• BlueScope Steel (ASX:BSL) share price on watch after first half profit guidance

    rolls of steel sheet

    The BlueScope Steel Limited (ASX: BSL) share price will be on watch today after the steel producer released an update on its expectations for the first half of FY 2021.

    How is BlueScope performing in FY 2021?

    Today’s update reveals that BlueScope has started FY 2021 in a very positive fashion following a tough end to the previous financial year.

    According to the release, the company expects its underlying earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) to be approximately $340 million in the first half. This represents a 30% increase on the second half of FY 2020 and a 12.4% lift on the prior corresponding period.

    The company’s Managing Director and CEO, Mark Vassella, commented: “Despite the global disruption caused by COVID-19, we’ve had a solid performance from all of our operating segments for the three months to 30 September. This is a clear demonstration of the effectiveness of BlueScope’s strategy and the resilience of our asset portfolio.”

    What is driving BlueScope’s growth?

    Management notes that benchmark steel spreads have improved and demand in most markets is robust.

    This is being underpinned by the current strength in alterations and additions activity, demand for detached housing, rapid growth in e-commerce and logistics, and the recovery of the US automotive industry.

    Management also advised that its major investment project at North Star is on track, group cash flow remains robust, and its balance sheet is in excellent condition.

    Though, it has warned that there remains a lot of uncertainty in the current environment.

    It notes that potential second and third COVID-19 waves could disrupt demand, supply chains, and operations, and weigh on its performance in the future. In addition to this, it warned that broader macroeconomic weakness would have the potential to dampen demand for its products.

    But as things stand, management appears confident that its first half profits will be up notably over the second half of FY 2020.

    Man who said buy Kogan shares at $3.63 says buy these 3 ASX stocks now

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for more than eight years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    In this FREE STOCK REPORT, Scott just revealed what he believes are the 3 ASX stocks for the post COVID world that investors should buy right now while they still can. These stocks are trading at dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks these could really go gangbusters as we move into ‘the new normal’.

    *Returns as of 6/8/2020

    More reading

    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. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

    The post BlueScope Steel (ASX:BSL) share price on watch after first half profit guidance appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/37tZrZP

  • 1 ASX 200 share to buy before an effective COVID vaccine announcement

    road sign saying opportunity ahead against sunny sky background

    The whole world is waiting on an effective COVID vaccine. But if and when a proven vaccine arrives, the Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT) share price likely won’t be the bargain it is today.

    Like most travel related shares – such as Webjet Limited (ASX: WEB) and Sydney Airport Holdings Pty Ltd (ASX: SYD) – Flight Centre’s share price was particularly hard hit from the fallout of the coronavirus.

    From 21 February through to 19 March shares tumbled 75%. Flight Centre’s share price is up 52% since that low, but remains down 66% year-to-date.

    By comparison the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 8% in 2020.

    What does Flight Centre Travel Group do?

    Flight Centre is one of the world’s largest travel agency groups. Its company-owned operations span more than 23 countries and its corporate travel management network covers more than 90 countries.

    The company has a broad range of brands across its corporate, leisure and destination segments. These include Student Flights, Travel Money Oz, Corporate Traveller and Topdeck.

    Flight Centre shares first began trading on the ASX in 1995.

    Why buy shares in Flight Centre before a vaccine is proven?

    As Benjamin Franklin famously quipped, “In this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes.”

    So too, we can’t be certain that the world’s scientists will produce a highly effective vaccine to squash COVID-19 from our lives. But there are tremendous incentives for the leading pharmaceutical companies to do so. And they’re backed by unprecedented funding, cutting edge technology, and some of the best minds in the world.

    So, while nothing is certain, I believe we’ll see a series of vaccines rolled out over the coming 12–24 months. The initial ones may only be 50% effective, as some clinical trials are already reporting. That’s a big step in the right direction, but not enough to reopen global travel. Or rejuvenate Flight Centre’s revenues and share price to early 2020 levels.

    However, with time, the results will almost certainly improve. Remember, this global race for an effective vaccine only kicked off 7 months ago.

    But the vast majority of investors don’t look ahead 2 or more years. They wait until good news is locked in and then invest, along with everyone else.

