• Woodside shares soared, then stumbled. What’s next for investors?

    Gas and oil worker working on pipeline equipment.

    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) shares have cooled sharply after one of their strongest starts to a year in recent memory. 

    The energy giant surged almost 50% during the first four months of 2026 as oil prices climbed amid escalating geopolitical tensions. Concerns over conflict in the Middle East and the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz sent crude prices higher, helping push Woodside shares above $35. 

    Since then, sentiment has shifted. Oil prices have retreated as shipping through the Strait resumed and hopes of a fragile peace agreement between Iran and the United States eased supply concerns. As a result, Woodside shares have fallen around 10% over the past month.

    Even so, the stock remains up about 18% year to date, and edged 0.5% higher to $28.01 in Monday morning trade.

    So, where do Woodside shares go from here?

    A business benefiting from higher energy prices

    Woodside remains one of Australia’s largest oil and gas producers, with a globally diversified portfolio of LNG and offshore energy assets.

    The company’s earnings remain closely tied to commodity prices, which means periods of elevated oil and gas prices can significantly boost profitability and shareholder returns.

    That was evident in Woodside’s March quarter update, released on 29 April. Operating revenue increased 7% from the previous quarter to US$3.26 billion, despite production falling 8% to 45.2 million barrels of oil equivalent (MMboe) due to severe weather in Western Australia.

    The production decline was more than offset by stronger commodity prices. Woodside’s average realised price rose 11% quarter on quarter to US$63 per barrel of oil equivalent, highlighting the company’s leverage to higher energy prices.

    Dividends remain a major attraction

    Another key reason many investors continue to favour Woodside shares is income.

    The company paid eligible shareholders a fully franked interim dividend of 83.5 cents per share in March. Combined with its fully franked final dividend of 81.8 cents per share, Woodside currently offers a trailing fully franked dividend yield of around 6%.

    For income-focused investors, that remains one of the stock’s biggest attractions, particularly if energy prices remain supportive over the medium term.

    What do brokers expect?

    Analyst sentiment remains cautious but constructive. TradingView data shows that most brokers currently rate Woodside shares as a hold, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding future oil prices after this year’s sharp volatility.

    Even so, the average broker price target sits at approximately $32.71, implying potential upside of nearly 17% from current levels. The most optimistic analyst believes Woodside shares could reach $45.41, representing upside of around 62%.

    At the other end of the spectrum, the most bearish forecast is $24.61, suggesting downside of roughly 12%.

    The wide range of price targets reflects just how dependent Woodside’s outlook remains on global energy markets.

    The risks ahead

    The biggest risk for Woodside remains the direction of oil and LNG prices. If geopolitical tensions continue to ease and global supply increases, commodity prices could come under further pressure, reducing earnings and cash flow.

    At the same time, global economic weakness could soften energy demand, while cost inflation and project execution risks remain ongoing challenges for large-scale LNG developments.

    However, if oil prices remain elevated or geopolitical risks flare up again, Woodside’s earnings could strengthen quickly.

    The post Woodside shares soared, then stumbled. What’s next for investors? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Woodside Energy Group Ltd right now?

    Before you buy Woodside Energy Group Ltd shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Woodside Energy Group Ltd wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has 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.

  • Up 57%! 3 compelling reasons to still buy BHP shares today

    Red buy button on an Apple keyboard with a finger on it.

    BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares are edging lower today. 

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) mining giant closed on Friday trading for $60.50. In morning trade on Monday, shares are swapping hands for $60.45, down 0.1%.

    For some context, the ASX 200 is just about flat at this same time. 

    Longer term, BHP shares have strongly outperformed the 3% one-year gains posted by the benchmark index, with shares in the ASX 200 mining stock up 56.5% in 12 months.    

    And that’s not including the two fully-franked dividends, totalling $1.958 a share, that BHP paid to eligible stockholders over this period

    Adding appeal to passive income investors, BHP shares trade on a 3.3% fully-franked trailing dividend yield.

    And Catapult Wealth’s Blake Halligan believes the Aussie mining giant is well placed to deliver more outperformance in the months ahead (courtesy of The Bull). 

    Here’s why. 

    Should I buy BHP shares today?

    Citing the first reason he’s bullish on the ASX 200 mining stock, Halligan said, “The global miner holds dominant positions in iron ore and copper and is leveraged to increasing demand during the energy transition.”

