Tag: Stock pick

  • Tivan gets green light for maiden drilling at Sandover Fluorite Project

    Two miners laughing and having fun while using smart phone during their coffee break.

    The Tivan Ltd (ASX: TVN) share price is in focus after the company received final approvals to commence its maiden drilling program at Walshy’s Wall within the Sandover Fluorite Project. High-grade manganese samples up to 44.8% and fluorite at 98.4% CaF₂ were previously identified.

    What did Tivan report?

    • Regulatory approval secured from the Northern Territory Government for drilling at Walshy’s Wall
    • Sacred Site Clearance Certificate received from the Central Land Council
    • Maiden staged program planned: 31 reverse circulation drill holes, with nine priority holes commencing October
    • Rock chip sampling returned manganese grades up to 44.8% Mn and fluorite up to 98.4% CaF₂
    • Elevated copper (up to 0.5%), beryllium (up to 50ppm) and tungsten (up to 0.12%) levels identified

    What else do investors need to know?

    Tivan’s drilling program at Walshy’s Wall represents the company’s first systematic test of this recently discovered manganese-barite gossan. The approvals bring the drill program within the environmental and cultural heritage requirements of the Sandover project and reflect the support of both the Northern Territory Government and Traditional Owners.

    The drill campaign is set to target the strongest geochemical anomalies identified during recent field work. Stage One drilling will focus on the most prospective sections, while Stage Two may expand based on initial results.

    What did Tivan management say?

    Executive Chairman Grant Wilson said:

    We are very pleased to have secured these approvals on a timely basis, that will enable Tivan’s geology team to complete a maiden drilling program at Walshy’s Wall before the summer heat arrives. We extend sincere thanks to the Northern Territory Government and the Central Land Council.

    What’s next for Tivan?

    Tivan’s team is preparing to mobilise for the Stage One drilling, which will commence in October. This first stage will help the company determine if the strong surface mineralisation is mirrored at depth.

    The results from the initial drilling will guide the potential rollout of Stage Two, testing the broader scale and continuity of the mineralised system. Tivan aims to unlock further value at the Sandover project and progress exploration efficiently within approved guidelines.

    Tivan share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, Tivan shares have risen 140%, outperforming the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which has risen 1% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Tivan gets green light for maiden drilling at Sandover Fluorite Project appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Tivan Ltd shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 August 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

  • Buy, hold, sell: Judo Capital, Healius, BHP shares

    Woman and man at work looking at data on a tablet at work.

    S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are up 0.74% to 9,168.7 points on Tuesday.

    All 11 market sectors of the ASX 200 are in the green today.

    Healthcare leads the pack, up 1.1%, extending its impressive recent rebound.

    ARB Corporation Ltd (ASX: ARB) is the fastest riser of the ASX 200 today, up 18% on its FY26 report.

    Meanwhile, Morgans has issued some new notes on three ASX shares.

    They include BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares, which hit a new all-time high today.

    Let’s take a look.

    Judo Capital Holdings Ltd (ASX: JDO)

    The Judo Capital share price is $1.03, up 6.4% today and down 42% over 12 months. 

    Judo Capital shares are the fourth fastest riser on the local bourse despite no significant announcements today.

    Morgans has a buy rating on this ASX bank share after its FY26 results.

    The broker said: 

    FY26 PBT landed towards the top end of the revised guidance range and FY27 guidance was reaffirmed offering strong earnings growth.

    EPS forecasts moderated 2-6%.

    The broker shaved its 12-month price target from $1.47 to $1.42.

    This suggests a potential 40% upside ahead.

    Healius Ltd (ASX: HLS)

    The Healius share price is 43 cents, down 0.7% today and down 49% over 12 months. 

    Since the healthcare sector began its long-awaited rebound on 3 June, Healius shares have soared 29%.

    Morgans has a hold rating on this ASX 200 healthcare share following its FY26 report.

    The broker said: 

    FY26 results were mixed, with revenue and underlying EBITDA broadly in line, but underlying EBIT 5% below consensus and at the bottom of guidance, reflecting still-thin Pathology margins.

    Encouragingly, Pathology EBIT margin improved materially in 2H, while labour costs fell 2.9% and group cost growth was contained.

    Agilex was again a clear positive, with revenue and earnings growth ahead of expectations.

