Tag: Stock pick

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS), and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) shares are turning heads today.

In late morning trade on Tuesday, all three of the high-profile ASX shares are outpacing the 0.5% gains posted by the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) at this time.

Here’s what’s catching investor interest.

Woodside shares jump on profit growth

Woodside shares are up 2.5% at the time of writing, changing hands for $34.28 apiece.

This strong performance follows the release of the ASX 200 energy stock’s half-year results (H1 2026).

Highlights for the six months included a 13% year-on-year increase in operating revenue to US$7.45 billion. And the company’s free cash flow was up 159% to US$352 million.

On the bottom line, Woodside achieved a 27% increase in net profit after tax (NPAT) to US$1.67 billion.

This saw management declare a fully-franked interim dividend of 57 US cents per Woodside share.

On the growth project front, Woodside’s Scarborough is 98% complete and on track for first LNG cargo in Q4 2026. Its Trion project is 64% complete, while the Louisiana LNG project is 28% complete.

Woodside ended the half with liquidity of US$8.19 billion.

Ramelius Resources shares lift on gold resource increase

Like Woodside shares, Ramelius Resources shares are marching higher, up 1% at $4.05 each.

This comes after the ASX 200 gold stock reported a 79% increase in its Ore Reserves to 4.3 million ounces of gold. The miner’s Mineral Resources increased by 17% to 14 million ounces.

Ramelius credited the boost to its FY 2026 exploratory drilling campaign, which added 1.8 million ounces of new discovery gold at an average cost of $55 per ounce.

The lift was primarily delivered by the maiden 1.6-million-ounce Ore Reserve at Ramelius’ Never Never underground project, as well as 260,000 ounces at its Roe underground project.

Which brings us to…

Coles shares edge higher on dividend boost

Joining Ramelius Resources and Woodside shares in turning heads today, we find Coles.

Shares in the ASX 200 supermarket giant are up 0.6% at the time of writing, trading for $22.78 apiece.

This follows the release of Coles’ FY 2026 results.

Highlights for the financial year include a 2.8% year-on-year increase in sales revenue to $45.58 billion. Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) of $2.32 billion (excluding significant items) were up 9.9%.

On the bottom line, Coles achieved a 13.7% year-on-year increase in net profit after tax (NPAT) to $1.26 billion (excluding significant items).

This saw management declare a 37-cent per share fully-franked final dividend, up 15% from last year’s final payout.

If you want to bank the final Coles dividend, you’ll need to own shares at market close on 2 September. Coles shares trade ex-dividend on 3 September.

The post Why is everyone talking about Coles, Ramelius Resources and Woodside shares on Tuesday? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• How many Coles shares do I need to buy for $5,000 a year in passive income?
• Coles Group grows profit and dividend as Supermarkets shine in FY26
• Woodside Energy half-year results: US$1,672 million profit and 57 US cents dividend
• Ramelius Resources share price on watch amid 79% surge in Ore Reserves
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday

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.

Shares in Cyclopharm Ltd (ASX: CYC) are down almost 50% over the past 12 months, but according to the analysts at Bell Potter, now could be a great time to buy in.

Bell Potter has a buy recommendation on the shares and a bullish price target, which I’ll get to shortly.

First, let’s have a look at the company’s recently released first-half results.

US market primed for growth

Cyclopharm’s flagship product is Technegas, which is a broad-spectrum diagnostic lung imaging technology for the visualisation of pulmonary ventilation and lung function.

The company said Technegas was now available in 67 countries, with more than five million patient procedures to date.

In the first half of 2026, Cyclopharm generated revenue of $17.5 million, up 14% on the same period last year, while revenue growth in the US jumped 74% to $2.1 million.

The company had $12.2 million in cash at the end of June, and posted a net loss of $8.8 million, compared with $7.7 million for the same period last year.

The company explained:

The movement reflects three factors: continued investment in US commercial operations; a near-doubling of research and development expenditure to $0.57 million as we advance our Beyond PE clinical programs; and the absence of the $1.1 million share of joint venture profit recorded in the pcp following the divestment of the non-core Cyclotek interest. Encouragingly, gross margin improved from 53.5% to 56.3%, reflecting the growing weighting of higher-margin Technegas revenue, and particularly US revenue, in the sales mix.

In terms of the market opportunity, Cyclopharm estimates the US market could be worth US$180 million.

