The NRW Holdings Ltd (ASX: NWH) share price is powering higher on Tuesday after the company revealed a series of significant contract wins.

At the time of writing, the NRW share price is up 4.64% to $5.41. That adds to a strong run for the stock, which has climbed around 60% over the past 12 months.

Let’s unpack what was in today’s update.

A major win at Rio Tinto’s West Angelas

The largest contract announced is a bulk earthworks award from Rio Tinto for its West Angelas Sustaining Project (WASP), Deposit H.

NRW will deliver bulk earthworks to support access to five new satellite pits, along with haul roads, concrete overpass arch construction, and associated infrastructure. The contract is valued at around $175 million, with a peak workforce of around 220 personnel.

Works are expected to commence in early 2026 and run through to completion in 2027. Importantly, the award builds on NRW’s long standing relationship with Rio Tinto at West Angelas, one of Western Australia’s key iron ore hubs.

Roads and infrastructure add further momentum

The company also secured a second contract through its wholly owned subsidiary, NRW Contracting Pty Ltd.

Main Roads Western Australia has awarded the group the reconstruction and realignment of Toodyay Road between Dryandra and Toodyay. The initial scope covers Separable Portions 1 and 2 and is valued at $46 million.

The project aims to improve safety and traffic flow through road geometry upgrades, overtaking lanes, and intersection improvements.

Construction and procurement are expected to begin in early 2026, subject to contract execution.

Dampier Link Bridge rounds out the update

In a further contract win, NRW Contracting, in a 50/50 joint venture with Braidwood Marine and Civil, has been awarded Stage 2 of the Dampier Cargo Project by Pilbara Ports.

This package covers the design and construction of the Dampier Link Bridge, creating a continuous wharf connection between the refurbished Dampier Cargo Wharf and the new Dampier Bulk Handling Facility. The value of NRW’s share of the joint venture work is approximately $49 million, with a project duration of about 12 months.

Management noted there is no material capital outlay required for any of the announced contracts.

Foolish takeaway

NRW continues to execute across multiple fronts, with more than $220 million in new work secured and minimal capital requirements supporting the stock’s strong performance over the past year.

The latest contracts highlight NRW’s diversified exposure across mining, transport, and civil infrastructure. A growing contract book improves earnings visibility into 2026 and beyond, while long standing relationships with tier one clients continue to generate repeat work.

The post Why this ASX 200 stock is rising after landing major new contracts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

When people think about passive income, they often assume you need a six-figure portfolio to make it worthwhile. I don’t think that’s true. With the right structure, even $20,000 can be enough to start generating a reliable monthly income stream, without constantly watching the market or trading in and out of ASX shares.

Here’s how I’d think about doing it.

Where to start

Most ASX shares pay dividends twice a year. That can be frustrating if the goal is steady cash flow. One of the biggest advantages of income-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs) is that many of them pay monthly, smoothing income and making budgeting far easier.

Instead of relying on one company’s dividend policy, you’re tapping into income generated across dozens or even hundreds of underlying holdings.

The core of the portfolio

If I were starting with $20,000, I’d anchor the portfolio with a diversified Australian equity income ETF like Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY)

This type of fund provides exposure to large, dividend-paying Australian shares across sectors like banks, resources, infrastructure, and telecommunications. Importantly for Australian investors, much of the income tends to be franked, which can significantly boost after-tax returns.

I like this as a core holding because it balances yield with quality. You’re not betting on one company to keep paying dividends. You’re spreading that risk across the market.

However, it only pays out income quarterly, so we can’t rely solely on this one.

Adding monthly passive income

To lift the income and introduce true monthly cash flow, I’d add a dedicated monthly income ETF such as Betashares Australian Dividend Harvester Active ETF (ASX: HVST).

This type of fund uses a rules-based strategy to focus on Australian shares expected to deliver strong dividend and franking outcomes. The income is paid monthly, which is ideal for investors who want regular cash flow rather than waiting for semi-annual or quarterly payouts.

I wouldn’t put everything into a fund like this, because the strategy can be more active and returns may vary year to year. But as a component of a broader income portfolio, I think it plays a useful role.