    While FY27 EBIT guidance of A$39.7m is broadly in line with expectations, the T27 target for mid-to-high single-digit EBIT margins was extended by c18 months to Dec-28, leaving us cautious on the pace and sustainability of earnings leverage.

    The broker increased its price target to 43 cents, implying the stock is fully valued.

    BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

    The BHP share price is $67.93, up 1.2% today and up 57% over 12 months. 

    BHP shares reached a new record of $68.22 in earlier trading on Tuesday.

    Morgans downgraded BHP shares to a sell call after its FY26 report on 18 August.

    The broker explained: 

    A solid FY26 result, with an upsized final dividend of US 99cps, against a share price that appears to already factor in more upside, we lower our rating to TRIM.

    Metal prices were a key driver, but BHP also maintained a solid operating performance on controllable factors against a tough backdrop in FY26.

    The broker reduced its 12-month price target from $59.80 to $55.30.

    This suggests a potential 18% downside ahead.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Judo Capital, Healius, BHP shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Judo Capital right now?

    Before you buy Judo Capital shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 August 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen 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 ARB Corporation. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended ARB Corporation and BHP Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Buy, hold, sell: Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, PLS, EOS shares

    Woman with her kitten on a laptop in her home office.

    The ASX reporting season continues, with ASX majors Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS), PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), and Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Ltd (ASX: BEN) posting their results this week.

    Let’s recap how the shares are tracking today and whether brokers rate them a buy, sell, or hold.

    Buy EOS shares

    EOS posted a huge 283% hike in its half-year revenue this morning, and a reduced net loss of $32.9 million. Underlying EBITDA swung into profit, and its net assets grew to $391.6 million.

    Going forward, EOS expects continued strong demand, driven by defence spending and escalating global interest in counter-drone technologies. 

    Management has forecast FY26 revenue (including MARSS) of $360 million to $400 million, assuming global supply chains remain steady. If this comes to fruition, this would be a record result.

    Clearly, investors are thrilled with the result. EOS shares are up around 13% in morning trade and changing hands at $9.75 apiece. Today’s increase means the shares are now just 2% lower year to date but a huge 93% higher than 12 months ago.

    Brokers are also incredibly bullish about the outlook for EOS shares. TradingView data shows that all analysts rate the stock a strong buy. The average $13.64 target price implies a potential 40% upside at the time of writing.

    Buy PLS shares

    PLS posted its FY26 earnings results ahead of the market open on Monday morning. The company announced a 152% increase in revenue, a 59% increase in underlying EBITDA, and a swing into profit in NPAT (from a loss in the prior corresponding period).

    The company has also announced a 5-cent-per-share, fully-franked final dividend for FY26. This is great news for investors after PLS suspended its dividend payouts in 2024 amid cratering global lithium prices.

    PLS shares jumped 7% higher following the results announcement yesterday, but the share price has softened again today. At the time of writing, PLS shares are down around 4% and trading at $5.26 per share. For the year to date, shares are still up 22%.

    Analysts’ sentiment about the outlook for PLS shares is divided, but the majority hold a buy/strong buy rating on the shares. The average $5.36 target price implies a potential 2% upside ahead.

    Sell Bendigo and Adelaide Bank shares

    Bendigo and Adelaide Bank also ported its FY26 results on Monday. The bank reported a 3% increase in cash earnings, statutory net profit after tax of $375.1 million, and a fully-franked final dividend of 33 cents per share.

    Investors appear to be mostly neutral about the result, and the share price ended the day around 0.5% lower on Monday. But this morning, there seems to be an injection of confidence back into the bank stock.

    At the time of writing, the ASX bank shares are up around 3% and changing hands for $10.76 a piece. The increase means the shares are now around 1.5% higher year to date.

    The experts are quite reserved about what’ll happen to Bendigo and Adelaide Bank shares next, however. The majority (nine out of 14) have a hold rating on the shares, and the average $10.33 target price implies a potential 4% downside, at the time of writing.

    The post Buy, hold, sell: Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, PLS, EOS shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Electro Optic Systems right now?

    Before you buy Electro Optic Systems shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 August 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Samantha Menzies has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Electro Optic Systems. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Bendigo And Adelaide Bank. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Why I think the IVV ETF is a strong buy for ASX investors

    Businessman working on street in New York.