    Addressing BHP’s recent, costly operational issues at its Canadian potash project, Halligan said:

    A review of the Jansen stage 2 potash project in Canada resulted in a cost blowout of about U$S2 billion to US$6.9 billion. Despite the Jansen impairment and the risk of industrial action at iron ore operations in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, near term earnings momentum remains strong.

    Despite that cost blowout, Halligan noted, “Elevated copper prices and strong iron ore prices supported performance in full year 2026.”

    Summarising the second and third reasons you might want to buy BHP shares today, Halligan concluded, “The balance sheet remains robust with low net debt, while a recent dividend yield above 3% adds income appeal. BHP offers cyclical upside and long-term growth exposure to copper.” 

    A slightly less bullish outlook on the ASX 200 mining stock

    Sanlam Private Wealth’s Remo Greco also analysed the outlook for the mining giant this week.

    And while he has a longer-term bullish outlook on the company, he issued a hold recommendation on BHP shares for now. 

    According to Greco:

    Several disappointing events have led us to downgrade BHP to a hold. Cost over-runs at its Jansen stage 2 potash project in Canada lifts the investment cost by about US$2 billion to US$6.9 billion.

    Possible industrial action, although averted in June, may re-ignite at the company’s iron ore operations in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Any industrial action may impact stock performance.

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

    The post Up 57%! 3 compelling reasons to still buy BHP shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy BHP Group shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and BHP Group wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben 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 BHP Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Origin Energy sell-off continues, shares hit fresh 52-week low: Buy, sell or hold?

    A young man looks like he his thinking holding his hand to his chin and gazing off to the side amid a backdrop of hand drawn lightbulbs that are lit up on a chalkboard.

    Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) shares have slipped further into the red in early Monday morning trade.

    At the time of writing, the shares have fallen by around 1% to a fresh 52-week low of $10.30 each. 

    Today’s decline means the shares are now down around 9% year to date and over 11% below the trading levels seen this time last year. 

    For context, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is up just over 1% for the year to date and 3% higher over the past 12 months.  

    Why is everyone selling their Origin Energy shares?

    Origin Energy was one of the strongest performers on the index in early 2026, but after the energy provider posted its March quarter update in late April, investors rushed to sell off their shares.

    The update, which covers Origin Energy’s Integrated Gas, Energy markets, and Octopus Energy segments, revealed declines across the board. The company also downgraded its FY26 EBITDA guidance. 

    The sell-off continued through May and June. Now, at the time of writing, Origin Energy shares have lost around 19% of their value since the announcement. 

    The share price has fallen around 7% in the first week of July alone.

    There haven’t been any price-sensitive updates out of the company recently to explain the sell-off. It looks like the ASX energy stock has come off the boil following lower realised LNG prices and a recent market-wide energy pricing review. 

    The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) and various state watchdogs have mandated that retailers pass on regulatory price cuts. But the adjustments have caused a significant restructure of how power bills are calculated. 

    This regulatory scrutiny of electricity pricing has raised concerns that retail margins could come under pressure. And investors are spooked.  

    The question now is whether it’s still a good idea to add Origin Energy shares to your portfolio, or whether you should sell up ahead of the next slump. 

    Are the energy shares a buy, sell, or hold now?

    It looks like the experts are also divided about the outlook for Origin Energy shares over the next 12 months.

    Market Index data shows brokers are split between a hold and a buy rating. But after the latest price crash, the $12.73 average target price still implies a potential 23% upside, at the time of writing.

    TradingView data shows something very similar. Out of 12 analysts, five have a hold rating, and five have a buy or strong buy rating. Another two analysts rate the energy stock as a sell or strong sell.

    But they do all agree an upside is ahead. 

    The average $12.15 target price implies a potential 18% upside at the time of writing. And some are tipping the shares to storm up to 30% higher to $13.40 a piece, over the next 12 months.

    With lower EBITDA expected for FY26, continued regulatory headwinds, and the potential for oil and LNG headwinds to continue trickling through into FY27, I think we could see even more downside ahead for Origin Energy shares this year.  

    The post Origin Energy sell-off continues, shares hit fresh 52-week low: Buy, sell or hold? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Origin Energy right now?

    Before you buy Origin Energy shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Origin Energy wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor 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.

  • Move over Regis Resources! Vault Minerals shares leaping 11% as Genesis Minerals’ lobs $5.6 billion takeover bid

    Animation of man and woman shaking hands on a deal on top of gold coins.

    Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) shares are charging higher today following an unsolicited binding takeover proposal from fellow S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) gold stock Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD).

    Vault Minerals shares closed on Friday trading for $4.56. In early morning trade on Monday, shares are changing hands for $5.05 apiece, up 10.8%.

