Tag: Stock pick

The Goodman Group (ASX: GMG) share price is in focus after the company reported a half-year operating profit of $1.2 billion, and increased its data centre pipeline with 73% of development activity now in that sector.

What did Goodman Group report?

• Operating profit of $1,203.5 million for the half year
• Operating earnings per security (OEPS) of 58.5 cents
• Statutory profit of $824.7 million
• Distribution per security of 15.0 cents (forecast 30.0 cents for FY26)
• Gearing reduced to 4.1% (17.8% look-through)
• Portfolio occupancy at 95.9%, with like-for-like net property income growth of 4.2%

What else do investors need to know?

Goodman ramped up its data centre development, now making up nearly three-quarters of its $14.4 billion work in progress, as global demand for digital infrastructure keeps rising. The Group also boosted its global power bank to 6.0 GW across 16 major cities, putting it in a strong position to deliver large-scale data centre projects over the next year.

The company maintains a solid financial footing, with $5.2 billion in liquidity and interest cover of 133.1 times. External assets under management grew to $75.2 billion, supported by new partnerships in Europe and North America to fund both logistics and data centres.

What did Goodman Group management say?

Group Chief Executive Officer Greg Goodman said:

Goodman Group has delivered operating profit of $1.2 billion. Importantly, we’re continuing to provide high quality essential infrastructure for the digital economy in supply constrained markets. We’re building into strong demand for metro locations across both logistics and data centres. Large scale logistics customers are targeting productivity and efficiency gains through increased automation and consolidation. Data centre customers require facilities with low-latency and high connectivity to meet the unprecedented levels of capex spending forecast across the sector. Goodman is set to benefit from these structural shifts given the quality and location of our sites, and our track record of developing complex infrastructure. Power, sites and capital are critical to being able to service demand and provide delivery certainty for customers. Our power bank has grown to 6.0 GW on sites we own across 16 metro markets. Our balance sheet is strong, with significant liquidity to commence construction. We are on track to have data centre projects, providing 0.5 GW of power, in development by the end of FY26. This will take work in progress up to approximately $18 billion by 30 June. We are partnering with large investors to fund multi-year development programs, having established a $14 billion data centre development Partnership in Europe and a $2 billion logistics Partnership in North America. Our engagement with data centre customers is progressing well across multiple sites, with commitments expected in 2026.

What’s next for Goodman Group?

Looking ahead, Goodman expects demand for digital infrastructure and logistics space to outstrip supply in coming years, especially in key metro markets. The company aims to have $18 billion of developments underway by June 2026, with further growth in both data centre and logistics projects backed by a robust balance sheet and strong capital partnerships.

The Group reiterated a target of 9% growth in FY26 operating earnings per security, but notes this remains subject to stable market conditions.

Goodman Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Goodman Group shares have declined 9%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

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The post Goodman Group posts $1.2b profit and expands data centre pipeline appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Zip reports record 1H FY26 cash earnings and upgrades guidance

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 positions in and has recommended Goodman Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Goodman Group. 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 Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) share price is in focus today after the company reported record cash EBTDA of $124.3 million, up 85.6% on the prior corresponding period, and total income of $664 million, a 29.2% increase.

What did Zip report?

• Cash EBTDA rose to $124.3 million, up 85.6% year-on-year
• Total income reached $664.0 million, up 29.2% vs 1H25
• Total transaction volume (TTV) hit $8.4 billion, an increase of 34.1%
• Operating margin improved to 18.7% (from 13.0% in 1H25)
• Net bad debts were 1.7% of TTV, in line with management targets
• Active customers grew to 6.6 million (+4.1%), with merchants up 10.5% to 90,600

What else do investors need to know?

Zip saw strong momentum in both its US and ANZ businesses. The US delivered significant transaction and revenue growth, supported by new merchant signings and technology partnerships. Active customers in the US rose nearly 10%, with expanded offerings like Pay-in-2 contributing to engagement.

In Australia and New Zealand, revenue and receivables returned to growth, aided by new feature launches and strategic integrations. The company completed a $100 million on-market share buyback and reported a strengthened balance sheet, with $239 million in available cash and liquidity as at 31 December 2025.

