• 5 of the best investments on the ASX right now to complement your superannuation

    Two retirees looking through a window.

    For retirees looking to complement their superannuation with quality investments, there are several factors to consider. 

    Dividend stocks are a fantastic option because they provide passive income that can supplement retirement savings while offering the potential for long-term capital growth. 

    Companies with a strong history of paying consistent, and ideally increasing, dividends can provide a reliable income stream, although it’s important to remember that dividends are not guaranteed and share prices can fluctuate. 

    Another important consideration is the impact of inflation.

    Many retirees will need to live off superannuation for more than 20 or 30 years, and inflation can eat into the purchasing power of their savings over time. 

    Investments that have the potential to deliver returns above the rate of inflation can help preserve wealth and maintain living standards throughout retirement. 

    Building a diversified portfolio that includes growth assets alongside income-producing investments can provide a balance between protecting capital and ensuring retirement savings continue to work over the long term.

    Here are five options to consider that stretch across growth and income assets to compliment your superannuation. 

    Dividend stocks to consider 

    For retirees looking to target dividend stocks, one great option is Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS). 

    It is often considered an attractive dividend stock for retirees because of its established market position, relatively stable cash flows, and history of paying consistent dividends. 

    Its essential telecommunications services provide resilient earnings, making it a popular choice for investors seeking reliable income alongside the potential for modest long-term capital growth.

    Another dividend stock with a strong reputation is BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP). 

    It is a popular dividend stock for retirees because of its strong balance sheet, global leadership in mining, and history of returning a significant portion of profits to shareholders through dividends. 

    While dividend payments can fluctuate with commodity prices, BHP’s exposure to essential resources such as iron ore and copper provides the potential for attractive income and long-term growth.

    Finally, income investors might also target Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG). 

    While its dividend may be more cyclical than those of traditional defensive companies, Macquarie’s exposure to infrastructure, asset management, and renewable energy provides both income potential and opportunities for long-term capital growth.

    Growth shares to consider 

    While passive income is important, it isn’t the entire story for a healthy compliment to your superannuation. 

    For investors looking to outpace inflation during retirements, two great ASX ETFs to consider are: 

    • BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)
    • Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG)

    These ASX ETFs focus on strong long-term growth potential. 

    This makes them both an attractive option for retirees seeking capital appreciation to help offset the effects of inflation.

    They also offer broad international diversification helps reduce single-market risk while providing long-term growth potential.

    The post 5 of the best investments on the ASX right now to complement your superannuation appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Telstra 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 Telstra 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 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell has positions in BHP Group and BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF and Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF and Telstra Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group and Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • The best AI stocks on the ASX right now

    Man with virtual white circles on his eye and AI written on top, symbolising artificial intelligence.

    Artificial intelligence has produced a long list of buzzy stock ideas. Most of them sit in the United States.

    But the infrastructure AI actually runs on, the data centres, the power grids, the networks, is being built right here in Australia.

    Three ASX AI stocks are capturing that opportunity in very different but equally compelling ways.

    NextDC: where AI workloads live

    NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT) is Australia’s largest independent data centre operator, and the closest thing on the ASX to a direct, pure-play bet on AI infrastructure demand.

    The numbers confirm the demand is real and accelerating.

    Contracted utilisation surged 60% to 667MW in the March 2026 quarter alone. This was driven by massive contract wins as AI workloads requiring intensive computing power, storage, and connectivity flooded into NextDC’s facilities.

    The company’s forward order book, combined with existing billing, is expected to generate contracted EBITDA in excess of A$1 billion. This is more than four times the midpoint of FY26 guidance, as that contracted capacity converts to revenue progressively from FY26 through FY30.

    OpenAI, one of the world’s largest and best-funded AI companies, is the foundational customer for NextDC’s $7 billion AI data centre campus in Western Sydney. This relationship relationship validates both the strategic importance of Australian AI infrastructure and NextDC’s position within it.

    The risks are equally visible.

    $5 billion in FY27 capital expenditure means execution matters enormously given the large sums of capital invested.

    Goodman Group: a surprise ASX AI infrastructure play

    Goodman Group (ASX: GMG) is the landlord of the AI revolution.

    Before a data centre can be built, someone needs to secure the land, obtain planning approvals, connect the power, and deliver the shell.

