• Why the Imdex (ASX:IMD) share price is leaping 9% today

    Share price jump represented by goldfish leaping from small fishbowl to larger bowl

    Imdex Limited (ASX: IMD) shares are leaping higher in early morning trade after the mining technology company released its results for the first half of the 2021 financial year (H1 FY21). At the time of writing, the Imdex share price has jumped 8.7% to $1.87.

    What did Imdex report?

    The Imdex share price is on the move after the company revealed this morning it will maintain its dividend despite a drop in revenue from the previous corresponding period.

    Imdex reported revenue of $124.3 million for H1 FY21. That was 3% lower than the $127.7 million revenue figure for H1 FY20.

    Earnings per share (EPS) of 3.42 cents also slid, down 28%. Net profit after taxes (NPAT) was $13.5 million, down 26% from the $18.2 million reported in the first half of 2020’s financial year.

    Earnings before income, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) was up 6% from H1 FY20, to $33.1 million.

    The company also reported a 33% lift in cash from operations and an 84% increase in its net cash position, to $47 million.

    Imdex declared a fully franked interim dividend of 1.0 cent per share (CPS).

    Commenting on the results, Imdex CEO Paul House said:

    Activity increased in the majority of our regions, underpinned by strong industry fundamentals. While COVID continued to disrupt operations it heightened demand for our cloud-connected technologies.

    The uplift in earnings reflects three key factors: an increasing percentage of revenue from our higher margin rentals and software business; leveraging the benefits of our digital transformation; and our ongoing focus on streamlining operations.

    The strength of our balance sheet enables us to accelerate targeted R&D in line with demand and leverage opportunities for acquisitive growth.

    Looking ahead, House added:

    While the short-term risks associated with COVID remain, we have a resilient business and a strategy focused on delivering sustainable earnings growth for shareholders.

    The company pointed to strong commodity prices supporting its clients, and said resource companies and drilling contractors are turning to new technologies to increase productivity and safety.

    Imdex share price snapshot

    Incorporating this morning’s intraday gains, the Imdex share price is up 10% so far in 2021.

    That compares to a 2.8% gain on the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO).

    Over the past 12 months, Imdex shares have gained 36.5% and more than 140% since the lows from 25 March last year.

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    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben 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 Bruce Jackson.

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  • Treasury Wines (ASX:TWE) share price lifts amid media speculation

    three building blocks with smiley faces, indicating a rise in the ASX share price

    The Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) share price has edged higher after an early morning announcement.

    Shares in the Aussie wine maker and distributor are 0.25% higher at $10 in early trade after the company response to ongoing media speculation around a potential demerger.

    What’s happening?

    There has been intense speculation in recent months regarding a demerger of one of Treasury Wines’ most recognisable brands. The group’s premium Penfolds wine label was rumoured to be under review by Penfolds.

    That includes suggestions in a 7 February article in The Australian that Treasury Wines was investigating a demerger of its global operations into three separate businesses.

    However, today’s announcement has provided some further context for shareholders. Treasury Wines confirmed that it has “formally paused work on a potential demerger of its Penfolds brand”, as noted at its November annual general meeting.

    Treasury Wines is “not currently considering a demerger of any brands/businesses within its portfolio”, the company added. The company continues to assess internal operating models to deliver “long term value”. That includes “separating focus across its brand portfolios” which hints that there could be more changes to come.

    The Treasury Wines share price has lifted slightly on the news in early trade. That comes as the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) edges 0.3% higher to start the week’s trade.

    How has the Treasury Wines share price performed recently?

    The Treasury Wines share price has been under pressure in the last 12 months. The coronavirus pandemic and March 2020 bear market saw the company’s value plummet lower.
    That broad market weakness was compounded by ongoing trade tensions with China.

    China is a major wine purchaser and a lucrative market for Treasury Wines, including its Penfolds brand. However, there has been rising concerns over counterfeit labels and increasing tariffs for Aussie wines.

    That has seen shares in the Aussie wine group slump 15.3% in the last 12 months.