Diversifying beyond shares with bonds

Finally, to make the portfolio more resilient, I’d include a bond-based income ETF such as VanEck Emerging Income Opportunities Active ETF (ASX: EBND).

Bond income behaves differently to share dividends. While it comes with its own risks, especially in emerging markets, it can help diversify income sources and reduce reliance on equity markets alone. For a passive income portfolio, that diversification matters.

What this portfolio could realistically deliver

Depending on market conditions, a portfolio like this could aim for a blended yield somewhere around the 5% range. On $20,000, that’s roughly $1,000 per year in income, paid progressively through the year rather than in two large chunks.

Over time, as dividends grow and income is reinvested or topped up, that monthly cash flow could build into something far more meaningful.

Foolish takeaway

A bullet-proof passive income portfolio isn’t about finding the perfect stock. For me, it’s about structure, diversification, and consistency.

With just $20,000, it’s possible to build a portfolio that pays income monthly, spreads risk across assets and strategies, and doesn’t require constant attention. For investors who value steady cash flow and peace of mind, I think this kind of approach is a sensible place to start.

The post How to build a bullet-proof monthly passive income portfolio with just $20,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• How I’d invest monthly savings to generate over $50,000 passive income
• How to build an ASX share portfolio for income and growth

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is back on form and charging higher on Tuesday. In afternoon trade, the benchmark index is up 1.1% to 8,875.2 points.

Four ASX shares that are rising more than most today are listed below. Here’s why they are climbing:

Appen Ltd (ASX: APX)

The Appen share price is up 12% to $1.88. Investors have been buying this artificial intelligence data services company’s shares since the release of a strong quarterly update last week. Appen reported revenue of $73.4 million for the three months. This was a 10% lift on the prior corresponding period and a 33% increase on the third quarter of FY 2025. Commenting on the quarter, Appen’s CEO, Ryan Kolln, said: “Q4 was a strong finish to the year for both our China and Global businesses. Appen China exited the quarter with an annualised revenue run-rate growing to over $135 million – a pleasing result, providing strong momentum heading into FY26.”

Imricor Medical Systems Inc (ASX: IMR)

The Imricor Medical Systems share price is up 2% to $1.99. This morning, this medical device company revealed that Oklahoma Heart Institute (OHI) has joined the VISABL-AFL clinical trial. It notes that this will support the U.S. FDA approval process for Imricor’s ablation products. OHI is now the fourth U.S. site to join the trial. Imricor’s Chair and CEO, Steve Wedan, added: “Oklahoma Heart Institute represents a highly sophisticated cardiology-led model of care, with the clinical vision and infrastructure already in place to support advanced MRI-guided procedures. The fact that cardiology owns and operates their MRI system creates a streamlined environment for innovation, reducing organisational complexity while enabling physicians to focus on delivering the best possible outcomes for patients.”

Qoria Ltd (ASX: QOR)

The Qoria share price is up 19% to 40 cents. This follows news that the cyber safety company is merging with its peer, Aura. It is a US-based provider of intelligent online safety solutions to individuals and families. Aura will acquire all Qoria shares through an all-scrip deal at a price equivalent to 72 cents per share. Qoria’s CEO, Tim Levy, said: “The internet was created to connect us, yet online safety has eroded, making trust paramount for parents, guardians and organisations, in general, for the protection of our activities online. The combination of Aura and Qoria pioneers a lifelong digital safety ecosystem; a new category that meets the urgent need for technology, education, and trust to protect people – confidently and safely, throughout their entire lives.”

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

The Xero share price is up 3% to $96.46. Investors have been buying this cloud accounting platform provider’s shares following the release of an update on its AI and US plans. Xero also reiterated its FY 2026 guidance. It advised that total operating expenses as a percentage of revenue is expected to be around 70.5%, including the Melio business. In addition, management reaffirmed its aim of more than doubling its FY 2025 group revenue in FY 2028.

The post Why Appen, Imricor, Qoria, and Xero shares are storming higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

The Atlas Arteria Group (ASX: ALX) share price is in focus today following an update on the French temporary supplemental tax, with the company reiterating its 2025 distribution guidance of 40 cents per security and confirming its target for future distributions.