    That is Goodman’s role, and it is an increasingly scarce and valuable one.

    Data centres now make up 73% of Goodman’s development pipeline, which is on track to reach $18 billion by June 2026. The company possesses a global power bank of 6.4 gigawatts across 16 cities that took years to assemble and that no newcomer can replicate quickly.

    This is Goodman’s competitive advantage.

    Morgans has noted that industry data centre capital expenditure requirements likely exceed global capital market funding capacity. This statement describes a market where the constraint is not demand but the ability to build fast enough.

    Consequently, Goodman is positioned on the supply side of that constraint, with secured power, sites, and locked-in capital partners already in place.

    On the broker side, Morgans retains a buy rating on Goodman with a $36 price target, and UBS endorses Goodman’s outlook with a $36.41 price target.

    Megaport: how AI workloads move

    Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1) has changed the most of the three over the past twelve months.

    The company was already known as a network-as-a-service provider connecting businesses to cloud platforms.

    But its acquisition of Latitude.sh pushed it deeper into the AI infrastructure stack by adding high-performance GPU, CPU, and storage capabilities alongside its core connectivity offering.

    Subsequently, Megaport rose almost 50% in FY26, smashing the ASX 200’s 3% gain, as the market began to recognise it as an AI infrastructure contender rather than simply a cloud connectivity story.

    $254 million in new AI contracts through Latitude.sh, generating $90.6 million in annualised recurring revenue, confirmed that AI demand is already flowing into the business.

    CEO Michael Reid described the contract wins as evidence that

    Megaport is becoming an essential platform for powering the applications of tomorrow.

    The risks across all three ASX AI stocks

    However, none of these three ASX AI stocks is without risk.

    NextDC’s $5 billion FY27 capex plan means any slip in execution or AI demand would hit the stock hard.

    Goodman’s premium valuation reflects how much the market has already priced into its data centre transition. This leaves little room for disappointment.

    Megaport has to prove the Latitude.sh contracts convert into attractive returns over time, not just headline contract values.

    Additionally, all three are also sensitive to interest rate movements given their capital-intensive operating models.

    Foolish takeaway for ASX AI stocks

    NextDC, Goodman, and Megaport each capture the AI infrastructure opportunity from a different angle.

    NextDC provides the capacity. Goodman provides the land and power. Megaport provides the connectivity.

    For investors who believe AI-driven infrastructure demand will keep accelerating, all three deserve a place on the watchlist.

    The post The best AI stocks on the ASX right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Nextdc right now?

    Before you buy Nextdc 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 Nextdc 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 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Mark Verhoeven 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 Goodman Group and Megaport. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Goodman Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Buy, hold, sell: Dexus, Resmed, BHP shares

    A man in a business suit holds a piece of paper in front of him as if revealing information.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares rose 2.77% and delivered total returns, including dividends, of 7% in FY26.  

    On The Bull this week, Remo Greco from Sanlam Private Wealth shares his insights on three ASX 200 shares for FY27.  

    Let’s take a look. 

    Dexus Convenience Retail REIT (ASX: DXC) 

    The Dexus Convenience Retail REIT fell 14.8% to finish at $2.59 per share on 30 June. 

    Greco has a buy rating on this ASX real estate investment trust (REIT).

    Greco said:

    This real estate investment trust owns service stations and convenience retail assets, mostly on Australia’s eastern seaboard.

    The fund’s portfolio was valued at about $760 million on December 31, 2025. The company was recently trading at a significant discount to net tangible assets (NTA) and was yielding about 8 per cent.

    The trust has an attractive development pipeline, modest debt and recently increased its buy-back target. Importantly, the NTA is supported by recent asset sales of 1.5 per cent above valuation.

    Recently announced capital gains tax changes make the company’s assets appealing to self managed super funds looking for reliable income generating assets.

    DXC is a solid defensive play in the current environment.

    BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

    The BHP share price soared 62% to finish FY26 at $59.40 last Tuesday. 

    Greco has a hold rating on the ASX 200 mining share for FY27. 

    He said: 

    Several disappointing events have led us to downgrade BHP to a hold.

