• Whispir share price bounces as the ASX tech share upgrades FY20 guidance

    Dollar symbol arrow pointing up

    The Whispir Ltd (ASX: WSP) share price is starting the week off with a bang. Whispir shares are up 7.63% at the time of writing to $2.54 apiece on the back of an FY20 trading update.

    Whispir is a software-as-a-service company that provides a communications workflow platform to help businesses automate their interactions with employees, customers, suppliers, job applicants, and other stakeholders.

    Whispir operates globally and supports some of the world’s most renowned brands including Disney, Coca Cola and Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN).

    The company is on the smaller end of the ASX with a market capitalisation of $264 million and is relatively new to the market after listing in June 2019.

    Why the Whispir share price is spiking

    This morning, Whispir provided an FY20 trading update. The company now expects its FY20 result for earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) to be between negative $7.9 million and negative $7.4 million. This is well ahead of the prospectus forecast of negative $9.4 million.

    Whispir attributed this material lift to a combination of stronger than forecast revenue and operating expenditure being lower than expected.

    The company has set its sights on releasing its FY20 results on or around 26 August 2020.

    The Whispir share price has been a standout performer in recent months, bouncing 274% from an all-time low of 68 cents in March.

    Along with overall market sentiment, this has likely been due to the increased reliance on communication amid the COVID-19 crisis.

    Back in April, Whispir reported an uptick in demand as customers used its platform to communicate in an effective and timely manner. Notably, the third quarter of FY20 ending 31 March saw the company report a record 49 net new customers, as well as increased platform use by existing customers.

    The company had a total of 558 customers at the end of the quarter, including Victoria’s Department of Health and Human Services who is using the Whispir platform to interact with Victorians as part of its coronavirus containment plan.

    Importantly, the company remained well-positioned for stability and growth at the end of the quarter with a cash and cash equivalents balance of $16.7 million at 31 March 2020.

    Despite being further up the risk curve, I believe Whispir is a small-cap ASX tech share to watch due to COVID-19 tailwinds and the company’s capital-light business model, large addressable market opportunity and high recurring revenue growth. 

    For some more ASX shares poised to rebound in a post-pandemic world, don’t miss the report below.

    5 “Bounce Back” Stocks To Tame The Bear Market (FREE REPORT)

    Master investor Scott Phillips has sifted through the wreckage and identified the 5 stocks he thinks could bounce back the hardest once the coronavirus is contained.

    Given how far some of them have fallen, the upside potential could be enormous.

    The report is called 5 Stocks For Building Wealth after 50, and you can grab a copy for FREE for a limited time only.

    But you will have to hurry — history has shown the market could bounce significantly higher before the virus is contained, meaning the cheap prices on offer today might not last for long.

    See the 5 stocks

    More reading

    Cathryn Goh has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of and recommends Walt Disney. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of Whispir Ltd and recommends the following options: long January 2021 $60 calls on Walt Disney and short July 2020 $115 calls on Walt Disney. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Walt Disney and Whispir 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 Whispir share price bounces as the ASX tech share upgrades FY20 guidance appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

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

  • Asia cautious as U.S. riots weigh on S&P futures

    Asia cautious as U.S. riots weigh on S&P futuresAsian share markets started on a cautious note and gold gained on Monday as images of riots in burning U.S. cities unnerved investors already tense over Washington’s power struggle with Beijing. Oil prices also slipped, while sovereign bonds picked up the usual safe-haven bid. MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan edged up 0.2%, as did Japan’s Nikkei .

    from Yahoo Finance https://ift.tt/2AnIkdJ

  • Why this exciting ASX 200 tech share is pushing higher on Monday

    Cyber technology and software image

    The Pro Medicus Limited (ASX: PME) share price has been a positive performer on Monday.

    In morning trade the healthcare imaging software and services provider’s shares are up 1.5% to $29.25.

    Why is the Pro Medicus share price pushing higher today?

    Investors have been buying the company’s shares on Monday after it announced a major contract win with Northwestern Memorial HealthCare.

    According to the release, Pro Medicus has signed a five-year, A$22 million deal with the Chicago-based healthcare company for its Visage 7 technology.

    Visage 7 is an enterprise imaging platform that delivers fast, multi-dimensional images streamed via an intelligent thin-client viewer.