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    Motley Fool contributor Ken Hall has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Treasury Wine Estates Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

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  • What to expect from the a2 Milk (ASX:A2M) half year result

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    With earnings season now underway, I have been looking at what is expected from some of Australia’s most popular companies.

    On this occasion, I’m going to take a look a struggling infant formula and fresh milk producer A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M).

    What is expected from A2 Milk Company in the first half?

    The former market darling is expected to have struggled during the first half of FY 2021 due largely to weakness in the daigou channel.

    As a result, analysts at Goldman Sachs are forecasting a sharp decline in both sales and earnings for the period.

    According to the note, the broker expects a2 Milk to deliver first half revenues of NZ$676.6 million. This will be a 16% decline on the prior corresponding period. This is despite Goldman expecting direct sales into China/other Asia growing 25.3% to NZ$397.3 million during the half.

    And due to margin weakness, its analysts expect the company’s earnings to fall much harder. They are forecasting earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of NZ$178.8 million for the half. This will be a 32.9% decline on the first half of FY 2020.

    Finally, on the bottom line, Goldman expects this to lead to a 36.7% decline in underlying net profit after tax to $119.1 million.

    Goldman Sachs will also be paying close attention to its guidance for the full year. The broker is forecasting revenue of NZ$1,478.7 million and EBITDA of NZ$393.9 million for the 12 months. This will be a 14.6% and 28.4% decline, respectively, year on year.

    Is the a2 Milk share price in the buy zone?

    Despite the recent weakness in the a2 Milk share price, Goldman is still sitting on the fence with a neutral rating.

    However, its price target of $12.09 does offer upside of over 17% based on the latest a2 Milk share price.

    A2 Milk is scheduled to release its half year results on 25 February.

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended A2 Milk. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

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  • Australian Primary Hemp (ASX:APH) share price is up 10%. Here’s why

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    The Australian Primary Hemp Ltd (ASX: APH) share price is racing up this morning following another retail distribution agreement.

    Shares in the premium plant-based and wellness company are up 10.34% at 48 cents at the time of writing.

    New retail distribution agreement

    In this morning’s release, Australian Primary Hemp advised it has secured its second retail distribution agreement with Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW).

    Under the deal, Australian Primary Help will supply its Mt. Elephant ‘mylk’ branded hemp and oat-milk products across 165 Woolworths stores. This includes its barista/original oat and hemp mylk, and chocolate oat and hemp mylk.

    Both products will be available to consumers to purchase from April onwards.

    It’s estimated that the new deal will generate around $250,000 per year for Australia Primary Hemp.

    The company signed its first retail distribution agreement with Woolworths last month for Mt. Elephant baking products. That contract, which starts next month, is worth roughly $2.1 million.

    A report published from Global Market Insights in October 2020 estimates that the global plant-based milk market will grow. Consumer taste is ever-changing with increasing demand for more healthier options other than soy or almond milk. Forecasts value the plant-based milk sector at $28 billion before 2026.

    What did management say?

    Australian Primary Hemp managing director and CEO Neale Joseph welcomed the new deal, saying:

    This second agreement with Woolworths will expand the range of Mt. Elephant products being ranged in Woolworths stores and increase consumers’ choices for high-quality plant-based superfoods.

    This is just the beginning for our mylk products, and positions APH strongly to open further doors to develop even more products as demand for plant-based milk grow.

    We are immensely pleased with Woolworths’ choice to introduce even more Mt. Elephant products to consumers.

    Our Mt. Elephant product range continues to gather commercial momentum, and APH continues to make significant progress in meeting the company’s commercialisation and distribution goals with this brand.

    About the Australian Primary Hemp share price

    The Australian Primary Hemp share price has soared more than 200% in the last 12 months. The company’s shares hit a low of 4.9 cents last March, but have since gathered steam. Its shares reached an all-time high of 62 cents just a few weeks ago in January.

    Based on the current share price, Australian Primary Hemp commands a market capitalisation of $43 million.

