• Iluka Resources shares in focus as 2025 production beats guidance

    A female miner wearing a high vis vest and hard hard smiles and holds a clipboard while inspecting a mine site with a colleague.

    The Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU) share price is in focus after the company exceeded its 2025 production guidance, delivering 559kt of zircon, rutile, and synthetic rutile, and reducing unit cash costs below forecast.

    What did Iluka Resources report?

    • Full year 2025 Z/R/SR (zircon, rutile, synthetic rutile) production: 559kt, up 13% on 2024 and above guidance
    • Mineral sands revenue for 2025: $976 million, down 13.5% on 2024
    • Unit cash costs of production: $1,054 per tonne for 2025, 19% lower than 2024 and below guidance
    • Total capital expenditure for 2025: $862 million, mainly on Eneabba rare earths refinery and Balranald
    • Net debt at 31 December 2025: $473 million for mineral sands, $584 million for rare earths
    • Dividends received from Deterra: $23 million, distributed 100% to shareholders

    What else do investors need to know?

    Iluka’s Q4 production rose despite the idling of the SR2 kiln from December, as higher zircon-in-concentrate output offset lower synthetic rutile. The company’s quarterly review led to a cost base overhaul, cutting around 120 roles and targeting $36 million in 2026 savings.

    The Eneabba rare earths refinery in Western Australia continued as a key investment focus, reaching $865 million in capital spend by year end. Mining began at Balranald in New South Wales, meeting or exceeding expected extraction rates, with ramp-up underway.

    Market conditions for mineral sands remained subdued in Q4, especially in China, with lower pricing and customers keeping inventories lean. Iluka remains flexible, able to adjust synthetic rutile output if market demand recovers.

    What’s next for Iluka Resources?

    Iluka’s 2026 production guidance assumes Cataby and SR2 remain idle, with Balranald ramping up during the first half of the year. The company is prepared to restart SR2 if conditions improve.

    Mineral sands capital expenditure in 2026 will focus mainly on the completion of Balranald, as well as ongoing studies for the Wimmera and Typhoon projects. For its rare earths segment, Eneabba construction remains on track, further positioning Iluka to diversify earnings as the project progresses.

    Iluka Resources share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, Iluka Resources shares have risen 42%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Iluka Resources shares in focus as 2025 production beats guidance appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Iluka Resources Limited 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 Iluka Resources Limited 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 1 Jan 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.

  • Global X releases new ASX ETF targeting silver shares

    A businessman in a suit wears a medal around his neck and raises a fist in victory surrounded by two other businessmen in suits facing the other direction to him.

    ASX silver shares have been one of the hottest commodities thanks to the rocketing global silver price. 

    Yesterday, ​​the price of silver jumped more than 7%, pushing it to around US$111 per ounce, near record levels.

    Prices are trading near US$104 per ounce, after jumping more than 50% in the past month and 260% over the past year.

    As The Motley Fool’s Aaron Teboneras covered yesterday, this has been driven by a rare combination of geopolitical risk, industrial demand, and speculative momentum.

    The global rise in silver prices has seen many ASX silver shares benefit. 

    For example: 

    • Silver Mines Limited  (ASX: SVL) is up almost 300% in the last year
    • Andean Silver Ltd (ASX: ASL) is up 134%. 

    New ASX ETF targeting Silver shares

    For investors looking to gain diversified exposure to this booming sector without selecting just one stock could be in luck. 

    Yesterday, Global X announced the release of its newest ASX ETF. 

    It will operate under the name Global X Silver Miners ETF (ASX: SLVM). 

    According to the ETF provider, it provides access to a global basket of silver miners which stand to benefit from rising silver prices and being a key part of the value chain facilitating growth in photovoltaics, advanced electronics and more.

    According to a report from the provider, silver has begun to re-emerge as a focal point for investors, with spot prices recently breaking above the nominal highs last seen during the Hunt Brothers–driven spike of 1980. 

    This renewed strength comes at a time when silver’s role in the global economy has expanded materially. Beyond its traditional monetary and store-of-value characteristics, silver has become a critical input into the energy transition and a range of advanced technologies, fundamentally reshaping demand dynamics at a time when supply has struggled to respond.

    Global X currently provides pure-play physical silver exposures through Global X Physical Silver Structured (ASX: ETPMAG). 

    The launch of this new silver miners ETF offers investors an alternative avenue for accessing the theme, capturing the operating leverage inherent in mining equities. 