    Todays’ deal extends the company’s footprint in the U.S. academic hospital segment, as well as regionally based community hospitals.

    An important deal.

    Pro Medicus’ Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Sam Hupert, believes this is one of the most important deals the company has signed.

    He commented: “This certainly ranks up there as one of our most important not only because of the size of the deal, but also because of Northwestern’s standing in the medical and medical research communities. It will also provide us with a key reference site in the Chicago area.”

    The good news for shareholders is that there may be more deals on the way. Dr Hupert revealed that its pipeline remains strong.

    Commenting on other potential deals that are in the works, he said: “Some are looking at multiple products such as using Visage 7 Open Archive in addition to our Viewer, and there are also those who have expressed a preference for Cloud, so it is a good mix.”

    Though, he has warned that it can take time for deals to be closed. In some cases, the whole process can take two years or even longer.

    Another positive was that Pro Medicus has not experienced any major disruption from the pandemic.

    Speaking about the pandemic, Dr Hupert said: “Up to now, we have not experienced any material deferral or delay in progressing any of these opportunities, Northwestern being a case in point. Our pipeline remains strong and, subject to there not being a second wave, we have a number of good opportunities across various sectors of the market that are continuing to progress through the sales cycle.”

    Missed out on these gains? Then don’t miss out on these dirt cheap shares before they rebound…

    NEW. The Motley Fool AU Releases Five Cheap and Good Stocks to Buy for 2020 and beyond!….

    Our experts here at The Motley Fool Australia have just released a fantastic report, detailing 5 dirt cheap shares that you can buy in 2020.

    One stock is an Australian internet darling with a rock solid reputation and an exciting new business line that promises years (or even decades) of growth… while trading at an ultra-low price…

    Another is a diversified conglomerate trading over 40% off its high, all while offering a fully franked dividend yield over 3%…

    Plus 3 more cheap bets that could position you to profit over the next 12 months!

    See for yourself now. Simply click here or the link below to scoop up your FREE copy and discover all 5 shares. But you will want to hurry – this free report is available for a brief time only.

    CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE REPORT!

    More reading

    James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. recommends Pro Medicus Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Pro Medicus 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 this exciting ASX 200 tech share is pushing higher on Monday appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

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

  • Why the price of these ASX travel shares soared over 30% since mid-May

    plane flying across share markey graph, asx 200 travel shares

    ASX 200 travel shares have been punished harshly since March. Both local and international air travel has essentially come to a grinding halt due to the harsh lockdown restrictions caused by the coronavirus crisis.

    However, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has seen strong share price gains over the past two weeks, as general market sentiment continues to rise.

    Growing hope for the ASX travel sector

    In particular, increasing optimism is now flowing through to the ASX travel sector, as lockdown restrictions begin to ease.

    It is now looking more likely that domestic travel will start to slowly pick up in the months ahead. There is also the possibility that a Trans-Tasman bubble may open up travel between Australia and New Zealand.

    This is helping to strongly lift the share price of a number of the heavily sold off travel shares. This includes Corporate Travel Management Ltd (ASX: CTD), Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT), Webjet Limited (ASX: WEB) and Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN).

    Here, we look at two of those companies, Webjet and Flight Centre, that have seen a strong share price rise over 30% during the past two weeks.

    Webjet

    The ASX share price for Webjet has soared by over 33% since 11 May. Investors are now starting to feel more optimistic that domestic flight bookings could begin to ramp up again soon.

    However, Webjet’s share price is still 50% lower than what it was back in February, despite the recent share price rally. Webjet’s shares were heavily sold off during the initial phase of the coronavirus crisis, with booking almost drying up completely.

    I believe that Webjet is better placed than its rival, Flight Centre in the months ahead.

    It has lower overall operating costs, due to its purely online business model. I feel that this places it in a better position to weather any further dark clouds that may be on the horizon for travel.

    Flight Centre

    Flight Centre has been hit very harshly during the coronavirus crisis.

    The travel bookings provider recently raised $700 million from institutional and retail shareholders, in a capital raising.  This will provide it with additional funds to help it get through the remainder of the travel restriction period.

    The company has also been forced to undertake a range of cost-reduction initiatives. These include the loss of around 6,000 support and sales roles and the closure of a number of its retail outlets.

