Tag: Motley Fool

  • The tiny ASX stock that could surge on this pending government decision

    A happy woman wearing a sweatband at the gym celebrates success or an achievement by puffing up and flexing her muscles with pride.

    Changes to government legislation can impact Aussie businesses. That’s why staying abreast of proposed changes can be vitally important. Depending on the policy, it can quickly create opportunities and adversities for ASX stocks.

    In saying that, I wouldn’t pick companies to invest in purely based on government policies. There also needs to be a quality business underneath.

    It’s akin to surfing. A beach with great waves is a good start — these are the industry tailwinds — but if you’re a hopeless surfer (company), you’ll still struggle to make the most of the conditions. Good surf matched with talent, though, is a dangerously good combo.

    Why this ASX stock could be a winner

    AUSactive, an exercise and active health industry association, is pushing for some inclusions in the 2024-2025 Federal Budget.

    In its submission, AUSactive calls for the government to:

    1. Provide an exemption under the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) legislation
    2. Make all Australian gym and active health memberships tax-deductible
    3. Educate Australians on the importance of physical activity

    Current legislation only allows a tax deduction if the person’s profession requires high fitness. However, AUSactive argues that the country would benefit from removing this stipulation. The association justifies this by pointing out an estimated $1.7 billion of costs directly from physical inactivity.

    The submission highlights that 75% of Australian adults are not meeting recommended activity levels. By making memberships tax deductible and introducing an FBT exemption for employers, AUSactive believes Australia can improve its disease incidence, reduce absenteeism, and increase productivity.

    One ASX stock that could arguably benefit if the government adopts this recommendation is Viva Leisure Ltd (ASX: VVA).

    Operating across 345 locations (168 owned), Viva Leisure has built a considerable presence in the Australian health club industry. The company operates through several brands, including Club Lime, HIIT Republic, Plus Fitness, and GroundUp.

    Viva’s half-year results show the company served 180,071, generating $79.1 million in revenue. That roughly works out to be $16.90 per member per week.

    The upshot

    If AUSactive’s submission goes ahead, we could see an increased push for gym signups. More employers may see fitness memberships as a good way of retaining employees, helping boost nationwide gym numbers.

    Furthermore, if memberships become tax deductible, people might be inclined to upgrade and pay extra for the ‘next tier’.

    Both situations would increase revenue and likely profits for an ASX stock such as Viva Leisure.

    The post The tiny ASX stock that could surge on this pending government decision 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 1 February 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor Mitchell Lawler 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.

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  • 5 excellent ASX dividend stocks to buy in April

    Woman holding $50 and $20 notes.

    Fortunately for Australian income investors, there are plenty of ASX dividend stocks to choose from on the local share market.

    But which ones could be top options for investors this month?

    Let’s take a look at five excellent ASX dividend stocks that analysts are tipping as buys. They are as follows:

    Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV)

    Goldman Sachs thinks that the owner of BWS and Dan Murphy’s could be a top option for income investors right now. The broker currently has a buy rating and $6.20 price target on the drinks giant’s shares.

    As for income, the broker is forecasting fully franked dividends of approximately 22 cents per share in FY 2024 and FY 2025. Based on the current Endeavour share price of $5.35, this will mean dividend yields of 4.1% for both years.

    Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO)

    The team at Goldman Sachs also thinks that this mining giant could be an ASX dividend stock to buy now. It has a buy rating and $140.20 price target on the miner’s shares.

    In respect to dividends, the broker is forecasting fully franked dividends per share of US$4.38 (A$6.67) in FY 2024 and then US$4.63 (A$7.06) in FY 2025. Based on the latest Rio Tinto share price of $123.06, this will mean yields of approximately 5.4% and 5.7%, respectively.

    Rural Funds Group (ASX: RFF)

    Over at Bell Potter, its analysts think that this agricultural property company is an ASX dividend stock to buy. The broker currently has a buy rating and $2.40 price target on its shares.

    As well as plenty of upside, the broker expects above-average dividend yields from its shares. It is forecasting dividends per share of 11.7 cents in both FY 2024 and FY 2025. Based on the current Rural Funds share price of $2.06, this will mean yields of 5.7% in both years for investors.

    Transurban Group (ASX: TCL)

    Citi thinks that Transurban could be an ASX dividend stock to buy. It is a leading toll road developer and operator. The broker has a buy rating and $15.60 price target on its shares.

