Tag: Stock pick

It was another busy week for Australia’s top brokers. This has led to the release of a number of broker notes.

Three broker buy ratings that you might want to know more about are summarised below. Here’s why brokers think these ASX shares are in the buy zone:

Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV)

According to a note out of Morgans, its analysts have retained their buy rating on this fashion jewellery retailer’s shares with a trimmed price target of $36.80. The broker was pleased with Lovisa’s half-year results, which revealed underlying EBIT up 20.4% on the prior corresponding period. This was ~6% ahead of its expectations, driven by store network growth and strong gross margins. Morgans was also pleased to see the pace of its store rollout continue with 64 new stores opened, bringing the total count to 1,095. In response, the broker has increased its earnings estimates for FY 2026 and FY 2027. And with its shares pulling back meaningfully recently, the broker sees this as a buying opportunity for investors. The Lovisa share price ended the week at $26.21.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

A note out of Bell Potter reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating on this gold miner’s shares with an increased price target of $35.00. The broker notes that Northern Star released a half-year update last week that was largely in line with expectations. While the broker concedes that there is uncertainty relating to how quickly management can rectify remaining disruptions, it believes it is worth sticking with the miner. This is especially the case given its expectation that Northern Star will hit a cashflow inflection point in FY 2028. After which, it sees potential for capital returns or buybacks should KCGM reach capacity ahead of cash outlays for the Hemi operation. The Northern Star share price was fetching $28.33 at Friday’s close.

Seek Ltd (ASX: SEK)

Another note out of Morgans reveals that its analysts have upgraded this job listings company’s shares to a buy rating with a $27.50 price target. This follows the release of a half-year result that was largely in line with expectations. Seek posted a 12% increase in revenue and a 35% jump in net profit. Overall, Morgans believes that recent share price weakness has created a buying opportunity for investors. However, it concedes that Seek still has many questions to answer on the AI threat. The Seek share price ended the week at $16.27.

The post Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Buy, hold, sell: Lovisa, Wesfarmers, and Rio Tinto shares
• Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today
• These ASX 200 shares look stronger than their share prices suggest
• Lovisa shares are getting hammered on a profit miss, but is the stock still a buy?
• Why Goodman, Lovisa, Medibank, and Zip shares are falling today

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

Investors can cover the local Australian market, world’s largest companies, bonds, and cash with these ASX ETFs.

Building a globally diversified portfolio doesn’t require dozens of holdings or a constant stream of trading decisions. This structure with 5 diversified ETFs is simple, transparent, and built for the long haul.

Global X Australia 300 ETF (ASX: A300) 

The foundation starts at home. This ASX ETF provides exposure to the 300 largest companies on the ASX. That means ownership across the full spectrum of Australia’s corporate heavyweights.

It includes banks like Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), miners such as BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO), as well as to healthcare leader CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) and retail giant Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES).

A300 is broad, diversified and low cost, making it well suited to anchor roughly 30% of a portfolio in domestic equities.

iShares S&P/ASX 200 ETF (ASX: IOZ) 

This ASX ETF offers a slightly tighter focus on the 200 largest Australian companies. While there is overlap with A300, IOZ remains one of the lowest-cost ways to gain exposure to the core of the Australian market.

Together, these funds ensure investors capture dividends, franking credits and the performance of Australia’s biggest listed businesses.

Betashares Global Shares ETF (ASX: BGBL) 

Global diversification is where long-term growth often accelerates. This Betashares ETF delivers exposure to around 1,500 companies across developed markets.

Investors gain access to global leaders such as Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ: AMZN), alongside major European and Japanese corporations.

It spreads risk across sectors including technology, healthcare, financials and consumer goods, reducing reliance on any single economy.

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF – Currency Hedged (ASX: HQLT) 

For a sharper tilt toward financially strong businesses, this ASX ETF narrows the field to approximately 150 high-quality global companies selected for strong profitability, stable earnings and solid balance sheets.

The currency hedging back to Australian dollars reduces exchange rate volatility, which can smooth returns over time. This ETF adds a disciplined growth overlay to the global allocation.