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of Woolworths Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

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  • Here are the 10 most shorted shares on the ASX

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    At the start of each week I like to look at ASIC’s short position report to find out which shares are being targeted by short sellers.

    This is because I believe it is well 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:

    • Webjet Limited (ASX: WEB) continues its long run as the most shorted ASX share with short interest rising to 14.5%. The online travel agent’s shares are being targeting due to concerns over its valuation and the challenging short term outlook.
    • Tassal Group Limited (ASX: TGR) has seen its short interest rebound week on week to 12.2%. This appears to have been driven by fears over tuna prices and speculation that China could slap duties on Australian seafood.
    • Speedcast International Ltd (ASX: SDA) has short interest of 9.3%. This communications satellite technology provider’s shares have been suspended for around a year while it undertakes a recapitalisation.
    • Mesoblast limited (ASX: MSB) has seen its short interest fall to 9.15%. A disastrous run of underwhelming trial results has weighed very heavily on this biotech company’s shares in recent months.
    • Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING) has 8.6% of its shares held short, which is up slightly week on week. This poultry company has been tipped to underperform again in FY 2021 due to high input costs and an unfavourable sales mix caused by COVID-19.
    • AVITA Medical Inc (ASX: AVH) has seen its short interest rise week on week to 8.4%. Concerns that COVID-19 headwinds will stifle this medical device company’s growth again in FY 2021 could be the reason for this high level of short interest.
    • Western Areas Ltd (ASX: WSA) has entered the top ten with short interest of 7.8%. A disappointing first half production update and issues at its Flying Fox operation have been weighing on investor sentiment.
    • Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) is another new entry in the top ten with 7.7% of its shares hold short. The gold miner has just completed its merger with Saracen Mineral. It appears as though some short sellers aren’t convinced by the deal.
    • Metcash Limited (ASX: MTS) has short interest of 7.4%, which is flat week on week. This wholesale distributor has delivered strong growth so far in FY 2021. Some short sellers don’t seem confident the strong form will last.
    • Myer Holdings Ltd (ASX: MYR) is back in the top ten with 7.3% of its shares held short. This could be due to concerns that the pandemic could undo the progress it has made with its turnaround plan.

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    James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of Avita Medical Limited. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Webjet Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Avita Medical Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

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  • Here’s why the Sigma (ASX:SIG) share price is surging 6% higher

    The Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG) share price is on form on Monday.

    In morning trade, the pharmacy chain operator and distributor’s shares are surging 6% higher to 72 cents.

    Why is the Sigma share price storming higher?

    Investors have been buying Sigma’s shares this morning following the release of a very positive trading update.

    According to the release, Sigma’s performance in the second half has been very strong. As a result, it is expecting its underlying earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) to grow strongly in FY 2021.

    Sigma is expecting to report underlying EBITDA of $80 million for the 12 months ended 31 January 2021. This will be an increase of over 35% on the prior corresponding period.

    Sigma’s Managing Director and CEO, Mark Hooper, commented: “The business continued to perform strongly through the second half, with sustained momentum underpinning our FY21 guidance and confidence in FY22.”

    Mr Hooper is confident the growth will continue and expects to achieve its FY 2023 targets.

    “Our ability to leverage investments already made will also see Underlying Return on Invested Capital return to double digits in FY21, and we continue to expect to achieve our previously stated target of $100 million Underlying EBITDA by FY23,” he added.

    Debt facility

    This morning the company also revealed that it has signed an agreement with Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) to extend its existing $250 million Receivables Purchase Agreement for a further three-year term. The facility is now set to mature in November 2023.

    Sigma’s CFO, Jackie Pearson, commented: “This facility meets our ongoing funding requirements including the final stages of our transformational investment program and mid-month peak in receivables. We thank Westpac for their ongoing support.”

    The company’s net debt was around $50 million at 31 January and is expected to peak in the second half of FY 2022. This is in line with the completion of the capital investment cycle. After which, it is expected to reduce from that point as a result of strong operating cash generation.