    As for income, it is expecting dividends per share of 63 cents in FY 2024 and 65 cents in FY 2025. Based on the current Transurban share price of $13.20, this will mean yields of 4.8% and 4.9%, respectively.

    Universal Store Holdings Ltd (ASX: UNI)

    Finally, the team at Morgans believes that youth fashion retailer Universal Store could be an ASX dividend stock to buy. It has an add rating and $5.65 price target on its shares.

    In respect to income, the broker is forecasting dividends per share of 26 cents in FY 2024 and 29 cents in FY 2025. Based on the current Universal Store share price of $5.32, this will mean yields of 4.9% and 5.5%, respectively.

    The post 5 excellent ASX dividend stocks to buy in April 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 1 February 2024

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    Citigroup is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Endeavour Group and Universal Store. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group and Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Rural Funds Group. 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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  • 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursday

    Smiling man with phone in wheelchair watching stocks and trends on computer

    On Wednesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) had a day to forget and tumbled deep into the red. The benchmark index sank a disappointing 1.3% to 7,782.5 points.

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

    ASX 200 expected to rebound

    The Australian share market looks set for a better session on Thursday following an improved night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 23 points or 0.3% higher this morning. In late trade on Wall Street, the Dow Jones is down 0.1%, but the S&P 500 has risen 0.15% and the Nasdaq is 0.2% higher.

    Oil prices rise again

    ASX 200 energy shares including Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) could have a decent session after oil prices rose again overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 0.4% to US$85.47 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 0.5% to US$89.38 a barrel. Rising geopolitical tensions have given oil prices a lift.

    Dividend payday

    Today is another big day for dividends with a number of ASX 200 shares distributing their latest payouts to their lucky shareholders. Among the companies that are paying dividends today are financial services company AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP), diversified food company Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA), mining giant South32 Ltd (ASX: S32), and energy behemoth Woodside. The latter is paying out a fully franked final dividend of 91.7 cents per share this morning.

    Gold price jumps

    It looks set to be a very good session for ASX 200 gold shares such as Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) after the gold price jumped overnight. According to CNBC, the spot gold price is up 1.5% to US$2,315.3 an ounce. The precious metal climbed to a new record high after demand for safe haven assets increased due to geopolitical risks.

    Buy BHP shares

    The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price is good value according to analysts at Goldman Sachs. This morning, the broker has retained its buy rating and $49.20 price target on the mining giant’s shares. Goldman named four reasons why it rates BHP as a buy. It said: “(1) Attractive valuation, but at a premium to RIO; (2) GS bullish copper and met coal; (3) Optionality with the +US$20bn copper pipeline and strong production growth over 24/25; (4) Robust FCF, but still below RIO.”

    The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursday 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 1 February 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Woodside Energy Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group. 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.

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  • 3 Australian shares quietly crushing the ASX this year

    Three exuberant runners dash towards the camera. One raises her arms in triumph; another jumps in the air with arms raised. The third runner gives a satisfied smile.

    The All Ordinaries (ASX: XAO) has risen a pleasing amount over the past six months, up more than 12%. However, when you zoom in for a closer look at the year to date, the All Ords has lifted only 2% in 2024.

    There are a few Australian shares that have completely smashed the ASX’s return this year. Here are three of the top performers.

    Life360 Inc (ASX: 360)

    The Life360 share price has risen by almost 70% since the start of 2024.

    This ASX tech share provides an app to families that helps track where people are via location sharing. The app has communication abilities, it delivers ‘safe driver reports’ and has crash detection with emergency dispatch.

    A month ago, the company reported strong growth in its 2023 annual result. Revenue lifted 33% year-over-year to $305 million, and the company saw a 26% year-over-year increase in global monthly users to 61.4 million.

    Profitability is now flowing through the business, too. Life360 delivered positive adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $20.6 million (beating guidance of between $12 million to $16 million). It also achieved a positive operating cash flow of $7.5 million, an improvement of $64.6 million year over year.

    Life36 expects revenue of between $365 million to $375 million in 2024, with adjusted EBITDA of between $30 million to $35 million.

    Step One Clothing Ltd (ASX: STP)

    The Step One share price has risen by more than 60% since the start of 2024.

    The Australian company describes itself as a leading direct-to-consumer online retailer of innerwear. It offers an exclusive range of high-quality, organically grown and certified, sustainable and ethically manufactured innerwear.