    Rising market optimism has seen a 30.8% rally in its share price over the past two weeks.  However, Flight Centre shares are still down by over 60% since February.

    On top of positive-looking ASX travel shares, we’ve also listed cheap, strong stocks to consider through the report below.

    NEW. The Motley Fool AU Releases Five Cheap and Good Stocks to Buy for 2020 and beyond!….

    Our experts here at The Motley Fool Australia have just released a fantastic report, detailing 5 dirt cheap shares that you can buy in 2020.

    One stock is an Australian internet darling with a rock solid reputation and an exciting new business line that promises years (or even decades) of growth… while trading at an ultra-low price…

    Another is a diversified conglomerate trading over 40% off its high, all while offering a fully franked dividend yield over 3%…

    Plus 3 more cheap bets that could position you to profit over the next 12 months!

    See for yourself now. Simply click here or the link below to scoop up your FREE copy and discover all 5 shares. But you will want to hurry – this free report is available for a brief time only.

    CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE REPORT!

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Phil Harpur owns shares of Corporate Travel Management Limited and Webjet Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Corporate Travel Management Limited and 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 Why the price of these ASX travel shares soared over 30% since mid-May appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

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

  • 3 top ASX dividend shares to buy now

    safe dividends

    Once reliable S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and All Ordinaries (ASX: XAO) dividend shares have come under fire, following uncertain earnings and challenging business conditions amidst the coronavirus pandemic. However, there are many dynamic businesses out there, surviving or even thriving in today’s unprecedented economic conditions.

    Here are 3 ASX dividend shares that you could add to your income portfolio. 

    1. Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) 

    Fortescue is positioned front and centre to benefit from the strong iron ore spot price and weak Australian dollar. This follows mounting supply concerns for Brazil, one of China’s biggest sources of iron ore. Brazil’s confirmed coronavirus cases have soared to more than 300,000, second only to the US. 

    From a demand perspective, Chinese steel mills have been ramping up production since April. Exhausting iron ore inventories will place further pressure on the iron ore spot price. While the Fortescue share price might be near record all-time highs, the resilient iron ore spot price and China’s commodity intensive recovery should see this continue. Fortescue currently pays a whopping 7.19% dividend yield, which may make it one of the most desirable and resilient ASX dividend shares to watch out for. 

    2. Money3 Corporation Limited (ASX: MNY) 

    Money3 provides automotive finance for the purchase and maintenance of vehicles. It estimates that approximately one in every 500 vehicles in Australia have a current Money3 loan. One in every 800 vehicles in New Zealand have a current Go Car Finance loan (the New Zealand-based auto loan company Money3 acquired in 2019). 

    In a recent conference presentation, the company provided unaudited financial results for YTD March 2020. It has so far seen a 44.4% increase in revenue and 43.6% increase in earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) compared to the prior corresponding period.

    Despite the damage that COVID-19 has inflicted on the Australian economy, Money3 has seen minimal impact on cash collections. It believes that government stimulus will have a positive impact on customers’ ability to continue to make payments towards their loans. It confirmed that in its New Zealand market customers continued to seek loan pre-approval during lockdown, with digital signup and contactless delivery occurring.

    The minimal impact that COVID-19 has had on Money3’s cash flows and the expected rebound in the vehicle market could make the company a very strong ASX dividend share to own. Money3 currently pays a market-leading dividend yield of 5.97%. 

    3. People Infrastructure Ltd (ASX: PPE) 

    People Infrastructure operates in the workforce management sector, providing support to 3 main industries: health and community services, information technology, and general staffing/specialist services. The company raised $17.6 million in April to provide additional balance sheet support for the period that the business impacted by COVID-19. The funds are also marked for potential future acquisition opportunities as a result of the current volatile economic situation. 

    The company provided another update to the market in May. This highlighted an expected FY20 normalised EBITDA to be in the range of $24–25 million. This would represent an approximate 35% increase on FY19 figures. It also pointed to factors that may support or increase the company’s 2020 performance. This includes continued demand for staff services across its divisions, in particular, an increase in demand for staffing in its general staffing business, a recovery in its information technology and nursing businesses. With potential tailwinds in mind, PPE also pays a 2.91% dividend yield.

    Fortescue, Money3 and People Infrastructure are leading dividend paying shares in robust sectors. If investors want to discover the cream of the crop for ASX dividend shares, check out our free report below.