    For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.2% at this same time, while Genesis Minerals shares are down 6.7% on the news, trading for $5.87 each.

    Here’s what’s happening.

    Vault Minerals shares leap on superior $5.6 billion takeover offer

    As you may recall, it was only back on 5 May that Vault Minerals announced its intentions to merge with Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL).

    (If you’re wondering, Regis Resources shares are up 0.5% today, trading for $6.66 each.)

    Under what was labelled a “merger-of-equals”, Regis was planning to acquire 100% of Vault Minerals shares. Vault stockholders would then receive 0.6947 new Regis Resources shares in exchange for their Vault shares.

    Commenting on the proposed Regis Resources merger on the day, Vault Minerals CEO Luke Tonkin said:

    Vault’s portfolio, anchored by the King of the Hills operation currently undergoing a significant mill expansion, brings long-life, high-quality assets and a strong financial position to the merger.

    By combining these strengths with Regis’ proven operational and exploration capability, the merged company is better positioned to deliver sustained production, enhanced reserve replacement and long-term value creation across gold price cycles.

    But Genesis Minerals may have thrown a spanner into those plans with a superior takeover offer that was announced this morning.

    Under the proposed scheme of arrangement, Vault Minerals shareholders will receive 0.7629 new ordinary shares in Genesis plus 47.5 cents in cash for every Vault share they hold.

    The improved takeover offer values Vault at $5.274 per share, or $5.6 billion, based on the Genesis share price at market close on Friday.

    That’s 15.7% above Friday’s closing price for Vault Minerals shares. And it represents a 14.5% improvement on the implied offer price from Regis Resources’ takeover offer.

    Commenting on the improved takeover offer, the Vault board noted:

    In accordance with the Regis SID, Vault has notified Regis that it considers the Genesis Proposal to be a Vault Superior Proposal for the purposes of the Regis SID and that the five business day matching right period has commenced.

    During this matching right period, Regis has the right (but not the obligation) to announce or provide a matching or superior proposal to the Genesis Proposal.

    Stay tuned!

    The post Move over Regis Resources! Vault Minerals shares leaping 11% as Genesis Minerals’ lobs $5.6 billion takeover bid appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Vault Minerals shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Vault Minerals wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben 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.

  • Why this ASX 200 gold stock is falling despite beating guidance

    A sad looking engineer or miner wearing a high visibility jacket and a hard hat stands alone with his head bowed and hand to his forehead as he speaks on a mobile.

    Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) shares are sinking on Monday, despite the gold and copper miner releasing a strong production update. 

    In early morning trade, the Greatland share price is down 5.61% to $11.11. By comparison, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 0.2% to 8,823 points. 

    The fall extends a weaker run for the ASX gold stock. Greatland shares are now down almost 16% over the past month, although they remain around 60% higher since this time last year. 

    Here’s what investors were given. 

    Production comes in ahead of guidance

    According to the release, Greatland produced 79,090 ounces of gold and 3,573 tonnes of copper during the June quarter.  

    This lifted full-year production to 328,986 ounces of gold and 14,594 tonnes of copper.

    Management said full-year gold production was 6% above the top end of its FY26 guidance range of 260,000 to 310,000 ounces. 

    Sales were solid as well, with Greatland selling 74,648 ounces of gold and 5,311 tonnes of copper during the quarter. For the full year, sales came in at 326,859 ounces of gold and 14,729 tonnes of copper.

    While the production result was strong, investors will have to wait a little longer for the cost side of the update. Greatland said its all-in sustaining cost (AISC) is still being finalised and will be included in its June quarterly activities report later this month. 

    Cash balance moves higher

    The balance sheet was another positive part of the update.

    Greatland ended June with $1.289 billion in cash, up from $1.208 billion at the end of March. It also had nil debt.

    Even after capital expenditure and an $87 million quarterly tax instalment, Greatland still added $81 million of cash during the quarter. 

    The company noted that another $20 million of sales were completed in late June, with the cash received after the quarter ended.

    Why investors are still selling

    Greatland has already had a huge run over the past year, so investors may have been looking for a reason to take some profit off the table.

    The missing AISC figure may also be holding back some buyers. Without it, investors don’t yet have the full margin detail, even though production and cash were clearly strong.

    Can Greatland shares find support?

    I still think this was a good update.

    Gold production came in ahead of guidance, cash moved higher, and the company remains debt-free. These numbers give buyers something solid to work with once the selling settles. 