What did Zip management say?

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Cynthia Scott said:

Zip continues to increase profitability at scale, driving cash earnings growth of 85.6% and significant operating margin expansion during the half… We are well-positioned to continue executing against our FY26 strategic priorities and delivering profitable growth at scale. Following a strong first half, Zip has upgraded its FY26 guidance for operating margin and cash EBTDA as a % of TTV while reconfirming its other target ranges.

What’s next for Zip?

Looking ahead, Zip aims to keep building its US presence, with CEO Cynthia Scott set to relocate to the United States in the second half of 2026 to support this focus. The business reconfirmed its FY26 guidance for revenue margin and TTV growth while providing upgraded targets for operating margin and cash EBTDA as a percentage of TTV.

Zip will also continue to enhance its products and technology, with further rollouts of features like ‘Money Coach’ and expanded AI-driven customer experiences. Subject to favourable market conditions, the company is considering a potential dual listing in the US.

Zip share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Zip shares have risen 10%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

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The post Zip reports record 1H FY26 cash earnings and upgrades guidance 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.

The Codan Ltd (ASX:CDA) share price is in focus today after the company posted a half-year revenue increase to $393.5 million, up 29% over the prior period, alongside NPAT growth of 55% to $71.2 million and a fully franked interim dividend of 19.5 cents per share.

What did Codan report?

• Group revenue rose 29% to $393.5 million
• Net profit after tax (NPAT) up 55% to $71.2 million
• Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) increased 52% to $99.8 million
• Earnings per share jumped 54% to 39.2 cents
• Interim dividend of 19.5 cents per share, fully franked – up 56%
• Orderbook in Communications segment up 19% to $294 million

What else do investors need to know?

Codan’s Communications division experienced revenue growth of 19% to $221.8 million and maintained profit margins despite some temporary headwinds in the Zetron Americas business. Its DTC unit saw strong demand from the defence and unmanned systems sector, especially for technologies suited to contested environments.

The Metal Detection (Minelab) business delivered a standout half, with revenue up 46% and segment profit up 86% thanks to gold detector demand in West Africa and robust sales globally. Minelab also continued to invest in new products, launching several detectors and signalling more to come.

Codan’s balance sheet remains healthy, with net debt at $88.2 million and significant undrawn facilities providing flexibility for future acquisitions and investment.

What did Codan management say?

Managing Director & CEO Alf Ianniello said:

Codan has delivered another strong financial result for the first half of FY26, with Group revenues growing 29% to $394 million, and both EBIT and NPAT up by more than 50% versus the first half of FY25. The Group’s performance reflects disciplined execution of our strategic plan, favourable market conditions in key regions, and the benefits of our diversified technology portfolio.

What’s next for Codan?

Codan expects underlying demand in both Communications and Metal Detection to remain strong, targeting growth in its technology-driven segments. The company plans to continue investing in engineering and new product development to sustain its competitive edge and is open to strategic acquisitions to diversify its earnings base.

Leadership changes are on the horizon, with long-serving CFO Michael Barton set to retire in August 2026, to be succeeded by Deputy CFO Kayi Li. Codan is ensuring a smooth transition, with continued support from Barton throughout the following year.

Codan share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Codan shares have risen 102%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

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The post Codan H1 FY26 earnings surge; Minelab delivers standout half 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.

The Brambles Ltd (ASX: BXB) share price is in focus today after releasing its half-year 2026 results, with new business momentum helping lift group sales revenue by 2% to US$3.53 billion and underlying profit up 7% to US$792 million.

What did Brambles report?

• Sales revenue (continuing operations): US$3,533.5 million, up 2% (constant FX)
• Underlying Profit and Operating profit: US$792.0 million, up 7% (constant FX)
• Operating profit after tax: US$507.4 million, up 11%
• Basic EPS (continuing operations): 37.2 US cents, up 13%
• Free Cash Flow before dividends: US$481.7 million, up US$52.5 million
• Interim dividend: 23.00 US cents per share, up 21% on 1H25

What else do investors need to know?

