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The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) ended up 1.9% last week to finish the week at 6033.6. The market was boosted mid-week on hopes of a coronavirus vaccine, and seems to be pricing in an accelerated recovery from COVID-19. Experts, however, have warned impacts will be ongoing, with a vaccine unlikely to be widely available for at least a year. 

Investors moved out of high flying technology shares such as Afterpay Ltd (ASX: APT) last week, possibly locking in gains from recent meteoric share price rises. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) ended the week down 4.5%. Hurdles to economic recovery may prompt higher volatility as investors look to cash in on share price rises since March. 

The share market was buoyed by healthcare and the miners last week. The S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) gained 0.8%, with Ansell Limited (ASX: ANN) gaining 2.2%. BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) was up 3.5%, and Rio Tinto Limited (ASX: RIO) rose nearly 5%.

We take a look at the 5 top performing ASX 200 shares last week. 

Alumina Limited (ASX: AWC) 

The Alumina share price rose 12.9% last week to finish the week at $1.80 following strong second quarter earnings. Alumina has interests in bauxite mining, alumina refining, and aluminium smelting operations via a joint venture. The share price rose when Alumina announced it had received $58.6 million in distributions from the joint venture, which was above analyst expectations. This was an 87% increase on the $31.3 million received the previous quarter. 

Alumina prices have risen from their lows of $225 a tonne in April. Increased importing by China has seen prices rise to $284 a tonne. Commenting on the rebounding commodity price, CEO Mike Ferraro said:

Global demand for smelter-grade alumina so far in 2020 is slightly higher than 2019 volumes. Market sentiment globally has improved and there are signs of a promising economic recovery in China. However, it is still to be seen how the economic impact of the pandemic will pan out.

Credit Corp Group Limited (ASX: CCP)

The Credit Corp Group share price gained 10.8% last week to finish the week at $16.91. The debt collection group announced its unaudited FY20 results last week, revealing FY20 net profit after tax is expected to be $10 million–$15 million. This includes impairment charges relating to purchased debt ledger assets and additional provisioning from the impact of the COVID pandemic. Net profit before these adjustments is expected to be $75 million–$80 million. 

Credit Corp reports its customers have been less prepared to agree and maintain longer-term repayment plans since the implementation of isolation measures. This initially produced a sharp decline in collections and rising loan book arrears. More recently, willingness to make one-off payments has brought collections for May and June closer to pre-COVID levels. Persistently elevated levels of unemployment will likely see loan book arrears rise. Nonetheless, Credit Corp reports increased interest in debt sales.

With a strong capital position including no net debt and undrawn funding lines of $375 million, Credit Corp will be able to maximise investment opportunities as they arise. 

Cooper Energy Ltd (ASX: COE) 

The Cooper Energy share price rose 10.5% last week to close the week at 42 cents. Cooper Energy is an oil and gas company supplying customers including AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL) and Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG). Gas is produced in the Otway basin and accounts for the major share of the company’s sales revenue, production, and reserves.

There was no news out of Cooper Energy last week to account for the rise in share price, however the company has a number of projects under development which could add value and increase gas production. 

Gas prices have trended lower recently, led by LNG prices. This is expected to improve in July, however, and in the southern states production from existing and committed sources is expected to fall short of demand by 2021. With capital spending being reduced in FY20 and FY21, this shortfall could widen, leading to the need for new sources of supply. 

Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) 

The Fortescue Metals share price climbed 10.4% last week to finish the week at $16.39 with the miner benefitting from a soaring iron ore price. Iron ore rose to $110 a tonne in July, its highest point since August 2019. The surge in coronavirus infections in Brazil triggered concerns of a supply disruption, as demand from China rises. The Chinese Government has pledged to increase infrastructure spending to offset the impact of coronavirus on the economy. 

In the March quarter Fortescue reported record iron ore shipments of $32.3 million tonnes, 10% high than Q3 FY19. Year-to-date shipments were a record $130.9 million tonnes. Costs were 2% lower than 3Q FY19. Strong free cash flow generation resulted in cash on hand of US$4.2 billion at 31 March 2020 and net cash of US$0.1 billion, compared to net debt of US$2.9 billion at 31 March 2019. 