    Overview 

    The ASX ETF is made up of 39 holdings, with a unique focus on silver miners, rather than a physical pure-play option.

    By market capitalisation, it has a variety: 

    Geographically, it has largest exposure to companies based in: 

    • Canada (58.93%)
    • United States (18.40%)
    • Mexico (9.98%)
    • South Korea (4.36%)
    • Peru (4.10%)

    This thematic fund comes with a management fee of 0.65% p.a. and is not currency-hedged.

    The post Global X releases new ASX ETF targeting silver shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in ETFS Metal Securities Australia Limited – ETFS Physical Silver right now?

    Before you buy ETFS Metal Securities Australia Limited – ETFS Physical Silver 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 ETFS Metal Securities Australia Limited – ETFS Physical Silver 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 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell 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.

  • Here’s what 100 Droneshield shares purchased 5 years ago are worth now

    A shocked man holding some documents in the living room.

    The Droneshield Ltd (ASX: DRO) share price dropped 5.5% to close the day at $3.95 a piece on Wednesday afternoon. For the year to date, the drone operators’ shares have jumped 18.6% higher, and they’re still an enormous 537.1% higher than this time last year.

    While Droneshield was the best performer in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and one of the fastest-growing stocks on the planet in 2025, it’s well known that Droneshield shares plummeted late last year. After reaching an all-time high of $6.60 in early-October, the share price crashed nearly 74% in a six week window.

    Before this week, the drone operator was making incredible progress this year, but the latest share price drop has sparked concerns about volatility for the year ahead.

    If you bought 100 Droneshield shares today, its not clear exactly how much they’d be worth at the end of the year. But if you’d bought 100 Droneshield shares five years ago, they’d be worth a fortune today.

    Just how much upside have Droneshield shares had over the past five years?

    At the time of writing, after the ASX close on Tuesday, Droneshield shares are 2,095% higher than five years ago. That means that 100 shares, purchased at the January 2021 trading price of 18 cents per share, would cost a total of $18. 

    Today that $18 would be worth $395!

    That’s a huge increase.

    So what’s next for Droneshield shares this year?

    After a couple of setbacks it looks like Droneshield‘s share price hit the bottom in 2025. I’m hoping that after this latest blip, it will keep climbing higher in 2026.

    The good news is that the business has a strong growth strategy in place for the next 12 months, including scaling its manufacturing capacity, expanding its global footprint and growing its customer base.

    What do the experts think?

    Analysts are pretty bullish that there is a decent upside ahead for Droneshield shares in 2026. TradingView data shows that analysts consensus is for a strong buy rating on the stock with agreement for a target price of $5.00. This implies a 26.58% upside for the shares this year, at the time of writing.

    The team at Bell Potter recently confirmed their buy rating and $5.00 price target on the shares. The broker said that the company’s sales growth was stronger than it was expecting and that the company has a competitive advantage going forwards. Bell Potter believes 2026 will be an inflection point for the global C-UAS industry with countries poised to unleash a wave of spending.

    The post Here’s what 100 Droneshield shares purchased 5 years ago are worth now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in DroneShield Limited right now?

    Before you buy DroneShield Limited 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 DroneShield Limited 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 1 Jan 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 positions in and has recommended DroneShield. 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 Vanguard ETFs for smart investors to buy in February

    A casually dressed woman at home on her couch looks at index fund charts on her laptop

    When a new month rolls around, I like to think about whether there are simple, sensible additions that can strengthen a portfolio over the long term. Not flashy trades, just solid building blocks that do their job quietly in the background.

    These are three Vanguard exchange-traded funds (ETFs) I think smart investors could look at buying in February.

    Vanguard Global Value Equity Active ETF (ASX: VVLU)

    The Vanguard Global Value Equity Active ETF stands out for me because it offers something different from the growth-heavy portfolios many investors already own.

    Rather than chasing the most popular stocks, this ETF uses an active, rules-based approach to focus on companies trading at lower valuations relative to fundamentals like earnings, cash flow, and book value. That makes it a useful counterbalance when expensive growth stocks dominate market leadership.

    I like the Vanguard Global Value Equity Active ETF as a way to introduce valuation discipline into a portfolio without having to pick individual global value stocks. It’s not about timing a rotation perfectly, it’s about diversification and improving risk-adjusted returns over time.

    Vanguard FTSE Asia Ex-Japan Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAE)

    The Vanguard FTSE Asia Ex-Japan Shares Index ETF is a higher-risk option, but one that can make sense for investors with a long time horizon.