Brambles managed to offset weaker consumer demand in key markets, like the US and Europe, with strong net new customer growth. The company also benefited from operational efficiencies and disciplined cost control, helping expand margins despite flat overall volumes.

During the half, Brambles invested in digital and asset quality initiatives, enhanced customer service levels, and continued its share buy-back program, purchasing US$191 million worth of shares as part of a planned US$400 million FY26 buy-back.

The company continues to push its Serialisation+ technology program, with significant customer uptake in Chile and ongoing pilot programs in the US and UK. These digital initiatives are aimed at further improving supply chain visibility and efficiency for customers.

What did Brambles management say?

Brambles’ CEO Graham Chipchase, said:

We delivered a resilient first-half result, with strong operating leverage and free cash flow outcomes, despite ongoing demand headwinds in key markets. This performance demonstrates our sustained focus on increasing the value we bring to customers’ supply chains, maintaining commercial discipline as we grow and delivering efficiencies across all parts of the business.

What’s next for Brambles?

Brambles updated its FY26 outlook off the back of first-half results. It now expects full-year sales revenue growth of 3–4% at constant currency (narrowed from 3–5%), while Underlying Profit growth guidance remains unchanged at 8–11%. Free Cash Flow before dividends is upgraded to between US$950–1,100 million (was US$850–950 million).

Management notes that while consumer demand may stay subdued, ongoing cost efficiencies and strong net new business wins should provide resilience. Investments in automation, digitisation, and the Serialisation+ rollout are expected to support Brambles’ long-term growth and customer value.

Brambles share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Brambles shares have risen 20%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

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The post Brambles profit up, cash flow upgraded in half-year 2026 earnings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• PLS Group posts H1 FY26 profit and 241% EBITDA surge

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.

Over the last 12 months, CAR Group Ltd (ASX: CAR) has seen its share price fall by over 30%. From cost-of-living pressures to emerging fears about generative AI, the online vehicle marketplace is facing some significant headwinds.

However, it delivered solid H126 results last week and is a company that has shown it can evolve. Here’s what’s happening and why I believe there is significant upside right now.

What is driving the CAR Group share price down?

CAR Group runs online vehicle marketplaces in Australia, South Korea, the USA, and Chile. It is also a majority shareholder in the Brazil-based webmotors. While it continued to deliver solid results in FY25 despite rising cost of living in its biggest markets, investors have remained cautious heading into 2026.

Partly, this is due to broader weak sentiment across the tech sector. Investor appetite for high-growth stocks has eased, amidst fears of overvaluation. In addition, the potential for a softening of the vehicle market and the easing of used car prices this year may be contributing to investor concerns.

But perhaps its biggest headwind is the fear that generative AI will soon replace online marketplaces. Generative AI is disrupting the established ‘search and browse’ model, and some investors are concerned that CAR Group will lose its footing as customers lean into personalised AI-driven shopping experiences.

Can CAR Group effectively respond to the growing threat of generative AI?

For me, it can.

Firstly, I believe vehicle sales will be insulated from the shift for longer than some other consumer products, due to the high cost and level of trust required in the transaction.

Secondly, CAR Group has a solid track record of responding to major shifts.  

In the 1990s, CAR Group (then known as Carsales.com) transformed the way Australians bought and sold cars with its digital marketplace, accelerating the shift from print classifieds. By the early 2000s, it was widely considered Australia’s go-to online car marketplace.

Over its history, it has, by and large, demonstrated that it is an early mover, scales responsibly, and uses acquisitions to increase depth and complement its core business.

Notably, across the 2010s, it made a significant and successful move from a listing site to a sophisticated automotive marketplace, integrating a broad range of value-added services, including vehicle inspections, dealer analytics, and financing.

Now, with generative AI threatening another major shift, I believe it will once again respond with agility and discipline. It has shown that it is facing the challenge head-on by establishing a global AI hub.

Of the move, Managing Director and CEO, William Elliott, said:

We see AI as a critical enabler and we are embedding it into our products, platforms and operations. This capability will be further accelerated by the establishment of CG/lab, our global AI hub in Brazil, which is focused on developing core agentic technology that can be built once and scaled across the Group. Recent highlights include the introduction of voice-controlled vehicle search and AI companions that help guide consumers through the vehicle buying and selling journey.