Managing Director James McBrayer said:

The US is the world’s largest healthcare market and represents a potential US$180 million annual revenue opportunity for Cyclopharm in the diagnosis and management of Pulmonary Embolism alone. That potential is not speculative; it is built on the same adoption curve that has played out in each of our established markets, where Technegas commands an 85% or greater share of nuclear medicine ventilation imaging. Applying that experience, the Company sees its primary US market as approximately 2,000-site addressable market out of the 5,139 US sites performing nuclear medicine lung imaging, per CMS data. With 70 sites generating revenue as at 30 June 2026, we have only just started.

ASX biotech shares looking cheap

Bell Potter said in its note to clients that the growth was encouraging and noted that half of the top 20 hospitals in the US had now adopted Technegas.

The broker has a $1 price target on Cyclopharm shares compared to 50.5 cents currently.

The company is valued at $63.5 million.

The post Bell Potter says this ASX biotech could nearly double in value appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why is everyone talking about Coles, Ramelius Resources and Woodside shares on Tuesday?
• Buy, hold, sell: DigiCo Infrastructure REIT, CBA, Telstra shares
• 3 amazing ASX ETFs for Aussie investors in September
• How many Coles shares do I need to buy for $5,000 a year in passive income?
• How much do I need in my superannuation to retire comfortably at age 60?

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.

S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are up 0.4% to 9,142.1 points on Tuesday.

As earnings season continues, let’s check out some new ratings from the experts today.

DigiCo Infrastructure REIT (ASX: DGT)

The DigiCo Infrastructure REIT share price is $2.47, down 0.4% today and down 22% over 12 months. 

Morgans has a buy rating on this ASX 300 real estate investment trust (REIT) after reviewing its FY26 report.

The broker said: 

The signed Letters of Intent (LOIs) over the remaining 52MW would take the Australian portfolio to full capacity — a strong demand signal that de-risks management’s pathway to $250m of EBITDA.

However the ramp-up in earnings is back-ended, hence FY27 guidance was ~8% below MorgansF and ~13% below Consensus.

Liquidity of ~$1.2bn funds the ~$1.2bn capex bill, with management calling out no need for additional equity.

We still see clear value, but the cashflows are pushed out — this is now an FY28-into-FY29 story.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

The Telstra share price is steady at $4.72 on Tuesday, and down 6% over 12 months. 

John Athanasiou from Red Leaf has a hold call on this ASX 200 communications share following the telco’s FY26 results.

He explained (courtesy The Bull):

Telstra’s investment case has improved materially, supported by a stronger mobile business, better earnings momentum and improving shareholder returns.

Its mobile network remains the company’s key competitive advantage, providing pricing power, scale and dependable cash generation.

The market has increasingly recognised Telstra’s defensive qualities, which, we believe, are reflected in the share price.

Telecommunications also remains a capital intensive industry, requiring significant ongoing investment to maintain network leadership.

For existing shareholders, the combination of relatively stable earnings, dividends and a strong mobile franchise remains attractive.

However, for new investors, the upside appears less compelling after a recent re-rating.

Telstra is among 16 ASX 200 shares going ex-dividend this week.

The telco will pay a 90% franked dividend of 10.5 cents per share on 24 September.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

The CBA share price is $158.83, up 1.3% today and down 7% over 12 months. 

Tony Locantro from Alto Capital has a sell rating on the market’s biggest ASX 200 bank share following its FY26 results.

Locantro said: 

The CBA remains Australia’s leading banking franchise and delivered another strong result in full year 2026.

Cash net profit after tax of $10.982 billion was up 7 per cent on the prior corresponding period. The full year dividend of $5.05 a share, fully franked, was up 4 per cent.

Strong lending, deposit growth and a robust capital position continue to demonstrate the quality of the business.

However, operating expenses and loan impairment expenses increased.

The CBA continues to trade at a substantial valuation premium to domestic banking peers. Although the underlying business remains strong, the premium valuation leaves little room for disappointment and may potentially constrain prospective returns.

The post Buy, hold, sell: DigiCo Infrastructure REIT, CBA, Telstra shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• VGS vs VHY: Which Vanguard ETF comes out on top?
• How many CBA shares do I need to buy for $8,000 of passive income?
• 2 ASX shares that could rise up to 45% following earnings results 
• How much superannuation do I need to earn $4,000 a month in passive income?
• Buy, hold, sell: Pro Medicus, Fortescue, CBA shares

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 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.