    NEW: Expert names top dividend stock for 2020 (free report)

    When our resident dividend expert Edward Vesely has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, he’s the investing genius that runs Motley Fool Dividend Investor, the newsletter service that has picked huge winners like Dicker Data (+92%), SDI Limited (+53%) and National Storage (+35%).*

    Edward has just named what he believes is the number one ASX dividend stock to buy for 2020.

    This fully franked “under the radar” company is currently trading more than 24% below its all-time high and paying a 6.7% grossed-up dividend.

    The name of this dividend dynamo and the full investment case is revealed in this brand new free report.

    But you will have to hurry — history has shown it can pay dividends to get in early to some of Edward’s stock picks, and this dividend stock is already on the move.

    See the top dividend stock for 2020

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Lina Lim has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended People Infrastructure 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 3 top ASX dividend shares to buy now appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/2yQpR9b

  • 3 ASX 200 shares to watch this week

    ASX share

    ASX 200 shares enjoyed a bumper performance last week as the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) jumped 4.71% higher. There’s growing optimism about the global economy in 2020 and investors have been pouring money into shares. 

    Last week I was watching CSL Limited (ASX: CSL)A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M) and Stockland Corporation Ltd (ASX: SGP).

    It was a tough week for CSL shareholders as the biotech giant’s shares slumped 5.06% to $276.22. A2 Milk shares edged 0.85% higher last week while the Stockland share price surged 16.29% higher by Friday’s close.

    After a big week for last week’s top picks, here are the 3 ASX 200 shares I’ll be keeping my eye on in the week ahead.

    3 ASX 200 shares to watch this week

    I think Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Ltd (ASX: BEN) shares are worth watching this week. The ASX 200 bank’s share price rocketed 10.41% last week after the company provided an update on COVID-19 impacts on Thursday. Bendigo reported a strong capital position, despite the pandemic, which looks to have boosted investors’ optimism. I think any share that rockets higher is worth watching to see if it continues to climb and outperform its peers or slump back to earth.

    Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT) shares are also on my weekly watch list. The ASX 200 travel share rocketed 15.85% higher and could be climbing even further this week. Travel restrictions continue to ease which is good news for Flight Centre’s earnings. If the good news continues here in Australia, I think the Flight Centre share price could be heading higher in 2020.

    Finally, the St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM) share price is one to watch this week. The Aussie gold miner’s shares fell 1.29% last week as many of its ASX 200 peers rocketed. Gold tends to underperform when investors are bullish which was the case last week. Despite some optimism about the current environment, however, I think there could be more volatility on the way. This could bode well for St Barbara and its gold mining compatriots.

    If St Barbara isn’t the share for you right now, check out these 5 ASX shares to help build your wealth in 2020!

    NEW. The Motley Fool AU Releases Five Cheap and Good Stocks to Buy for 2020 and beyond!….

    Our experts here at The Motley Fool Australia have just released a fantastic report, detailing 5 dirt cheap shares that you can buy in 2020.

    One stock is an Australian internet darling with a rock solid reputation and an exciting new business line that promises years (or even decades) of growth… while trading at an ultra-low price…

    Another is a diversified conglomerate trading over 40% off its high, all while offering a fully franked dividend yield over 3%…

    Plus 3 more cheap bets that could position you to profit over the next 12 months!

    See for yourself now. Simply click here or the link below to scoop up your FREE copy and discover all 5 shares. But you will want to hurry – this free report is available for a brief time only.

    CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE REPORT!

    More reading

    Ken Hall has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of CSL Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of A2 Milk. 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 3 ASX 200 shares to watch this week appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

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

  • Is the Woolworths share price cheap today?

    shopping trolley filled with coins, woolworths share price, coles share price

    The Woolworths Ltd (ASX: WOW) share price could be trading cheaply right now. Shares in the Aussie retailer are down 2.27% this year having hit a new 52-week high on 20 February. So, with all the volatility in the market right now, is the Aussie retailer in the buy zone?

    Is the Woolworths share price cheap today?

    I think there’s a lot to like about Woolworths right now. The group’s supermarket division is going strong as sales have surged in 2020. That continues to underpin a strong business model which is starting to look more strategically aligned by the year.

