Tag: Stock pick

  • Lynas Rare Earths inks 12-year supply deal with Japanese industry

    A silhouette shot of two business man shake hands in a boardroom setting with light coming from full length glass windows beyond them.

    Yesterday afternoon, Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) announced a revised long-term supply agreement with Japanese industry, extending to 2038 and establishing a firm offtake for 5,000 tonnes of NdPr per year at a US$110/kg price floor.

    What did Lynas Rare Earths report?

    • Updated agreement with JARE extends rare earths supply to Japanese industry until 2038
    • New floor price of US$110/kg for NdPr oxide sales
    • Firm annual offtake: 5,000 tonnes of NdPr and 50% of all Heavy Rare Earth (HRE) oxides produced
    • Upside sharing arrangement for prices achieved above US$150/kg NdPr
    • Annual review process ensures sustainability and funding effectiveness

    What else do investors need to know?

    The updated agreement gives Lynas both price certainty and market access, with a minimum floor for NdPr sales and the potential for extra upside if prices rise. Importantly, it cements Lynas’ position as a cornerstone supplier of key materials for Japanese industry at a time when rare earth security remains a global focus.

    The partnership covers both Light and Heavy Rare Earth oxides, reflecting Lynas’ successful production of separated HRE oxides in 2025. Under the deal, JARE will commit to buy half of all HRE output, while Lynas and Sojitz continue to collaborate on downstream customer contracts.

    What did Lynas Rare Earths management say?

    CEO and Managing Director Amanda Lacaze said:

    Lynas’ partnership with JARE has served both organisations well over the past 15 years. It has created a strong foundation for the development of Lynas’ business, supported investments in new processing capacity and new products, and delivered reliable supply of quality product to support Japanese industry growth.

    We are delighted that the revised 12-year availability and supply agreement with JARE will support both Japanese industry and the continued growth and development of Lynas. This new agreement will ensure continued reliable supply of rare earth products that are strategically important to Japanese industry and its global market, and at the same time, the implementation of fair market pricing will reduce price volatility for Lynas and enable continued growth and investment in our operations.

    We thank our JARE partners, JOGMEC and Sojitz, and our Japanese customers for their support over the past 15 years. We are confident this new agreement, alongside other policy initiatives from governments around the world, will contribute to improved rare earths market dynamics,” added Ms Lacaze.

    What’s next for Lynas Rare Earths?

    Lynas expects the revised agreement to provide stability in revenues and support ongoing investments in processing and product development. The 12-year horizon gives management confidence to pursue growth opportunities and strengthens relationships with Japanese customers.

    The company will continue to work closely with JARE and Sojitz to ensure the sustainability of the agreement, monitor rare earth market trends, and review terms annually. This collaborative framework should help Lynas manage market volatility and remain a critical player in global supply chains.

    Lynas Rare Earths share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, the Lynas Rare Earths shares have risen 153%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 10% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Lynas Rare Earths inks 12-year supply deal with Japanese industry appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Lynas Rare Earths Ltd right now?

    Before you buy Lynas Rare Earths 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 Lynas Rare Earths 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 20 Feb 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 recommended Lynas Rare Earths Ltd. 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.

  • Bell Potter says this cheap ASX stock can rocket 100%

    Man with rocket wings which have flames coming out of them.

    Wouldn’t it be nice to double your money with an investment?

    Well, that’s what could happen with the cheap ASX stock in this article, according to analysts at Bell Potter.

    Which ASX stock?

    The stock that could be seriously undervalued, according to the broker, is AMA Group Ltd (ASX: AMA).

    It is the largest accident repair group in Australia with approximately 140 vehicle panel repair shops.

    Bell Potter highlights that the market doesn’t appear to believe the stock will achieve its earnings guidance in FY 2026. It said:

    The current AMA share price suggests the market has some doubt whether the FY26 guidance of normalised EBITDA pre-AASB 16 of $70-75m is achievable after the company reported $30.5m in H1. We, however, believe the guidance is well achievable as, firstly, Q3 and Q4 are typically seasonally strong quarters and, secondly, the guidance only implies a similar underlying 2HFY26 result relative to 2HFY25.