    The June quarterly report later this month will be the next key update.

    If costs land around expectations, Greatland shares should have a decent chance to find support after this recent pullback.

    The post Why this ASX 200 gold stock is falling despite beating guidance appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Greatland Resources right now?

    Before you buy Greatland Resources shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Greatland Resources wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 16 June 2026

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

  • How much superannuation do I need to retire comfortably at age 66?

    Group of retirees enjoying yoga, symbolising retirement.

    Superannuation is most likely front and centre for Australians in their mid-60s.

    At age 66, Aussies have passed their preservation age (age 60), passed the average retirement age (age 65), and are just one year away from receiving their Age Pension payments (age 67, if eligible).

    That means that at the age of 66, it is a great time to start living your dream retirement lifestyle.

    But only if you have enough money in your superannuation.

    After all, the balance you need at any retirement age depends entirely on your living situation, financial situation, and the lifestyle you want to live when you finally stop working.

    Do you want to retire comfortably at age 66? Let’s break down what that might look like and how much money you’ll need.

    What does a comfortable retirement lifestyle look like?

    In Australia, retirement is generally split into two broad categories: comfortable and modest.

    According to the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA), a comfortable retirement is defined as one that enables retirees to maintain a good standard of living well beyond the age pension. It budgets for expenses beyond a modest retirement, including top-tier private health insurance and regular leisure activities. It allocates funds for home repairs or renovations, and perhaps even an annual holiday.

    Meanwhile, a modest retirement is defined as being able to cover expenses just slightly above what the full Centrelink Age Pension would provide from age 67. 

    How much does it cost to retire comfortably?

    ASFA estimates that a comfortable retirement costs around $55,923 per year for single Australians, and $78,566 for a couple. 

    These figures also assume you’ll receive a part Age Pension, that you own your home in full, and that you’ll be able to plan and stick to your financial goals. It would also be wise to have an emergency fund set aside.

    What do I need in my superannuation by age 66 to be able to afford that?

    In order to fund a modest comfortable retirement, ASFA calculates that single Australians will need around $630,000. Meanwhile, couples will need around $730,000.

    But, note that this figure assumes you’ll access your superannuation from age 67. It also assumes you’ll need to fund around 10 years of a comfortable retirement.

    If you’re planning to retire slightly earlier, at age 66, it would be wise to factor in one additional year of retirement.

    I’ve crunched the numbers using ASFA’s figures to work out what you should aim for. Singles should have closer to $686,000 in their superannuation and couples closer to $809,000 at age 66.

    Remember also, that if you don’t own your home outright, you’ll also need to consider how you’ll pay your mortgage or rent on top of your other bills. 

    The post How much superannuation do I need to retire comfortably at age 66? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Wondering where you should invest $1,000 right 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 over ten years has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    Scott just revealed what he believes could be the ‘five best ASX stocks’ for investors to buy right now. We believe these stocks are trading at attractive prices and Scott thinks they could be great buys right now…

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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.

  • 3 ASX 200 shares to buy now: experts

    A male broker wearing a dark blue suit and tie puts his finger to his lips.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) rose 0.9% last week in a positive start to the new financial year. 

    In FY26, ASX 200 shares put in a respectable performance, lifting 2.8% and delivering total returns of 7%.   

    Here, we look at three ASX 200 shares that the experts have a bullish view on for FY27.  

    Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

    The Zip share price rose 5.5% to close out FY26 at $3.24 on 30 June.  

    Jonathon Higgins from United Capital Partners (UCPS) has a buy rating on this ASX 200 buy now, pay later share for FY27.

    Higgins considers Zip’s turnaround over the past few years as one of the best he’s ever witnessed. 

    In a new note, Higgins points out that Zip is on track to report annual cash earnings of more than $260 million just three years after a $50 million cash earnings loss. 

    Back then, Zip abandoned its plans for global expansion to instead focus on its core markets of Australia and the US.

    Today, Higgins reckons the market is underappreciating Zip’s cost discipline and its prospects for further growth in the US. 

    Compared to US-listed BNPL peers, Higgins says Zip shares are the cheapest and could be in for a re-rate in FY27.

    UCPS has a buy rating on Zip with a target share price of $4.85. This implies a potential 50% upside over the next 12 months. 

    Higgins commented: 

    Sustainable earnings momentum against structural growth is hard to find on the ASX currently. 

    Resmed CDI (ASX: RMD)

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

    Blake Halligan from Catapult Wealth has a buy rating on this ASX 200 healthcare share. 