What did Atlas Arteria report?

• The French Parliament has extended the temporary supplemental tax (TST) for toll road operators for an additional year.
• The tax will again be based on a percentage of average corporate income tax due for 2025 and 2026.
• A payment of 98% of the anticipated tax is due in December 2026, with the balance in May 2027.
• Atlas Arteria reaffirmed its 2025 distribution guidance of 40 cents per security, with a target of at least 40 cps for future periods.
• Guidance remains subject to ongoing business performance, taxes, exchange rates, and other events.

What else do investors need to know?

The Finance Law for 2026, which contains the TST extension, is expected to come into effect after review by the French Constitutional Council and signing by the President in the coming weeks. This development follows Atlas Arteria’s ongoing investments in toll roads across France, Germany, and the United States.

The company owns a significant stake in major French motorways, the Chicago Skyway, Dulles Greenway in Virginia, and the Warnow Tunnel in Germany. Management continues to back its distribution targets, aiming to provide stable and growing returns for investors, pending any material changes in tax or market conditions.

What did Atlas Arteria management say?

Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Arteria Hugh Wehby said:

We reiterate our 2025 distribution guidance of 40 cents per security and remain committed to delivering sustainable distributions supported by growing free cash flow.

What’s next for Atlas Arteria?

Atlas Arteria will continue to monitor developments regarding the French Finance Law and will update investors once the law is enacted. The business remains focused on maintaining free cash flow and supporting distributions, while navigating potential changes in tax and regulatory settings in its key markets.

Longer term, the company aims to reinforce its position as a leading toll road operator with disciplined management and sustainable business practices across its international portfolio.

Atlas Arteria share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Atlas Arteria shares have declined 2%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Atlas Arteria maintains distribution guidance while French tax extended appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

The Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP) share price has crashed 13.87% to $12.30 a piece at the time of writing on Tuesday morning. Today’s decline follows the company’s H1 FY26 financial results, which were released ahead of the ASX open this morning.

Today’s share price drop means Credit Corp’s shares are now 13.2% lower for the year to date. They are also 18.81% below the trading price this time last year.

Credit Corp share price crashes on results day

Here’s what the debt collection company posted this morning:

• Revenue up 4% to $283.6 million

• Net profit after tax (NPAT) flat at $44.1 million

• Dividends per share flat at 32 cents

What happened in H1 FY26?

Credit Corp posted a flat NPAT of $44.1 million for the first half of FY26. This was despite reporting a 4% increase in revenue, to $283.6 million, for the six-month period.

The debt collectors’ US business reported the strongest growth, with revenue from its US debt buying segment up 25% to $73.7 million. Its NPAT also surged 63% to $11.7 million.

The company’s overall results were dragged down by weaker results in its Australian and New Zealand segment. This business segment faced significant headwinds over the first half of the year.

Its Australian/NZ debt buying division and collection services saw revenue drop 6% to $108.1 million and NPAT decline 10% to $10.9 million. The business segment has suffered over the past few months after several issuers temporarily suspended debt book sales, which impacted the company’s collection volumes.

The AU/NZ lending business segment reported a 4% increase in its revenue, to $101.8 million. But its NPAT fell 14% to $21.5 million. This was despite a 14% increase in total settled loans to $223.3 million.

“While the AU/NZ debt buying market remains competitive as buyers attempt to secure volume in a diminished post-COVID market, there are some early signs of increasing supply,” the company said in a media release this morning. 

“Interest bearing credit card balances grew +12% over the half year. In time, this growth will likely be reflected in charge-offs and sale volumes.”

Credit Corp said it would pay investors an interim dividend of 32 cents per share. This is unchanged from the FY25 interim dividend and “is consistent with the long-standing practice of paying out ~50% of earnings”.

What’s ahead for Credit Corp?

The business is still optimistic about the outlook for the full FY26 financial year. Credit Corp has kept its guidance unchanged. The company expects NPAT of $105 million, which sits in the middle of its $100 to $110 million guidance range.

The company projects that H2 of FY26 will deliver NPAT of $61 million, compared to $44 million in H1.