    There is actually some prospect of a better 2HFY26 result relative to 2HFY25 after CEO Ray Smith-Roberts suggested on the recent 1HFY26 result call that a margin approaching the medium term target of 10% may be achievable in 4QFY26. Our Q3 and Q4 margin forecasts are 6.7% and 8.3% – which put us comfortably within the guidance range – so a margin closer to 10% in Q4 could see a full year result towards the top end of the range.

    Huge potential returns

    In light of this, Bell Potter believes the ASX stock deserves to trade on higher multiples and is tipping huge potential returns over the next 12 months.

    According to the note, the broker has put a buy rating and $1.25 price target on its shares. Based on its current share price of 62 cents, this implies potential upside of 100% for investors.

    Commenting on its buy recommendation, Bell Potter said:

    There is also no change in our target price of $1.25 which we only recently updated with the release of the H1 result last month. We note that, at the current share price, the EV/EBITDA multiple – using our pre-AASB 16 forecasts – is only 4.4x in FY26 and 3.8x in FY27. We also note even the PE ratio looks reasonable on 29x in FY26 and 15x in FY27.

    And we remind that the Balance Sheet is in good shape with net debt of $21m at 31 December and is expected to be lower at 30 June with the seasonally stronger H2. We also highlight there is the prospect of a resumption of dividends this year with a forecast final dividend of 1.0c depending on M&A activity.

    The post Bell Potter says this cheap ASX stock can rocket 100% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy AMA 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 AMA 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 20 Feb 2026

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

  • AMP share price crashes 35% in 2026. What’s next?

    A group of people gather around a computer screen in rapt attention, one man holds his hands to cover his mouth as if in nervous anticipation of what news may come.

    The AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) share price ended the day flat on Tuesday. It fluctuated slightly between $1.20 and $1.22 throughout the course of the day. Then, at the close of the ASX on Tuesday afternoon, the stock was unchanged at $1.20 a piece. 

    At the time of writing, the financial services company’s shares are down a huge 34.43% for the year-to-date. AMP shares are now down 7.69% over the past year.

    What caused the AMP share price crash?

    The majority of the decline came when the stock crashed over 26% after it released its FY25 results in mid-February. It was the largest one-day fall the wealth manager has suffered since 2003, when its value tanked 36%.

    AMP reported a 20.8% lift in underlying net profit after tax (NPAT), a 9% increase in total assets under management (AUM), and a 11.3% decline in statutory NPAT over the year. The result was far below market expectations across the board and investors were disgruntled.

    It’s not the first headwind to hit AMP this year either. The business announced that Blair Vernon will take the reins as the company’s new CEO and sitting CEO in January. Investors were spooked by the news.

    Alexis George will retire from her executive roles on the 30th of March. George has served as AMP’s CEO since August 2021, overseeing a period of significant transformation and growth for the company.

    The move created a flurry of concerns about business uncertainty after AMP spent the past couple of years reshaping and repositioning its business. AMP sold off its advice and insurance segments in August 2024.

    The recent conflict in the Middle East hasn’t helped either. Ongoing geopolitical tensions and concerns that surging oil prices will push Australia’s inflation data higher has weighed heavily on financial stocks like AMP.

    But there is some good news…

    While 2026 so far has been a series of bad news events for the AMP share price, it looks like analysts are confident that the stock will shift course and begin soaring again over the next 12 months.

    TradingView data shows that eight out of 11 analysts have a buy or strong buy rating on AMP. The average target price is $1.705, which implies a 42.08% upside at the time of writing. But others are even more bullish and think the stock could soar 58.33% to $1.90 in the next 12 months.

    Brokers have reviewed, and some revised their rating, on AMP shares after the company’s financial results. 

    The team at Morgan Stanley has a buy rating and $1.90 target price on the stock, Citi also has a buy rating and $1.80 target price.