SPDR Bloomberg AusBond ETF (ASX: BOND)

No portfolio is complete without a defensive component. BOND ETF invests in a diversified basket of Australian government and investment-grade corporate bonds.

Bonds typically move differently to shares, helping cushion portfolios when equity markets fall. They also provide income, adding stability to overall returns.

Foolish Takeaway

An allocation could look like this: around 30% in Australian equities through A300 and IOZ, approximately 35% in global shares via BGBL and HQLT, with the remaining portion in BOND to provide defensive ballast.

The result is a diversified, low-cost portfolio spanning thousands of companies worldwide, supported by high-quality bonds.

There is no need to predict which individual stock will outperform next year. Instead, investors gain broad exposure to the engines of global growth while maintaining stability through disciplined asset allocation. It’s a structure designed to endure market cycles rather than chase them.

The post 5 low-cost ASX ETFs for a global diversified portfolio appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Buy, hold, sell: Lovisa, Wesfarmers, and Rio Tinto shares
• How to build an ASX share portfolio you can stick with long term
• Buy, hold, sell: ANZ, CBA, NAB, and Westpac shares
• These 2 ASX 200 blue-chip shares just raised their dividends
• Is it too late to buy BHP and CBA shares?

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in BHP Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Amazon, Apple, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Amazon, Apple, BHP Group, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

If I had $5,000 ready to invest right now, I would split it across a small group of ASX 200 shares that offer different growth drivers and time horizons.

For me, that mix would include the three shares in this article. Each brings something different to the table, and together they offer exposure to travel, healthcare technology, and global building materials.

Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN)

Qantas has transformed over the past few years. It is no longer just a cyclical airline trying to survive the next downturn. I believe it is now a leaner, more disciplined operator with multiple earnings engines.

Jetstar continues to be a key growth driver, both domestically and internationally. The group’s capacity discipline and focus on higher-yield routes have supported profitability, while a newer fleet should improve fuel efficiency and lower operating costs over time.

I also like the optionality from Project Sunrise, which has the potential to enhance productivity on long-haul routes. Combined with the strength of its loyalty business, Qantas looks more diversified than many people give it credit for.

With the airline now generating solid cash flow and returning capital to shareholders, I see Qantas shares as a compelling medium-term and long-term play.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

Pro Medicus is one of the highest-quality growth stories on the ASX, in my view.

The company’s Visage imaging platform continues to win large, multi-year contracts with leading hospitals and healthcare networks. What stands out to me is the sticky nature of these contracts. Once embedded, switching costs are high and revenue visibility improves dramatically.

Pro Medicus operates in a global medical imaging market that is still digitising and upgrading. Its technology is known for speed and scalability, which has helped it win business against much larger competitors.

Yes, the valuation is rarely cheap. But I believe this is one of those businesses where quality, execution, and long-term market opportunity justify paying a premium.

If I am investing with a 5 to 10 year horizon, I want exposure to ASX 200 shares like this.

James Hardie Industries plc (ASX: JHX)

James Hardie gives me exposure to the US housing and renovation cycle, but in a way that feels structurally advantaged.

The company is a leader in fibre cement building products, particularly in North America. Over time, it has steadily gained share as homeowners and builders shift away from traditional materials.

While housing activity can be cyclical, I believe James Hardie benefits from long-term trends such as repair and remodel demand, population growth, and the push for more durable, lower-maintenance materials.

Importantly, the business has demonstrated pricing power and a strong focus on margins. For me, that combination of market leadership and structural growth makes it more than just a housing bet.

Foolish takeaway

If I were deploying $5,000 today, I would be comfortable spreading it across Qantas, Pro Medicus, and James Hardie.

Qantas offers a revitalised airline with multiple earnings streams. Pro Medicus provides high-margin, global healthcare technology growth. James Hardie delivers exposure to US housing with structural advantages.

Together, I believe they offer a balanced blend of quality and growth that I would be happy to hold for years.

The post Why I would buy Qantas and these ASX 200 shares with $5,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 16 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week
• 3 reasons to buy James Hardie shares today
• Buy, hold, sell: CSL, Pro Medicus, Cochlear shares
• Is it time to buy this resurgent ASX 200 share?
• 3 ASX shares I’d buy with $10,000 this week

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 recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) shares just closed out a week to forget.

Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) buy now, pay later (BNPL) stock closed on Friday trading for $1.78, down a painful 25.21% for the week.

As you’re likely aware, all of that pain – and then some – was delivered on Thursday, following the release of the company’s half-year earnings results (H1 FY 2026).

With the BNPL company reporting solid growth metrics, market expectations were clearly high as investors sent Zip shares plunging 34.4% on the day.

Which, according to Wealth Within senior analyst Fil Tortevski, may have created the “greatest buy-the-dip opportunity” in Zip stock in six years.

We’ll get back to the stock’s rebound potential in a tick.

But first…

What did the ASX 200 BNPL stock report?

Zip shares got hammered on Thursday despite the company reporting record cash earnings before tax, depreciation and earnings of $124 million, up 85.6% year on year.

And total income increased 29.2% to $664 million. That was spurred by a 34.1% lift in total transaction volume (TTV), which reached $8.4 billion.

The only potentially concerning item that jumped out at me was the 11% increase in net bad debts, which climbed to 1.73% of TTV for the half.

“Zip continues to increase profitability at scale, driving cash earnings growth of 85.6% and significant operating margin expansion during the half,” Zip CEO Cynthia Scott said on the day.

“Following a strong first half, Zip has upgraded its FY26 guidance for operating margin and cash EBTDA as a percentage of TTV while reconfirming its other target ranges,” Scott added.

Time to pounce on Zip shares?

Commenting on the market’s reaction on Thursday, Wealth Within’s Tortevski said:

Although ZIP missed expectations with its HY reporting, a 38% drop in one day is a hefty price to pay because they actually delivered 29% revenue growth, doubled profits, and materially improving margins.

Remember, it wasn’t that long ago that this company wasn’t profitable at all. The result was operationally strong, but the market is clearly questioning whether current credit conditions represent a cyclical peak.

As for buying the dip on Zip shares, Tortevski added:

Now, with the share price back at COVID low levels, which have historically been the springboard for major runs up in the share price, the argument for buying the dip must be asked.

Take 2020, the stock bounced from $2, rising over 800%. In 2025, it jumped 170% from the same $2 base. And today we sit at the crucial $2 level once again.

Tortevski concluded:

If you don’t believe the future credit cycle fear being priced in right now and take confidence in the operationally sound report, then maybe this is the time for the next hundred per cent run up for ZIP begins.

The post Down 45% in 2026, could you double your money buying the dip in Zip shares now? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why PWR, QBE, Telix, and Zip shares are storming higher today
• Why are Zip shares rebounding 5% today?
• Recap: Winners and losers from earnings season week 3
• Buy, hold, or sell? Goodman Group, Wesfarmers, Zip shares
• 3 beaten down ASX shares I’d load up on at these prices

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.

A number of popular ASX shares released their results last week and Morgans has been busy running the rule over them.

Let’s now see if the broker is bullish or bearish on them after updating its estimates and valuations. Here’s what you need to know:

Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV)

Morgans was pleased with this fashion jewellery retailer’s half-year results, highlighting that its earnings were comfortably ahead of expectations.

In light of this and a sharp pullback in its share price, the broker feels that a buying opportunity has opened up. It has retained its buy rating with a $36.80 price target. It said:

LOV reported a strong underlying 1H26 result with EBIT up 20.4%, ~6% ahead of our expectations, driven by store network growth and strong gross margins. During the period, the pace of store rollout continued with a net of 64 new stores in the period, bringing the total count to 1,095.

We have increased our EBIT by 3%/1% respectively in FY26/27, driven by higher sales and gross margin offset by higher costs and D&A. We see the pull back in share price as a buying opportunity at ~23x FY27 PE. Our valuation lowers to $36.80 (from $40) and we retain our BUY recommendation.

Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO)

Morgans described Rio Tinto’s full-year results as solid thanks to its copper operations.