    Some investments do not need a complicated thesis.

    The iShares S&P 500 AUD ETF (ASX: IVV) gives Australian investors access to many of America’s largest companies through a single ASX-listed fund.

    For me, that makes it a strong long-term option.

    Access to some of the world’s strongest businesses

    The IVV ETF tracks the S&P 500 Index, which contains around 500 large US companies, including Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, Bank Of America, Walmart, Merck & Co, and Verizon.

    That gives investors exposure to businesses operating across technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer products, industrials, communication services, and many other areas of the US economy.

    I think this is particularly valuable for Australian investors. The ASX has some excellent companies, but our market is heavily influenced by financial and resources businesses. The US market gives investors much greater exposure to areas such as software, semiconductors, digital advertising, medical technology, and global consumer brands.

    Many of the companies inside the S&P 500 also generate revenue around the world.

    So while the IVV ETF invests in US-listed companies, the underlying businesses can have customers spread across North America, Europe, Asia, and other major markets.

    That gives investors exposure to far more than the US economy alone.

    The index can evolve over time

    Another reason I like the IVV ETF is that ASX investors do not have to predict which companies will dominate the next decade.

    The S&P 500 index changes as corporate America changes.

    Companies that grow can become increasingly important within the index, while businesses that lose relevance can eventually become smaller holdings or leave the index entirely. For example, today Nvidia is highly important, whereas 50 years ago it was IBM.

    I think that is a powerful feature for a long-term investor.

    Twenty years from now, some of today’s leading businesses may still be enormous. Others may have been overtaken by companies that are only beginning their growth stories today.

    An investor in the IVV ETF does not need to identify those winners in advance.

    They can simply continue owning a large collection of leading US businesses as the market develops.

    It keeps investing simple

    The IVV ETF also suits ASX investors who do not want to spend their spare time reading annual reports and comparing individual companies.

    Buying individual shares can be rewarding, but it requires research and comes with the possibility of getting a company-specific decision badly wrong.

    With the IVV ETF, one investment spreads money across hundreds of businesses.

    That can make it easier to keep contributing through strong markets, weak markets, recessions, and whatever else happens over a long investing career.

    For me, this simplicity is one of the fund’s biggest strengths.

    A sensible investment strategy that someone can stick with for decades can be far more powerful than a clever strategy they abandon after a difficult year.

    There are still risks

    The IVV ETF is diversified across hundreds of companies, but it is not immune from large falls.

    US shares can become expensive, recessions can hurt corporate earnings, and the index can experience lengthy periods of weak performance.

    The largest US companies also account for a meaningful share of the S&P 500 index, so the fund can become quite concentrated at the top.

    Australian investors also have currency exposure because the IVV ETF is not hedged back to the Australian dollar. Movements in the Australian dollar against the US dollar can therefore influence returns.

    Nevertheless, I would be comfortable accepting those risks with a long enough timeframe.

    Foolish takeaway

    I think the IVV ETF offers one of the simplest ways for ASX investors to participate in the long-term growth of major global businesses.

    There will inevitably be periods when US shares fall out of favour, and I would expect plenty of volatility over the years.

    But if I wanted an investment I could keep adding to and potentially hold for decades, the IVV ETF would be high on my list.

    The post Why I think the IVV ETF is a strong buy for ASX investors appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy iShares S&P 500 ETF shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and iShares S&P 500 ETF wasn’t one of them.

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 August 2026

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    Bank of America is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. 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 positions in and has recommended Apple, International Business Machines, Merck, Microsoft, Nvidia, Walmart, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Verizon Communications. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Should I invest $10,000 into Fortescue shares?

    Senior man looking at his laptop and pondering something.

    Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) remains one of Australia’s largest iron ore producers and a popular choice among resources investors.

    But if I had $10,000 ready to invest today, I would be looking closely at what the next few years could bring rather than what the company has delivered in the past.

    For now, I would keep my money on the sidelines.

    The forecasts have moved the wrong way

    Fortescue shares are trading around $17.99, which may initially look tempting after periods of weakness.

    The problem for me is the earnings outlook. According to CommSec, consensus earnings per share forecasts have been trimmed this week and now stand at $1.34 in FY27, $1.21 in FY28, and $1.13 in FY29.