And while it navigates this AI shift, CAR Group will likely still have the network effect on its side for some time. Buyers, sellers, and dealers alike are accustomed to using its sites, meaning each will go there to find the others. Obviously, that can and will change if CAR Group doesn’t step up. But for me, it has an established history of success in evolving to meet its contemporary customers.

Of course, sceptics remain. But I’m still bullish on CAR Group because I believe it is making all the right moves in the present climate, supported by a consistent track record. For me, current prices present an attractive entry point for long-term investors who share my faith that it can once again evolve as AI disruption looms.

The post Why I am still bullish on CAR Group appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Melissa Maddison 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 CAR Group Ltd. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The APA Group (ASX: APA) share price is in focus today after the company posted a 7.6% jump in underlying EBITDA to $1,092 million and lifted its organic growth pipeline for the first half of FY26.

What did APA Group report?

• Total statutory revenue (excluding pass-through) rose 2.0% to $1,391 million
• Underlying EBITDA increased 7.6% to $1,092 million, with margins up to 77.3%
• Statutory net profit after tax climbed to $95 million, up from $34 million last year
• Free cash flow edged up 0.7% to $556 million
• Interim distribution lifted 1.9% to 27.5 cents per security, payable 18 March 2026
• FY26 Underlying EBITDA guidance unchanged at $2,120–$2,200 million, with expectation to exceed midpoint

What else do investors need to know?

APA Group reaffirmed its FY26 distribution guidance at 58 cents per security, up 1.8% on FY25. The company is also on track to achieve $50 million in full-year cost savings, helped by simplification efforts including the sale of its Networks business and pending divestment of its GDI stake.

APA’s organic growth pipeline for FY26–FY28 has been upgraded from $2.1 billion to around $3 billion, driven by new projects such as expanding the East Coast Gas Grid and collaboration with CS Energy on the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant. A recent S&P rating adjustment has further strengthened balance sheet capacity, increasing potential funding for growth.

What did APA Group management say?

CEO and Managing Director Adam Watson said:

APA has delivered another strong half year operational and financial result, as we continue to deliver our commitments and create value for our securityholders… Today’s result demonstrates that APA is delivering on commitments, while simultaneously positioning the business to play a central role in the energy transition.

What’s next for APA Group?

APA Group expects to exceed the midpoint of its full-year underlying EBITDA guidance range, and management is sticking with its distribution forecast. Ongoing cost reductions and simplification are set to improve margins, while a larger growth pipeline and strong credit profile should support further investment in gas, power, and renewables infrastructure.

Projects in development include the next stage of the East Coast Gas Grid Expansion Plan and partnerships in renewable energy, positioning APA for continued strategic growth as the energy transition accelerates.

APA Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, APA Group shares have risen 39%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

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The post APA Group lifts earnings and growth outlook for 1H26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• PLS Group posts H1 FY26 profit and 241% EBITDA surge

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 positions in and has recommended Apa Group. 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 Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) share price is in focus today after the fashion jewellery retailer delivered a 23.3% jump in revenue to $500.7 million and a 2.6% rise in statutory profit after tax to $58.4 million for the first half of FY26.

What did Lovisa report?

• Revenue from ordinary activities up 23.3% to $500.7 million
• Statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) up 2.6% to $58.4 million
• Underlying NPAT (excluding Jewells investment) up 21.5% to $69.6 million
• Gross profit up 23% to $411.6 million, with an underlying gross margin of 82.9%
• Interim dividend of 53.0 cents per share (50% franked), to be paid 26 March 2026
• Store network increased to 1,095 stores, with 85 new openings in the half

What else do investors need to know?

Lovisa continued its global store rollout, opening 85 new stores across all regions, while closing 21. The company saw comparable store sales rise 2.2% compared to the prior half. Ongoing investment in the Jewells start-up phase impacted statutory results, with Jewells incurring an EBIT loss of $10.8 million and an NPAT loss of $11.2 million for the period.

What’s next for Lovisa?

Lovisa plans to continue investing in its global store network and support structures including logistics and technology to boost efficiency. The company will also maintain its focus on product cost management and inventory discipline as it looks to build on its momentum.