    Mr Hooper concluded: “The next 12-months will see Sigma advance from a position of strength, with our entire infrastructure upgraded, a more efficient and scalable business model, and a strong balance sheet. This leaves the business in a prime position to accelerate growth.”

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro owns shares of Westpac Banking. 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 Bruce Jackson.

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  • Why the Argo Investments (ASX:ARG) share price is pushing higher today

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    In morning trade the Argo Investments Limited (ASX: ARG) share price is pushing higher despite the release of a disappointing half year result.

    At the time of writing, the investment company’s shares are up almost 1% to $8.79.

    How did Argo perform in the first half?

    It was a difficult six months for Argo, with management noting that the COVID-19 pandemic led to many Australian companies maintaining a cautious approach to declaring dividends.

    According to the release, numerous companies in its investment portfolio substantially cut or cancelled their dividend payouts, which significantly impacted Argo’s half year profit.

    For the six months ended 31 December, Argo reported a profit of $67.4 million. This was down a sizeable 43.3% from $118.8 million a year earlier. Similarly, earnings per share fell by 44% to 9.3 cents.

    One positive, though, was that the Argo board will not be cutting its interim dividend by the same margin. It has declared a fully franked 14 cents per share dividend, down 12.5% on the same period last year.

    It commented: “Although dividend income was down sharply, Argo’s Board declared a modestly lower interim dividend of 14.0 cents per share fully franked.”

    “A key benefit of Argo’s listed investment company (LIC) structure is our ability to draw on reserves of retained earnings and franking credits. This enables Argo to cushion the impact of fluctuations in dividend income through the economic cycle, allowing a more sustainable dividend flow to shareholders, as distinct from index funds,” it explained.

    Argo also provided an update on its investment performance during the half.

    The release explains that Argo trailed its benchmark over the period with a 12.3% return. The S&P/ASX 200 Accumulation Index recorded a return of 13.2% over the same period.

    Outlook

    Management appears cautiously optimistic on the remainder of the year.

    It commented: “We are generally optimistic in our outlook for the year ahead. Despite numerous and ongoing state border closures, Australia has continued to fare well both economically and in the fight against COVID19.”

    “Economic growth has rebounded, and the outlook has improved with the economy likely to continue to benefit from ultra-low interest rates and strong commodity prices. However, we are also cognisant of potential challenges arising as unprecedented stimulus measures are unwound and the Australian and global economies transition to a new normal.”

    “With a well-diversified portfolio of quality stocks, no debt and a strong balance sheet, Argo’s business model remains resilient. Argo maintains profit reserves and franking credits so we can prioritise providing sustainable and tax-effective dividend income for our shareholders,” it concluded.

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro 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 Bruce Jackson.

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  • Why the Vocus (ASX:VOC) share price is zooming 19% higher today

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    The Vocus Group Ltd (ASX: VOC) share price has started the week strongly and is zooming higher on Monday morning.

    At the time of writing, the telco’s shares are up 19% to $5.20.

    Why is the Vocus share price zooming higher?

    Investors have been fighting to get hold of Vocus’ shares on Monday after it responded to media speculation in relation to a takeover approach.

    According to the release, the company confirms that it has received a confidential non-binding, indicative proposal from Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets (MIRA) and its managed funds.

    MIRA is aiming to acquire 100% of the shares of Vocus via a scheme of arrangement at a price of $5.50 per share. This price target represents a 25.5% premium to the last close price of Vocus shares.

    Though, the release warns that the proposal is subject to a number of conditions including satisfactory completion of due diligence by MIRA, the securing of debt financing, unanimous recommendation by the Vocus board, and entry into a mutually acceptable scheme implementation agreement.

    Furthermore, any scheme implementation agreement would also be subject to a number of conditions. These include shareholder, court, and regulatory approvals.

    Due diligence granted

    The company has advised that after consideration by the board and its advisers, the Vocus board has concluded that it is in the best interests of Vocus shareholders to explore the potential for a transaction with MIRA.