    That implies earnings could fall by around 16% between FY27 and FY29.

    I would be more comfortable buying a cyclical miner when the valuation gives me a greater margin for error or when I can see a stronger earnings outlook developing.

    At $17.99, Fortescue trades on a PE ratio of roughly 13 times estimated FY27 earnings. By FY29, that rises to almost 16 times because analysts expect profits to decline.

    For a business whose earnings remain heavily influenced by the iron ore price, I do not think that looks particularly compelling.

    The dividend outlook is also weakening

    Fortescue has historically attracted plenty of attention from income investors because it can distribute substantial amounts of cash when iron ore conditions are favourable.

    Current forecasts suggest those payments could move lower over the next few years. Consensus estimates point to dividends per share of 85.8 cents in FY27, falling to 77.6 cents in FY28 and 70.7 cents in FY29.

    That is still a meaningful amount of income, but I am more interested in the direction of travel.

    If those forecasts prove accurate, both earnings and dividends would be declining at the same time.

    That makes it harder for me to get excited about investing $10,000 today, particularly when there are other large miners competing for my money.

    I still think Fortescue is a strong miner

    My hesitation does not mean I think Fortescue is a poor business.

    It has built an enormous iron ore operation in Western Australia and has spent years developing the infrastructure, mining expertise, and export network needed to move huge volumes efficiently.

    That scale remains a major strength.

    Iron ore demand and prices could also turn out stronger than analysts currently expect. If that happens, the earnings and dividend forecasts could eventually move higher again.

    Fortescue is also investing beyond its traditional iron ore operations, although I would want to see those newer opportunities make a more substantial contribution before relying on them in my investment case.

    For now, the core business remains closely tied to iron ore, and the consensus numbers suggest the next few years may be challenging.

    Hold rather than buy

    If I already owned Fortescue shares, I would not necessarily rush to sell them.

    The company remains a major producer with valuable assets, and commodity markets can surprise in either direction.

    But there is a difference between being willing to continue holding a good mining business and deciding that today is an attractive moment to put another $10,000 into it.

    I would want either a cheaper entry point or signs that the earnings outlook is beginning to improve before becoming more positive.

    Foolish takeaway

    I would not invest $10,000 into Fortescue shares at around $17.99 today.

    The company itself still has plenty going for it, but the current forecasts do not give me enough reason to buy. Earnings are expected to decline through FY29, dividends are forecast to follow them lower, and the shares would still be trading at almost 16 times FY29 earnings if those estimates prove accurate.

    For me, Fortescue is closer to a hold than a buy right now. I would be happy to keep watching and reconsider if the price or earnings outlook becomes more attractive.

    The post Should I invest $10,000 into Fortescue shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Fortescue shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 August 2026

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

  • This high-yield ASX stock could deliver 40% share price gains: Broker

    Numerous Australian dollar notes laid out.

    ASX stock Cash Converters Ltd (ASX: CCV) has delivered its sixth consecutive annual dividend of 2 cents per share, which, at the current share price, equates to a dividend yield of 6.7%.

    But the analyst team at Shaw and Partners believes there is also share price upside from here, with a buy rating on the shares and a bullish share price, which I’ll get to shortly.

    First, let’s have a look at Cash Converters’ recently released full-year results.

    Profit down in year of transition

    The company’s net profit fell 20% year-on-year to $19.7 million, on revenue of $429.2 million, up 11%.

    The company’s gross loan book fell 3% to $236.6 million while cash on hand fell 49% to $37.2 million.

    Chief Executive Officer Sam Budiselik said FY26 was a year of change for the company.

    He added:

    We are pleased to report a full-year result reflecting the deliberate execution of our strategic transformation, including exiting payday lending, materially growing the new Cashies Loan book and substantially expanding our corporate store network. While this transformation has created near-term earnings volatility as the composition of the Group’s earnings has changed, we now have a simpler business supported by a broader base of growing retail and international earnings. Following the successful launch of Cashies Loan, the Group has simplified its personal lending offering, improving the customer journey and reducing servicing costs. The Cashies Loan book reflected strong demand closing the year up almost five times at $114.1m ($23.1m at 30 June 2025). The overall quality and composition of the Group’s loan portfolio continued to improve, with the Group Net Loss Rate declining to 11.1%, from 16.0% in FY25. Legacy payday loans now comprise only 2.4% of the Group’s $236.6m total gross loan book.