    There is the ailing pubs business that is weighing on the Woolworths share price right now: ALH Group. ALH operates 323 licensed venues and over 537 retail liquor outlets across Australia. That encompasses restaurants, bistros and other establishments. However, the coronavirus pandemic has hit that business hard as restrictions have led to temporary closures.

    However, restrictions are starting to ease and things could be looking up for Woolworths and its share price. I think it’s fair that Woolworths’ value has dropped in 2020 as the economic environment has changed. However, I think $35.34 may be a little low for a company that has traded as high as $43.96 per share in mid-February.

    But Woolworths is trading roughly on par with the Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) share price in 2020. That indicates to me that its supermarket performance is being valued similarly to its peers. If we compare conglomerate to conglomerate, the Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) share price is down 2.49% this year. 

    If we assume the market is correctly pricing in the current economy, then the Woolworths share price is trading in line with its peers. I think if restrictions continue to ease and Woolworths’ pubs business bounces back quickly, that could make the current $35.34 valuation look cheap.

    Foolish takeaway

    The Woolworths share price has been on a rollercoaster in 2020. I think the company could be undervalued right now but only if restrictions continue to beat expectations. I’m not willing to speculate at the current price given it’s trading roughly in line with its closest peers.

    If you like dividend shares like Woolworths, check out this top income pick for a solid buy today!

    NEW: Expert names top dividend stock for 2020 (free report)

    When our resident dividend expert Edward Vesely has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, he’s the investing genius that runs Motley Fool Dividend Investor, the newsletter service that has picked huge winners like Dicker Data (+92%), SDI Limited (+53%) and National Storage (+35%).*

    Edward has just named what he believes is the number one ASX dividend stock to buy for 2020.

    This fully franked “under the radar” company is currently trading more than 24% below its all-time high and paying a 6.7% grossed-up dividend.

    The name of this dividend dynamo and the full investment case is revealed in this brand new free report.

    But you will have to hurry — history has shown it can pay dividends to get in early to some of Edward’s stock picks, and this dividend stock is already on the move.

    See the top dividend stock for 2020

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Ken Hall has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of COLESGROUP DEF SET, Wesfarmers Limited, and Woolworths 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 Is the Woolworths share price cheap today? appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/36NU3y2

  • Qantas share price lower on ACCC investigation

    Qantas

    In morning trade on Monday the Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN) share price has hit a bit of turbulence.

    At the time of writing the airline operator’s shares are down almost 2% to $3.92.

    Why is the Qantas share price dropping lower?

    This morning the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) announced that it is continuing to investigate the airline’s acquisition of a 19.9% stake in Alliance Aviation Services Ltd (ASX: AQZ).

    The competition watchdog notes that Qantas acquired the stake last year, becoming Alliance’s single biggest shareholder.

    This led to the ACCC issuing a statement of issues, which set out its competition concerns with the minority stake.

    In response to queries by various stakeholders, this morning the ACCC provided the market with an update on its investigation.

    ACCC Chair Rod Sims commented: “Qantas’ decision to complete the acquisition of the 19.9 per cent stake in Alliance without first seeking ACCC clearance means this is an enforcement investigation rather than a standard merger review.”

    “The Australian aviation industry remains highly concentrated and it is crucial that competition provided by smaller airlines is maintained long-term,” he added.

    As such, the competition watchdog is looking very closely at Qantas’ shareholding.

    Mr Sims explained: “The ACCC has been closely scrutinising the effects of the acquisition of this shareholding by Qantas. Acquiring a strategic stake in a close competitor in such a concentrated market raises clear competition concerns.”

    What now?

    The ACCC’s investigation will now focus on the competitive dynamics between Qantas and Alliance. It will examine whether the stake affects Alliance’s ability to raise funds, consider takeovers, or participate in commercial ventures.

    It will also look to see whether Qantas is attempting to exert influence on Alliance’s decision-making or operations.

    “We will consider enforcement action if there is evidence that the Qantas shareholding is compromising Alliance’s ability to be a strong competitor to Qantas, now and in the future,” Mr Sims added.

    The ACCC also revealed that it isn’t keen on Qantas increasing its stake further, as it has suggested it plans to do.

     “Our current view is that any further increase in Qantas’ stake in Alliance is very likely to raise significant competition concerns under the Competition and Consumer Act,” Mr Sims concluded.