    Cost over-runs at its Jansen stage 2 potash project in Canada lifts the investment cost by about $US2 billion to $US6.9 billion. Possible industrial action, although averted in June, may re-ignite at the company’s iron ore operations in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.

    Any industrial action may impact stock performance.

    Longer term, we like BHP’s exposure to copper – the key metal of the future.

    As reported in our best-performing commodities of FY26 article, the copper price rose by 18% while iron ore increased 7% over the year. 

    Resmed CDI (ASX: RMD)

    The Resmed share price fell 26.6% to $28.88 on 30 June amid a broader healthcare sector rout in FY26. 

    Greco has a sell rating on this ASX 200 healthcare share, and commented: 

    The company makes medical devices to treat sleep apnoea. The company lifted revenue by 11 per cent in the third quarter of financial year 2026 when compared to the prior corresponding period.

    In my view, GLP-1 weight loss drugs may reduce the incidence of sleep apnoea.

    ResMed’s share price has been volatile in the past 12 months as investors weighed up the company’s outlook in light of popular GLP-1 drugs.

    The shares have risen from $25.84 on June 3 to trade at $29.37 on July 2.

    It may be prudent to sell some shares prior to RMD’s full year result.

    Resmed is due to release its 4Q FY26 results on 7 August. 

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Dexus, Resmed, BHP shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy BHP 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 BHP 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 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has positions in BHP Group. 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 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.

  • ASX 200 tech shares tanked in FY26, but there were 3 winners

    A man has computer-generated images rushing through his head, indicating an AI (artificial intelligence) concept of a communication network.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) tech shares were smashed over a seven-month period between late August through to 30 March this year.

    The downturn led to technology being the second-worst performer of the 11 market sectors in FY26.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) fell 37.22% and delivered total negative returns of 36.97%. 

    Tech investors had much on their minds last financial year.  

    Firstly, they became worried that high share price valuations and massive artificial intelligence (AI) investment in the US may create an AI bubble. 

    Some experts likened the AI boom to the internet boom of the late 1990s. They warned that excessive investor enthusiasm could lead to a dot-com-style correction.

    That fear spread throughout the sector quickly, with ASX 200 tech shares peaking in September and entering a bear market just two months later.

    A bear market is defined as a 20% (or more) fall from the most recent high point.

    There were also fears that AI may decimate software-as-a-service (SaaS) providers after Anthropic released a new legal plug-in for its agentic AI assistant, Claude, in early 2026. 

    Within a week, shares in Thomson Reuters, whose SaaS platforms Westlaw and Practical Law serve legal professionals, had lost a fifth of its valuation. 

    The SaaS concern hit ASX 200 tech shares hard given four of our six largest companies by market capitalisation are SaaS providers.

    Wisetech shares weighed the sector down 

    WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), which was previously the market’s largest listed tech company, was also a significant drag on the sector in FY26. 

    Investors were disappointed with Wisetech’s FY25 earnings, released in August, and governance issues became a big distraction. 

    Wisetech went on to become the worst performer of the entire ASX 200 in FY26, dropping 70% in value. 

    The company lost its status as the sector’s largest stock by market cap to Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) in May. 

    A strong turnaround for ASX 200 and US tech shares began on 31 March. Since then, ASX 200 tech shares have rebounded by almost 20%. 

    Here are the three winners of the tech sector last financial year. 

    1. Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA)

    Electronics solutions provider Codan delivered the best capital growth among ASX 200 tech shares in FY26.

    The Codan share price skyrocketed 119.49% to finish the year at $44.14.

    Codan designs and manufactures electronics solutions, including communications equipment and metal detectors, for government, corporate, NGO, and consumer clients worldwide. 

    The company reported a 55% increase in net profit after tax (NPAT) to $71.2 million for 1H FY26.

    2. Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1) 

    Megaport provides cloud and data centre connectivity services through a global network-as-a-service (NaaS) platform.

    The Megaport share price ripped 49.45% to finish FY26 at $21.58. 

    In June, Megaport announced it had won four new AI infrastructure contracts worth $458.9 million.

    The new work required significant capex, so Megaport ran a fully underwritten $827.3 million entitlement offer at $14.30 per share.

    3. Data#3 Ltd (ASX: DTL)

    Data#3 is an information and communications technology (ICT) provider. 