    The company’s HY24 result released I February showed a lot of positive numbers. Revenue rose by 25.5% to $45.1 million, EBITDA grew 35.6% to $10.1 million, the gross profit margin improved from 80.7% to 81.2% and the average order value went up 4.7% to $94.47.

    Step One Clothing also declared a dividend per share of 4 cents.

    Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW)

    Since the start of 2024, the Temple & Webster share price has risen around 40%.

    Temple & Webster is an online retailer of homewares and furniture. It sells more than 200,000 products, with a large proportion from its hundreds of suppliers who ship directly to the customer. This process reduces the need for the ASX share to hold inventory. It also has a private label range.

    The Australian share has a growing trade and commercial division, as well as a large range of home improvement products such as bathroom items, kitchen items, tiles, curtains, blinds, lighting and so on.

    Temple & Webster’s HY24 result was impressive, considering the challenging economic conditions impacting household spending. Revenue rose by 23% to $254 million, and it achieved EBITDA of $7.5 million for the FY24 first half.

    For the period of 1 January 2024 to 11 February 2024, revenue increased by 35%, thanks to both first-time and repeat customers. It finished with $114 million of cash and no debt.

    The post 3 Australian shares quietly crushing the ASX this year 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 1 February 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has positions in Temple & Webster Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Life360 and Temple & Webster Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Temple & Webster Group. 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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  • Is the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (HACK) a good long-term investment?

    Cybersecurity professional man inspects server room and works on ipadCybersecurity professional man inspects server room and works on ipad

    The Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK) is a leading exchange-traded fund (ETF) that gives us sector-specific exposure. In this article, I’m going to explore why it might be a strong investment to consider.

    The HACK ETF aims to track the performance of leading companies in the global cybersecurity space. At the moment there are a total of 30 businesses within the portfolio.

    Strong tailwinds

    One of the main things about the cybersecurity sector that I’m attracted to is that it seems to have both defensive and growth characteristics.

    There is a growing amount of transactions, communications and other connections done online. The government needs to protect the important information of its citizens. Banks need to protect the online banking activity of businesses and households. Retailers need to protect customers’ details and bank card details.

    I’d suggest businesses and governments need to continue to maintain good cybersecurity even in a recession.

    With people spending more time online, there is more potential for cyber criminals to trick or hack people.

    Australia is one of the more digitalised nations, so our cyber trends could be a useful indicator of what the world might see when it comes to cybercrime and hint at what growth the rest of the world may see in the coming years.

    The latest Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) report released in 2023 showed that the average cost per cybercrime report increased by 14%. The average small business cybercrime cost per report was $46,000. There were almost 94,000 cybercrime reports, which was an increase of 23% year over year.

    The top three cybercrime types for individuals were identity fraud, online banking fraud and online shopping fraud. The top three cybercrime types for business were ’email compromise’, ‘business email compromise (BEC) fraud’ and online banking fraud.

    The HACK ETF businesses are the ones trying to limit the damage as much as possible.

    Leading businesses

    The idea of investing in the HACK ETF isn’t about any particular business within the portfolio, but many of the businesses in the portfolio are large and recognisable companies that have compelling positions in the market.

    Within the portfolio are businesses like Cisco Systems, Broadcom, Crowdstrike, Palo Alto Networks, Infosys, Darktrace, Thales, Gen Digital, Tenable and Leidos.

    As a group, these companies provide compelling exposure to the cybersecurity sector. If any particular business manages to make significant gains, then the ETF can benefit if the share price of that business increases. Collectively, those companies have done very well for investors in terms of capital growth.

    Great returns

    First, let me remind you that past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns for shares.

    Having said that, the HACK ETF’s return has been very good. As at 29 February 2024, the HACK ETF had returned an average of 17.9% per annum over the past three years, 18.1% per annum over the past five years and 18.6% per annum since inception in August 2016.

    Foolish takeaway

    It’s not as cheap as it was 12 months ago, but I think it still has a promising long-term future because of the tailwinds of cybercrime. Hopefully the good guys can stay ahead of the bad buys, while earning bigger profits.

    The post Is the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (HACK) a good long-term investment? 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 1 February 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF, Cisco Systems, CrowdStrike, and Palo Alto Networks. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Broadcom. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CrowdStrike. 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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  • Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

    Fancy font saying top ten surrounded by gold leaf set against a dark background of glittering stars.