    Not sure about Qantas right now? Then the five dirt cheap shares recommended below might be the ones to buy…

    NEW. The Motley Fool AU Releases Five Cheap and Good Stocks to Buy for 2020 and beyond!….

    Our experts here at The Motley Fool Australia have just released a fantastic report, detailing 5 dirt cheap shares that you can buy in 2020.

    One stock is an Australian internet darling with a rock solid reputation and an exciting new business line that promises years (or even decades) of growth… while trading at an ultra-low price…

    Another is a diversified conglomerate trading over 40% off its high, all while offering a fully franked dividend yield over 3%…

    Plus 3 more cheap bets that could position you to profit over the next 12 months!

    See for yourself now. Simply click here or the link below to scoop up your FREE copy and discover all 5 shares. But you will want to hurry – this free report is available for a brief time only.

    CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE REPORT!

    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 Qantas share price lower on ACCC investigation appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/3gHyK64

  • 3 very reliable dividend shares to buy for income

    dividends

    The ASX is a great place to invest to boost your income with very reliable dividend shares.

    Not every ASX share with a high dividend yield is going to be a very reliable dividend share to buy.

    In my opinion, a quality dividend share is one that is able to maintain, and hopefully increase, the dividend every year including through economic issues. The coronavirus is a unique, horrible situation. Many dividend shares have cut their dividends like National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) and Sydney Airport Holdings Pty Ltd (ASX: SYD).

    Here are three very reliable dividend shares to buy for income:

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

    I think that Soul Patts is the best option on the ASX for dividends.

    It’s an investment conglomerate that’s invested in a variety of businesses in different industries such as TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPM), Brickworks Limited (ASX: BKW), Australian Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd (ASX: API) and Clover Corporation Limited (ASX: CLV).

    It has been going for over a century and is steadily increasing its diversification in its investments. Its latest forays include retirement living and perhaps data centres.

    Soul Patts is a very reliable dividend share. It has grown its dividend every year since 2000. It has also paid a dividend every in its listing in the early 1900s. Soul Patts currently offers a grossed-up dividend yield of 4.5%.

    APA Group (ASX: APA) 

    APA is my favourite infrastructure dividend idea. Sydney Airport and Transurban Group (ASX: TCL) are more popular but I think APA is more defensive.

    It owns a vast network of 15,000km of natural gas pipelines around Australia with a presence in every mainland state and the Northern Territory. It also owns or has interests in gas storage facilities, gas-fired power stations and renewable energy generation (wind and solar farms). APA owns, or manages and operates, a portfolio of assets worth more than $21 billion and delivers half the nation’s natural gas usage.

    I think APA Group is a very reliable dividend share. The energy giant funds its distribution from its annual cashflow. It continues to invest in new opportunities, which will hopefully increase future cashflow and therefore fund even higher distributions.

    APA has grown its distribution every year for a decade and a half. It currently offers a distribution yield of 4.3%.

    Rural Funds Group (ASX: RFF)

    Rural Funds is a real estate investment trust (REIT) which owns a variety of farm types including cattle, cotton, almonds, macadamias and vineyards.

    All of its farms have rental indexation built into the contracts. Those increases are linked to either a fixed 2.5% increase, or CPI inflation, plus market reviews. This is a large reason why management think the distribution can keep growing by 4% per annum.

    Currently the REIT is also investing in productivity improvements at its farms. This boosts the rental potential and value of the farm.

    I think Rural Funds is a very reliable dividend share. It has increased its distribution each year since it started paying one several years ago. It currently offers a FY21 distribution yield of 5.6%.

    Foolish takeaway

    In my opinion, each of these income ideas are very reliable dividend shares. That’s why I already Rural Funds and Soul Patts in my portfolio. APA is a great option too, I just don’t think it looks as cheap as Soul Patts.

    There are some businesses in some industries which can also provide very reliable dividends in the coming years, such as these top income ideas…

    NEW: Expert names top dividend stock for 2020 (free report)

    When our resident dividend expert Edward Vesely has a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, he’s the investing genius that runs Motley Fool Dividend Investor, the newsletter service that has picked huge winners like Dicker Data (+92%), SDI Limited (+53%) and National Storage (+35%).*

    Edward has just named what he believes is the number one ASX dividend stock to buy for 2020.