Orocobre Limited (ASX: ORE) 

The Orocobre share price rose 9.4% last week to finish the week at $2.80. Orocobre is a mineral resource company focused on lithium and borax mining operations. There was no news out of the company to prompt the price rise last week and lithium prices remain at record lows. Demand continues to be subdued in China’s lithium market, despite the resumption of economic activity. Nonetheless, investors may be buying into Orocobre now as lithium prices are poised to rally in the next few years as electric vehicle sales accelerate. This will be driven by government efforts globally to shift toward cleaner modes of mobility. 

In the June quarter, Orocobre sold approximately 1,600 tonnes of lithium carbonate at around US$4,105 a tonne. COVID-19 restrictions limited the ability to complete sales during the quarter. While most logistical issues have been addressed, delivery of product is yet to return to normal levels as customers delay shipments due to lower production and excess inventory.

More reading

• ASX 200 down 0.5%: Sydney Airport and South32 updates, HUB24 delivers record Q4
• Why the South32 share price is falling today
• 3 ASX shares to leverage the booming iron ore price
• Is the Xero share price in the buy zone right now?
• Coles and 2 more ASX 200 shares to watch this week

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

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The 1300 Smiles Limited (ASX: ONT) share price is currently trading 3.11% higher after the release of the company’s most recent trading results today.

1300 Smiles owns and operates full-service dental facilities in New South Wales, South Australia and across 10 major population centres in Queensland. 

Trading update

Despite the coronavirus pandemic impacting its April and May profitability, the group delivered strong June results.  

The group reported that its June 2020 revenue was up 18% compared with the same time last year (June 2019). Additionally, same-store sales increased by 20%. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) was up by 65% on the prior corresponding period (pcp). The group also reported its online booking platform saw a 216% increase in use on pcp. 

1300 Smiles had net debt of $8.3 million as at the end of last month.

In the update, the group highlighted it benefitted from the reopening of dental clinics after restrictions went back down to level 1. Pleasingly, the strong results last month have continued this month. The group is still finalising its full year results, but reported its revenue was only down by 3%.

1300 Smiles managing director Dr Daryl Holmes said “these are truly amazing results that I am so excited and reassured by, after coming through the most challenging and extraordinary months… the ongoing out-performance continues to amaze our board and I.”

Today’s announcement follows an update on 6 April 2020. In April, the group had about 50% of its practices open throughout its network, in accordance with advice from the relevant authorities.

Across the pandemic, 1300 Smiles has been supported by its senior lender Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA). It had approximately $10 million in undrawn facilities, as per the April update.

About the 1300 Smiles share price

In its half yearly report released in February this year (before the full impact of the pandemic on operations), the company reported revenue and net profit after tax was up 14.5% and 6.8%, respectively. 

However, the group’s shares have since been impacted by the lockdown restrictions and are trading down 15.87% over the past year. The 1300 Smiles share price is currently sitting at $5.30 per share. 

More reading

• Leading brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today
• 5 of the worst performing ASX shares from last week
• 5 top performing ASX 200 shares from last week
• 2 quality ASX 200 shares to buy and hold beyond 2027
• How to invest $10,000 in ASX 200 shares for growth and dividends

Motley Fool contributor Matthew Donald has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended 1300SMILES Limited. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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In my opinion, investing in ASX 200 shares is very much a long term game. Here we look at two quality ASX 200 shares that may not have been top performers over the past year in terms of share price gains, but which I believe are both well positioned for above average shareholder returns over the next five years and beyond.

2 ASX 200 shares to buy and hold 

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

The Soul Patts share price rallied strongly during 2018, however lost some ground in the first part of 2019. Since then, it has been largely trending sideways, despite a dip in the early phase of the coronavirus pandemic. However, I believe looking back over a longer period provides greater insight into the Soul Patts business model. Over the past 10 years, this ASX 200 share has increased by nearly 60%.

In fact, Soul Patts has a strong, long-term track record of outperforming the ASX index. Also, it has been listed on the ASX for over a century, and has paid a dividend every year in that time.

I am particularly attracted to Soul Patts as an ASX 200 share investment due to its highly diversified business model. The company invests across a broad spectrum of industries, ranging from pharmacies and telecommunications to mining and building products.

Soul Patts also keeps a significant amount of cash on its books. This positions it well to snap up any lucrative investment opportunities that may come its way. With its share price currently trading at well below levels seen in early 2019, Soul Patts is definitely in my buy zone right now.