    Meanwhile, Jefferies has a buy rating with a price target of $1.75. And the teams at Jarden and Ord Minnett have a buy rating and a $1.65 target price on the AMP share price.

    The post AMP share price crashes 35% in 2026. What’s next? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in AMP Limited right now?

    Before you buy AMP Limited 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 AMP Limited 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Citigroup is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. 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 JPMorgan Chase and Jefferies Financial Group. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 5 ASX dividend stocks to buy with $25,000 in March

    a hand reaches out with australian banknotes of various denominations fanned out.

    The Australian share market is home to a large number of companies that reward shareholders with reliable dividends.

    For investors with $25,000 ready to invest this month, there are plenty of income-focused opportunities to consider across a range of sectors. From infrastructure and telecommunications to retail and intellectual property, several ASX dividend stocks are currently offering attractive yields.

    Here are five dividend stocks that could be worth considering in March.

    APA Group (ASX: APA)

    The first ASX dividend stock to consider is APA Group.

    APA owns and operates one of Australia’s largest energy infrastructure networks. Its assets include gas pipelines, storage facilities, and electricity transmission infrastructure that supply energy across the country.

    These assets typically operate under long-term contracts, which helps provide the company with predictable cash flows. This reliability has allowed APA to build a long track record of paying dividends to shareholders.

    The company is guiding to a dividend of 58 cents per share in FY 2026, which equates to a dividend yield of around 6.3% at current levels.

    Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)

    Another ASX dividend stock that could be worth a look is Flight Centre.

    This travel company experienced a difficult period during the pandemic but has staged a strong recovery as global travel demand returned. As airlines restore capacity and holidaymakers return to international destinations, Flight Centre’s business has been rebuilding momentum.

    With trading conditions improving and profitability recovering, the company has made bolt-on acquisitions and resumed returning capital to shareholders.

    If the travel recovery continues in the years ahead, Flight Centre could provide investors with both income and growth potential.

    For now, a 4.1% dividend yield is forecast in FY 2026.

    IPH Ltd (ASX: IPH)

    IPH is another ASX dividend stock that may appeal to income investors.

    The company provides intellectual property services, helping businesses protect and manage patents, trademarks, and other rights across multiple jurisdictions.

    Demand for intellectual property services tends to remain relatively resilient because companies continue to innovate regardless of economic cycles. IPH also benefits from operating across several major Asian markets.

    Its consistent cash generation has supported a reliable dividend stream in recent years. This is expected to continue in FY 2026, with analysts forecasting a massive 10% dividend yield.

    Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

    Australia’s largest telecommunications company could also be worth considering.

    Telstra generates recurring revenue from mobile, broadband, and enterprise communication services. Because connectivity has become an essential service for households and businesses, demand tends to remain relatively steady even during economic downturns.

    Telstra has also been improving its earnings outlook through cost reductions and network investments. These initiatives have helped underpin its dividend payments.

    The company is expected to pay fully franked dividends of around 20 cents per share in FY 2026. This represents a 3.9% dividend yield.

    Transurban Group (ASX: TCL)

    A final ASX dividend stock to consider is Transurban.

    Transurban is the toll road operator behind major roads such as CityLink in Melbourne and WestConnex in Sydney. These infrastructure assets generate revenue from daily traffic volumes across Australia and North America.

    Toll roads typically benefit from long concession agreements and inflation-linked toll increases, which can support steady cash flows over time.

    Transurban is currently guiding to a distribution of approximately 69 cents per share in FY 2026, which equates to an attractive 4.9% dividend yield at current levels.

    The post 5 ASX dividend stocks to buy with $25,000 in March appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy APA 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 APA 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Apa Group, Telstra Group, and Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Flight Centre Travel Group and IPH Ltd. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Are these ASX energy shares still a buy after jumping 20% (or more)?

    an oil refinery worker checks her laptop computer in front of a backdrop of oil refinery infrastructure. The woman has a serious look on her face.

    Certain ASX energy shares have climbed strongly in 2026.