The start-up phase of the Jewells brand remains a focus, with investment expected to continue as the business positions itself for long-term growth. Management notes global economic conditions remain soft, particularly with ongoing inflation and interest rate pressures, but the group remains committed to executing its expansion strategy.

Lovisa share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Lovisa shares have risen 2%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 7% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Lovisa reveals higher revenue and interim dividend in FY26 half-year appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Regis Resources posts record HY26 profit and lifts dividend
• Wesfarmers posts 9% half-year profit growth and boosts dividend
• PLS Group posts H1 FY26 profit and 241% EBITDA surge

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 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. 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 Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) share price is in focus today as the gold miner delivered a record net profit after tax of $323 million for the half year and declared a fully franked 15 cent interim dividend.

What did Regis Resources report?

• Net profit after tax up 267% year-on-year to $323 million
• Gold sales revenue rose 40% to $1.09 billion, with an average realised price of $5,968 per ounce
• EBITDA up 73% to $621 million, with a margin of 57%
• Gold production of 186,917 ounces at an all-in sustaining cost (AISC) of $2,850 per ounce
• Cash and bullion balance climbed to $930 million by 31 December 2025
• Interim fully franked dividend of 15 cents per share declared (up from 5 cents for the prior full year), totalling $114 million

What else do investors need to know?

Regis Resources has released a new Capital Management Policy, formalising its approach to shareholder returns. The company now intends to pay fully franked ordinary dividends on a semi-annual basis, targeting a payout of 25% to 50% of Group Cash Increase over each half.

The policy leaves room for special dividends and share buy-backs if cash balances exceed strategic requirements. The dividend reinvestment plan remains suspended.

FY26 production and cost guidance remain unchanged, targeting 350,000–380,000 ounces of gold and an AISC between $2,610 and $2,990 per ounce. Exploration guidance was lifted by $20 million amid continued drilling success.

What did Regis Resources management say?

Regis has delivered an outstanding financial result for the first half of FY26. The operational performance has increased the financial strength of our business translating to record EBITDA, NPAT and cash flow.

What’s next for Regis Resources?

Looking ahead, Regis aims to deliver its full year production and cost guidance, underpinned by strong gold prices and ongoing operational performance. Management expects continued cash generation and profitability if gold prices remain robust.

The recently introduced capital management strategy gives more predictability on dividends while keeping flexibility for reinvestment and potential extra shareholder returns in the future.

Regis Resources share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Regis Resources shares have risen 164%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Regis Resources posts record HY26 profit and lifts dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Brambles profit up, cash flow upgraded in half-year 2026 earnings
• APA Group lifts earnings and growth outlook for 1H26
• Lovisa reveals higher revenue and interim dividend in FY26 half-year
• Wesfarmers posts 9% half-year profit growth and boosts dividend
• PLS Group posts H1 FY26 profit and 241% EBITDA surge

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 Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) share price is in focus today after the company posted a 9.3% jump in half-year NPAT to $1,603 million and lifted its interim dividend by 7.4%.

What did Wesfarmers report?

• Revenue rose to $24,212 million, up 3.1% on the prior period
• Net profit after tax (NPAT) increased 9.3% to $1,603 million
• Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) climbed 8.4% to $2,493 million
• Fully-franked interim dividend of $1.02 per share, up 7.4%
• Operating cash flows at $2,491 million, down 3.3% year on year
• Basic earnings per share rose to 141.4 cents

What else do investors need to know?

Wesfarmers highlighted strong earnings growth from its major divisions, led by Bunnings, Kmart Group, and WesCEF. Bunnings delivered higher sales across all categories and geographies, while Kmart Group benefited from strong demand for its Anko ranges, although softer trading in Target offset some gains.

The Covalent Lithium joint venture’s refinery was completed below cost estimates and has begun producing high-quality lithium hydroxide. Meanwhile, Officeworks earnings were stable despite costs from its transformation program. Across the Group, a focus on productivity, cost control, and digital investments helped offset ongoing cost pressures.