However, due to its valuation and concerns over the potential for deal-making at the top of the cycle, the broker has retained its trim rating with a $146.00 price target. It said:

Solid earnings result, albeit flat earnings despite Copper EBITDA doubling. An investment heavy phase, FCF will rise on Simandou/OT ramp. Underlying NPAT US$10.9bn (in line with cons). Final dividend was 254 USc (+1% vs cons). Whether RIO prove sceptics wrong and unlock value from mega deals at the top of the cycle is a key question and risk. We lean towards ‘no’, as in our experience M&A action in bull markets pushes listed targets beyond fair value.

RIO is keeping pace with the upgrade cycle, which supports gains but undermines our view on further value, although it remains one of the highest quality sector exposures. We maintain a TRIM rating on RIO with a valuation-based A$146 target price (previously A$142).

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

Finally, Bunnings and Kmart owner Wesfarmers delivered a better than expected half-year result.

Despite this, Morgans feels that Wesfarmers shares are overvalued at current levels. As a result, it has maintained its trim rating with an $80.50 price target. It explains:

WES’s 1H26 result was better than expected with productivity and efficiency improvements a key highlight. Earnings for all divisions except Industrial & Safety were either in line or above our forecasts. WES noted that despite a modest improvement in consumer demand, higher costs continued to weigh on many households and businesses, while residential construction activity remains subdued.

We adjust FY26/27/28F group EBIT by +2%/+1%/+1%. Our target price rises slightly to $80.50 (from $79.30) and we maintain our TRIM rating with a 12-month forecast TSR of -2%. While we continue to view WES as a core long-term portfolio holding with a diversified group of well-known retail and industrial brands, a healthy balance sheet, and an experienced leadership team, trading on 30.7x FY27F PE we continue to see the stock as overvalued in the short term.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Lovisa, Wesfarmers, and Rio Tinto shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• How to build an ASX share portfolio you can stick with long term
• These 2 ASX 200 blue-chip shares just raised their dividends
• Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today
• Why Guzman Y Gomez, Inghams, Megaport, and Rio Tinto shares are tumbling today
• Why are Rio Tinto shares sinking today?

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

The PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) share price has delivered great returns over the past year, rising by approximately 120%, as the chart below shows. Broker UBS doesn’t think the ASX lithium share is finished rising yet.

The business recently reported its FY26 half-year result, which included 47% revenue growth to $624 million and net profit growth of 147% to $33 million. The numbers themselves were very good and UBS is optimistic about the company’s future.

Very positive outlook

UBS noted that many of the company’s financials had already been released, so there were no surprises and the numbers were as expected.

The broker highlighted that PLS Group did approve the restart of Ngungaju from July, as well as committing to delivering a feasibility study for the P2000 brownfields expansion in the quarter for the three months to December 2026 and for Colina (a project in Brazil) in the quarter of the three months to December 2027.

The FY26 guidance is between 820kt to 870kt, with UBS forecasting that PLS Group can achieve 875kt and then reach approximately 1.1mt in FY27 thanks to the addition of Ngangaju.

UBS forecasts that Pilgan can reach 2mt per year of production from FY30 and potentially higher in the early years.

In terms of Colina, UBS said that the diversification offered by a second operation in a different jurisdiction is a “key consideration”. The broker noted that PLS Group is taking its time to incorporate additional drilling and project optimisation work due to the risks associated with a greenfield development.

As part of that (regarding Colina), UBS said that it suspects the ASX lithium share is “is keen to deploy its processing (flotation) expertise in optimising the project.” This may lead to a larger project than what UBS is currently modelling (which is around 500kt per year) from FY32.

Is the PLS Group share price a buy?

UBS certainly thinks so. The broker has a buy rating with a price target of $4.95, suggesting a possible rise of more than 10% over the next year.

The broker commented:            

While spodumene pricing has recovered to ~US$2,000/t already, we are bullish demand (BESS) and agree with PLS that the supply response takes time. We can see prices moving even higher from here and model a price 2x consensus a year from now. Continued strength in the price could see attention focus once again on long term assumptions which may have been cut too hard during last down cycle.

The post The PLS Group share price is a buy – UBS appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• What is Morgans saying about these popular ASX 200 shares?
• Brokers review 12-month price targets for 3 ASX 200 mining shares post-results
• Should you buy PLS shares after its results?
• PLS Group posts H1 FY26 profit and 241% EBITDA surge
• Forget PLS, Bell Potter says this ASX lithium stock could rise 150%+

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

Building wealth in the share market is not just about picking the right stocks. It is about building a portfolio you can actually hold through market crashes, corrections, hype cycles, and boring years.