    The Data#3 share price rose 29.43% to $9.85 on 30 June. 

    Data#3 reported a 9% lift in gross sales to $1.54 billion for 1H FY26. Statutory revenue increased 8% to $423 million.

    The NPAT was 3.7% higher at $23 million. 

    The post ASX 200 tech shares tanked in FY26, but there were 3 winners appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Megaport right now?

    Before you buy Megaport 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 Megaport 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 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen 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 Megaport, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Thomson Reuters. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Data#3. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Why the CGT changes may have handed this ASX ETF an advantage : Expert

    Cubes with tax written on them on top of Australian dollar notes.

    The BetaShares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200) has grown to be one of the most popular ASX ETFs available here in Australia.

    A new report from Betashares has reinforced that the new capital gains tax (CGT) changes may have handed index ETFs like this one an advantage.

    What is changing with the Capital Gains Tax?

    Currently, if you own shares for more than 12 months in Australia, you generally get a 50% Capital Gains Tax (CGT) discount.

    On 12 May 2026, as part of the 2026-27 Federal Budget, the Government announced it would reform negative gearing and capital gains tax (CGT) arrangements.

    These changes will apply from 1 July 2027:

    • Limit negative gearing for residential property investments to new builds.
    • Replace the 50% CGT discount for individuals, trusts and partnerships with cost base indexation and a 30% minimum tax rate on capital gains.

    What does this mean for investors?

    In the latest report from Betashares, the ETF provider contends that under the new laws, it could make it more expensive (tax-wise) to own a portfolio of individual shares.

    However owning an ASX ETF (like Betashares A200) may become more tax-efficient.

    The proposed CGT indexation rules would reduce after-tax returns for investors who hold diversified portfolios of individual shares. 

    This is because losses on underperforming stocks cannot fully offset gains on outperforming stocks after adjusting for inflation.

    By contrast, investors who hold a single pooled investment, such as an ETF, avoid this issue. This is because gains and losses are effectively netted within the fund, resulting in a lower overall tax burden.

    Therefore, index ETFs could theoretically become more tax-efficient than directly holding a portfolio of shares under the new CGT regime.

    The case for this ASX ETF

    According to Betashares, one way an investor can seek to reduce the CGT indexation tax drag that stems from holding a portfolio of stocks in their own name is to invest in a market-capitalisation index tracking ETF instead.

    A pooled managed investment scheme, like a managed fund or an ETF, will invariably have some capital gains that need to be distributed on an ongoing basis. But index ETFs, such as A200, are already very tax efficient at minimising those ongoing tax consequences.

    And now they have the additional benefit of being able to effectively offset winners and losers within the ETF. When an investor disposes of an ETF, the capital gain is calculated based on the ETF on-market price they buy and sell at, not at the underlying stock level.

    Foolish takeaway

    While investors should be aware of the upcoming changes to CGT, taxes are only one part of your overall return.

    The quality of your investments, diversification, risk tolerance, and time horizon are often more important.

    Your personal circumstances also matter.

    The impact of the proposed CGT changes depends on your marginal tax rate, whether you invest personally or through a trust, company, or superannuation fund, and how often you buy and sell investments.

     

     

     

     

     

    The post Why the CGT changes may have handed this ASX ETF an advantage : Expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in BetaShares Australia 200 ETF right now?

    Before you buy BetaShares Australia 200 ETF 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 BetaShares Australia 200 ETF 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 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell 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.

  • DroneShield shares are rebounding. Is this the turning point?

    A woman looks towards the sky and the future.

    DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO) shares started the week on the front foot, climbing 5% to $2.52.

    That gain comes after a difficult month, with the defence technology stock still down around 15% over the past four weeks and 36% over the past six months. It’s been a painful reversal for investors who piled into the stock during this year’s defence rally.

    But the recent pullback also changes the investment story. Much of the hype has now faded, leaving investors to focus on the fundamentals rather than momentum.

    While DroneShield remains a high-risk investment, its exposure to one of defence’s fastest-growing markets could make today’s valuation far more attractive than it was just weeks ago.

    Why did DroneShield shares fall?

    Unlike many sharp sell-offs, there wasn’t a single announcement that triggered last month’s decline.