    Halligan explained (courtesy The Bull): 

    ResMed is a global leader in sleep apnoea devices and digital health platforms, benefiting from strong structural demand and resilient clinical positioning.

    Despite the progression in GLP-1 therapies for treating sleep apnoea, ResMed’s CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) treatments remain superior at this point in time.

    RMD continues to offer appealing growth, income and defensive healthcare exposure.

    QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) 

    The QBE share price lifted 7.7% in FY26 to close the year at $25.19. 

    In an article, fund manager Market Partners described QBE as one of the most compelling artificial intelligence (AI) cost-reduction stories on the ASX.  

    The QBE share price has been on a tear since the insurer reported a 21% increase in net profit after tax (NPAT) for FY25 in February.

    QBE shares hit a multi-year high of $25.32 on the first day of the new financial year. 

    Gerrish explained their bullish view on the ASX 200 financial share in a recent webinar: 

    They’ve been working hard over the last five, 10 years around simplification of their business.

    So they went out there, they made a huge number of acquisitions… and it’s starting to pay benefits.

    The experts said QBE was an emerging turnaround story, with the share price now trading at 15-year highs.

    Gerrish added:

    Turnarounds can take a lot longer than anyone envisages.

    But once a turnaround is starting to gain traction like it is in QBE, then the stock can run a lot further and a lot longer than anyone thinks.

    So, on 12x [P/E], growing earnings at high single digits, yielding 4.7% part-franked [dividends] with earnings tailwinds, we think QBE stacks up.

     

    The post 3 ASX 200 shares to buy now: experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy QBE Insurance shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and QBE Insurance wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

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    Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has positions in Zip Co. 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.

  • Buy, hold, sell: BHP, Woodside, PLS Group shares

    A man in a hard hat and high visibility vest holds his thumb up in a gesture of confidence with heavy moving equipment in the background as on a mine site as the Chalice Mining share price rises today.

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

    Here, we take a look at how one expert currently views three of the giants of the index at the start of FY27 (courtesy The Bull). 

    Are they a buy, hold, or sell? 

    BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

    The BHP share price skyrocketed 62% to close out FY26 at $59.40. 

    Blake Halligan from Catapult Wealth has a buy rating on this ASX 200 mining share. 

    He said: 

    The global miner holds dominant positions in iron ore and copper and is leveraged to increasing demand during the energy transition.

    A review of the Jansen stage 2 potash project in Canada resulted in a cost blowout of about $US2 billion to $US6.9 billion.

    Despite the Jansen impairment and the risk of industrial action at iron ore operations in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, near term earnings momentum remains strong.

    Elevated copper prices and strong iron ore prices supported performance in full year 2026.

    The balance sheet remains robust with low net debt, while a recent dividend yield above 3 per cent adds income appeal.

    BHP offers cyclical upside and long term growth exposure to copper.

    The copper price rose by 18% in FY26 and iron ore lifted 7%. 

    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

    The Woodside share price increased 19% over FY26 to finish the financial year at $28.21.

    Halligan has a hold rating on this ASX 200 energy share, and commented:

    Woodside Energy is a major Australian LNG producer with a portfolio of global gas projects.

    The company is increasing its stake in the Browse joint venture to 41.27 per cent via a $US225 million deal, reinforcing its strategy to extend the life of the North West Shelf.

    This adds long term upside along with the Scarborough project, which is 94 per cent completed.

    However, regulatory uncertainty, rising costs and policy risks in Australia temper the outlook.

    While growth options are significant, execution and approvals risk support a balanced hold stance at current valuation levels.

    Oil prices slumped to pre-war levels shortly after the US and Iran agreed to an interim peace deal last month.  

    PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

    PLS Group shares soared 275% to close out FY26 at $5.02. 

    Halligan explained his sell rating on the ASX 200 lithium share: 

    PLS Group is a leading Australian lithium producer focused on spodumene concentrate.

    Over the past three months, sentiment has been driven by a sharp rebound in spot spodumene prices and improving earnings expectations.

    Stronger spodumene prices are triggering global supply re-starts and expansions.

    The company’s valuation already reflects elevated prices amid supply growth potentially adding pressure on margins.

    Lithium spodumene was at the top of the list of best-performing commodities of FY26 by a long way.

    The lithium spodumene price rose about 280%, and carbonate soared 160%. 

     

     

    The post Buy, hold, sell: BHP, Woodside, PLS Group shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Pls Group shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Pls Group wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

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

  • Dexus’ portfolio valuations show office fall, industrial gain

    Group of successful real estate agents standing in building and looking at tablet.

