portfolio is exposed to the parts of the global economy where most of the growth actually happens.

That’s why I think Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) has the potential to be a genuine wealth-generator for patient investors.

It solves Australia’s biggest investing problem

Australia is a fantastic place to live, but our share market is narrow. Financials and resources dominate, while sectors like global technology, healthcare, and advanced industrials are underrepresented.

The VGS ETF fixes that problem in one hit.

It provides exposure to approximately 1,300 stocks across 23 developed markets, including the US, Japan, the UK, Canada, France, and Switzerland. That means you’re not relying on a handful of Australian banks or miners to build wealth. You’re participating in the growth of the world’s biggest and most innovative economies.

For me, that global reach is not nice to have. It’s essential.

You’re buying the engines of global growth

One of the reasons this Vanguard ETF stands out is the quality of the businesses it owns.

Its largest holdings include tech companies like Nvidia, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and Alphabet, as well as big names such as LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, ASML, and HSBC. These are not speculative names. They are global leaders with enormous scale, deep competitive advantages, and balance sheets most companies can only dream of.

Importantly, some of these businesses sit at the heart of long-term structural trends like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, digital advertising, and global e-commerce. Owning them through the VGS ETF means you don’t have to guess which individual company will win next. You simply own a broad slice of the winners.

That’s a powerful position to be in over decades.

The track record backs it up

Long-term performance is never guaranteed, but the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF has demonstrated why global diversification matters.

Over the past 10 years, the ETF has delivered annual returns of just over 13%. Over five years, returns have been even stronger. Those numbers reflect not clever trading or market timing, but steady participation in global economic growth.

Why I think this Vanguard ETF can generate real wealth

Wealth generation rarely comes from doing complicated things. It usually comes from doing simple things consistently.

The VGS ETF offers low-cost access to global growth, exposure to world-class stocks, and diversification across markets that Australia simply doesn’t offer. Add regular contributions and time, and the compounding can become meaningful.

I don’t see this as a short-term trade. I see it as the kind of ETF you buy, keep adding to, and let quietly do the heavy lifting in the background.

Foolish Takeaway

I think Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF has all the ingredients of a long-term wealth generator. Global diversification, exposure to the world’s best businesses, low costs, and a strong long-term track record.

It’s not exciting in the day-to-day sense. But for investors who care more about where their portfolio could be in 10, 20, or 30 years, that’s exactly the point.

The post Why this Vanguard ETF could be a wealth-generator appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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HSBC Holdings is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended ASML, Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, and Nvidia. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended HSBC Holdings. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended ASML, Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) share price is in focus today after the oil and gas producer reported a 32% drop in statutory net profit after tax to $150.2 million for the six months to 31 December 2025. Revenue slipped 1% to $981.7 million, as lower oil and liquids prices and volumes weighed on results, partially offset by stronger prices for produced gas and higher LNG cargo sales.

What did Beach Energy report?

• Sales revenue down 1% to $981.7 million
• Net profit after tax (NPAT) decreased 32% to $150.2 million
• Underlying NPAT dropped 8% to $219.0 million
• Gross profit fell 19% to $294.3 million
• Fully franked interim dividend declared at 1.0 cent per share (down from 3.0 cps)
• Production fell 7% to 9.5 million barrels of oil equivalent (MMboe)

What else do investors need to know?

Beach saw a significant increase in costs, with cost of sales up 10% to $745.7 million, mainly due to product inventory movements and higher third-party purchases and tolls linked to additional LNG cargoes. Other expenses also jumped, largely attributed to a $61.2 million exploration expense for the unsuccessful Hercules 1 well.

Strong realised gas prices provided some support, with the average realised gas price up 13% to $11.82 per gigajoule. The balance sheet remained steady, with net assets at $3.17 billion and cash rising to $235 million. The company paid a 6.0 cent final dividend and will pay a 1.0 cent interim dividend in March 2026.

What did Beach Energy management say?