In my experience, the biggest threat to long-term returns is not volatility. It is behaviour. So the goal is simple: construct a portfolio that makes it easier to stay invested.

Here is how I think about it.

Start with quality ASX shares

If I want to stick with a portfolio for 10 or 20 years, I start with businesses I genuinely understand and trust.

On the ASX, that might mean blue chips like Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), or ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD). These are ASX shares with established market positions, recurring earnings, and strong balance sheets. They are not guaranteed to outperform every year, but they have proven they can navigate economic cycles.

When markets fall, I find it much easier to hold high-quality businesses than speculative ones. Quality gives you confidence. Confidence helps you stay invested.

Mix growth and income

A portfolio that is 100% high-growth tech shares can be exciting in a bull market, but very uncomfortable in a downturn.

I prefer balance.

That might mean pairing growth names such as Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO), Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB), or Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1) with reliable income stocks like Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) or Transurban Group (ASX: TCL). Alternatively, adding exchange-traded funds (ETFs) such as the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) or the Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG) can smooth things out.

Growth provides long-term upside. Income provides cash flow and psychological comfort. Together, they make the portfolio easier to live with.

Diversify across sectors and themes

One of the simplest ways to reduce regret is diversification.

You do not need 50 stocks. But owning businesses across different sectors can reduce the risk of one theme dominating your results.

If one sector struggles for a few years, another can carry the load. That balance helps you avoid the urge to panic-sell.

Invest regularly, not emotionally

I think consistency is more powerful than clever timing.

Investing a set amount each month into quality ASX shares or ETFs removes emotion from the process. It also takes advantage of volatility instead of fearing it. When prices fall, your money buys more shares. When prices rise, your portfolio benefits. This is called dollar-cost averaging.

Over time, this approach builds discipline and reduces the temptation to jump in and out based on headlines.

Focus on a 5–10 year view

Before I buy an ASX share, I ask myself one simple question: would I be comfortable owning this if the market closed for five years?

If the answer is no, I probably should not buy it.

Thinking in longer timeframes changes your behaviour. Short-term price moves become less important. Business performance becomes more important.

That mindset shift alone can dramatically improve your ability to stick with a portfolio.

Accept that volatility is normal

Even the best ASX shares fall 10% to 20% at times. Sometimes more.

If you expect that in advance, it feels normal when it happens. If you don’t, it feels like something is broken.

A long-term portfolio is not one that never falls. It is one built in a way that allows you to tolerate those falls without abandoning your plan.

Foolish takeaway

The best ASX share portfolio is not the one that looks perfect on paper. It is the one you can hold through good times and bad.

Focus on quality businesses, diversify across sectors, mix growth and income, and invest consistently. If you design your portfolio around your own temperament, not just potential returns, you give yourself the best chance of long-term success.

The post How to build an ASX share portfolio you can stick with long term appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• Is it too late to buy BHP and CBA shares?
• 3 ASX 200 shares powering higher in 2026

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Commonwealth Bank Of Australia, Hub24, Transurban Group, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Hub24, Megaport, ResMed, Transurban Group, Wesfarmers, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended ResMed, Telstra Group, Transurban Group, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Hub24, Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF, and Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) healthcare share Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL) reported its results this week, which included a number of positive growth numbers.

It’s worth asking whether the business is a good buy at this valuation, given it rose around 10% on the day of the report.

Let’s first remind ourselves what the business reported by looking at the numbers that were revealed.

HY26 earnings recap

The pathology business reported that revenue grew 17% to $5.4 billion in the first half of FY26. Within this growth, there was an organic growth of 5%.

Earnings grew at a good pace, though not as fast as the revenue growth. Operating profit (EBITDA) climbed by 10% to $907 million, net profit increased 11% to $262 million, earnings per share (EPS) grew 8% to 53.1 cents, and operating cash flow rose 10% to $682 million. These numbers allowed the business to increase its interim dividend by 2.3% to 45 cents per share.