    Mr Budiselik said the company’s store segment delivered strong growth, with operating EBITDA up 49.7% to $46.8 million and same store sales increasing 13%.

    The company is also expanding its luxury store concept, with third party AI authentication technology enabling an expansion in the product range.

    Shares looking cheap according to broker

    Shaw and Partners said in its note to clients that the results were as expected.

    They added:

    CCV is demonstrating that it can drive synergy and efficiency through corporatisation of its franchised store networks – a key element of our BUY recommendation. Further store acquisitions are signalled for FY27.  

    Shaw and Partners said the company was trading well below the valuation levels of its international industry peers.

    They have a price target of 41 cents on Cash Converters shares compared to 29.5 cents currently.

    Cash Converters is valued at $209.9 million.

    The post This high-yield ASX stock could deliver 40% share price gains: Broker appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Cash Converters International right now?

    Before you buy Cash Converters International shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 August 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Cameron England 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.

  • EOS shares rocket 13% today. Can the rally keep going?

    Woman looking at data on her laptop.

    Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS) shares are charging higher on Tuesday after the defence tech company released its half-year results.

    At the time of writing, the EOS share price is up a sizeable 13.02% to $9.72.

    That takes its gain over the past month to more than 40% and continues what has been a very strong run for shareholders.

    With the stock pushing higher again today, it appears investors are clearly liking what they see.

    So, can EOS shares keep climbing from here?

    Revenue jumps 283%

    The numbers show just how quickly the business has grown over the past year.

    EOS reported revenue from continuing operations of $168.8 million for the six months to 30 June, up 283% from $44.1 million a year earlier.

    Defence Systems drove most of the increase, with revenue climbing to $163.7 million from $38.8 million. Space Systems was largely flat at $5.1 million, compared with $5.3 million last year.

    The big improvement in revenue also flowed through to earnings. Underlying EBITDA came in at $21.6 million, a big turnaround from the $14.9 million loss recorded in the prior corresponding period.

    However, EOS still reported a statutory net loss after tax of $33.7 million. This included a $34 million non-cash accounting adjustment linked to its MARSS acquisition.

    Gross margin came in at 58%, down from 76% a year ago. The prior period benefited from a one-off $12 million reversal of late delivery penalties.

    Order book keeps growing

    There was more good news in the order book.

    EOS finished June with an unconditional order book of around $846 million, up 84% from $459 million at the end of December. It is also almost 5 times the $170 million reported a year ago.

    The company signed more than $300 million of new orders during the half, with most of its current order book expected to be delivered through the rest of 2026 and during 2027.

    The recently acquired MARSS business is also off to a strong start.

    MARSS has already secured around $200 million of orders in 2026, while giving EOS greater exposure to AI-enabled command and control systems and counter-drone tech.

    EOS ended June with $256 million in unrestricted cash, leaving the company well funded as it works through its growing order book.

    Can EOS shares keep climbing?

    There’s plenty going right at EOS at the moment.

    Management expects FY26 revenue of between $360 million and $400 million, which would be a record result for the company.

    Strong demand across the defence sector is also supporting the outlook, particularly for counter-drone systems, remote weapon systems, and high-energy laser weapons.

    EOS is currently chasing several opportunities across these areas, while its order book provides better visibility for future revenue growth.

    Of course, the share price has already run a long way. EOS shares are up more than 40% in just one month, so expectations are now much higher.

    Still, with revenue growing very quickly, and the order book standing at $846 million, there could be more room to run.

    The post EOS shares rocket 13% today. Can the rally keep going? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Electro Optic Systems right now?

    Before you buy Electro Optic Systems shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 August 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Electro Optic Systems. 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.

  • BHP share price hits new record high

    Two excited mining workers in yellow high vis vests and hardhats shake hands to congratulate each other on a mineral discovery

    The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price reached a new all-time record of $68.22, up 1.6%, on Tuesday.

    Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is 0.8% higher as earnings season continues.

    BHP shares have now exceeded all the new 12-month price targets set by experts since its FY26 report on 18 August.