Blackmores Limited (ASX: BKL)

The Blackmores share price has experienced a downward trend after its lofty heights at the beginning of 2016 when it was trading above $210. It is now trading at $73.15. However, I feel this downward trend needs to be considered within the context of Blackmores’ share price performance during 2015, when it grew at a phenomenal pace. At the beginning of 2015, the Blackmores share price was trading at around half of its current level.

Granted, Blackmores recent financial performance has not been overly impressive. In particular, the company’s operations in China have underperformed. However, Blackmores now has a plan in place to rejuvenate its growth in Asia, particularly in the massive Chinese market. The company is injecting more funds into its South East Asian operations, and will also target the Indian market.

Despite the challenges ahead, Blackmores remains my buy zone. I believe that its Asian strategy holds promise, and with its share price well down on the levels seen at the beginning of 2019, I believe it offers a reasonably good buying opportunity for patient, long-term investors.

Foolish takeaway

Soul Patts and Blackmores are two quality ASX 200 shares that are in my buy zone right now. My pick of the two would probably be Soul Patts, due to its more diversified business model and strong track record of shareholder returns.

More reading

• How to create a yearly income of $65,000 in dividends
• Fund managers have been buying these ASX shares
• What I’m looking for in dividend shares during COVID-19
• 2 ASX shares that could be 10-baggers
• 3 top ASX 200 blue chip shares to buy

Motley Fool contributor Phil Harpur owns shares of Blackmores Limited. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended Blackmores Limited and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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Growth and dividends. That’s the holy grail that most ASX 200 share investors are looking for.

It’s a rare combination, but one that can be an absolute gold mine if you can find it.

If you’re looking to invest $10,000 for both growth and dividends, here’s how I’d go about setting up a brand new ASX 200 share portfolio.

Where I’d invest $10,000 in ASX 200 shares

I’m going to assume I’m building a diversified portfolio from the ground up. I personally like the ‘satellite’ approach, which is underpinned by a diversified core with some smaller allocations to growth companies.

That means it’s good to start with a cornerstone investment that can underpin portfolio growth. With $10,000 to invest, allocating your first $5,000 to a diversified exchange-traded fund (ETF) like Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) could be a good move.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF seeks to track the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) and invests in 306 companies. With a management fee of just 0.10% p.a., this Vanguard fund could give your portfolio instant diversification with a high weighting towards ASX 200 shares.

Once you’ve got your $5,000 ETF investment, it’s time to build out the ‘satellite’. If you’re looking for growth in the next 10 years, it’s worth thinking about potential boom industries.

To me, that means I’m looking in the biotech and data management industries.

With the remaining $5,000, I wouldn’t want to spread my investment too thin across ASX 200 shares. That means shares like Polynovo Ltd (ASX: PNV) and NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT) could be in my sights.

Polynovo continues to kick goals and make the most of its significant research and development capabilities. Polynovo shares are up 17.65% this year but further applications of its NovoSorb BTM product could see the ASX 200 biotech share climb higher, in my view. Specifically, Polynovo is eyeing off the lucrative breast augmentation and hernia repair markets right now.

I think the data management sector could also have a huge decade in the 2020s. NextDC is currently a leader in the data storage and security space. That leaves the ASX 200 tech share well-placed to climb higher if earnings continue at a strong pace in the next decade.

So… what’s the end result?

Putting $5,000 into Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF should provide a handy dividend and franking credits for investors. Then, investing $2,500 in each of NextDC and Polynovo shares rounds out your ASX portfolio with a potential growth platform. If these 2 Aussie companies can continue their strong growth in the next 10 years, then that could be a solid mix of growth and dividends by 2030, in my opinion.

More reading

• ASX 200 Weekly Wrap: Blue chip shares pull ASX 200 back over 6,000 points
• 3 reasons to buy Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETFs
• These were the worst performing ASX 200 shares last week
• 3 excellent ASX ETFs to buy for dividends
• Where to invest your first $500 into ASX shares

Ken Hall owns shares of Vanguard Australian Shares Index. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of POLYNOVO FPO. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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The Noxofarm Ltd (ASX: NOX) share price soared after positive results regarding its cancer treatment drug, Veyonda, were released this morning. The immuno-oncology drug development company saw its share price rise 12% to 37 cents on the news. Noxofarm shares have since been sold down to 34 cents (at the time of writing) representing a more modest gain of 3% for the day so far.