The post Credit Corp share price crashes 14% following H1 FY26 result appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

ASX 200 healthcare shares are underperforming on Tuesday, with the S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) up 0.7% compared to a 1.2% bump for the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

Here are three ASX 200 healthcare large-caps that have just been re-rated by market analysts.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

The CSL share price is $178.46, up 0.8% today and down 35% over the past 12 months.

On The Bull this week, Damien Nguyen from Morgans has a buy rating on the healthcare sector’s largest company.

Nguyen explains:

This biopharmaceutical giant offers a stronger risk/reward profile after a period of share price underperformance.

Plasma collections are rising, costs are normalising and earnings momentum is improving.

Recovery at CSL Behring, a blood products division, remains on track and the influenza vaccination division Seqirus continues to provide defensive earnings.

Nguyen points out that the current CSL share price “sits well below long term averages despite fundamental improvement”.

This sets up an attractive long term capital growth story. Catalysts for a share price re-rating include an earnings recovery and margin expansion.

ResMed CDI (ASX: RMD)

The ResMed CDI share price is $36.89, down 0.5% on Tuesday and down 5.3% over the past year.

Remed is the third largest ASX 200 healthcare share on the market today.

Morgans upgraded ResMed shares to a buy rating after reviewing the company’s 2Q FY26 update.

The broker said:

2Q beat across the board, with double-digit revenue and earnings growth, further gross margin expansion and solid cash generation.

Sleep and respiratory sales were strong in both regions, with above-market growth in the Americas and ROW returning to market growth, while SaaS beat expectations, but remained subdued by residential care headwinds.

Operating leverage improved again, with gross margin gains from manufacturing and logistics efficiencies, and FY26 guidance tightened to 62-63% (from 61-63%), reinforcing confidence in ongoing margin progression.

Morgans said the company’s recent share price weakness is “unjustified given sound fundamentals”.

The broker has a 12-month share price target of $47.73 on ResMed.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

The Pro Medicus share price is $178.10, down 0.03% today and down 34% over the past 12 months.

Stuart Bromley from Medallion Financial Group has a hold rating on the ASX 200’s fifth-largest company.

Bromley said:

The company retains best-in-class imaging software that should generate high margins and structural growth from a steady flow of new contract wins amid bigger and longer contract renewals with existing customers.

The significant share price retreat leaves PME as a hold, but also presents an opportunity to enter a top class business at an attractive price. 

The post 3 ASX 200 large-cap healthcare shares just re-rated by experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL and Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Now could be the time to buy ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD) shares.

That’s the view of analysts at Morgans, who have turned positive on the sleep disorder-focused medical device company following its second-quarter update.

What happened in the second quarter?

Last week, ResMed released its second-quarter result and revealed revenue and profits ahead of consensus expectations.

For the three months ended 31 December, ResMed reported an 11% increase in revenue to US$1.4 billion over the prior corresponding period. This reflects increased demand for its portfolio of sleep devices, masks, and accessories.

U.S., Canada, and Latin America revenue, excluding Residential Care Software, grew by 11%, whereas revenue in Europe, Asia, and other markets, excluding Residential Care Software, grew by 6% in constant currency. Residential Care software revenue increased 5% on a constant currency basis.

Another major highlight was ResMed’s gross margin, which increased once again. Its gross margin increased 320 basis points during the quarter thanks to manufacturing and logistics efficiencies and component cost improvements.

This led to ResMed’s income from operations increasing a sizeable 18% on the same period last year.

ResMed’s chairman and CEO, Mick Farrell, said:

Year-over-year, we delivered 11% headline revenue growth, 310 basis points of non-GAAP gross margin expansion, and continued operating excellence, resulting in another quarter of mid-teens non-GAAP EPS growth. These results reflect strong ongoing demand for our market-leading sleep and respiratory care devices, as well as the growing impact of our digital health ecosystem that spans more than 140 countries.

Morgans upgrades ResMed’s shares

In response to the update, the team at Morgans has upgraded ResMed shares to a buy rating with a $47.73 price target.

Based on its current share price of $36.72, this implies potential upside of 30% for investors over the next 12 months.