Managing Director and CEO Brett Woods said:

Our steady financial footing and safe operational performance through a challenging half positions Beach for an active second half, particularly as Waitsia ramps up and offshore campaigns progress.

What’s next for Beach Energy?

Looking ahead, Beach Energy plans to ramp up gas production from the Waitsia plant and begin the second phase of the Equinox drilling program in the Otway and Bass Basins. The Western Flank’s 12-well oil campaign and a fresh 10-well exploration program are also set to continue through FY26.

The company reaffirmed FY26 full year guidance, targeting group production between 19.7 and 22.0 MMboe and capital expenditure of $675–775 million. Management also flagged further cost discipline and progress on regional project milestones.

Beach Energy share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Beach Energy shares have declined 17%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Beach Energy H1 FY26 earnings: Profit drops as costs rise and volumes slip appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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The ASX tech share sector just had one of the worst days this decade. But, it doesn’t all need to be doom and gloom. I think it’s actually a great buying opportunity.

It’s true there has been a lot of pain.

The Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) share price has dropped 25% in a month and more than 50% in six months.

The TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE) share price is down by 17% in the past month and 44% in the last six months.

The WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) share price has fallen 22% in the last month and 55% in the past six months.

Other technology investments have also dropped in recent times, such as Global X Fang+ ETF (ASX: FANG) and Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ).

These businesses are the same companies they were a few months ago, yet the market is now valuing them at a much lower price.

Time to be greedy with ASX tech shares

One of the world’s greatest investors, Warren Buffett, has a number of very useful quotes to help think about times like this.

He said that we should be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful. The market is certainly fearful about (ASX) tech shares at the moment.

I like his thoughts even more about comparing the share market to hamburgers when they’re on sale. Warren Buffett said:

To refer to a personal taste of mine, I’m going to buy hamburgers the rest of my life. When hamburgers go down in price, we sing the ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ in the Buffett household. When hamburgers go up in price, we weep. For most people, it’s the same with everything in life they will be buying — except stocks. When stocks go down and you can get more for your money, people don’t like them anymore.

These ASX tech shares, which investors have lauded as some of the best businesses on the ASX for years, are trading at share prices we’ve not seen for quite a while. This looks like a smart time to invest.

Yes, there are AI risks, but I’d say the lower valuations already take that into account. Plus, I don’t believe the lower share prices account for the fact that the businesses could work with AI and implement it in their business as a positive, rather than it being a direct challenge to them.

The leading ASX tech shares have built up an economic moat, trust with their clients and strong offerings. I don’t think those are going away any time soon.

When I’m next able to invest, I’m planning to put some money into some of these names I’ve mentioned, particularly TechnologyOne. I’ve been hoping for valuations like this to invest – but the declines don’t happen for no reason. We have to invest bravely.

The post Why I think this ASX tech share sell-off is a great time to invest appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has positions in Technology One. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, Technology One, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, WiseTech Global, and Xero. 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.

If you are looking for some ASX dividend shares for your income portfolio, then it could be worth considering the four named below.

Here’s why they could be top options for income investors in February:

Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN)

The first ASX dividend share worth considering is retail giant Harvey Norman.

Unlike many discretionary retailers, Harvey Norman has entered FY 2026 with solid momentum. In its most recent trading update, the company reported continued strong aggregated sales growth of 9.1% across its global store network.

This strength reflects Harvey Norman’s diversified footprint across Australia and international markets, as well as its exposure to categories such as furniture, bedding, and technology that can benefit from housing activity and replacement cycles. This bodes well for dividends in FY 2026.

Rural Funds Group (ASX: RFF)

Rural Funds Group offers a different source of income.

This ASX dividend share owns agricultural assets such as farms and vineyards that are leased to operators under long-term agreements. This creates relatively predictable rental income, often with built-in escalation clauses.

For income investors, Rural Funds provides exposure to real assets that are less tied to day-to-day consumer sentiment. While agriculture has its own risks, long lease terms help support steady distributions over time.

Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL)

Another ASX dividend share that could be a buy for income investors is Super Retail.