September is almost here, which makes now a good time to think about where fresh money could go next.

The good news is that investors do not need to make a big call on one company to improve their portfolio.

ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs) can provide exposure to dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of shares in a single trade.

With that in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that could be worth considering next month.

iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)

The iShares S&P 500 ETF could be a great starting point for many Australian investors.

This fund tracks Wall Street’s famous S&P 500 Index, which is home to many of the largest listed companies in the United States.

That means investors can gain exposure to businesses involved in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, healthcare, payments, consumer brands, industrial products, financial services, and entertainment.

One of the strengths of this ETF is that it does not rely on a single theme. The US market has a deep collection of companies that sell into global markets, reinvest heavily, and have long records of adapting as the economy changes.

For Aussie investors, this can be a simple way to look beyond the local share market and own a slice of some of the world’s most important businesses.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

Another ASX ETF to look at in September is the Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF.

This fund offers exposure to large Asian technology companies across areas such as semiconductors, ecommerce, digital payments, online entertainment, gaming, and internet platforms.

This could be an attractive part of the market because Asia is not just a manufacturing base or a consumer region. It is also home to technology companies that are deeply involved in how the digital economy is built and used.

There are risks. Regulation, geopolitics, currencies, and market sentiment can all create volatility. But for investors wanting technology exposure outside the United States, this ETF offers a focused way to get it.

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

A final ASX ETF for investors to consider is the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF.

This fund is aimed at companies involved in robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, drones, and related technologies.

What I like about this area is that it is not just about software on a screen. Robotics and automation can change how factories operate, how warehouses move goods, how hospitals handle work, how farms lift productivity, and how logistics networks become more efficient. That gives the ETF exposure to a long-term shift in the real economy.

It will almost certainly not be a smooth ride. The theme can attract excitement, and valuations can move around quickly. But over the long term, machines doing more work in more places could be a powerful investment trend.

The post 3 amazing ASX ETFs for Aussie investors in September appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why every Aussie investor should own one of these ASX ETFs
• 15% for 10 years: Is this ASX ETF a no-brainer buy?
• 3 growth focussed ASX ETFs that could beat the market in FY27
• How much is needed in superannuation to target a $40,000 annual passive income?
• Is $2 million really the new superannuation target?

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers Etf. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) shares just became an even more attractive passive income buy.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) supermarket giant delivered the good news to investors this morning with the release of its full year FY 2026 results.

With full year profits and revenue rising, Coles lifted its final dividend payout by more than 15% from last year.

Now, if you follow along with Coles shares, you’ll know this stock has long been popular with passive income investors for its lengthy track record of paying two fully franked dividends per year. Even during the pandemic-addled year of 2020.

And while there are higher yielding stocks, Coles shares, currently trading for $22.43 apiece, have also gained around 8% over the past 12 months. That’s worth keeping in mind, as even a high-yielding ASX stock that loses significant share price value could see your wealth go backwards.

Before we dig into the numbers, also be aware that one of the two figures we’re using below come from Cole’s interim dividend, which was paid out on 30 March.

That means we’re working partly with the pending dividend yield and partly with a trailing yield. Future yields may be higher or lower depending on a range of company specific and macroeconomic factors.

With that in mind…

Buying Coles shares for a $5,000 annual passive income

Coles paid a fully franked 41 cents per share interim dividend in March.

Today, the ASX 200 supermarket declared a fully franked 37 cents per share dividend.

If you want to bank that passive income payout, you’ll need to own Coles shares at market close on 2 September. The stock trades ex-dividend on 3 September. You can then expect to see that Coles dividend land in you bank account on 22 September.

In total then, Coles has (or shortly will have) paid out 78 cents in fully franked dividends over the past year. That’s up 13% from the company’s FY 2025 payouts.

So, for you $5,000 yearly passive income stream, you’d need to buy 6,411 shares today.

At the current share price, that represents an investment of $143,799.

Coles shares trade on a fully franked dividend yield of 3.5%. Taking those franking credits into account, the ASX 200 stock trades on a grossed-up yield of 5.0%.

What’s the latest from the ASX 200 supermarket?

For FY 2026, Coles reported a 2.8% year on year increase in sales revenue to $45.58 billion.

And driving the increased passive income payout, the company achieved a 13.7% lift in net profit after tax (NPAT) to $1.26 billion (excluding significant items).