Commenting on its recommendation, Morgans said:

2Q beat across the board, with double-digit revenue and earnings growth, further gross margin expansion and solid cash generation. Sleep and respiratory sales were strong in both regions, with above-market growth in the Americas and ROW returning to market growth, while SaaS beat expectations, but remained subdued by residential care headwinds. Operating leverage improved again, with gross margin gains from manufacturing and logistics efficiencies, and FY26 guidance tightened to 62-63% (from 61-63%), reinforcing confidence in ongoing margin progression. We adjust FY26-28 forecasts modesty and move to BUY with a A$47.73 target price, viewing recent share weakness unjustified given sound fundamentals.

The post Why Morgans just upgraded ResMed shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

S&P/ASX 300 Metal & Mining Index (ASX: XMM) shares are outperforming on Tuesday, up 2.28%, while the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) is 1.29% higher.

Top broker Morgans gives the following ASX miners a buy rating.

Here’s why.

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS)

This ASX gold mining share is up 2.05% to $4.50 apiece on Tuesday.

Ramelius Resources shares have rocketed 78% over the past 12 months, while the gold commodity price has ascended 68%.

After the miner revealed its 2Q FY26 results, Morgans remained buy-rated on the stock and lifted its price target from $4.50 to $5.50.

However, the broker downgraded its recommendation from buy to accumulate.

Morgans said:

RMS reported its 2Q26 result following its pre-release update on 8 January, delivering production of 45.6koz at an AISC of A$1,977/oz.

RMS remains on track to meet FY26 guidance of 185–205koz at an AISC of A$1,700–A$1,900/oz, with YTD production now at 100.6koz at an AISC of A$1,901/oz.

Lower production reflects the ongoing tapering of Cue open pit head grades, partially offset by higher-grade feed from Penny (9.8g/t Au).

Importantly, development at Dalgaranga has now accessed the high-grade Never Never orebody, with initial development ore stockpiled (16kt at 3.5g/t Au), providing a positive lead indicator for grade uplift into coming quarters.

Meeka Metals Ltd (ASX: MEK)

This fellow ASX gold mining share is 23 cents, up 5.5% today and up 132% over the past 12 months.

After reviewing the company’s 2Q FY26 results, Morgans maintained its buy rating on Meeka Metals shares.

It also kept its 12-month share price target at 33 cents.

MEK delivered its 2Q26 operating result as the Murchison Gold Project continues to ramp up.

Gold production increased 28% quarter on quarter to 9.1koz Au and was in-line with MorgansF of 9.3koz Au.

Ounce production was underpinned by a mill head grade of 3.3g/t Au, ~10% above MorgansF assumptions; however, this grade outperformance is partially offsetting lower-than-expected throughput.

Looking ahead, improvements in mill throughput, driven by underground production remain key to maintaining alignment with PFS forecasts.

Aeris Resources Ltd (ASX: AIS)

The Aeris Resources share price is 58 cents, up 3% on Tuesday.

The ASX copper mining share has skyrocketed by 316% over the past 12 months.

Like gold, copper has also been on an upward trajectory, rising 35% year over year due to higher demand because of the energy transition.

Following Aeris Resources’ 2Q FY26 report, Morgans maintained its accumulate rating and lifted its price target from 60 cents to 70 cents.

The broker said:

Solid 2Q26 delivery. Cracow continues its strong performance and Tritton operated broadly to plan.

Our earnings forecasts and valuation have been upgraded to reflect the company’s improved earnings outlook for the remainder of FY26 in the current copper and gold price environment.

The post 3 ASX mining shares to buy: Morgans appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Owning Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) shares has been a smart pick for passive income over the last several years with both a pleasing dividend yield and a rising payout.

I’ll always advocate for income-focused investors to invest in stocks that are more likely than average to maintain or increase the payout. If someone is investing for passive income, particularly if they’re relying on it, they may want to have a sense of safety that the payments are likely to continue flowing.

Coles could be one of the most defensive businesses on the ASX with its national store networks of Coles supermarkets and liquor stores. Its liquor businesses include Coles Liquor, First Choice Liquor Market, Liquorland and Vintage Cellars. Coles also owns half of Flybuys and it offers certain financial services including insurance, credit cards and personal loans.