    Shares in Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) have risen roughly 19% and 27% year to date respectively.

    The gains were fuelled by a sharp spike in global oil prices as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East threatened supply.

    However, the rally hit a speed bump on Tuesday. Oil prices retreated sharply after comments from US President Donald Trump suggested the conflict with Iran may be nearing its end. It sent crude prices back below US$90 per barrel and dragged ASX energy shares lower.

    So, after such a strong run, where do these ASX energy shares go from here?

    Santos: Low cost production

    This ASX energy share has been one of the standout performers in the sector this year, helped by rising oil and LNG prices and growing production.

    A key driver is the company’s expanding project pipeline. The Barossa gas project recently began shipping LNG, and together with the Pikka project in Alaska, Santos expects production growth of around 30% by 2027.

    Higher output combined with strong commodity prices could translate into stronger cash flow and earnings in the coming years.

    The company also benefits from relatively low production costs. When oil prices spike, much of that price increase can flow straight through to profits.

    However, the risks are just as clear. Santos’ recent share price gains are closely tied to the surge in oil prices, and history shows geopolitical price spikes can fade quickly once tensions ease. If crude prices retreat, the earnings tailwind could weaken just as quickly.

    According to TradingView data, analysts remain positive on the ASX energy share price. Of 14 analysts covering the stock, 11 rate it a buy or strong buy.

    The average 12-month price target sits at $7.76, implying about 5% upside from current levels, while the most bullish forecasts suggest the shares could climb to around $8.41.

    Woodside Energy: Major LNG investments

    Woodside has also benefited from the energy price surge. As one of the world’s largest independent LNG producers, the company is highly leveraged to oil and gas prices.

    Large projects such as Pluto LNG in Western Australia give Woodside significant exposure to global energy demand, particularly from Asia. When LNG and oil prices rise, Woodside’s earnings outlook typically improves quickly.

    But the company faces longer-term uncertainties as well. Global energy markets are becoming increasingly volatile, and the shift toward cleaner energy sources raises questions about long-term fossil fuel demand.

    At the same time, Woodside is investing heavily in major new LNG developments, which require significant capital and long timeframes to generate returns.

    Broker sentiment currently sits somewhere in the middle. Analyst consensus suggests an average 12-month price target of about $29.03, with ratings ranging from buy to hold depending on expectations for oil prices.

    In a favourable energy cycle, some bullish forecasts suggest Woodside shares could eventually challenge $35.00. That points to a potential 16% upside over 12 months at the current share price of $30.18.

    The post Are these ASX energy shares still a buy after jumping 20% (or more)? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Santos Limited right now?

    Before you buy Santos Limited 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 Santos Limited 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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.

  • Are 4DMedical and Life360 shares a buy, hold or sell after rocketing 10% yesterday?

    Business people discussing project on digital tablet.

    This week has been a rollercoaster for ASX investors. 

    Monday saw the biggest sell-off in almost a year, as investor sentiment was extremely defensive due to developing conflict in the Middle East. 

    It felt as though this was the beginning of an extended decline, as many investors positioned themselves for a risk-off period. 

    However before the market crash could even begin, it bounced back yesterday. 

    The Motley Fool’s Bernd Struben explained in detail yesterday the factors that are influencing this volatility.

    While investors were able to breathe a momentary sigh of relief, there are likely more ups and downs to come. 

    What happened to these shares yesterday?

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) finished Tuesday a full 1% higher than Monday. 

    Two ASX shares that vastly outperformed the benchmark index were 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX) and Life360 Inc (ASX: 360). 

    These stocks rose 9.11% and 10.34% respectively.

    This came after crashes of 5% and 7% on Monday. 

    What’s more interesting, is these companies are part of two of Australia’s worst performing ASX sectors this year: healthcare and technology.

    Following this week’s turbulence, 4DMedical shares are down 2.4% year to date, and up more than 1,000% in the last 12 months. 

    Meanwhile, Life360 shares are down 30% year to date and down 2% over the last 12 months. 

    With so much movement, it can be difficult for prospective investors to identify an attractive entry point. 