    In this case the good news is a proven vaccine. And that news will likely trickle out over a period of months as it progresses through various trials. And with each new successful announcement leading ASX travel and leisure shares are likely to see renewed investor interest. Which is why, by the time such a vaccine is approved and in mass production, the biggest gains to be had from these shares will already be history.

    As mentioned up top, Flight Centre’s share price is still down 66% from 2 January’s $39.52 per share. In my opinion, there’s no reason shares couldn’t be trading for $39.52 again once air travel returns to its pre-pandemic levels.

    If they do, that would represent a 190% share price gain from yesterday’s closing price of $13.61. Should that eventuate, I imagine that’s worth waiting a few years for things to play out.

    Man who said buy Kogan shares at $3.63 says buy these 3 ASX stocks now

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for more than eight years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    In this FREE STOCK REPORT, Scott just revealed what he believes are the 3 ASX stocks for the post COVID world that investors should buy right now while they still can. These stocks are trading at dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks these could really go gangbusters as we move into ‘the new normal’.

    *Returns as of 6/8/2020

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Webjet Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Flight Centre Travel Group Limited. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

    The post 1 ASX 200 share to buy before an effective COVID vaccine announcement appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/3olDhPw

  • Telstra (ASX:TLS) share price hits a multi-year low: Is it a bargain buy?

    Man with mobile phone standing over modem, telecommunications, telco. Telstra share price, TPG share price, vocus share price

    The Telstra Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLS) share price was out of form again on Thursday and dropped lower again.

    The telco giant’s shares fell 1.5% to a new multi-year low of $2.75.

    This latest decline means that the Telstra share price is now down a disappointing 23% since the start of the year.

    Is this a buying opportunity?

    I think the weakness in the Telstra share price is a buying opportunity for investors.

    Based on its guidance for FY 2021, the company’s shares are changing hands for 19x forward earnings.

    I think this is good value, particularly in comparison to TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPG) shares, which are trading at over 40x estimated FY 2021 earnings.

    The dividend.

    Another reason I would buy Telstra’s shares is its dividend.

    Although there have been a lot of questions over the sustainability of its 16 cents per share fully franked dividend, the company’s board recently revealed that it would be willing to adjust its dividend policy to maintain this dividend.

    It will do this if it believes $7.5 billion to $8.5 billion of operating earnings is achievable in an NBN world, its free cash flow remains supportive, and its financial position remains strong.

    Essentially, the Telstra board doesn’t want to maintain it this year if will only have to cut it the year after.

    The good news is that I believe these conditions will be met thanks to its T22 strategy and the easing NBN headwind.

    If this proves to be the case, Telstra’s shares will provide investors with a 5.8% fully franked dividend yield in FY 2021. I think this is very attractive in the current environment.

    Goldman Sachs’ buy rating.

    I’m not the only one that sees the Telstra share price weakness as a buying opportunity.

    Earlier this month, analysts at Goldman Sachs retained their buy rating and $3.60 price target on the company’s shares.

    This price target implies potential upside of 31% excluding dividends and almost 37% including them.

    Man who said buy Kogan shares at $3.63 says buy these 3 ASX stocks now

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for more than eight years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    In this FREE STOCK REPORT, Scott just revealed what he believes are the 3 ASX stocks for the post COVID world that investors should buy right now while they still can. These stocks are trading at dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks these could really go gangbusters as we move into ‘the new normal’.

    *Returns as of 6/8/2020

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Telstra Limited. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

    The post Telstra (ASX:TLS) share price hits a multi-year low: Is it a bargain buy? appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/3dNGceK

  • Marley Spoon (ASX:MMM) share price in a trading halt after explosive Q3 growth

    paper bag filled with fresh food representing marley spoon share price

    The Marley Spoon AG (ASX: MMM) share price won’t be going anywhere on Friday after the subscription-based meal kit provider requested a trading halt following the release of its third quarter update.

    What happened in the third quarter?

    Marley Spoon’s positive form continued in the third quarter, with very strong growth being delivered across all geographic regions.

    Management notes that it experienced continued strong demand for its meal-kits from new and existing customers, leading to positive growth momentum and favourable customer acquisition costs,

    According to the release, for the three months ended 30 September, Marley Spoon achieved revenue of 69.3 million euros, up 109% on the prior corresponding period.