The owner of brands such as Supercheap Auto and Rebel has seen earnings pressure as consumer spending has softened. However, these brands remain well established, and parts of the business benefit from non-discretionary demand, particularly in automotive.

If trading conditions normalise, Super Retail Group has the operating leverage to lift profits and dividends from current levels. This could make it a good option for patient income investors.

Universal Store Holdings Ltd (ASX: UNI)

A final ASX dividend share to consider buying this month is Universal Store.

It is the youth fashion retailer behind the Universal Store, Perfect Stranger, and Thrills brands.

Despite operating in a challenging retail environment, Universal Store has continued to generate strong sales, profits, and cash flows. Its multi-brand strategy, growing private-label offering, and store network expansion give it significant growth potential over the next decade.

Its dividends may not grow smoothly every year, but the company has shown a willingness to return capital to shareholders when conditions allow. For investors comfortable with retail exposure, Universal Store offers a combination of income and growth potential.

The post Why these ASX dividend shares could be top picks for income investors in February appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• These excellent ASX dividend shares offer 4% to 6.7% yields
• 3 ASX dividend shares for smart investors to buy

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Universal Store. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Super Retail Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Harvey Norman, Rural Funds Group, and Super Retail Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Universal Store. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

When markets are choppy, ASX dividend shares can still offer investors a steady stream of income.

Instead of relying only on share price gains, dividend stocks pay cash into your account simply for holding them. That can make a real difference over time, especially when dividends are reliable and well supported.

Here are 3 ASX dividend stars that currently offer attractive income for investors looking beyond the usual ‘big four’ bank shares.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

Woodside is one of Australia’s largest oil and gas producers and a heavyweight in the ASX energy sector.

The company generates strong cash flow from its LNG and energy operations, allowing it to pay generous dividends to shareholders.

At current prices, Woodside is offering a dividend yield of roughly 6.5%, depending on market movements. Most recent dividends have been fully franked, which adds extra value for Australian investors at tax time.

Woodside’s dividend policy aims to return a large portion of profits to shareholders. While energy prices can fluctuate, Woodside’s scale and diversified asset base help smooth earnings across the cycle.

As a result, Woodside remains one of the strongest high-yield options on the ASX outside the banking sector.

Dicker Data Ltd (ASX: DDR)

Dicker Data operates in a very different space, supplying IT hardware, software and cloud solutions to businesses across Australia and New Zealand.

What makes Dicker Data stand out is its long track record of paying dividends. Since listing, the company has consistently returned profits to shareholders and built a reputation for reliability.

At present, Dicker Data offers a dividend yield of around 5.5%, supported by quarterly fully franked dividend payments throughout the year.

Unlike many technology companies, Dicker Data is profitable, cash-generative and conservative with debt, helping support dividends even when technology spending slows.

This positions Dicker Data as a strong income option outside the mining and energy sectors.

BlueScope Steel Ltd (ASX: BSL)

BlueScope Steel is one of Australia’s largest steel producers, supplying construction and infrastructure markets both locally and offshore.

Its regular dividend yield is lower than the other two stocks on this list. However, BlueScope has recently declared a large special dividend, which has lifted shareholder returns.

When special dividends are included, BlueScope’s effective yield for the year moves above 5%, making it attractive for income investors who are comfortable with some cyclicality.

Steel prices and demand can fluctuate, so BlueScope’s dividends are not as predictable from year to year. That said, the company’s strong balance sheet gives it flexibility to return excess cash when conditions allow.

Foolish takeaway

These 3 stocks show there is still solid income available on the ASX.

Woodside offers attractive income backed by energy cash flows. Dicker Data provides consistency and reliability. BlueScope adds the potential for boosted returns through special dividends.

High yields can be appealing, but the best income comes from businesses that can keep paying through good times and bad.

The post Here’s 3 ASX dividend stars yielding over 5% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Buying ASX energy shares? Here’s how Santos and Woodside shares stacked up in January

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