It wasn’t a surprise to see that its German revenue increased 52% to $1.36 billion, thanks to the LADR acquisition, which settled on 1 July 2026. Organic revenue grew by 5%, and, combined with synergies and cost control, this led to a higher profit margin. Germany made around a quarter of the ASX 200 healthcare share’s total revenue.

Australian pathology delivered organic revenue growth of 5% (and total revenue of $1.08 billion) while the USA saw total revenue growth of 3% to $1.05 billion (and no organic growth)

Impressively, the UK segment delivered 24% organic growth and 30% total growth to $489 million. The ASX 200 healthcare share benefited from a number of new contracts.

Is the Sonic Healthcare share price a buy?

After reviewing the result, broker UBS noted that management is prioritising EPS and return on invested capital (ROIC), with a review and restructuring in the US, as well as plans to sell and lease back properties in Australia, which could support a share buyback.

UBS noted that Sonic (and its peers) are lobbying for more government funding to cover the increased wages mandated by the Fair Work Commission ruling, to ensure the same quality of service. The broker is sceptical that the government will increase funding amid broader budgetary pressures, so margin headwinds seem “unavoidable”.

The broker highlighted that Sonic is delivering weaker organic growth than peers in the US, including the loss of an Alabama contract. Meanwhile, the new NHS contract was an impact on markets, but supports full-year revenue growth.

UBS also thinks the US restructuring is “sensible but does not address the core issue: declining market share as larger peers consolidate via hospital deals”. Sonic “has not participated in this trend and risks being left behind.”

The broker has a neutral rating on the ASX 200 healthcare share, with a price target of $21.80, suggesting a decline over the year ahead. UBS forecasts the business can grow net profit to $597 million in FY26 and $646 million in FY27.

The post Is this ASX 200 healthcare share a great buy after reporting? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• These ASX 200 shares could rise 20% to 40%
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• ASX 200 lifts to record high amid strong earnings and new jobs data
• Why Hub24, Sonic, Telstra, and Universal Store shares are racing higher today
• Why Sonic Healthcare shares are rocketing 12% on blockbuster half-year results

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

It has been a busy month for the big four banks, with all the majors releasing updates.

The good news for their shareholders is that these updates have gone down well with the market, driving their shares higher.

But is it too late to invest? Let’s see what Morgans is saying about the big banks:

ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ)

Morgans highlights that ANZ’s quarterly update suggests that it is performing ahead of expectations. However, this outperformance was driven by cost-outs. While this would ordinarily be good news, Morgans notes that management has retained its cost guidance for the full year.

In light of this and recent share price strength, the broker has downgraded ANZ shares to a sell rating with a $32.65 price target. It said:

On face of it, the 1Q26 trading update suggested ANZ was tracking ahead of 1H26 growth expectations. However, the beat was driven mostly by the speed of cost-out and will unlikely affect consensus expectations as ANZ retained its FY26 cost guidance of c.$11.5bn. We make minor adjustments to FY26-28F EPS, reflecting 1Q26 Markets revenue strength, impairment charges lower than expected (but off an already low base), and higher shares on issue (DRP uptake was higher than assumed). 12-month target price $32.65 (+8 cps).

We estimate ANZ is trading on 1.8x P:TBV, 16x PER, and 4.1% cash yield (partly franked), all stretched against historical trading ranges. Given the recent share price strength, we downgrade our rating from TRIM to SELL with a potential TSR of -15%.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

Morgans was impressed with the performance of Australia’s largest bank during the first half. It highlights that CBA’s earnings were comfortably ahead of expectations, which has led to an upgrade to its forecasts.

However, due to CBA shares trading on lofty multiples, the broker has retained its sell rating with an improved price target of $124.26. It said:

CBA delivered a meaningful beat of 1H26 earnings expectations. We have materially upgraded our EPS forecasts after factoring in continuation of higher loan growth and benign credit loss environments. We expect DPS growth won’t match EPS growth as we see approaching CET1 capital tightness. Target price lifted to $124.26. SELL retained, with potential TSR of -24% (including 3% cash yield) at current elevated prices and trading multiples.