    Fancy font saying top ten surrounded by gold leaf set against a dark background of glittering stars.

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) experienced a bit of a jolt back to reality today, as the boost we saw for the local share market that bookended the weekend faded.

    Wednesday saw the ASX 200 take a whack, losing a heavy 1.3%. That leaves the index at 7,785.4 points at the closing bell.

    This sour performance follows an equally depressing night on the American markets last night and in the early hours of this morning.

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) had a shocker, tanking by around 1%.

    The Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) gave a nearly equal performance, losing 0.95% of its value.

    But time now to grit our teeth and return to the ASX, with a look at how the various ASX sectors fared during today’s stock wipeout.

    Winners and losers

    It was carnage on the ASX boards today, with only two sectors escaping with a rise. But more on that in a moment.

    The worst of the losers this session were tech shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) had an awful time, cratering by a painful 3.94%.

    It wasn’t much better for real estate investment trusts (REITs). The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) was just behind that with a loss of 3.3%.

    Consumer discretionary stocks also got singled out for punishment. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) took a 2.11% tumble during today’s trading.

    Healthcare shares were on the nose too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) crashing 1.54%.

    Financial stocks weren’t riding to the rescue. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) endured a 1.3% hit from investors this Wednesday.

    Communication shares had a similar experience, with the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) taking a 1.05% bath.

    Mining stocks got put through the wringer as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) corrected 0.87% by the end of trading.

    Industrial shares weren’t much better. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) suffered a 0.74% fall.

    Consumer staples stocks were no safe haven, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)’s 0.66% slide.

    Our final loser was the gold sector. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) gave up some of yesterday’s gains with its 0.61% slip.

    Turning now to the far less numerous winners, these were headlined by ASX utilities shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) was a clear winner today, rising 0.16%.

    The other green sector was energy stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) was also granted an exemption from the selling pressure and inched 0.06% higher.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    This Wednesday’s winning stock was gold miner Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS).

    Ramelius shares had a great day, rocketing 5.25% higher to $1.905 each. This surge came after the miner released a well-received production update.

    Here’s a look at the rest of the stocks that topped the index today:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) $1.905 5.25%
    West African Resources Ltd (ASX: WAF) $1.34 5.10%
    Emerald Resources N.L. (ASX: EMR) $3.13 2.62%
    Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) $1.46 1.74%
    Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN) $24.46 1.07%
    Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN) $16.35 0.99%
    QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) $18.20 0.89%
    Computershare Ltd (ASX: CPU) $26.42 0.72%
    Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) $9.28 0.65%
    Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) $6.45 0.62%

    Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary to let you know which companies were making big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

    The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 1 February 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen 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 Ansell. 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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  • Should ASX investors buy Metcash stock for its 5.7% dividend?

    Woman with $50 notes in her hand thinking, symbolising dividends.

    Woman with $50 notes in her hand thinking, symbolising dividends.

    Looking at the Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS) stock price today, there’s one metric that will probably jump out rather immediately to most investors. That would be Metcash’s stonking dividend yield.

    Today, Metcash – the ASX 200 consumer staples stock behind the IGA and Mitre 10 brands – is trading at $3.88 a share, down a hefty 1.27% for the day.

    At this stock price, Metcash is offering a trailing dividend yield of 5.67%. That comes with full franking credits too, which means it grosses up to an impressive 8.1%.

    Yes, this yield is no joke. It stems from Metcash’s last two fully-franked dividend payments. The first of those is the final dividend of 11 cents per share Metcash paid out last August. The second is the interim dividend, also worth 11 cents per share, that shareholders bagged back at the end of January this year.

    A 5.77% dividend yield is not a common sight on the ASX, particularly the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

    To illustrate, that’s a higher dividend yield than the likes that income heavyweights Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS), Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and even Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) are offering today.

    So does this yield make Metcash stock a no-brainer buy for dividend investors today?

    Is Metcash stock a buy for that huge dividend yield?

    Full disclosure, I don’t own Metcash stock today and have no plans on buying. Metcash doesn’t exactly have an illustrious history of outsized share gains. Today, it’s share price is basically where it was back in mid-2005.

    Looking at Metcash’s most recent earnings from December, I’m not convinced this is going to change anytime soon. For the first half of its 2023 financial year, the company reported a 1.6% rise in revenues to $9 billion. But there was also a 3.4% decline in underlying group earnings to $246.5 million.