    This fully franked “under the radar” company is currently trading more than 24% below its all-time high and paying a 6.7% grossed-up dividend.

    The name of this dividend dynamo and the full investment case is revealed in this brand new free report.

    But you will have to hurry — history has shown it can pay dividends to get in early to some of Edward’s stock picks, and this dividend stock is already on the move.

    See the top dividend stock for 2020

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison owns shares of RURALFUNDS STAPLED and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended RURALFUNDS STAPLED and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of Transurban Group. 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 3 very reliable dividend shares to buy for income appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

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

  • Why these ASX retail shares surged over 25% in the past 2 weeks

    Man opening Walmart package in home office

    It has been a difficult time for the Australian retail industry and, ultimately, ASX retail shares over the past few months.

    The closure of retail stores has hit bricks and mortar retailers hard with store foot traffic coming to an almost grinding halt.

    Many people have temporarily lost their jobs due to the coronavirus lockdown restrictions. This has dramatically reduced consumer confidence, leading to a further slow in sales.

    However, consumers are now beginning to feel a bit more optimistic, as lockdown restrictions begin to ease.

    Retail stores are now opening and this has breathed more enthusiasm into the Australian retail industry. This has led to strong recent share price gains for ASX retail giants after many were heavily sold off.

    Here are 3 ASX retail shares that have seen strong share price growth over the past two weeks.

    Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1)

    Accent Group is the footwear group behind store brands such as Hype DC and Platypus.

    It has an impressive share price rise of 25.5% over the past two weeks.

    The Group had previously announced plans to progressively reopen all its stores by early May.

    Although it has suffered a significant loss of trade due to store closures during the pandemic, its online sales have surged.

    In fact, online sales soared by nearly 350% during the last two weeks of April. Also, during April, stores were progressively opened to enable a click and collect service for customers, further boosting sales.

    With lockdown restrictions now easing, and instore foot traffic looking to pick up soon, this could provide a further boost to sales in the months ahead.

    I believe that this is a significant reason why investors have been buying Accent Group’s retail shares in recent weeks.

    Baby Bunting Group Ltd (ASX: BBN)

    The Baby Bunting share price has surged around 29.3% over the past two weeks, driven in a large way by a very positive business update on 19 May.

    All its stores were able to remain open during the harsh coronavirus pandemic restrictions as its products are seen to provide an essential community service. Therefore, physical store sales were not hit as badly as many of the discretionary retailers.

    Like the Accent Group, online sales have been a recent winner for Baby Bunting.

    The company revealed that online sales for the period between 30 December 2019 and 17 May 2020, surged by a massive 66%.

    Kogan.com Ltd (ASX: KGN)

    As purely an online retailer, Kogan hasn’t had to deal with the issues faced by bricks and mortar retailers during the coronavirus crisis.

    In fact, Kogan has seen a recent surge in online sales. Sales grew by more than 100% during the months of April.

    Profits were even more impressive during April, with gross profit growing by more than 150%.

    Consumers have been gravitating towards the online channel during the lockdown. This trend has helped to drive its retail share price higher over the past few months.

    For more share options to build your wealth outside of ASX retailers, take a look at the ones we suggest in this free report.

    NEW. The Motley Fool AU Releases Five Cheap and Good Stocks to Buy for 2020 and beyond!….

    Our experts here at The Motley Fool Australia have just released a fantastic report, detailing 5 dirt cheap shares that you can buy in 2020.

    One stock is an Australian internet darling with a rock solid reputation and an exciting new business line that promises years (or even decades) of growth… while trading at an ultra-low price…

    Another is a diversified conglomerate trading over 40% off its high, all while offering a fully franked dividend yield over 3%…

    Plus 3 more cheap bets that could position you to profit over the next 12 months!

    See for yourself now. Simply click here or the link below to scoop up your FREE copy and discover all 5 shares. But you will want to hurry – this free report is available for a brief time only.

    CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE REPORT!

    More reading

    Motley Fool contributor Phil Harpur owns shares of Kogan.com ltd. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Kogan.com ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Accent Group. 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 these ASX retail shares surged over 25% in the past 2 weeks appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

    from Motley Fool Australia https://ift.tt/2Mj501b