    Instead, several factors appear to have combined to cool investor enthusiasm. Hopes of a lasting peace agreement in the Middle East may have reduced expectations for future defence spending, particularly in technologies linked to modern conflict.

    At the same time, some investors likely questioned whether the stock’s rapid rise had already priced in years of future growth. Earlier this year DroneShield shares were trading at a valuation that left little room for disappointment.

    The recent correction suggests the market has become more realistic about both the opportunities and the risks.

    A fast-growing market

    DroneShield isn’t trying to compete with the world’s largest defence contractors across every military capability. Instead, the company has focused almost entirely on counter-drone technology—a market that has rapidly shifted from a niche defence category to a strategic priority.

    Conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East have highlighted how relatively inexpensive drones can threaten military assets, airports, critical infrastructure and public events. As a result, governments around the world are increasing investment in drone detection and counter-drone systems.

    Industry forecasts suggest the global counter-UAS market could exceed US$15 billion annually by the early 2030s, supported by rising defence budgets and growing adoption among both military and civilian customers.

    Those structural growth drivers remain firmly in place for DroneShield shares.

    A specialist competing with industry giants

    DroneShield may be small, but it has successfully carved out a valuable niche. The company competes alongside defence heavyweights including RTX Corp (NYSE: RTX) and Lockheed Martin Corp (NYSE: LMT), all of which have significantly greater financial resources.

    Rather than relying on a single product, DroneShield offers an integrated platform combining drone detection, electronic warfare systems, artificial intelligence-powered tracking and command-and-control software.

    That specialised approach has helped the company secure an increasing number of contracts across Europe, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region.

    For a business of DroneShield’s size, those contract wins demonstrate growing credibility with defence agencies worldwide.

    What do analysts think?

    Broker opinion remains sharply divided. According to TradingView data, only four analysts currently cover DroneShield shares. Two rate the stock as a strong buy, while the other two recommend selling.

    Despite that split, the average 12-month price target sits at $3.41, implying potential upside of around 35% from current levels. The most bullish analyst believes the shares could reach $4.80, representing potential upside of more than 90%. The most pessimistic prediction is 9% below the current share price.

    The post DroneShield shares are rebounding. Is this the turning point? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in DroneShield right now?

    Before you buy DroneShield 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 DroneShield 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 16 June 2026

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    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 DroneShield and RTX. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Lockheed Martin. 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.

  • These are the 10 most shorted ASX shares

    A man sitting at a computer is blown away by what he's seeing on the screen, hair and tie whooshing back as he screams argh in panic.

    Once a week, I like to look at ASIC’s short position report to find out which ASX shares are being targeted by short sellers.

    That’s because I believe it is worth keeping a close eye on short interest levels as high levels can sometimes be a sign that something isn’t quite right with a company.

    With that in mind, here are the 10 most shorted shares on the ASX this week according to ASIC:

    • Lotus Resources Ltd (ASX: LOT) remains the most shorted ASX share with short interest of 22.8%. This ASX uranium stock suspended its shares late last month pending an update on its Kayelekera Project. At present, Lotus shares are due to stay suspended until 16 July.
    • Domino’s Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP) has seen its short interest ease again to 14%. It seems that short sellers aren’t confident the pizza chain operator’s turnaround will be successful.
    • Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE) has short interest of 13.4%, which is down week on week again. This uranium miner’s production outlook from 2027 is uncertain, with an update due by the end of August.
    • DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO) has seen its short interest fall to 12%. This counter-drone technology company has been targeted by more short sellers since it announced an ASIC investigation into some announcements and insider share sales.
    • Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) has short interest of 12%, which is down meaningfully since last week. Short sellers may have been closing positions after the radiopharmaceuticals company announced the successful outcome of a Type B meeting with the US FDA.
    • Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) has 11.55% of its shares held short, which is up week on week. It is yet another uranium producer that short sellers are targeting.
    • CAR Group Limited (ASX: CAR) has short interest of 11.5%, which is down since last week. There may be concerns that higher interest rates could weigh on the automotive market and listing volumes.
    • Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT) has 11.4% of its shares held short, which is down slightly week on week. This travel agent downgraded its earnings guidance last month due to negative impacts from the Middle East conflict. Short sellers may believe the recovery won’t be as quick as many expect.
    • Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) has short interest of 11%. The Penfolds owner is facing tough trading conditions due to the cost of living crisis.
    • 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX) has seen its short interest ease again to 11%. This medical technology company is growing rapidly but its shares trade on sky-high multiples. Short sellers may believe its valuation is excessive.