    The ETF provides exposure to fast-growing Asian economies, including China, India, Taiwan, and South Korea. These markets come with more volatility, but they also offer growth drivers that are hard to find in developed markets, particularly in technology manufacturing, financial services, and consumer demand.

    I wouldn’t build a portfolio around the VAE ETF alone, but as a satellite holding alongside broader global exposure, it can add a different growth engine that isn’t tied to the US or Australian cycles.

    Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

    The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF is still one of the best core ETFs available on the ASX, in my opinion.

    It gives exposure to around 1,300 stocks across developed markets outside Australia, including the US, Europe, and Japan. Importantly, it provides access to sectors like technology and healthcare that are underrepresented on the ASX.

    What I like most about the VGS ETF is its simplicity. It’s low cost, broadly diversified, and designed to compound over long periods. If I had to pick just one global equity ETF to hold for years, this would be very hard to go past.

    Foolish takeaway

    Smart investing doesn’t need to be complicated. A mix of global value, Asian growth, and broad international exposure can go a long way toward building a resilient portfolio.

    The VVLU ETF adds valuation discipline, the VAE ETF introduces long-term regional growth, and the VGS ETF provides a dependable global core. Together, they form a balanced trio that I think makes a lot of sense heading into February and beyond.

    The post 3 Vanguard ETFs for smart investors to buy in February appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Vanguard FTSE Asia ex Japan Shares Index ETF right now?

    Before you buy Vanguard FTSE Asia ex Japan Shares Index ETF 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 Vanguard FTSE Asia ex Japan Shares Index ETF 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 1 Jan 2026

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    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 Msci Index International Shares ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • VAS and IVV: 3 reasons these two ASX ETFs belong in a long-term portfolio

    Woman with an amazed expression has her hands and arms out with a laptop in front of her.

    Exchange traded funds (ETFs) are a fantastic investment option for beginner investors, or for those who want ASX exposure and long-term growth without the short-term stress.

    When it comes to the best options to buy and hold over the long-term. I think the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) and the iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) are a no-brainer.

    Here are three reasons why.

    1. Instant diversification

    As Australia’s largest ETF, VAS gives its investors exposure to the top 300 companies listed on the ASX, which means it offers incredible instant diversification across a broad range of Australian shares.

    Meanwhile, IVV gives investors exposure to the largest stocks in the US. The ETF tracks the S&P 500 Index (INDEXSP: INX) which is based on the 500 largest US stocks by market capitalisation.

    By combining these two ETFs together into a long-term portfolio, investors are able to spread their portfolio risk across a huge range of companies on two different indexes and therefore two different economic cycles and are subject to different aspects of risk.

    2. They offer a balance of income and growth

    Not all ASX ETFs offer both income and growth. But VAS is well-known for its access to long-term capital growth and potential for regular income through distributions. This includes any associated franking credits. As of 2026, the ETF has delivered 1-year total returns of roughly 9.34% and 3-year returns of 9.77%.

    And IVV also pays out decent distributions via its dividends and also has a strong focus on long-term capital growth. Past performance isn’t a guarantee on future performance, but the S&P 500 Index has performed strongly in 2025, particularly in the latter half of the year, and it looks like that growth has continued through to 2026. In the past 10 years to 31st of December, the IVV ETF has returned an average of 15.56% per year.

    3. They’re low cost

    Both the ASX ETF’s have very low management fees. That means that more returns are paid into investors’ pockets rather than eroded down by excess fees.

    VAS product fees are around 0.07% per annum for investment management costs. The EFT doesn’t charge indirect costs or net transaction fees. When it comes to platform fees, investors can expect a $9 brokerage fee when selling ETFs via a Vanguard Personal Investor Account but there is no fee for purchases.

    IVV said it aims to provide investors with the performance of the S&P 500 Index, before fees and expenses. The ETF’s management fee is 0.04% plus any brokerage fees for buying and selling. 

    The post VAS and IVV: 3 reasons these two ASX ETFs belong in a long-term portfolio appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in iShares S&P 500 ETF right now?

    Before you buy iShares S&P 500 ETF 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 iShares S&P 500 ETF 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 1 Jan 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 positions in and has recommended iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Got $5,000? 5 ASX income shares to buy and hold forever

    A woman relaxes on a yellow couch with a book and cuppa, and looks pensively away as she contemplates the joy of earning passive income.