    There is no news from the ASX 200’s most valuable company by market capitalisation today.

    What’s pushing the BHP share price higher?

    It’s certainly an interesting situation given there is just one buy rating among 11 experts since the miner released its results.

    That buy call came from Morgan Stanley.

    The top broker retained its buy call on the ASX 200 mining giant and raised its 12-month target from $67 to $67.50 post-results.

    That was the highest target price among the 11 experts.

    Nine experts reiterated their hold calls on BHP shares after the FY26 report.

    However, Morgans downgraded the ASX 200 mining share to a sell with a $55.30 target, implying a 19% downside ahead.

    The lowest 12-month target among the 11 brokers is $51.43 from Deutsche Bank.

    This suggests a potential 24% downside over the next 12 months.

    What did BHP report for FY26?

    BHP reported a record underlying earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) of US$32.9 billion for FY26.

    That was 27% higher than FY25.

    A 6% unit cost reduction across major assets and increased production at its coal and iron ore mines contributed to a 30% profit boost.

    Underlying attributable profit came in at US$13.2 billion, up 30%, and net operating cash flow was US$21.8 billion, up 17%.

    While BHP has a long history as an iron ore giant, in recent years, it has become the world’s largest copper producer.

    The red metal accounted for 54% of BHP’s EBITDA in FY26.

    What else is going on?

    The miner is benefiting from a lift in the iron ore and copper prices today.

    The copper price is up 0.3% to US$6.61 per pound on Tuesday.

    Copper hit a new all-time price peak of US$6.71 per pound on 5 August amid higher demand due to the green energy transition.

    The copper price is up 16% in the 2026 calendar year so far and up 48% over 12 months.

    The iron ore price is up 0.14% to US$95.34 per tonne today.

    Iron ore slipped below US$100 per tonne just after the start of the new financial year.

    This followed about three years of trading mostly above it.

    Trading Economics analysts explained the recent weakness:

    China’s steel output fell 3.6% year-on-year to 76.93 million tons in July, the lowest for the month since 2017, while inventories remained elevated.

    Weak property activity weighed on demand, with home prices down 3.2% year-on-year, while only about one-third of steelmakers were profitable.

    China’s July iron ore imports also fell 4% month-on-month to 108.09 million tons as shrinking steel margins prompted some mills to undertake maintenance.

    However, fresh stimulus measures and expectations of higher demand ahead of the September peak season are supporting the iron ore price today.

    China is planning measures to boost domestic demand and growth.

    The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) is also urging local governments to accelerate major projects.

    Chinese steel production is a key driver of global iron ore demand.

    The post BHP share price hits new record high appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy BHP Group shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 August 2026

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

  • Are Rio Tinto shares a good buy and hold pick?

    Woman looking at her computer and pondering something.

    Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) has enjoyed a strong run over the past 12 months, with its shares now trading around $180.44.

    That raises a question for investors looking beyond the recent momentum.

    Would I still buy Rio Tinto shares with the intention of holding them for years?

    The valuation still looks reasonable

    According to CommSec, analysts expect earnings per share of $12.07 in FY26 and $12.04 in FY27.

    Those forecasts point to virtually no earnings growth over the next year. At the current share price, Rio Tinto is trading on a PE ratio of around 15 times forecast earnings in both years.

    I think that remains a reasonable price for the quality and scale of the assets Rio Tinto owns.

    Mining profits will always move around with commodity prices, so I would not expect earnings to always climb every year. I am more interested in whether the company is investing today in assets that can produce valuable commodities for decades. I think Rio Tinto is making progress on that front.

    There is also a solid income component. Consensus forecasts estimate fully franked dividends of $6.63 per share in FY26 and $6.62 in FY27.

    Again, there is little growth implied in those forecasts, but investors are still being paid while several major projects develop.

    Copper could change the business over time

    Copper is the part of Rio Tinto that makes me most positive about the longer-term outlook.

    Oyu Tolgoi in Mongolia is already ramping up strongly. Copper production from the operation increased 31% in the first half of 2026, and Rio Tinto says the ramp-up remains on schedule.

    The scale it is heading towards is substantial. Rio Tinto expects the open pit and underground operations at Oyu Tolgoi to produce around 500,000 tonnes of copper annually on average between 2028 and 2036. The company expects it to become the world’s fourth-largest copper mine by 2030.