    The post These are the 10 most shorted ASX shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in DroneShield right now?

    Before you buy DroneShield 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 DroneShield 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 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Domino’s Pizza Enterprises and Treasury Wine Estates. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Domino’s Pizza Enterprises, DroneShield, Telix Pharmaceuticals, and Treasury Wine Estates. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Treasury Wine Estates. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CAR Group Ltd, Domino’s Pizza Enterprises, Flight Centre Travel Group, and Telix Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

    A woman's hand draws a stylised 'Top Ten' on a projected surface.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and many ASX shares endured a volatile, but ultimately negative start to the trading week this Monday. After opening in the red this morning, the ASX 200 did spend some time in green territory during intra-day trading, but couldn’t quite hold on. By the time the markets closed, the index had lost 0.15% and finished up at a flat 8,831 points.

    This bouncy start to the week’s trading for Australian investors followed a mixed end to the American trading week on Friday night (our time).

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) had a strong showing, rising a confident 1.14%. 

    However, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was far more pessimistic, dropping 0.8%

    But let’s get back to this week and our local markets now for a checkup on how the different ASX sectors handled today’s rough trading conditions.

    Winners and losers

    There were a few sectors that escaped today’s session intact.

    But first, it was utilities stocks that suffered the most. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) saw its value cut by 0.79% this Monday.

    Mining shares were also in the firing line, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) tanking 0.63%.

    Consumer staples stocks were no safe haven. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) plunged 0.6% lower. 

    Nor were gold shares, illustrated by the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD)’s 0.57% dive.

    Financial stocks had a rough one, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) retreated 0.33% today.

    Industrial shares weren’t spared either, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) sinking 0.18%.

    That’s it for the red sectors, though, so let’s check out the winners.

    Leading said winners were healthcare stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) roared 1.5% higher over today’s trading.

    Tech shares also ran hot, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ)’s 0.93% jump.

    Energy stocks were in demand too. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) bounced 0.45% higher.

    Next came consumer discretionary shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) lifting 0.42%.

    Real estate investment trusts (REITs) escaped the selling as well. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) advanced 0.2% this Monday.

    Finally, communications stocks came down on the right side of the ledger, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)’s 0.19% improvement.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    Today’s convincing index winner was gold miner Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU). Vault shares rocketed 11.62% higher today to close at $5.09 each.  

    This significant jump followed the news that Vault had received an improved merger proposal from Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD), valuing the company at approximately $5.27 a share.

    Here’s the rest of today’s best: 

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) $5.09 11.62%
    WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) $35.37 7.31%
    DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO) $2.52 4.56%
    Bellevue Gold Ltd (ASX: BGL) $1.38 3.38%
    Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) $17.38 2.96%
    Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB) $83.36 2.86%
    Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) $127.86 2.32%
    PEXA Group Ltd (ASX: PXA) $8.73 2.22%
    ASX Ltd (ASX: ASX) $52.59 2.08%
    Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW) $108.75 1.99%

    Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

     

     

    The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Vault Minerals 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 Vault Minerals 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 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen 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 Cochlear, DroneShield, Hub24, Light & Wonder Inc, PEXA Group, Telix Pharmaceuticals, and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended PEXA Group and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Cochlear, Hub24, Light & Wonder Inc, and Telix Pharmaceuticals. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Buying IAG shares? Here’s the dividend yield you’ll get today?

    Male hands holding Australian dollar banknotes, symbolising dividends.

    Although ASX investors love to buy financial stocks if they are seeking dividend income, most often start and stop with the ASX banks. Whilst the banks are indeed lucrative sources of passive dividend income, there are many other financial stocks that are popular too. Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) shares are a great example. 

    IAG, the insurance company behind popular insurance brands like NRMA, has been listed on the ASX for decades. Over its ASX life, it has built up a solid reputation as a reliable income stock. Heck, even Warren Buffett invested in IAG a few years ago.

    IAG shares have enjoyed a happy few months, currently up more than 20% since March. However, the company is also down by about 5% over the past year. 