The post How many Coles shares do I need to buy for $5,000 a year in passive income? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why is everyone talking about Coles, Ramelius Resources and Woodside shares on Tuesday?
• Coles Group grows profit and dividend as Supermarkets shine in FY26
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday
• 7 ASX 200 shares with reaffirmed buy ratings this week
• Is the Coles share price good value?

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.

In Australia, the average age of retirement is 65 years old. But did you know you can access your superannuation a lot earlier, at age 60?

That’s because, at age 60, you’re officially at preservation age. Which means if you’ve ceased working, you’re eligible to start your retirement and begin drawing down on your superannuation balance.

Of course, the only catch is that you’ll need enough in your super to fund a comfortable retirement lifestyle. 

But what could a comfortable retirement starting at age 60 actually look like? 

Let’s investigate.

What does a ‘comfortable retirement’ mean?

The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) divides retirement into two broad lifestyle categories: comfortable and modest.

A comfortable retirement is defined as one that enables retirees to maintain a good standard of living well beyond the Age Pension and a modest retirement. It budgets for expenses such as top-tier private health insurance and regular leisure activities. It allocates funds for home repairs or renovations, the occasional meal out, and perhaps even an annual holiday.

Meanwhile, a modest retirement is defined as being able to cover expenses just slightly above what the full Centrelink Age Pension would provide from age 67.

How much does a comfortable retirement cost?

ASFA estimates that a comfortable retirement will cost around $55,923 per year for single Australians. A couple living together can expect to spend around $78,566 per year combined.

In order to fund this lifestyle level, ASFA has calculated that at age 67, single Australians will need around $630,000. Couples will need a combined superannuation balance closer to $730,000.

But the catch is that these figures are based on the understanding that you’ll retire at age 67, that you will only need to fund around 10 years of retirement, will be eligible to receive a part Age Pension, and you own your home in full.

So, if you want to retire at a much earlier age of 60, you’ll need to work towards a different goal to be able to fund those extra seven years.

I want to retire at age 60. How much superannuation do I need?

Your annual costs will be around the same: $55,923 per year for single Australians and $78,566 per year combined for a couple living together.

But, as I mentioned above, you’ll need to fund an additional seven years that ASFA figures haven’t accounted for.

I’ve done a quick calculation to work out the amount you actually need in your superannuation to retire at age 60 and maintain the same comfortable quality of life.

At age 60, singles will need to have closer to $1 million in their superannuation. Meanwhile, couples will need a combined balance of around $1.3 million at the same age. 

But note, if you don’t own your home outright, you’ll also need to consider how you’ll pay your mortgage or rent.

Is your superannuation on track to retire early?

The post How much do I need in my superannuation to retire comfortably at age 60? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why is everyone talking about Coles, Ramelius Resources and Woodside shares on Tuesday?
• Bell Potter says this ASX biotech could nearly double in value
• Buy, hold, sell: DigiCo Infrastructure REIT, CBA, Telstra shares
• 3 amazing ASX ETFs for Aussie investors in September
• How many Coles shares do I need to buy for $5,000 a year in passive income?

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 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.

The FireFly Metals Ltd (ASX: FFM) share price is on the move today after releasing key results from its Green Bay Copper-Gold Project study, including a preliminary economic assessment (PEA) showing robust project economics and a major resource upgrade.

What did FireFly Metals report?

• After-tax NPV_7% of ~A$2.2 billion and IRR of 42% over a 32-year mine life for the 1.8Mtpa base case
• Steady-state annual copper equivalent production of 50kt (base case) and 90kt (4.6Mtpa alternative)
• Average post-tax annual free cash flow of ~A$290 million (base case) and ~A$550 million (4.6Mtpa alternative)
• Average C1 cash costs in the lower quartile, at US$2.05/lb CuEq (base case) and US$1.84/lb CuEq (4.6Mtpa alternative)
• Updated Mineral Resource Estimate: 60.2Mt at 2.4% CuEq (Measured & Indicated), plus 23.5Mt at 2.5% CuEq (Inferred)
• Existing cash and investments of A$183 million and plans for up to A$190 million in new equity funding

What else do investors need to know?

FireFly’s PEA assessed two scenarios for restarting the Green Bay Ming Mine: a 1.8Mtpa base case and a larger 4.6Mtpa option, both indicating a long-lived, high-margin project in Canada’s Newfoundland and Labrador. A significant portion of production targets is supported by higher-confidence resource categories, which helps underpin future development.