    For me, this is a good example of why the flat FY26 and FY27 earnings forecasts do not tell the whole story.

    The investment case stretches much further than the next couple of financial years.

    Rio Tinto is also progressing other potential copper projects, including Resolution in the US and Winu in Western Australia.

    Demand should have plenty of support as more copper is required for electricity networks, renewable energy, industrial development, and other forms of electrification.

    If Rio Tinto can bring more high-quality supply into that market, copper could become an increasingly important source of value for shareholders.

    There is more happening across the portfolio

    I also like that Rio Tinto has several major projects capable of changing its production base over time.

    Oyu Tolgoi is one. Simandou is another, adding a new source of high-grade iron ore from Guinea. The company has also expanded substantially into lithium.

    In the first half of 2026, copper, aluminium, and lithium together contributed more than half of Rio Tinto’s underlying EBITDA.

    That tells me the company is already becoming less dependent on any single commodity than investors may have traditionally associated with Rio Tinto.

    Foolish takeaway

    Yes, I think Rio Tinto shares remain a good buy and hold pick at around $180.44.

    The near-term earnings forecasts are flat, and investors should always expect commodity prices to cause some volatility.

    For me, the longer-term opportunity carries more weight. Around 15 times forecast earnings still looks reasonable, while Oyu Tolgoi and Rio Tinto’s wider copper pipeline give the company a strong avenue for growth beyond FY27.

    I would be comfortable buying the shares today and giving that opportunity several years to develop.

    The post Are Rio Tinto shares a good buy and hold pick? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Rio Tinto Group shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 August 2026

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

  • $6,000 invested in BHP shares 12 months ago is now worth….

    Two miners laughing and having fun while using smart phone during their coffee break.

    BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares are climbing higher into the green again in Tuesday morning trade.

    At the time of writing, the shares are up around 1% and changing hands for a new all-time high of $67.88 a piece.

    Today’s increase means the ASX mining giant’s shares have now jumped around 13% over the past month alone and up 48% for the year-to-date.

    For context, at the time of writing, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is up around 3% over the past month and around 5% higher for the year-to-date.

    The latest rally is supported by the miner’s record FY26 earnings results, which it posted to the ASX a week ago. 

    The group posted a strong operational performance across all its key segments and an impressive 27% increase in its underlying EBITDA

    Investors were clearly thrilled with the results and many are rushing to buy the mining shares before they climb even higher.

    So, if I bought $6,000 of BHP shares 12 months ago, what would it be worth today?

    BHP shares were trading at $43.14 this time last year, and have climbed around 56% higher to the time of writing.

    That means a $6,000 investment in the mining giant 12 months ago would be worth a huge $9.360 today!

    Can the miner’s shares keep climbing higher?

    After a strong rally through 2026 so far, it looks like BHP shares have now reached a ceiling. In fact, some think that the stock is now trading above fair value and could be due a correction.

    Market Index data shows that the majority of brokers have a hold rating on the mining shares. But the $61.78 average target price implies a 9% downside ahead.

    TradingView data shows something similar. Again the majority (13 out of 23) have a hold rating on BHP shares, but another six have a strong buy rating and four rate the stock as a sell/strong sell.

    The average $62.68 target price now implies a potential 8% downside ahead over the next 12 months. But the range between the maximum and the minimum is huge.

    Some think the shares have the potential to fall 36% to $43.72, at the time of writing. Meanwhile, more bearish analysts think BHP shares could jump 35% higher to $91.71 within the next 12 months. 

    John Athanasiou from Red Leaf Securities has a hold rating on BHP shares following the FY26 results announcement last week. He said that the quality of BHP’s asset base, balance sheet and diversified portfolio leaves existing shareholders with little reason to sell. But, after a solid run, he said investors may be better off waiting for a more attractive entry point.

    Morgan Stanley renewed its buy rating on BHP shares after the miner’s FY26 report and increased its 12-month price target to $67.50.

    Elsewhere, Morgans has a trim rating and lowered its 12-month price target to $55.30. The broker said the share price already factors in more upside.

    The post $6,000 invested in BHP shares 12 months ago is now worth…. appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy BHP Group shares, consider this:

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

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

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

    * Returns as of 1 August 2026

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