    The Dexus (ASX: DXS) share price is in focus today after fresh portfolio valuations showed a slight 0.2% book value decrease to 30 June 2026, with office down 0.4% but industrial assets up 0.5%.

    What did Dexus report?

    • External independent valuations of 175 assets as at 30 June 2026
    • Estimated total portfolio value decreased by $24 million, or 0.2%, in the six months to 30 June 2026
    • Office portfolio value decreased by 0.4% due to higher capitalisation and discount rates
    • Industrial portfolio value increased by 0.5%, mainly from rental growth and a firmer discount rate
    • Weighted average capitalisation rate: 6.22% for office, 5.58% for industrial, and 6.06% total

    What else do investors need to know?

    Dexus noted that market rental growth contributed positively to valuations, especially in the industrial sector, which offset some pressure from increasing capitalisation rates in the office portfolio. Marginally softer capitalisation rates affected both asset classes, but fundamentals are helping to steady results. Valuation specifics and any further commentary on individual assets will be provided with Dexus’s FY26 results on 20 August 2026. These updated values do not include Dexus’s retail assets, and figures are subject to change on finalisation.

    What did Dexus management say?

    Dexus Group CEO and Managing Director Ross Du Vernet said:

    The valuations reflect a stabilising market that is being driven by fundamentals. Capitalisation rates were slightly softer in both the office and industrial portfolios, with rental growth and capex assumptions generally driving valuation outcomes across the stabilised portfolios.

    What’s next for Dexus?

    Dexus’s formal FY26 results will land on 20 August 2026; this will contain further detail on each property’s valuation and outlook for the business. The company remains focused on its real estate development pipeline and leveraging its diverse asset base to unlock further value and deliver long-term growth for investors. As market conditions continue to evolve, Dexus’s integrated platform and experienced management team are positioning it to navigate trends in office and industrial property, with an eye on sustainability and future opportunities.

    Dexus share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, Dexus shares have declined 22%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 3% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

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

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    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Dexus wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

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  • Genesis Minerals proposes Vault merger to create gold powerhouse

    two business men sit across from each other at a negotiating table. with a large window in the background.

    The Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) share price is in focus today as the company confirmed it has delivered a binding proposal to merge with Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU). The proposed deal values Vault at A$5.6 billion and would create an Australian gold major with pro-forma annual production of 600–700,000 ounces and a market capitalisation of A$12.6 billion.

    What did Genesis Minerals report?

    • Genesis has made a binding proposal to acquire all Vault shares via a scheme of arrangement.
    • The offer includes 0.7629 new Genesis shares plus A$0.475 in cash per Vault share, implying total consideration of A$5.274 per Vault share.
    • Vault shareholders would own 40.2% of the enlarged Genesis Group; Genesis shareholders would own 59.8%.
    • Estimated post-tax synergies of approximately A$2.0 billion, with A$1.5 billion unique to this transaction over 10 years.
    • The combined group would have 33.6 million ounces in mineral resources and 9.4 million ounces in ore reserves.
    • The pro-forma balance sheet shows A$611 million net cash and liquidity of A$1.3 billion.

    What else do investors need to know?

    Genesis’ proposal comes after Vault’s board unanimously deemed it a “Vault Superior Proposal” under its current scheme implementation deed with Regis Resources. However, Regis’ five-day right to match is in effect, limiting Vault’s ability to sign a binding agreement with Genesis until this period ends on 10 July 2026. The offer is not subject to due diligence or financing conditions. Genesis has secured revolving credit facilities to fund the A$500 million cash component, ensuring the enlarged group maintains a strong balance sheet post-merger. Board and management changes are planned if the scheme goes ahead, with representation from both companies and key executive roles remaining with Genesis’ current team, led by Managing Director Raleigh Finlayson.

    What’s next for Genesis Minerals?

    If Regis chooses not to match the proposal, Vault can move ahead to formalise the agreement with Genesis. The enlarged Genesis Group plans to consolidate operations in Western Australia’s Leonora-Laverton gold district, aiming for sector-leading scale, liquidity, and growth potential. Further value could be realised through operational synergies, optimising processing facilities, and enhanced supply chain efficiency. Investors should follow the outcome of Regis’ matching period and future updates as the proposed merger progresses.

    Genesis Minerals share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, Genesis Minerals shares have risen 51%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 3% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Genesis Minerals proposes Vault merger to create gold powerhouse appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Genesis Minerals shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Genesis Minerals wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 16 June 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor 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.