    The company’s US operations were strongest, delivering revenue of 34.2 million euros, up 163% in constant currency terms. This was driven by strong growth in Martha & Marley Spoon and Dinnerly brands. It achieved third quarter earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of 0.7 million euros.

    Growth was also very strong in Australia, with revenue rising 84% to 25.3 million euros. Operating EBITDA was 3.4 million euros for the quarter.

    Finally, in Europe, the company recorded an 83% increase in revenue to 9.8 million euros. Though, unlike the US and Australia, these operations are not yet profitable and posted an EBITDA loss of 0.6 million euros.

    Marley Spoon ended the quarter with 362,000 active customers, up 86% year on year. However, this is just a 3% increase quarter on quarter. Also, on average it generated 4.3 orders per customer in the quarter. While this was up from 3.9 orders per customer in the prior corresponding period, it was down from 4.4 in the second quarter.

    Looking ahead, Marley Spoon has narrowed its FY 2020 revenue guidance range. It now expects growth of between 90% to 100% year on year, compared to 80% to 100% previously.

    Why are Marley Spoon shares in a trading halt?

    Marley Spoon requested a trading halt whilst it undertakes a A$56 million fully underwritten placement.

    The company is raising the funds at $3.22 per share, which represents a 7.7% discount to its last close price.

    Management commented: “Given the continued traction in online meal kit adoption and strong recent business performance, Marley Spoon considers it appropriate to improve its balance sheet and access additional growth capital. With additional balance sheet flexibility, Marley Spoon will be well positioned to accelerate its global growth strategy and capitalise on the opportunities available in its core markets.”

    Man who said buy Kogan shares at $3.63 says buy these 3 ASX stocks now

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for more than eight years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    In this FREE STOCK REPORT, Scott just revealed what he believes are the 3 ASX stocks for the post COVID world that investors should buy right now while they still can. These stocks are trading at dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks these could really go gangbusters as we move into ‘the new normal’.

    *Returns as of 6/8/2020

    More reading

    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. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

    The post Marley Spoon (ASX:MMM) share price in a trading halt after explosive Q3 growth appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/3jmSzzN

  • 2 must-buy ASX dividend shares for income investors to snap up

    fingers walking up piles of coins towards bag of cash signifying asx dividend shares

    If you’re wanting to add some dividend shares to your portfolio this month, then the two listed below could be great options.

    I feel both companies are well-placed to continue growing their dividends over the coming years despite the tough economic environment.

    Here’s why I think they are among the best on offer for income investors right now:

    BWP Trust (ASX: BWP)

    BWP is the largest owner of Bunnings Warehouse sites in Australia, with a portfolio of 68 stores. In addition to this, seven of its properties have adjacent retail showrooms that are leased to other retailers. At the end of FY 2020, the company had an occupancy rate of 98% and a weighted average lease expiry (WALE) of 4 years. From this, it was generating annual rental income of $151.4 million.

    Given the quality of the Bunnings business and the home improvement giant’s positive outlook, I believe it is well-placed to continue growing its distribution over the 2020s. Based on this and the current BWP share price, I estimate that it offers investors a forward 4.4% yield. It is also worth noting that Bunnings is owned by Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), which is also a major BWP shareholder with a ~23.6% stake.

    Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)

    Another ASX dividend share I would buy is Coles. I believe it is one of the best options for income investors due to its positive long term growth outlook and its defensive earnings. The latter was a key reason why Coles delivered strong growth in FY 2020 despite the pandemic. It reported a 6.9% increase in sales to $37.4 billion and a 7.1% lift in net profit after tax to $951 million in FY 2020.

    I expect more of the same in FY 2021 and over the remainder of the decade. This could make the supermarket operator a great buy and hold option. Based on the current Coles share price, I estimate that it offers a fully franked 3.6% dividend yield in FY 2021.

    These 3 stocks could be the next big movers in 2020

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for more than eight years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    In this FREE STOCK REPORT, Scott just revealed what he believes are the 3 ASX stocks for the post COVID world that investors should buy right now while they still can. These stocks are trading at dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks these could really go gangbusters as we move into ‘the new normal’.