While this is good news for the company, the drug is still a very long way off commercialisation stage. If Veyonda does actually reach commercialisation, it’s likely the Noxopharm share price will once again surge. Currently, however, Noxopharm continues consuming cash via capital raisings. The company’s share price has been gradually shrinking over the past couple of years due to the ballooning number of shares on issue. Noxopharm has already undertaken two equity raises this year.

What does Noxopharm do?

Noxopharm is an ASX listed, clinical stage drug development company. Noxopharm’s current clinical stage drug is Veyonda. Veyonda aims to work with the body to fight cancer, not against it as is commonplace. It enhances the cancer-killing effect of standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Thus, enabling lower doses of these toxic therapies to be successfully administered. Furthermore, the drug seeks to activate the body’s innate immune cell function to attack those cancer cells that have survived the initial treatment.

Why did the Noxopharm share price soar?

The Noxopharm share price soared as it was announced that independent data confirmed Idronoxil could convert ‘cold’ tumours to ‘hot’ tumours. Idronoxil is the main active ingredient in Veyonda. This action is regarded as a fundamental goal in enabling immuno-oncology drugs. These drugs have long been hailed as the future of cancer therapy, but are poorly effective in ‘cold’ tumours. ‘Cold’ tumours are the majority of those found in human cancer patients. The ability to convert tumours to ‘hot’ restores cancer-fighting immune cells to tumours. Therefore enabling the body to aid in the fight against cancer.

This conversion is seen as a prerequisite in expanding the annual US$20 billion immuno-oncology drug market. Furthermore, a patent has been lodged on this potentially highly valuable intellectual property with Noxopharm to commence discussions with global oncology firms.

What now for the Noxopharm share price?

Despite this encouraging news, the data is only pre-clinical and, as such, the drug is still a long way from being released to the markets. Nevertheless, it is much needed good news for the ASX biotech stock. The Noxopharm share price has seen its share price spike 100% so far in July despite this being the first piece of news announced this month.

More reading

• 2 quality ASX 200 shares to buy and hold beyond 2027
• How to invest $10,000 in ASX 200 shares for growth and dividends
• Why Catapult, Eclipx, FlexiGroup, & Whispir shares are charging higher
• The Coles share price is flying under the radar
• Why CSR, South32, Sydney Airport, & Webjet shares are tumbling lower

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

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In afternoon trade the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) looks set to start the week with a disappointing decline. At the time of writing the benchmark index is down 0.6% to 5,995.3 points.

Four shares that have not let that hold them back are listed below. Here’s why they are charging higher:

The Catapult Group International Ltd (ASX: CAT) share price has rocketed over 12% higher to $1.43. Investors have been buying the sports analytics and wearables company’s shares following the release of its full year update. According to the release, Catapult generated net free cash of $9 million in FY 2020. This was a massive $24.1 million increase on FY 2019’s result. As a result, it has achieved positive cash flow a year earlier than forecast. This was driven partly by its subscription-based business model.

The Eclipx Group Ltd (ASX: ECX) share price is up 6% to $1.38. This follows the announcement of a binding agreement for the sale of the Right2Drive business to Growth Factor Group for a purchase price of up to $26.5 million. The transaction includes an ongoing commercial relationship with Right2Drive, including a right to supply new vehicle leases to Right2Drive for a period of three years. All existing leases between Eclipx and Right2Drive will also remain on foot.

The FlexiGroup Limited (ASX: FXL) share price is up 3.5% to $1.25. This morning FlexiGroup released an update on its buy now pay later platform, Humm. According to the release, fourth quarter ecommerce volume was up 315%, with total transactions up 447% on the prior corresponding period. This was driven by a record number of ecommerce and instore integrations during the quarter and a new BPAY feature which allows customers to pay for bills in manageable interest. At the end of the quarter, the humm platform had a total of 56,000 retail partners.

The Whispir Ltd (ASX: WSP) share price has surged 17% higher to $3.94 following its fourth quarter update. The communications workflow platform provider’s update revealed strong demand by new and existing customers during the pandemic. According to the release, the company’s annualised recurring revenue rose 4.2% over the March quarter and 35.7% over the prior corresponding period to $42.2 million. This was driven by strong growth in the ANZ and Asia regions.