    Here is the latest guidance from analysts. 

    Life360 shares

    For those unfamiliar, Life360’s core product is a private family and friends social networking app that allows users to communicate and share their locations.

    It was a strong performer across 2024-2025, however has been heavily sold off this year, most recently on the back of disappointing results.

    It closed yesterday at $22.51. 

    Based on guidance from brokers, it now looks like an attractive buy. 

    Investors will be hoping it has finally hit rock bottom after a tough start to 2026. 

    Bell Potter has a recent target of $40.00. 

    Recently, Morgan Stanley put an overweight rating and $50.00 price target on Life360 shares. 

    These targets indicate an upside in the range of 77% to 122%. 

    Based on this guidance, it seems yesterday’s spike could be the beginning of a recovery for Life360 shares. 

    Can 4DMedical keep rising?

    4DMedical has been one of the hottest ASX shares over the last year. 

    It closed yesterday at $4.43 per share, an astounding 1,035.90% higher than 12 months ago. 

    It is a medical technology company working in the field of respiratory imaging and ventilation analysis in the treatment of lung and respiratory diseases.

    Despite yesterday’s 9% rise, it seems analysts largely see the current share price as hovering close to fair value. 

    Analysts forecasts via TradingView have an average one year price target of $4.20 on this ASX stock. 

    That’s approximately 5% lower than yesterday’s price target. 

    The post Are 4DMedical and Life360 shares a buy, hold or sell after rocketing 10% yesterday? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Life360 right now?

    Before you buy Life360 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 Life360 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell 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 Life360. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Life360. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • How much could the BHP share price rise in the next year?

    Two men in hard hats and high visibility jackets look together at a laptop screen at a mine site.

    The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price has soared more than 20% in the last six months, but it has also dropped more than 13% since 2 March 2026. That’s plenty of volatility!

    It will be very interesting to see whether the ASX mining share can deliver further capital growth from here.

    Experts have given their view on how much the BHP share price could climb (or not) from here.

    BHP share price target

    A price target tells investors where the analyst think the share price will be in 12 months from the time of the investment call.

    Of course, just because an analyst has a price target on a business doesn’t automatically mean it will rise or fall to that level, but it can indicate whether experts view the business as undervalued, overvalued or fairly valued.

    According to the Commsec collation of analyst recommendations, there are currently two sell ratings, 11 hold ratings and seven buy ratings on the business.

    However, with the strength of the BHP share price this year, it doesn’t offer significant capital growth potential in the shorter-term. According to CMC Invest, the average price target from more than a dozen analysts on the ASX mining share right now is $51.79, which suggests a possible rise of 1% over the next year. That implies it’s fairly valued.

    The optimistic price target is $68.05, which implies a possible rise of 33% over the next year. However, the most pessimistic price target suggests a decline of 33% could happen.

    One of the brokers that rates the mining giant as a hold is UBS, which has a price target of $52 on the business, implying a slight rise from where it is today.

    What’s to like about the ASX mining share?

    UBS recently released a note about BHP’s Vicuna copper project, which it owns 50% of. It said this is a multi-generational copper growth opportunity. It has the potential to be the largest mining project in Argentina, with production targeted of around 700kt per year.

    With capital expenditure of more than $18 billion, Vicuna could be the largest single copper project in history, according to UBS. Development of Vicuna is planned over three stages to manage capital expenditure, reduce execution risk and allow latter stages to be self-funded. Stage one targets first production in 2030.

    UBS currently projects that the business could achieve an internal rate of return (IRR) at between 17% to 19%.

    I like that BHP continues to increase its exposure to copper, which represented just over half of earnings in the first half of FY26.

    UBS estimates that the business could generate net profit of US$12.5 billion in FY26 and US$14.3 billion in FY30. The broker thinks there is better risk/reward elsewhere, which is why it only rates the BHP share price as neutral rather than a buy.

    The post How much could the BHP share price rise in the next year? 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 20 Feb 2026

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

  • What are experts saying about EOS and DroneShield shares after yesterday’s recovery?