    *Returns as of 6/8/2020

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of COLESGROUP DEF SET and Wesfarmers Limited. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

    The post 2 must-buy ASX dividend shares for income investors to snap up appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/2Hsy3kf

  • 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday

    Investor sitting in front of multiple screens watching share prices

    On Thursday the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) followed the lead of U.S. markets and dropped lower. The benchmark index fell 0.3% to 6,173.8 points.

    Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Friday? Here are five things to watch:

    ASX 200 expected to edge higher.

    The Australian share market looks set to end the week in a positive fashion. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is poised to open the day 4 points higher this morning. In late trade on Wall Street, the Dow Jones is up 0.45%, the S&P 500 has risen 0.4%, and the Nasdaq is up slightly.

    Webjet update.

    The Webjet Limited (ASX: WEB) share price will be on watch this morning following a trading update after the market close. The online travel agent revealed that bookings were still down materially, with the key WebBeds business currently reporting total transaction value (TTV) of 12% of 2019’s levels. WebBeds needs to reach 45% of 2019’s levels to be breakeven. One positive, though, is that Webjet’s cash burn is lower than forecast.

    Oil prices rebound.

    Energy shares such as Oil Search Limited (ASX: OSH) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could be on the rise today after oil prices rebounded despite a build-up in U.S. gasoline inventories.  According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 1.5% to US$40.65 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 1.8% to US$42.47 a barrel.

    More annual general meetings.

    Another group of companies are holding their (virtual) annual general meetings on Friday and could provide investors with trading updates. Among the companies scheduled to hold meetings are insurance giant Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) and airline operator Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN).

    Gold price sinks lower

    It could be a tough day of trade for gold miners such as Newcrest Mining Limited (ASX: NCM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) on Friday after the gold price sank lower. According to CNBC, the spot gold price is down 1.2% to US$1,905.80 an ounce. This follows stronger than expected U.S. jobs data.

    Man who said buy Kogan shares at $3.63 says buy these 3 ASX stocks now

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for more than eight years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    In this FREE STOCK REPORT, Scott just revealed what he believes are the 3 ASX stocks for the post COVID world that investors should buy right now while they still can. These stocks are trading at dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks these could really go gangbusters as we move into ‘the new normal’.

    *Returns as of 6/8/2020

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Webjet Ltd. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

    The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/3jnCYQc

  • 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday

    Investor sitting in front of multiple screens watching share prices

    On Thursday the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) followed the lead of U.S. markets and dropped lower. The benchmark index fell 0.3% to 6,173.8 points.

    Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Friday? Here are five things to watch:

    ASX 200 expected to edge higher.

    The Australian share market looks set to end the week in a positive fashion. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is poised to open the day 4 points higher this morning. In late trade on Wall Street, the Dow Jones is up 0.45%, the S&P 500 has risen 0.4%, and the Nasdaq is up slightly.

    Webjet update.

    The Webjet Limited (ASX: WEB) share price will be on watch this morning following a trading update after the market close. The online travel agent revealed that bookings were still down materially, with the key WebBeds business currently reporting total transaction value (TTV) of 12% of 2019’s levels. WebBeds needs to reach 45% of 2019’s levels to be breakeven. One positive, though, is that Webjet’s cash burn is lower than forecast.

    Oil prices rebound.

    Energy shares such as Oil Search Limited (ASX: OSH) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could be on the rise today after oil prices rebounded despite a build-up in U.S. gasoline inventories.  According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 1.5% to US$40.65 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 1.8% to US$42.47 a barrel.

    More annual general meetings.

    Another group of companies are holding their (virtual) annual general meetings on Friday and could provide investors with trading updates. Among the companies scheduled to hold meetings are insurance giant Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) and airline operator Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN).

    Gold price sinks lower

    It could be a tough day of trade for gold miners such as Newcrest Mining Limited (ASX: NCM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) on Friday after the gold price sank lower. According to CNBC, the spot gold price is down 1.2% to US$1,905.80 an ounce. This follows stronger than expected U.S. jobs data.