    In light of this, it has granted MIRA due diligence access to enable the suitor to potentially put forward a binding proposal.

    However, given that there is no certainty that the proposal will result in a binding offer for Vocus, it has urged shareholders to not take any action in response to the proposal.

    Management will update the market as appropriate in line with its continuous disclosure obligations.

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  • Why the Cann (ASX:CAN) share price is crashing 10% lower today

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    The Cann Group Ltd (ASX: CAN) share price has returned from its trading halt and is crashing lower.

    At the time of writing, the cannabis company’s shares are down 10% to 59.5 cents.

    Why was the Cann share price in a trading halt?

    On Friday Cann requested a trading halt pending the release of an announcement in relation to an investigation that the company is undertaking.

    This morning Cann revealed that its investigation relates to a major cyber security incident which has cost the company dearly.

    According to the release, the company has recently made payments of approximately $3.6 million to an overseas contractor. These payments were in relation to works being undertaken for Cann’s Mildura facility.

    However, it turns out that those payments have been received by an unknown third party as a result of a complex and sophisticated cyber fraud perpetrated against the company and its overseas contractor.

    Cann is now working with its bank to determine if any of the payments can be halted and if any of the funds involved are recoverable. It has also notified its insurance brokers to determine if a claim can be made to recover any of the losses involved.

    Furthermore, immediate action has been taken to ensure the integrity of Cann’s IT systems.

    What now?

    Management advised that Cann is in a financial position to continue with its ongoing operations and projects irrespective of any funds being recovered. This includes the construction of its Mildura facility.

    It is also investigating the incident thoroughly with its overseas contractor. This includes the engagement of external security and forensic IT experts to assist.

    The matter has been reported to police in Victoria, the Netherlands, and Hong Kong, as well as the Office of Drug Control. Further updates will be provided in due course as the investigation proceeds.

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro 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 Bruce Jackson.

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  • Why the News Corp (ASX:NWS) share price is at multi-year highs

    Paper cutout image of mountain peaks with red flag on highest mountain to symbolise top performer

    News Corporation (ASX: CDI) shares hit a new, 5-year high last week. Friday saw the News Corp share price surge 13.2% higher to close at $28.41 after the company’s earnings release.

    What was driving the News Corp share price?

    Shares in the Aussie media group surged higher despite what appeared to be a relatively benign half-year result. News Corp could be one to watch again today after releasing another regulatory filing, its 10-Q report, which outlines the more detailed statutory accounts.

    News Corp reported second quarter revenue (Q2 2021) of $2.41 billion, down 3% from the same time last year. The softer revenue result was largely driven by its News Media segment, hampered by the closure of several community newspapers.

    Adjusted revenues edged 2% higher while net income more than doubled from $103 million last year to $261 million. Positively for the company and its shareholders, revenues climbed across all major operating segments compared to the first half last year.

    Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) jumped 40% higher. That was largely driven by improved operating trends and cost reductions alongside favourable currency impacts.

    Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) nearly doubled, climbing to 34 cents compared to 18 cents in Q2 2020.

    Importantly, the News Corp dividend remained unchanged at US10 cents per share, the same level as the group paid in its interim 2020 distribution.

    It seems those earnings figures were enough for investors, with the News Corp share price surging higher on Friday. In fact, the Aussie media company was Friday’s top performing share amongst the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

    Friday’s surge means the News Corp share price is now up 22.7% in 2021 so far. That represents a new 5-year high for the Aussie media group which now boasts a $14.8 billion market capitalisation.

    Foolish takeaway

    Investors have been impressed by the latest results which sent the News Corp share price surging to new highs on Friday.

    The Aussie media share may be one to watch again in trading today as investors mull over the detailed 10-Q report.

    Where to invest $1,000 right now

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    *Returns as of June 30th

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    Motley Fool contributor Ken Hall 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 Bruce Jackson.

    The post Why the News Corp (ASX:NWS) share price is at multi-year highs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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