    If you suddenly had $5,000 to invest and your priority was income, I would focus on owning businesses that can pay you reliably through good times and bad, and ideally grow those payments over time.

    These are five ASX income shares I’d be happy buying and holding for the long run.

    Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

    Mobile, broadband, and network services are essential, and that gives telecommunications leader Telstra defensive qualities that are hard to replicate elsewhere on the ASX.

    What I like most is that Telstra’s dividend is now backed by a simpler business and improving cash flow discipline. The company isn’t trying to reinvent itself every year. It’s focused on execution, network leadership, and returning capital to shareholders. For income investors, that predictability is valuable.

    Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

    Woolworths is a classic ASX income share for a reason. Supermarkets sit at the heart of household spending, and demand doesn’t disappear in tougher economic conditions.

    While Woolworths has had a challenging period operationally, the business still generates strong cash flows and holds a dominant market position. Over long periods, that combination has translated into reliable dividends and growth. I see Woolworths as a steady income anchor rather than an exciting story, and that’s exactly what you want in a long-term portfolio.

    Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1)

    Accent Group is the higher-risk option on this list, but also one with more income upside over time.

    The company has been impacted by soft consumer spending and discounting pressure, which has weighed on both earnings and its share price. However, Accent owns a portfolio of well-known footwear brands and operates with a flexible store network and strong supplier relationships.

    If consumer conditions normalise, there’s scope for both a recovery in profitability and a rebound in dividends. For patient investors, this could add a bit of growth to an income-focused portfolio.

    APA Group (ASX: APA)

    APA is one of the most dependable income shares on the ASX. Its energy infrastructure assets are long-lived, regulated, and essential to Australia’s gas and energy networks.

    What appeals to me is the visibility. APA’s earnings and distributions are supported by long-term contracts, which makes cash flows more predictable than most businesses. That reliability underpins its attractive dividend yield and makes APA well suited to investors who value income stability.

    Transurban Group (ASX: TCL)

    Transurban rounds out the list as a high-quality infrastructure income share.

    Toll roads benefit from population growth, urban congestion, and limited alternatives. Once an asset is built and operating, it tends to generate steady, inflation-linked cash flows for decades. Transurban has also demonstrated an ability to reinvest in new projects that extend its earnings base over time. For income investors, this ASX income share offers a blend of yield today and distribution growth over the long run.

    Foolish takeaway

    With $5,000, I think the focus should be on owning businesses that can keep paying you through multiple cycles.

    Telstra and Woolworths provide defensive income, APA and Transurban add infrastructure-backed stability, and Accent Group introduces a bit of recovery-driven upside. Together, they form a balanced mix of income and resilience that I’d be comfortable holding for many years.

    The post Got $5,000? 5 ASX income shares to buy and hold forever appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy APA 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 APA 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 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Apa Group, Telstra Group, Transurban Group, and Woolworths Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Accent Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Brokers say these ASX dividend shares are buys

    Happy shareholders clap and smile as they listen to a company earnings report.

    Deciding which ASX dividend shares to buy can be difficult given how much choice there is.

    To help narrow things down, I have picked out two shares that brokers are tipping as buys this month.

    Here’s what they are recommending to clients:

    Amcor (ASX: AMC)

    The team at Morgans thinks that packaging giant Amcor could be an ASX dividend share to buy.

    It was pleased to see management reaffirm its synergy targets and FY 2026 guidance. So, with its shares trading on low earnings multiples, it feels that now is the time to snap them up. It said:

    Following AMC’s recent 5:1 share consolidation, we update our per share estimates (EPS and DPS) to reflect the new share count. Our underlying earnings forecasts change marginally (between 0-1%), largely reflecting updates to FX assumptions. Our target price increases to $76.00 (from $15.20 previously) following the share consolidation. With a 12-month forecast TSR of 21%, we maintain our BUY rating. Following AMC’s solid 1Q26 result, management’s increased confidence in delivering FY26 synergy targets, and the reaffirmation of FY26 guidance, we believe the outlook remains positive. Trading on 10x FY27F PE with a 5.8% yield, we continue to view the valuation as attractive. AMC is due to report its 1H26 result in early February.

    Morgans is expecting dividends per share of $4.01 in FY 2026 and then $4.09 in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $63.86, this would mean dividend yields of 6.3% and 6.4%, respectively.

    The broker has a buy rating and $76.00 price target on Amcor’s shares.

    Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV)

    Bell Potter thinks that this struggling drinks giant could be an ASX dividend share to buy now.

    The broker believes that the BWS and Dan Murphy’s owner’s strategy reset could be the key to driving growth again. It said:

    We retain our Buy rating and lower our TP to $4.00. With a key negative catalyst now digested by the market (Retail gross margin reset), we can now look ahead to the strategy refresh where we believe expectations remain low (however, have improved given today’s muted market reaction) and therefore presents upside surprise potential. The key risk to our thesis is a further reset in earnings following the strategy refresh.

    As for income, Bell Potter is forecasting fully franked dividends of 15 cents per share in FY 2026 and then 19 cents per share in FY 2027. Based on its current share price of $3.77, this would mean dividend yields of 4% and 5%, respectively.

    Bell Potter has a buy rating and $4.00 price target on its shares.

    The post Brokers say these ASX dividend shares are buys appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Amcor plc right now?

    Before you buy Amcor plc 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 Amcor plc 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 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Endeavour 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 positions in and has recommended Amcor Plc. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • “A+ Scorecard” – Bell Potter just upgraded this ASX materials stock

    Engineer at an underground mine and talking to a miner.

    Develop Global Ltd (ASX: DVP) is an ASX materials stock that has soared over the last year. 

    In the past 12 months, it has risen 138%. 

    This includes a 22% rise already in 2026. 

    It now sits close to its 52 week high

    When valuations look full like this, it can be difficult for investors to jump in. 

    However a new report from Bell Potter suggests the ASX materials stock can keep rising.  

    2Q FY26 update

    Yesterday, Develop Global released its Quarterly Activities Report- December 2025.

    This included positive news regarding the company’s Woodlawn site. 

    The Woodlawn copper restart is Develop Global’s recommissioning of its Woodlawn underground copper-zinc mine in NSW, bringing the operation out of care and maintenance and back into production. 

    The company said the Woodlawn restart continues to perform strongly, with commissioning and ramp-up on schedule, putting the project on track for steady-state production in the March quarter:

    • A record 59,000t processed in the month of December puts Woodlawn on track to reac name-plate capacity rate of 850,000tpa in the March quarter
    • Quarterly revenue is up 98.5% to A$39.1 million from 9,472 tonnes of concentrate sales
    • Copper and zinc concentrate production increased 36% and 43% respectively compared to the September quarter, predominately driven by higher grade production from the Kate lens. 

    Reacting to the report, Bell Potter said: 

    Woodlawn revenue was A$39.1m, higher than A$19.7m in the prior quarter and our $24.8m estimate. While processing volumes were broadly consistent with the prior quarter, greater copper and zinc concentrate production (up 36% and 43% on the prior quarter, respectively) implies higher head grade and / or metal recoveries.

    Improved outlook for this ASX materials stock

    In a report out of Bell Potter yesterday, the broker said the company ended the quarter with cash of $179.9m, drawn debt of $108.5m and equipment financing of $47.0m, for a net cash position of $24.4m (vs $46.0m at the end of the Sep-25 quarter).

    This led to EPS changes of: FY26: +4% in FY26; nc in FY27-28.

    Achieving steady-state Woodlawn production in the Mar-26 quarter is forecast to drive +92% EPS growth in FY27, with upside should spot commodity prices hold.

    The broker highlighted the Mining Services division delivered A$55.5m in revenue in Q2 FY26. This was in line with expectations, driven by record output from its Bellevue Gold Mine contract.

    The recently secured A$200m Waihi North tunnelling contract in New Zealand is set to commence in the June 2026 quarter, adding medium-term earnings visibility. 

    Based on this guidance, the broker has updated its price target to $6.40 (previously $5.80). 

    From yesterday’s closing price, this indicates an upside of approximately 15.7%. 

    The post “A+ Scorecard” – Bell Potter just upgraded this ASX materials stock appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Develop Global right now?

    Before you buy Develop Global 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 Develop Global 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 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell 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.

  • 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursday

    A man looking at his laptop and thinking.

    On Wednesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) had a volatile day and ultimately ended it slightly lower. The benchmark index fell 0.1% to 8,933.9 points.

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

    ASX 200 to edge lower

    The Australian share market looks set to edge lower on Thursday following a mixed night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 3 points lower this morning. In late trade in the United States, the Dow Jones and the S&P 500 are flat, and the Nasdaq is up 0.3%.