With all key environmental permits granted, the company is already underway with select early works intended to fast-track construction. Six drill rigs are active, targeting high-grade extensions and new discoveries near the existing resource, aiming to grow resources and support further mine life extensions.

What did FireFly Metals management say?

FireFly Managing Director Steve Parsons commented:

The findings of the economic study prove that Green Bay is one of the best undeveloped copper projects in the world based on a range of key metrics, ranging from scale and production profile through to financial returns and growth. The base case of 50,000t a year generates strong returns and we have a clear pathway to double that. And that is before allowing for the growth we aim to unlock through our ongoing drilling programs in the high-grade areas of the mine and the highly prospective regional exploration program now cranking up. The project simply ticks every box and is clearly poised to generate outstanding returns for all our stakeholders. The highly enviable nature of Green Bay is reflected in the fact that we have just launched a A$180m share placement across the ASX and TSX exchanges. Once in production, Green Bay has the potential to be one of the biggest copper mines in the world outside those owned by the multi-nationals and diversified mining giants. This means FireFly offers investors virtually pure copper exposure via an asset with genuine world-scale in a tier-one location. Our scale, our concentrated copper exposure and our outstanding growth outlook is a very rare combination in global markets. It is unique on the ASX. FireFly offers concentrated exposure to high-grade copper production in a tier-one location with ongoing growth potential.

What’s next for FireFly Metals?

FireFly plans to complete a definitive Feasibility Study and its maiden Ore Reserve estimate in the first quarter of 2027, aiming to enable a final investment decision and begin full construction soon after. The early works already underway, together with regulatory approvals and available funding, position the company to begin first concentrate production targeted for mid-2029.

The company is also pursuing further resource growth through underground and regional drilling, and is actively working on additional exploration and government funding opportunities to enhance project economics and reduce funding risk for future development phases.

FireFly Metals share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, FireFly Metals shares have risen 64%, significantly outperforming the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which has risen 1% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post FireFly Metals reveals robust Green Bay PEA and resource boost appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• 5 ASX shares downgraded by brokers this week
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• FireFly Metals share price on watch following strong Green Bay drilling results and outlook

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.

The Integral Diagnostics Ltd (ASX: IDX) share price is in the spotlight after the company reported a 25.6% rise in revenue to $788.7 million, alongside a 50% boost in operating NPAT to $47.4 million for FY26.

What did Integral Diagnostics report?

• Revenue grew 25.6% to $788.7 million
• Operating EBITDA jumped 30.3% to $164.8 million, with margins up to 20.9%
• Operating NPAT climbed 50.1% to $47.4 million
• Operating diluted EPS increased by 23.6% to 12.6 cents
• Fully franked final dividend of 6.0 cents per share (total FY26: 9.3 cents), up 50%
• Operating free cash flow up 30.7% to $106.4 million, with conversion at 82%

What else do investors need to know?

Integral’s strong FY26 performance reflects both organic growth and successful integration of the Capitol Health merger, with more than $14 million in annual synergies realised—well above initial expectations. Patient volumes and Medicare indexation drove much of the revenue uplift, and there was continued momentum in higher value imaging services like CT, MRI, and PET scans.

The balance sheet remains on solid footing. Net debt edged up slightly to $298.9 million, but leverage fell to 2.3x Operating EBITDA, within the company’s target range. Management also reported a reduction in the average interest rate on core debt and confirmed all banking covenants are being met.

What did Integral Diagnostics management say?

Jason Martinez, Managing Director and CEO, said:

IDX delivered a strong FY26 result, with solid revenue growth, improved margins and disciplined execution across the business, resulting in performance in line with our guidance. This translated into enhanced shareholder returns, with operating diluted EPS increasing 23.6% and a fully franked final dividend of 6.0 cents per share, up 50.0% on the prior year.

What’s next for Integral Diagnostics?

Integral Diagnostics says it’s well placed to ride favourable industry trends like increasing demand for diagnostic imaging and the shift to higher-value modalities. Priorities for FY27 and beyond include disciplined core growth, selective network expansion, people and culture investment, and digital innovation.

The company is targeting sustainable revenue growth, ongoing margin expansion above 21%, further productivity gains, and improved patient access. Expected capex for FY27 is $50 million to $60 million for replacement and growth initiatives.