More reading

• Whispir share price surges 8% to a record high on stellar Q4 update
• FlexiGroup share price jumps 8% higher following BNPL update
• Catapult share price on watch after FY20 Results Preview
• These are the 10 most shorted shares on the ASX
• How to get rich by investing in small cap ASX shares

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

The post Why Catapult, Eclipx, FlexiGroup, & Whispir shares are charging higher appeared first on Motley Fool Australia.

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The Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) share price has surged close to 20% in the past 2 months and is currently trading near record highs. So, what is fuelling the company’s share price and is now the time to invest in Coles shares?

Second wave fears fuelling demand

With Melbourne entering a 6-week lockdown period and fears of a second wave of coronavirus cases growing across the country, supermarkets like Coles could see a renewed surge in demand.

Earlier this month, the company was forced to re-impose purchase restrictions in Victoria as panic-buyers raided supermarkets. Coles has since lifted purchase restrictions after reassuring customers that border closures will not disrupt food and grocery supplies.  

How has Coles performed?

In late April, Coles released its 3rd quarter sales update for FY20, which reflected the unprecedented demand seen during the coronavirus pandemic. Coles reported a 12.9% surge in revenue of $9.2 billion for the quarter, whilst also highlighting a 12.4% increase in comparable sales growth.

According to the company, with more Australians confined to living and working from home, household consumption has surged. As a result, Coles saw a significant increase in demand for general groceries, meat, health, and home products.

However, with the surge in demand Coles has also seen an increase in costs. The company has recruited around 12,000 casual team members in order to deal with the surging demand, whilst also spending more money on security and cleaning services.  

The outlook for Coles

As more customers continue to work from home, post-pandemic, Coles expects consumer behaviour and habits to change as well. The company expects consumers in the future to increase the amount they purchase whilst also utilising online shopping for convenience.

Coles saw 14% growth in online sales revenue for the 3rd quarter, despite its home delivery and ‘Click&Collect’ services being temporarily suspended in March. In order to accommodate the change in consumer behaviour, Coles is looking to increase its online capacity in the future.  

Should you buy?

I think it is important for investors to understand that a surge in demand doesn’t automatically translate into a higher share price. The company still has to invest heavily in e-commerce and other services in order to maintain its growth.

However, despite the increase in costs, I think that Coles is well positioned for growth in 2020 and beyond. The company has a strong pipeline of investment opportunities that are designed to improve its supply chain efficiency and cash status. Examples of this is include investing $950 million over 6 years into automated distribution centres, and developing partnerships with global online specialists.

All that being said, I think a prudent strategy would be to wait until after the August reporting season before buying shares in Coles.

More reading

• Coles and 2 more ASX 200 shares to watch this week
• ASX 200 Weekly Wrap: Blue chip shares pull ASX 200 back over 6,000 points
• Buy these strong ASX shares for your retirement portfolio
• 4 ASX shares I’d buy to protect against a recession
• Top ASX dividend shares to buy in July 2020

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

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In afternoon trade the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to start the week with a sizeable decline. At the time of writing the benchmark index is down 0.65% to 5,994.5 points.

Four shares that have fallen more than most today are listed below. Here’s why they are tumbling lower:

The CSR Limited (ASX: CSR) share price is down 4.5% to $3.48. Investors have been selling the buildings products company’s shares following the release of a bearish broker note out of Morgan Stanley. Its analysts have downgraded CSR’s shares to an underweight rating and cut the price target on them to $3.10. The broker expects its performance to be impacted by lower activity levels because of the pandemic.

The South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) share price is down 2% to $2.18. Investors have been selling the mining giant’s shares after the release of its fourth quarter update. South32’s update revealed record production at its Brazil Alumina, Hillside Aluminium, and Australia Manganese mines in FY 2020. However, things weren’t quite as positive for its Illawarra metallurgical coal production. It was below guidance for the year due to challenging strata conditions. The company also warned that commodity prices could be lower for an extended period of time.

The Sydney Airport Holdings Pty Ltd (ASX: SYD) share price is down almost 1.5% to $5.40. The airport operator’s shares have come under pressure following the release of its traffic update for June. That update revealed that a total of 172,000 passengers passed through its gates during the month. This was a 94.9% reduction on the prior corresponding period’s ~3.4 million passengers.