    As such, I don’t have a strong conviction that Metcash is going to be a market-beating ASX 200 stock in the years ahead.

    Saying that, I do believe this company is a good buy for anyone focused on maximising franked dividend income. For retirees, pensioners, and anyone else who relies on stock market dividends, it’s my view that Metcash is a solid option today.

    Its yield is towards the higher end of the market. Yet this company has also been a historically stable and reliable income payer (unlike many other 5%-plus yielders today).

    This company’s payouts have been rising (if a little disjointedly) for more than a decade. Combined with Metcash’s consumer staples nature, I do not expect any meaningful cuts to this company’s payouts going forward.

    So for those investors seeking high levels of franked income, I think Metcash stock can play a useful role as part of a diversified portfolio of ASX dividend stocks.

    The post Should ASX investors buy Metcash stock for its 5.7% dividend? 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 1 February 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen has positions in Telstra Group and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Telstra Group and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Metcash. 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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  • These ASX 300 dividend shares offer yields of 5% to 8%

    Hand of a woman carrying a bag of money, representing the concept of saving money or earning dividends.

    Hand of a woman carrying a bag of money, representing the concept of saving money or earning dividends.

    Are you on the lookout for some new additions to your income portfolio in April?

    If you are, then check out the three ASX 300 dividend shares listed below that brokers have recently named as buys and tipped to offer generous dividend yields.

    Here’s what you can expect from them in the coming years:

    ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ)

    If you don’t already have exposure to the banking sector, then it could be worth looking at ANZ Bank.

    That’s the view of analysts at Ord Minnett, which believe the big four bank’s shares can continue rising from current levels.

    The broker thinks ANZ could be an ASX 300 dividend share to buy partly due to its proposed acquisition of Suncorp Bank, which is nearing completion. The broker expects the acquisition to add scale to areas where it currently trails the other big four banks.

    In respect to dividends, its analysts are forecasting fully franked dividends per share of $1.62 in FY 2024 and $1.65 in FY 2025. Based on the current ANZ share price of $28.81, this will mean dividend yields of 5.6% and 5.7%, respectively.

    Ord Minnett currently has an accumulate rating and $31.00 price target on its shares.

    GDI Property Group Ltd (ASX: GDI)

    Another ASX 300 dividend share that could be a buy this month is GDI Property.

    It is a fully integrated, internally managed property and funds management group with capabilities in ownership, management, refurbishment, leasing and syndication of properties.

    The team at Bell Potter is tipping the company’s shares as a buy at current levels. Especially given the broker’s expectation that GDI Property will be paying some big dividends in the coming years.

    Bell Potter is forecasting dividends per share of 5 cents across FY 2024, FY 2025, and FY 2026. Based on the current GDI Property share price of 60.5 cents, this implies dividend yields of 8.2%.

    Bell Potter has a buy rating and 75 cents price target on its shares.

    Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

    A third ASX 300 dividend share that analysts rate highly is Telstra.

    It is of course Australia’s largest telecommunications company with millions of broadband and mobile subscribers.

    Goldman Sachs is a fan of Telstra and believes its key mobile business will underpin low risk earnings and dividend growth over the coming years.

    Speaking of the latter, the broker is forecasting fully franked dividends of 18 cents per share in FY 2024 and then 19 cents per share in FY 2025. Based on the current Telstra share price of $3.83, this equates to fully franked yields of 4.7% and 5%, respectively.

    Goldman has a buy rating and $4.55 price target on Telstra’s shares.

    The post These ASX 300 dividend shares offer yields of 5% to 8% 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 1 February 2024

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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 positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Telstra Group. 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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  • Passive income investors, beat the ASX with this cash-gushing dividend stock!

    Excited woman holding out $100 notes, symbolising dividends.Excited woman holding out $100 notes, symbolising dividends.

    Looking for passive income to beat the ASX?

    While there are a number of high-yielding ASX dividend shares you may wish to investigate, one stands out as a true cash gusher.

    The passive income star I’m talking about is ASX coal stock Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL).

    Beat the ASX with this cash-generating energy stock

    Yancoal leapt onto many income investors’ radars in 2022 and early 2023. That’s when record thermal coal prices drove record profits and sky-high fully franked dividends that truly beat the ASX.

    Now, those dividends have come down in the second half of 2023 and the first half of 2024 as coal prices returned to earth.