    Man who said buy Kogan shares at $3.63 says buy these 3 ASX stocks now

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for more than eight years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    In this FREE STOCK REPORT, Scott just revealed what he believes are the 3 ASX stocks for the post COVID world that investors should buy right now while they still can. These stocks are trading at dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks these could really go gangbusters as we move into ‘the new normal’.

    *Returns as of 6/8/2020

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Webjet Ltd. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

    The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/3jnCYQc

  • No savings at 40? I’d follow Warren Buffett’s tips today to retire rich

    man sitting in hammock on beach representing asx shares to buy for retirement

    Warren Buffett is one of the most successful investors of all time. Therefore, following his advice could be a sound move when seeking to build a retirement portfolio.

    Even if you have no retirement savings at age 40, it is not too late to build a nest egg that can provide a generous passive income in older age.

    By starting to invest in cheap, high-quality shares today, you could capitalise on the long-term growth potential offered by the stock market.

    Warren Buffett’s focus on undervalued stocks

    Warren Buffett has sought to buy the best companies he can find when they are trading at the lowest prices. This enables him to benefit from their likely recovery as the economic outlook gradually improves. It also means that his money is invested in those businesses that may have the highest chance of surviving difficult trading conditions.

    This could be especially relevant at the present time. The world economy faces its most difficult period since the global financial crisis. As such, only those businesses with wide economic moats and solid balance sheets may survive what could be a prolonged period of weaker sales and profit growth.

    Warren Buffett’s aim to buy such companies at low prices has contributed to his outperformance of the wider stock market. Through purchasing high-quality businesses at low prices, you can obtain a wide margin of safety that leads to impressive capital growth as investor sentiment and company profitability improves.

    Return prospects after the stock market crash

    Clearly, some investors may be unsure about following Warren Buffett’s lead at the present time. The stock market crash has highlighted the volatility that can be present in equity markets. It could even return later this year, with risks such as the US election and the coronavirus pandemic being present.

    However, the market crash could present a rare buying opportunity for investors. Many high-quality businesses are trading at low prices that factor in the risks faced by the world economy. This provides a wide range of choice through which to build a diverse portfolio of companies. Over time, they could recover to produce a surprisingly large nest egg from which to draw a passive income in older age.

    Starting to invest at age 40

    Following Warren Buffett’s tips from a standing start at age 40 could lead to a worthwhile retirement nest egg. After all, you are likely to have around 20-30 years left until you retire. This provides your portfolio with a substantial amount of time to grow.

    Therefore, it is not too late to start investing in shares, with the market crash providing the perfect opportunity to buy undervalued stocks. Over time, they could make a positive impact on your financial future, and help to bring your retirement date a step closer.

    Man who said buy Kogan shares at $3.63 says buy these 3 ASX stocks now

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for more than eight years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    In this FREE STOCK REPORT, Scott just revealed what he believes are the 3 ASX stocks for the post COVID world that investors should buy right now while they still can. These stocks are trading at dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks these could really go gangbusters as we move into ‘the new normal’.

    *Returns as of 6/8/2020

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Peter Stephens has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

    The post No savings at 40? I’d follow Warren Buffett’s tips today to retire rich appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/31xV2RP

  • Why the CV Check (ASX:CV1) share price finished the day 5% higher

    The CV Check Ltd (ASX: CV1) share price finished the day in positive territory following the announcement of a new customer win.

    Despite the broader decline of the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), the CV Check closed the day at 18 cents, up 5.8%.

    Let’s take a look at what CV Check updated the market with.

    What does CV Check do?

    CV Check, founded in 2004, is an online tech company that offers background screening and verification services.

    The company conducts over 300,000 verification checks every year for private and government organisations, employers and individuals. These services include national police checks, employment reference checks, credit and financial checks, and predictive psychometric assessments, among other verifications.

    International customers 

    CV Check advised it had signed a new international customer to its strategic white line label rollout. Employment screening specialist, Vero Screening Ltd, was added to CV Check’s international wholesale customers.

    Vero is an employment screening company based in Brighton, England. The business specialises in compliance, human resources, digital technology among other services. Vero has over 20 years’ experience in industry knowledge and in-house technology to protect clients from risk.

    This new addition complements last week’s news that the company had signed NetForce Global LLC to its best-of-breed solution.