The Webjet Limited (ASX: WEB) share price is down 5% to $2.85. Investors have been selling travel shares on Monday amid increasing concerns over the recovery of the domestic travel market. This follows a spike in coronavirus cases in pockets of New South Wales and further cases in Victoria. Given how important these states are for domestic tourism, this could derail the recovery and put pressure on the likes of Webjet.

More reading

• ASX 200 down 0.5%: Sydney Airport and South32 updates, HUB24 delivers record Q4
• Why the South32 share price is falling today
• Sydney Airport share price on watch after traffic update
• ASX 200 Weekly Wrap: Blue chip shares pull ASX 200 back over 6,000 points
• These are the 10 most shorted shares on the ASX

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

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The Respiri Ltd (ASX: RSH) share price has today reached 52-weeks highs, following news that the eHealth company signed a merchant services agreement with major payments share Zip Co Ltd (ASX: Z1P). The Respiri share price is currently trading over 17% higher at 17 cents per share.

What does Respiri do?

Respiri is a medical technology company that develops devices and mobile health applications, with the aim of improving patient self-management of chronic, costly respiratory disorders. Respiri’s technology is used in major hospitals in UK, Europe, USA, Japan, Korea and Australia.

The company’s flagship device ‘wheezo’ employs machine learning to provide personalised feedback and education to patients. Its goal is to help improve quality of life for children and adults who suffer from diseases like asthma, diabetes and cardiovascular illness. Furthermore, it aims to dramatically reduce hospital admissions and the economic burden from these diseases.

Respiri’s operations are based in Melbourne, Australia.

Why is the Respiri share price storming higher?

The Respiri share price is climbing on the announcement of a merchant services agreement with well known buy now, pay later (BNPL) service provider, Zip.

Respiri CEO Mr Marjan Mikel noted:”Our Agreement with ZIP provides asthmatic patients seeking access to our platform additional financial flexibility when making these important healthcare decisions relating to improvements in the management of their disease.”

As recently as last Friday, the company also announced that it had signed an exclusive sales agreement with Cipla Australia for wheezo. Cipla Ltd is a globally recognised pharmaceutical company. The deal saw the Respiri share price jump over 30% on Friday alone. 

The agreement with Cipla is for an initial minimum order quantity of 2,000 with delivery in October. It has a 5-year term, with a 3-year renewal option. According to Respiri, Cipla Australia possesses significant sales and marketing infrastructure, covering over 80% of the pharmacy market in Australia.

Foolish takeaway

The Covid-19 crisis has seen a shift toward remote care to try to keep patients out of hospitals, lower costs and improve care. In my view, these factors will encourage greater adoption of Respiri’s remote patient monitors, and the company’s partnerships with Zip and Cipla will also make it easier for consumers to acquire Respiri’s products.

Respiri shares have been storming higher so far this year, as the company sees high demand for its software-as-a-service platform. This demand has seen the Respiri share price rise by more than 70% in 2020.

More reading

• Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to sell next week
• How I’d build a $100,000 ASX portfolio of growth shares
• Why Cann, Flight Centre, Helloworld, & Zip shares are dropping lower
• How to pick an ASX 200 share market bubble
• Why the Zip Co share price sank 11% lower today

Daniel Ewing has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of ZIPCOLTD FPO. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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The S&P/ASX 200 (ASX: XJO) is down over 10% compared to this time a year ago. Individual share performances have varied in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic with some surging and others wilting. 

The shift to eCommerce hastened by the onset of the virus is benefiting online operators. Healthcare companies involved in treatment of coronavirus have also been favored by investors. Meanwhile, gold miners have performed well as investors seek safe haven assets. We take a look at why these nine shares have more than doubled in value over the past year. 

9 ASX shares that have doubled in value over the last year

Australian Ethical Investment Limited (ASX: AEF) 

The Australian Ethical Investment share price is up 210% compared to a year ago. The managed funds and superannuation company invests more than $4 billion for over 57,000 customers in accordance with ethical and sustainability principles. Its Emerging Companies Fund returned 13.9% after all fees in FY20 against a benchmark of negative 7.4%. Australian Ethical Investment earned a performance fee of $3.64 million thanks to the Fund’s outperformance. The company is now expecting underlying profit after tax of between $9 and $9.5 million in FY20, an increase of 41% from FY19. 