Wesfarmers continues to enhance its digital and AI capabilities, recently striking new partnerships with Microsoft and Google Cloud to drive innovation and support growth across the business. The company remains committed to sustainability, reporting a 27.8% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions.

What did Wesfarmers management say?

Managing Director Rob Scott said:

Wesfarmers’ increase in profit was supported by strong earnings contributions from our largest divisions – Bunnings, Kmart Group and WesCEF.

During the half, Wesfarmers’ divisions benefited from productivity initiatives to navigate ongoing challenging market conditions… The divisions performed well, driving productivity to mitigate cost pressures and keep prices low for customers.

What’s next for Wesfarmers?

Looking forward, Wesfarmers expects its mix of leading businesses and strong balance sheet to support solid shareholder returns. Management notes that inflation and higher operating expenses remain headwinds, but the retail divisions are set to benefit from ongoing investment in digital, AI, and omnichannel assets.

Bunnings and Kmart Group are expected to deliver sustainable earnings growth through their focus on everyday low prices and productivity. The company’s lithium operations are forecast to contribute positively in the second half, while the Officeworks transformation is intended to deliver efficiency and long-term improvement.

Wesfarmers share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Wesfarmers shares have rise 17%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has increased 7% over the same period.

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The post Wesfarmers posts 9% half-year profit growth and boosts 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 positions in and has recommended Wesfarmers. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Wesfarmers. 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 PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) share price is in focus after the lithium producer posted a 241% surge in underlying EBITDA to $253 million and returned to profit in the half-year to 31 December 2025.

What did PLS Group report?

• Revenue jumped 47% to $624 million (H1 FY25: $426 million).
• Underlying EBITDA soared 241% to $253 million, with margin expanding to 41% (H1 FY25: 17%).
• Net profit after tax was $33 million, reversing a $69 million loss in the prior period.
• Production increased 6% to 432.8 thousand tonnes of spodumene concentrate.
• Sales volumes rose 7% to 446.0 thousand tonnes.
• No interim dividend was declared.

What else do investors need to know?

PLS Group (formerly Pilbara Minerals), achieved significant operational improvements, including an 8% decrease in unit operating costs to $563 per tonne (FOB). Higher sales volumes and strong market pricing underpinned the improvements.

The company closed the half with $954 million in cash and approximately $1.6 billion in total liquidity. Capital expenditure was $123 million, covering projects, mine development, and sustaining capital. Cash outflows were partly due to working capital timing, customer refunds, and pricing settlements.

While cash margins from operations totalled $174 million, underlying cash margins (adjusted) would be $291 million. The board reaffirmed its focus on financial flexibility, opting not to pay an interim dividend until market conditions support it.

What did PLS Group management say?

PLS Managing Director and CEO Dale Henderson, said:

PLS delivered a strong first half, generating Underlying EBITDA of $253 million at a 41% margin reinforcing our low cost position and ability to generate positive EBITDA through the cycle. The result was driven by higher realised pricing, reliable operating performance and continued cost discipline, with unit operating costs declining 8% to $563 per tonne (FOB).

Reported cash decreased modestly during the half, primarily reflecting customer refunds from the prior year and the timing of pricing settlements. We ended H1 with $954 million in cash and approximately $1.6 billion in total liquidity.

These outcomes reflect consistent execution of our through-the-cycle strategy – aligning production with market conditions while preserving balance sheet strength and maintaining full operational control. Our scale and 100% ownership across our Australian and Brazilian assets provide structural flexibility and clear differentiation within the sector.

Consistent with our capital allocation framework and disciplined approach to capital management, the Board has determined not to declare an interim dividend for H1 FY26, prioritising financial flexibility through the cycle.

What’s next for PLS Group?

Looking ahead, PLS Group is prioritising balance sheet strength and operational flexibility as lithium market conditions evolve. Management plans to maintain disciplined capital management while progressing projects in Australia and Brazil.

The board indicated a dividend could be considered at the full-year results if lithium prices and free cash flow remain supportive. The company’s significant liquidity provides confidence to navigate market cycles and fund future growth.

PLS Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, PLS Group shares have risen 121%, strongly outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

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The post PLS Group posts H1 FY26 profit and 241% EBITDA surge 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.