    But with coal prices remaining elevated by historic standards, this passive income stock is still a cash gusher. And with global coal demand forecast to remain resilient as China, India and Indonesia, among others, continue to build new coal-fired power plants, I believe Yancoal’s dividends will continue to beat the ASX.

    As for the last two dividends, the ASX coal share paid a fully franked interim dividend of 37 cents per share on 20 September.

    The final dividend of 32.5 cents per share, also fully franked, will land in eligible investors’ bank accounts on 30 April. If you owned shares on 11 March, keep an eye out for that one. Yancoal shares traded ex-dividend on 12 March.

    All up then, this ASX dividend gem paid (or shortly will pay) a total of 69.5 cents per share over the past 12 months.

    The Yancoal share price hasn’t beaten the ASX so far this year. But it’s back in the green for 2024, up just over 1% at $5.25 a share.

    That equates to a fully franked trailing yield of 13.2%.

    A peak under Yancoal’s hood

    To get an idea of how this cash-gushing coal stock is one to beat the ASX, we turn to the company’s full-year 2023 results.

    As mentioned, coal prices fell significantly over the year. And Yancoal reported a 39% decrease in realised coal price to $232 per tonne.

    While that resulted in a 25% decline in revenue, full-year revenue still came in at $7.8 billion, supported by a 14% increase in attributable saleable coal production.

    And management noted that 2023 earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $3.5 billion and an EBITDA margin of 45% “demonstrated the quality of Yancoal’s assets in the face of retreating coal prices”.

    As for the balance sheet, this ASX beating dividend stock had a cash balance at the end of 2023 of $1.4 billion.

    The post Passive income investors, beat the ASX with this cash-gushing dividend stock! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Wondering where you should invest $1,000 right now?

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    *Returns as of 1 February 2024

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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.

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  • 3 ASX growth shares to supercharge your investment portfolio returns

    Happy woman on her phone while her electric vehicle charges.

    Happy woman on her phone while her electric vehicle charges.

    If you’re a growth investor, then it could be worth checking out the shares named below.

    These three ASX growth shares have been growing at a rapid rate and have been tipped to continue this trend long into the future.

    Here’s why analysts think they are in the buy zone this month:

    Life360 Inc (ASX: 360)

    The first ASX growth share for investors to look at is Life360.

    It is a Silicon Valley-based technology company with a focus on products and services for digitally native families. Its key product is the Life360 app, which has 60 million active users.

    The company has also recently announced plans to monetise its user base further by launching an advertising business.

    Goldman Sachs is very positive on the company’s outlook. It highlights that it is “exposed to a US$12bn global TAM with a large opportunity to expand its product suite, grow average revenue per paying circle (ARPPC), increase payer conversion, and lift penetration rates outside of the US.”

    The broker currently has a buy rating and $14.20 price target on its shares.

    NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT)

    Another ASX growth share that could be a top option is NextDC. It is a technology company enabling business transformation through innovative data centre outsourcing solutions, connectivity services, and infrastructure management software.

    NextDC has been a market-beater over the last decade thanks to strong demand for its services and its growing data centre footprint.

    The good news is that demand looks set to remain strong for some time to come thanks to the cloud computing and artificial intelligence booms. In addition, the company has been expanding overseas and into regional areas to meet demand in these locations.

    Macquarie is feeling bullish about the company’s outlook and responded very positively to the company’s recent half-year results.

    So much so, it retained its outperform rating and lifted its price target on its shares to $20.00.

    TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE)

    A third ASX growth share that could be in the buy zone according to analysts is TechnologyOne.

    It is a global software as a service (SaaS) enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution provider that transforms business and aims to make life simple for its customers.

    The company has been delivering on its aims and more, which has underpinned significant recurring revenue growth in recent years. The good news is that Bell Potter believes this trend can continue in the company years.

    It recently highlighted that if its net revenue retention (NRR) metric remains at 115%+, it “suggests the outlook remains positive and the company can double revenue every five years or so via organic growth alone.”

    Bell Potter has a buy rating and $18.50 price target on Technology One’s shares.

    The post 3 ASX growth shares to supercharge your investment portfolio returns 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…

    See The 5 Stocks
    *Returns as of 1 February 2024

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Life360 and Nextdc. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group, Life360, Macquarie Group, and Technology One. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Technology One. 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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