Integral Diagnostics share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Integral Diagnostics shares have declined 16%, trailing the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which has risen 1% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Integral Diagnostics posts profit and dividend growth in FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 2 ASX shares tipped to grow 40% or more in the next 12 months
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• Integral Diagnostics: FY26 results and new CFO appointment

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.

The Aurizon Holdings Ltd (ASX: AZJ) share price is in rising today after announcing a new on-market buy-back of up to $250 million, following a strong FY2026 and ongoing commitment to capital management.

What did Aurizon report?

• Launch of an on-market share buy-back program of up to $250 million
• Buy-back to commence on 8 September 2026 and run for up to 12 months
• Initiative follows a strong FY2026 result, continued cash generation, and strong balance sheet
• Capital return aligns with Aurizon’s disciplined capital allocation framework

What else do investors need to know?

Aurizon’s Board sees the current share price as an attractive opportunity to return surplus capital to shareholders, funded by existing debt capacity. The buy-back forms part of the company’s approach to balancing investment in growth, reinvestment, and capital returns.

All shares acquired under the buy-back will be cancelled, which may increase earnings per share for remaining investors over time. Aurizon retains the right to vary, pause or end the program based on market conditions.

What did Aurizon management say?

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Andrew Harding said:

The share buy-back program is a part of our capital allocation framework which has been used successfully in the past at value-accretive prices. The purchase of our own shares funded by existing debt capacity maintains our disciplined balance sheet management.

This buy-back is consistent with Aurizon’s clear capital allocation framework, which includes maintaining a BBB+/Baa1 credit rating, reinvesting in our business while investing in growth and delivering returns to our shareholders.

What’s next for Aurizon?

Aurizon will proceed with the buy-back from 8 September 2026, buying shares on market as conditions permit. The Board and management emphasise that capital allocation remains disciplined, with ongoing focus on maintaining investment-grade credit ratings and supporting future growth.

Investors may look for further updates on Aurizon’s operational performance and details on capital management at the next company announcement or results briefing.

Aurizon share price snapshot

The Aurizon share price is up around 15% over the past 12 months, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO).

View Original Announcement

The post Aurizon announces $250m buy-back after strong FY2026 earnings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 3 top Australian shares to buy for passive income
• These ASX 200 shares could generate $10,000 per year in passive income
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The Propel Funeral Partners Ltd (ASX: PFP) share price is in focus today after the company posted FY26 revenue of $226.6 million, steady on last year, and declared a fully franked final dividend of 6.9 cents per share.

What did Propel Funeral Partners report?

• Revenue: $226.6 million, up 0.3% on FY25 and within guidance
• Operating EBITDA: $55.3 million, down 1.6% year on year
• Operating NPAT: $20.7 million, a 4.0% decline from the prior year
• Total fully franked dividends: 14.4 cents per share (unchanged from FY25)
• Five acquisitions completed in FY26 and since, totalling ~$12 million
• Funding capacity of ~$169 million and strong cash flow conversion of 100.7%

What else do investors need to know?

Propel carried out roughly 22,850 funerals in FY26, marking a 1.1% increase on the previous year, despite a contraction in comparable volumes of about 2%. Average revenue per funeral climbed ~2% to $6,673, supported by recent acquisitions and pricing, but was impacted by foreign exchange movements.

Over the year, Propel made five acquisitions in New Zealand, broadening its network of funeral homes and memorial businesses. The company notes continued focus on its core strategy of investing in death care assets across Australia and New Zealand.

The balance sheet remains solid with about $650 million in total assets, $252 million in freehold property, and a recently extended $275 million debt facility now maturing in October 2029. Gearing sits at roughly 31%, and the net leverage ratio is well within covenant limits at about 2.2 times.

What’s next for Propel Funeral Partners?

Looking ahead, Propel says it is well placed for growth thanks to strong funding, favourable demographics, and contributions from its latest acquisitions. The company notes the industry remains highly fragmented, presenting further acquisition opportunities, though timing is yet to be determined.

In July 2026, Propel produced revenue of approximately $21.5 million, supported by increased average revenue per funeral and ongoing resilience in funeral volumes, despite lower industry death volumes. The company will update shareholders on FY27 trading at its AGM in November.

Propel Funeral Partners share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Propel Funeral Partners shares have declined 32%, trailing the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO).

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The post Propel Funeral Partners posts steady FY26 earnings and maintains dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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.