If an investor were considering investing thousands of dollars into Coles shares, let’s look at how much passive income it could provide.

Coles dividend forecast for FY26

The business has increased its annual payout each year since FY19 and it’s expected to grow again in FY26.

Analysts are projecting a potential payout of 78.8 cents per share in the 2026 financial year, which would represent a year-over-year increase of 14%. I’d be very happy with that level of dividend growth as a shareholder.

If the business does pay that level of income, it would be a dividend yield of 3.7%. With franking credits, that’s a grossed-up dividend yield of around 5.25%, which is comfortably more than what bank savings accounts are offering right now.

If someone were to invest $8,000 into Coles shares, that would mean being able to buy 374 Coles shares. This would create almost $295 of cash dividends and $421 of grossed-up dividend income, including the franking credits.

I think that’s a very good level of passive income from an investment that can provide resilient income. The projection on Commsec suggests the business could increase its payout to 84.5 cents per share in FY27 and 97.6 cents per share in FY28.

Is this a good time to invest in the business?

Analysts generally have a positive view on Coles shares. According to a collation of analyst opinions on the business, there are currently 10 buy ratings on the business and seven hold ratings. Thankfully, there are no selling ratings on the company.

In my opinion, I think this is a good time to invest in the business with ongoing population growth and resilient employment. A lower Coles share price is also appealing – it’s down around 10% since August 2025.

The post If I invest $8,000 in Coles shares, how much passive income will I receive in 2026? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

If you have $3,000 to invest in February, exchange traded funds (ETFs) could be worth considering.

They make it easier to put that money to work without overthinking individual stock selection.

By choosing a small mix of ETFs with different roles, investors can gain diversification across regions and styles while still keeping things simple.

Here are three ASX ETFs that could be worth considering this month, each offering exposure to a different growth driver.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

The first ASX ETF to consider is the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF.

It tracks the Nasdaq 100 Index, which is home to many of the world’s most influential technology and innovation-led companies. While the biggest names get the attention, looking further down the index highlights just how broad the opportunity set is.

As well as the Magnificent Seven, its holdings include companies such as Broadcom (NASDAQ: AVGO), Adobe (NASDAQ: ADBE), and Intuit (NASDAQ: INTU). These businesses are deeply embedded in enterprise software, semiconductors, and financial technology, areas that continue to grow even as trends evolve.

Rather than being a bet on one technology cycle, this fund provides exposure to an ecosystem of companies that tend to reinvest heavily and adapt as new opportunities emerge.

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY)

Another ASX ETF that could be a buy is the Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF.

This fund focuses on global stocks with strong profitability, robust business models, and consistent earnings growth. It leans toward businesses that have demonstrated they can deliver returns through different economic conditions.

Among its holdings are stocks such as Lam Research (NASDAQ: LRCX), Uber (NYSE: UBER), and Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX). These businesses benefit from pricing power, recurring revenue, and entrenched market positions.

Overall, this fund could act as a stabilising core holding, providing global exposure with an emphasis on business quality rather than hype. It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

Betashares India Quality ETF (ASX: IIND)

A final ASX ETF to consider is the Betashares India Quality ETF.

This fund takes a selective approach to the Indian economy by focusing on higher-quality companies. This helps filter out some of the risks that can come with rapidly expanding economies.

Holdings include stocks such as Infosys (NYSE: INFY), HDFC Bank (NSEI: HDFCBANK), and Tata Consultancy Services (NSEI: TCS). These businesses play central roles in India’s technology services and financial systems.

What makes this ASX ETF interesting today is its long-term focus. India’s economy is expected to grow for decades, and this fund is designed to capture that growth through companies with stronger balance sheets and more consistent earnings. It was also recently recommended by the fund manager.

The post 3 of the best ASX ETFs to buy in February with $3,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• 10 most popular ASX ETFs on the market today
• 3 of the best ASX ETFs for Australian investors to buy now

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Adobe, BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, Intuit, Lam Research, Netflix, and Uber Technologies. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Broadcom and HDFC Bank and has recommended the following options: long January 2028 $330 calls on Adobe and short January 2028 $340 calls on Adobe. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Adobe, Lam Research, and Netflix. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.