    CV Check sees white labelling as a strategic objective and is focusing on servicing the international market.

    Management commentary

    Commenting on the new partnership, CV Check CEO Mr Rod Sherwood said:

    In its FY2020 Annual Report, CV1 advised pre-commercialisation had commenced on the strategic project to take its white label technology beyond our current Australia and New Zealand base. We are pleased to advise that another major inbound international wholesaler will commence ordering pursuant to this initiative. We welcome Vero as an inbound international wholesale customer.

    Vero CEO, Mr Rupert Emson also spoke about the agreement, adding:

    We are excited to be partnering with CVCheck. As we are seeing increased demand for our international screening services, the Company’s full suite of screening services and advanced technology platform were a perfect match for our requirements. The CVCheck onboarding support team have been fantastic and we look forward to working with them to deliver on our clients’ global screening strategies.

    The CV Check share price is up more than 28%, year to date, and is just shy of its 52-week high of 19 cents per share. 

    Man who said buy Kogan shares at $3.63 says buy these 3 ASX stocks now

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for more than eight years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    In this FREE STOCK REPORT, Scott just revealed what he believes are the 3 ASX stocks for the post COVID world that investors should buy right now while they still can. These stocks are trading at dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks these could really go gangbusters as we move into ‘the new normal’.

    *Returns as of 6/8/2020

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CV Check Ltd. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

    The post Why the CV Check (ASX:CV1) share price finished the day 5% higher appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/3ofo1Dx

  • Webjet (ASX:WEB) share price on watch after FY 2021 trading update

    view from below of jet plane flying above city buildings representing corporate travel share price

    The Webjet Limited (ASX: WEB) share price will be one to watch on Friday following the release of its annual general meeting update after the market close.

    What was in Webjet’s update?

    As well as providing investors with a breakdown on its performance during an unprecedented FY 2020, management released an update on current trading.

    In respect to the latter, Webjet revealed that bookings are still down materially from the pre-pandemic levels but are improving.

    The Webjet OTA business recorded monthly bookings of 18,700 during September, down from its pre-COVID average of 131,300 per month. This represents 14.2% of pre-COVID levels, which compares favourably to a 7.1% recovery by the rest of the market.

    This booking performance has improved into October. Webjet OTA’s bookings hit 15% of its calendar year 2019 levels for the week ending 7 October. Management notes that this side of the business will reach break-even when levels hit 23% of 2019’s levels.

    The Webjet OTA business currently has a 10% share of domestic bookings, up from 5.2% a year earlier.

    The key WebBeds business is improving but remains a long way from becoming breakeven. As of 7 October, its average total transaction value (TTV) stood at 12% of calendar year 2019 levels. It will need to surpass 45% of 2019’s levels to become profitable.

    Though, management believes the business is well-placed to capitalise on growth as travel markets re-open.

    Finally, the Online Republic business’ bookings were at 21% of 2019’s levels at the end of the first week of October. Once this hits 37%, the business will become breakeven.

    Given its strong exposure to global domestic leisure markets, management believes it is well-placed to benefit from domestic-focused tourism around the world.

    Outlook.

    Management warned that the global travel industry continues to be under pressure from second waves, border closures, and the timing of a COVID-19 vaccine.

    In light of this, it is continuing to focus on managing its costs. Pleasingly, this has resulted in its cash burn being lower than forecast. So far in FY 2021, its monthly cash burn is $9 million a month. This compares to $10.5 million in FY 2020.

    Finally, management notes that its balance sheet is strong and provides it with sufficient capital to see it through to 2022.

    Man who said buy Kogan shares at $3.63 says buy these 3 ASX stocks now

    When investing expert Scott Phillips has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the flagship Motley Fool Share Advisor newsletter he has run for more than eight years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    In this FREE STOCK REPORT, Scott just revealed what he believes are the 3 ASX stocks for the post COVID world that investors should buy right now while they still can. These stocks are trading at dirt-cheap prices and Scott thinks these could really go gangbusters as we move into ‘the new normal’.

    *Returns as of 6/8/2020

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Webjet Ltd. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

    The post Webjet (ASX:WEB) share price on watch after FY 2021 trading update appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/31yLdDc