    But let’s dive into just how much IAG shares are offering investors who are searching for dividends today.

    IAG shares: How’s that dividend yield looking?

    At the time of writing, IAG shares are trading at $8.08 each, down 0.49% for the day thus far. At this price, the insurance stock is trading on a trailing dividend yield of 3.84%.

    That comes from IAG’s last two dividend payments. The first of those was the final dividend, worth 19 cents per share, that investors received last September. The second, the interim dividend from March, was worth 12 cents per share. Both payments came partially franked, at 40% and 25% respectively.

    That 12-month total of 31 cents per share gives IAG that 3.84% yield at current pricing. 

    However, this yield doesn’t mean investors are guaranteed a 3.84% yield going forward. Like all trailing dividend yields, it only reflects what investors have already received in income, not what they might get going forward. We can’t know for sure what kind of dividends IAG will pay out over the next 12 months until the company reveals them. Insurance stocks do tend to be a bit more unpredictable than the average ASX dividend share, too, given the unpredictable nature of their business models. 

    In some comfort to IAG investors, though, some ASX brokers are eyeing off IAG at the current price. As my Fool colleague covered late last month, brokers at investment bank Goldman Sachs have recently given IAG shares a ‘buy’ rating, together with a 12-month share price target of $8.60. That would see some decent upside for investors if accurate. But we shall have to wait and see what IAG pulls out of its hat over the rest of the year. 

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    The post Buying IAG shares? Here’s the dividend yield you’ll get today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Insurance Australia 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 Insurance Australia 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 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen 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 Goldman Sachs Group. 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.

  • Judo Bank shares rise despite Morgan Stanley price target cut

    Bank building with the word bank in gold.

    Judo Capital Holdings Ltd (ASX: JDO) shares are higher on Monday, but the bounce follows a brutal month for shareholders. 

    At the time of writing, the Judo share price is up 2.27% to 90 cents. 

    Despite the small lift today, the ASX bank stock is still down roughly 37% over the past month and almost 50% in 2026. 

    That follows a massive 40% plunge on 25 June after Judo updated the market on its asset quality and trading performance. 

    So, why is the stock getting attention again today?

    Morgan Stanley wants more answers

    According to The Australian, Morgan Stanley analysts have cut their target price on Judo by around 32% to $1.25.

    The broker said Judo’s June update hurt confidence in its near-term earnings outlook. 

    It also raised questions about its risk appetite, lending standards, broker use, and early risk detection.

    Morgan Stanley lowered its earnings per share (EPS) forecasts for Judo by 10% to 22% across FY26 to FY28.

    The broker is now forecasting FY27 profit before tax of around $179 million. That is well below Judo’s own FY27 guidance range of $210 million to $220 million. 

    The analysts also want more disclosure around Judo’s loan book, particularly its loans to property operators and construction.

    The report pointed to $2.7 billion of loans to property operators and $1 billion to construction.

    What spooked the market in June

    Judo’s update last month showed FY26 cost of risk is now expected to be between $116 million and $122 million.

    The company said this was mainly due to higher specific provisions for 3 customer exposures.

    FY26 profit before tax is expected to be between $163 million and $169 million, which still represents 30% growth from FY25.

    Judo also said it remains on track for its existing FY26 guidance for gross loans and advances, net interest margin, and cost-to-income ratio. 

    However, the profit growth isn’t the main issue right now. The focus is on whether the bad loans are isolated.

    Keep in mind that Judo is a specialist business lender, not a major retail bank. Its model is built around lending to small and medium-sized businesses, often through relationship bankers.

    Hence, when credit quality starts to slip, questions naturally turn to the rest of the book.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Today’s rise looks more like bargain hunting than a proper recovery. 

    The share price has bounced from its recent lows, but Judo still needs to show these credit issues are under control.

    The FY26 results in August should give investors a clearer view of the loan book, provisions, margins, and whether management can rebuild confidence. 

    Until then, Judo shares may keep getting some support from bargain hunters after the heavy sell-off.

    But don’t expect the share price to rally to previous levels just yet. 

    The post Judo Bank shares rise despite Morgan Stanley price target cut appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Judo Capital right now?

    Before you buy Judo Capital 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 Judo Capital 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 16 June 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.