    Oil prices rise

    ASX 200 energy shares Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have a good session on Thursday after oil prices rose overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 1.3% to US$63.22 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 1.25% to US$68.42 a barrel. This was driven by comments from Donald Trump that a “massive Armada is heading to Iran.”

    Boss Energy shares downgraded

    Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE) shares are fully valued according to analysts at Bell Potter. This morning, the broker has downgraded this uranium producer’s shares to a hold rating with a $1.95 price target. It said: “We maintain our TP of $1.95/sh and reduce our recommendation to Hold (previously Buy). Our valuation assumes production at Honeymoon over the short 10Y mine life is limited to ~1.6Mlbs pa and costs remain elevated, until such a time that management have completed the work to guide otherwise. We have ascribed nil value to BOE’s exploration assets at this point. NPAT changes are: FY26 +5%, FY27 -2% and FY28 nc.”

    Gold price jumps

    ASX 200 gold shares Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a very good session on Thursday after the gold price jumped overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up 4% to US$5,287 an ounce. This followed news that the US Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged, as was widely expected.

    Mineral Resources update

    Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) shares will be on watch today when the mining and mining services company releases its quarterly update. All eyes will be on the profitability of its lithium operations following a rebound in prices. For the same reason, Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) shares will be watched carefully when it releases its highly anticipated quarterly update.

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

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

    Before you buy Boss Energy 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 Boss Energy 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 1 Jan 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro 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 rocketing ASX All Ords gold stock is forecast to leap another 217%

    A man clenches his fists in excitement as gold coins fall from the sky.

    The All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) has returned 6.9% over the past 12 months, with ASX All Ords gold stock Strickland Metals Ltd (ASX: STK) leaving those gains in the dust.

    Strickland Metals shares closed on Wednesday trading for 20.5 cents apiece. That sees the share price up a sizzling 169.7% since 28 January 2025, when you could have snapped up shares for just 7.6 cents each.

    As you can likely guess, the record smashing gold price counts among the tailwinds that have been sending the ASX All Ords gold stock surging. On Wednesday, gold was trading for US$5,180 per ounce, putting the yellow metal up 89% in 12 months.

    Investor interest has also been roused by a series of exploratory drilling successes at the company’s 100%-owned 8.6-million-ounce gold equivalent Rogozna Project, located in Serbia.

    And with further drilling results pending and potentially driving a resource upgrade, the analysts at Canaccord Genuity believe the next 12 months could be even more profitable for shareholders.

    Here’s why.

    ASX All Ords gold stock hits rich new intercepts

    Last week, on 20 January, Strickland Metals reported on the latest assay results from its 5.3-million-ounce gold equivalent Shanac Deposit. Shanac sits within the broader Rogozna Project.

    Top results reported by the ASX All Ords gold stock included 37.2 metres at 1.1 grams of gold equivalent per tonne from 284.4 metres, and 113.4 metres at 1.7grams of gold equivalent per tonne from 451.0 metres.

    Strickland managing director Paul L’Herpiniere was clearly pleased with the assays. He said:

    The three diamond holes reported in this announcement all returned outstanding zones of strong copper-gold mineralisation, reinforcing the scale, quality and potential of our cornerstone ~5.3Moz AuEq Shanac Deposit.

    L’Herpiniere noted that the latest results will contribute towards an updated Mineral Resource Estimate for Shanac, which the company said remains on track to be reported later this quarter.

    Encouragingly, Strickland remains well-funded for its 2026 exploration program. The miner reported holding cash and liquid investments of $38.2 million at the end of the December quarter.

    What is Canaccord saying?

    In a new report following on the ASX All Ords gold stock’s latest drilling results, Canaccord said:

    Recent assay results from three diamond drill holes continue to demonstrate the presence of both bulk-tonnage mineralisation and discrete higher-grade zones within the central and southern domains of the deposit.

    As for what could help boost Strickland Metals shares in the months ahead, the broker added:

    Drilling at Shanac concluded in late December 2025, with multiple assays still pending across the broader Rogozna Project. These results, together with recent drilling, are expected to underpin a material update to the Shanac resource according to STK.

    Connecting the dots, Canaccord has a speculative buy rating on the ASX All Ords gold stock with a 65-cent price target.

    That represents a potential upside of 217% from Wednesday’s closing price.

    The post Why this rocketing ASX All Ords gold stock is forecast to leap another 217% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Strickland Metals Ltd right now?

    Before you buy Strickland Metals 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 Strickland Metals 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 1 Jan 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.