Kogan.com Limited (ASX: KGN) 

The Kogan share price has risen 228% over the past year with the online retailer’s performance accelerating during lockdown. Kogan sells a wide range of products from consumer electronics to appliances, homewares, hardware, and toys. During lockdown, demand for homewares and electronics surged, facilitating more time spent living and working from home. Kogan saw gross sales rise more than 100% in April and May. Gross profit grew by more than 130% over the same period. Kogan is benefitting from the ongoing shift to eCommerce which has been hastened by the onset of coronavirus. 

Afterpay Ltd (ASX: APT)

The biggest of the buy now, pay later (BNPL) providers by market capitalisation, the Afterpay share price is up 186% over the past year. Afterpay is benefitting from the move to digital payments, settling record transaction volumes through 4QFY20. Over the full year, Afterpay delivered underlying sales of $11.1 billion, a 112% increase on the previous year. Fourth quarter underlying sales were the highest ever at $3.8 billion, 127% above 4Q FY19. This reflects the accelerating shift to eCommerce which has occurred since the pandemic broke out. The net transaction margin for FY20 is expected to be approximately 2%, underpinning a pathway to longer term profitability for the business. 

Opthea Ltd (ASX: OPT) 

The Opthea share price is up 173% over the past year and has recovered well from the March market correction. The rise in its share price saw Opthea joining the S&P/ASX 300 (XKO) in the most recent quarterly rebalance. Opthea is developing a novel therapeutic to improve vision and reduce retinal swelling in patients with eye diseases. Its product candidate is currently undergoing Phase 2 clinical trials to determine if it improves visual acuity in patients suffering from Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration and Diabetic Macular Edema. The prevalence of both diseases is on the rise due to the aging population and increasing prevalence of diabetes worldwide. 

West African Resources Ltd (ASX: WAF) 

The West African Resources share price has increased nearly 170% since this time a year ago. The company is a gold miner operating in West Africa that has benefitted from the rise in the gold price over recent months. Gold was trading at around $2200 at the start of 2020 but has risen to around $2600 per ounce currently. In the year to 30 June, West African Resources smelted 37,807 ounces of gold and shipped 35,080 ounces. This ASX share reported it held US$65.6 million in cash and gold at 30 June 2020. 

Ramelius Resources Limited (ASX: RMS) 

The Ramelius Resources share price has gained 134% over the past year. Another gold miner to benefit from rising gold prices, Ramelius Resources operates a number of gold projects in Western Australia. The company produced 86,517 ounces of gold in the June quarter and a record 230,426 ounces in FY20. The balance sheet remained robust with cash and gold of $185.5 million and a reduced debt figure of $24.4 million at the end of June. This gives a net cash position of $161.1 million. 

Mesoblast Limited (ASX: MSB) 

The Mesoblast share price has risen 123% in the last year with its cell therapy remestemcel-L proving beneficial in the treatment of seriously ill COVID-19 patients. In April, Mesoblast reported a significant increase in survival for coronavirus patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) who were given the treatment. Remestemcel-L is currently undergoing phase 3 trials to assess its use in adult ARDS patients. During the nine months to the end of March, Mesoblast’s revenues increased 113% reaching US$31.5 million. Loss after tax reduced to US$45.3 million over the period, with cash in hand of US$60 million plus another US$90 million raised in May. 

Codan Limited (ASX: CDA) 

The Codan share price is up 111% over the past year with the company reporting it will deliver a record profit in FY20 of around $63 million. Codan provides communications technology, metal detectors, defence electronics, and mining automation solutions. Customers are humanitarian organisations, mining companies, security and military groups. Demand for metal detectors has remained strong across both recreational and gold mining markets. The communication business has also been performing strongly delivering a $7 million project which led to a record sales month in May. Codan reports it has net cash of $85 million on the balance sheet. 

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corp Ltd (ASX: FPH) 

The Fisher & Paykel share price has climbed 115% over the past year with the healthcare company reporting unprecedented demand for its respiratory devices. Production of some hospital hardware products was doubled or tripled earlier this year. Fisher & Paykel announced record results for the year to 31 March 2020 with profit after tax rising 37% to $287.3 million. For the first three months of FY21, hardware sales have continued to accelerate and hospital consumables were tracking at a one third increase. 

More reading

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• How I’d build a $100,000 ASX portfolio of growth shares

Kate O’Brien has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of Australian Ethical Investment Ltd. and Kogan.com ltd. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of AFTERPAY T FPO. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Australian Ethical Investment Ltd. and Kogan.com ltd. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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