National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB)

Morgans has lifted its forecasts for NAB following its strong quarterly update. It notes that the bank is also benefitting from a supportive interest rate, credit growth, and asset quality environment.

However, once again, the broker thinks NAB shares are overvalued and has retained its sell rating with a $37.27 price target. It said:

Like its peers that reported in February, NAB’s 1Q26 trading update showed it is benefitting from a supportive interest rate, credit growth, and asset quality environment. We make upgrades to our forecasts to reflect performance and outlook. 12 month target price set at $37.27/sh. With more aggressive assumptions than previously we estimate a higher fundamental value for NAB. However, the share price is still trading far ahead of this revised estimate. SELL retained, with potential TSR of -17% (including 3.6% cash yield).

Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC)

Finally, Morgans is a little more positive on the investment opportunity here. In response to Westpac’s quarterly update, it has upgraded its shares to a trim rating (from sell) with a $35.12 price target. It said:

A largely stable 1Q26 result compared to the 2H25 quarterly average (normalised for 2H25’s restructuring charge), which is better than 1H26 expectations. We are assuming a more bullish loan growth and impairments outlook than previously (and slightly more conservative costs). There is no change to FY26F EPS but there are 5-8% upgrades to FY27-28F. Target price lifts to $35.12/sh. We upgrade to TRIM given the improved, but still negative, potential TSR.

Is anyone bullish?

While most brokers believe that ANZ, CBA, NAB, and Westpac shares are overvalued, not everyone agrees.

For example, Morgan Stanley upgraded ANZ shares to an overweight rating with a $41.30 price target.

In addition, Jefferies retained its buy rating on NAB shares with a $50.64 price target.

The post Buy, hold, sell: ANZ, CBA, NAB, and Westpac shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• 3 ASX 200 shares powering higher in 2026
• How do the experts rate ANZ and Bendigo Bank shares after their earnings reports?
• With trend unemployment falling, here’s the latest RBA interest rate forecast from CBA
• Buy, hold, sell: NAB, Santos, and Suncorp shares

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.

I believe that one of the best ways to build wealth is through buy and hold investing.

And one of the simplest ways to do this is with exchange traded funds (ETFs).

But which ones could be top picks for buy and hold investors? Let’s look at three that could be worth considering:

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat AUD ETF (ASX: MOAT)

The first ASX ETF to consider is the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat AUD ETF.

This popular fund tracks a portfolio of US stocks that possess wide economic moats. This is a term to describe sustainable competitive advantages that could last 20 years or more.

This fund isn’t about chasing hype. It is about backing businesses with pricing power, brand strength, intellectual property, or network effects. Current holdings include firms such as Huntington Ingalls Industries (NYSE: HII), United Parcel Service (NYSE: UPS), and Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY). These companies operate in industries where scale and competitive positioning matter deeply.

Over long periods, businesses with genuine moats tend to defend margins and generate strong returns on capital. That quality bias could make the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat AUD ETF well suited to patient investors.

Betashares India Quality ETF (ASX: IIND)

If you’re thinking 10 years ahead, it makes sense to look at where global growth could come from.

The Betashares India Quality ETF provides investors with exposure to high-quality Indian stocks that are screened for profitability and balance sheet strength. India’s economy is expanding rapidly, supported by favourable demographics, rising middle-class consumption, and structural reforms.

Rather than tracking the entire market indiscriminately, this fund focuses on stocks exhibiting quality characteristics. That helps tilt exposure toward more sustainable long-term operators.

A decade is long enough for demographic and economic trends to play out. For investors seeking geographic diversification beyond developed markets, the Betashares India Quality ETF offers a targeted way to participate. It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ)

The final ASX ETF to consider is the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF.

It provides exposure to stocks involved in robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence. These are technologies reshaping manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and software.

Its holdings include names such as Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG), a leader in robotic-assisted surgery, and Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), which supplies the hardware backbone of AI systems.

Automation is not a short-term theme. Labour shortages, productivity pressures, and technological advances all support continued investment in robotics and AI. Over a 10-year horizon, these trends could compound meaningfully. This fund was also recommended by analysts at Betashares.

The post The best ASX ETFs to buy and hold for 10 years or more appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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