    Army man and woman on digital devices.

    Two ASX defence shares that have drawn plenty of attention over the past year are Droneshield Ltd (ASX: DRO) and Electro Optic Systems Hldgs Ltd (ASX: EOS). 

    DroneShield shares have risen 310% in the last 12 months, and Electro Optic Systems shares have risen 804%. 

    Despite racing higher, both companies fell significantly during February. 

    But, it was good news yesterday for holders of these companies as they enjoyed rises of more than 8%. 

    Investors may now be wondering whether to hop on or off this roller coaster of volatility. 

    Yesterday’s recovery could mark a point for holders to take profits. Or it could be the beginning of another rally. 

    Here is what experts are saying. 

    Can DroneShield shares return to record highs?

    DroneShield develops and sells artificial-intelligence-powered hardware and software to detect drones used by the likes of terrorists and criminals. 

    The company’s solutions protect people, organisations, and critical infrastructure from the intrusion of drones.

    It has benefited from increased defence spending amidst geopolitical conflict over the last year or so. 

    DroneShield shares closed yesterday at $4.02 each. 

    While that’s much higher than this time last year, it’s still well below 52-week highs over $6.70 last October. 

    Recent targets from brokers indicate it could be set to increase over the next 12 months, although it might not reach those peaks experienced last year. 

    Bell Potter recently put a buy rating and $4.80 price target on DroneShield shares. 

    Forecasts from analysts via TradingView have a one year price target of $4.90. 

    Based on these targets, there is an estimated upside of approximately 20%-22%. 

    Temper expectations for EOS 

    Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd operates in the defence technology sector. The company develops products such as remote weapon systems (RWS), counter-drone technology, and high-energy laser systems.

    Much like DroneShield, it has benefited from recent defence tailwinds. 

    It closed yesterday at $10.76. 

    It is hovering much closer to yearly highs, and estimates from brokers are mixed. 

    Following earnings results last month, Bell Potter put a reduced price target of $9.70 (from $12.00) on the company. 

    On a more positive note, Ord Minnett has a speculative ‘buy’ rating on EOS with a price target of about $12.95.

    Based on these targets, the stock price could swing almost 10% to the negative or 20% higher. 

    Much of the success of the company will hinge on its ability to successfully convert its contracts into revenue.

    Analysts ratings via TradingView sits in between the two, with an estimated 7% upside for these defence shares. 

    The post What are experts saying about EOS and DroneShield shares after yesterday’s recovery? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in DroneShield Limited right now?

    Before you buy DroneShield Limited 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 DroneShield Limited 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell 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 DroneShield and Electro Optic Systems and is short shares of DroneShield. 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.

  • Where to invest $10,000 into ASX ETFs in March

    Happy work colleagues give each other a fist pump.

    March has begun with a fair amount of volatility in global markets. Geopolitical tensions, shifting interest rate expectations, and swings in the technology sector have created an environment where share prices can move sharply from week to week.

    For long-term investors, however, periods like this can be a good time to think about building positions gradually in high-quality exchange traded funds (ETFs).

    But which ones could be good picks for Aussie investors this month?

    If you have $10,000 ready to invest this month, here are three ASX ETFs that could be worth considering.

    iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)

    The first ASX ETF that could be a buy is the iShares S&P 500 ETF.

    Rather than trying to pick the next big global winner, this fund simply provides exposure to the 500 largest companies listed in the United States. That means investors automatically gain a stake in many of the most dominant businesses in the world.

    The portfolio includes companies such as Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN), and Walmart (NYSE: WMT). These are businesses that operate at enormous scale and generate billions of dollars in profit each year.

    One of the strengths of the S&P 500 is how it naturally evolves over time. As new industries emerge, the index gradually shifts to include the companies leading those trends. This allows investors to stay aligned with the global economy without needing to constantly adjust their portfolios.

    For investors looking for a simple way to gain exposure to the world’s largest market, the iShares S&P 500 ETF remains one of the most straightforward options available on the ASX.

    Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR)

    Another ASX ETF that could be worth considering is the Betashares Global Defence ETF.

    This fund focuses on companies involved in defence equipment, aerospace technology, and military infrastructure. While this may sound niche, the sector is benefiting from a powerful structural shift.

    Governments around the world have been increasing defence budgets as geopolitical tensions rise and security priorities change. This trend is expected to drive sustained spending on advanced military technologies.

    The ETF includes companies such as Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), a major defence contractor behind the F-35 fighter jet program, RTX Corporation (NYSE: RTX), which develops aerospace and missile systems, and Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC), a leader in advanced defence technology.

    Because defence spending tends to be driven by long-term government budgets rather than consumer demand, the sector can sometimes show resilience during periods of economic uncertainty. It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

    Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT)

    A final ASX ETF that could be a strong addition to a portfolio is the Betashares Australian Quality ETF.

    Instead of simply tracking the largest companies on the Australian share market, this fund uses a rules-based approach to identify businesses with strong profitability, stable earnings, and healthy balance sheets.

    The portfolio includes a range of high-quality ASX shares such as CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA), and Goodman Group (ASX: GMG).

    Quality-focused strategies aim to favour businesses that generate strong returns on capital and maintain consistent financial performance through economic cycles. Over long periods, these traits can often translate into steady earnings growth and resilient share prices.

    For investors wanting exposure to the Australian market while tilting toward stronger businesses, the Betashares Australian Quality ETF offers a slightly different approach compared to traditional broad-market ETFs. It was also recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

    The post Where to invest $10,000 into ASX ETFs in March appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in BetaShares Australian Quality ETF right now?

    Before you buy BetaShares Australian Quality 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 BetaShares Australian Quality 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in CSL, Goodman Group, and REA Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Amazon, CSL, Goodman Group, Microsoft, RTX, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Lockheed Martin. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Amazon, CSL, Goodman Group, Microsoft, 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.

  • 5 key drivers of the new commodities ‘supercycle’: experts

    a woman in a flowing dress stands against the backdrop of red iron ore rich dirt as in central Australia.

    Paul Wong and Jacob White from Sprott Asset Management say the market has entered “a new kind of commodity supercycle”.

    This one will not involve bulk commodities, but rather, critical materials tied to electrification, power generation, and energy security.

    The market strategists name copper, uranium, lithium, rare earths, and silver as the prime commodities involved.

    The commodity prices of many critical materials soared in 2025 amid rising demand and low supply.

    The momentum continued into 2026, with a dramatic upswing in January ending with a short and sharp correction.

    Despite that, the key drivers of a new long-term mining boom in Australia powered by higher commodity prices remain firmly in place.

    Let’s take a look at them.

    Multi-decade drivers of this commodities supercycle

    1. Green energy transition

    Our article on the 12 fastest rising commodities of 2025 showed which metals have the strongest supply/demand dynamics today.

    The copper price rocketed because the red metal is a key input in much of the new infrastructure required for the green energy transition.

    It’s used in electric wiring, electric vehicles (EVs), wind turbines, solar energy systems, telecommunications, and electronic products.

    The copper price is US$5.85 per pound, up 23% over 12 months and up 3% in the year-to-date (YTD).

    Copper hit a record US$6.11 per pound in January.

    Silver is a key input in solar panels, tech devices, EVs, and data centres due to its superior electrical conductivity to copper.

    Like gold, it’s also considered a safe-haven asset, although it tends to lag gold in commodity price runs because it’s inferior and cheaper.

    The silver price is US$88.53 per ounce, up 170% over 12 months and up 24% YTD.

    Silver also reached a record US$117 per ounce in January.

    Lithium is used in batteries and EVs, while uranium is used to create virtually emissions-free nuclear power.

    The lithium carbonate price is at a two-and-a-half-year high of US$22,934 per tonne.

    Lithium carbonate has risen 112% over 12 months and 34% YTD.

    The uranium price is US$85.90 per pound, up 33% over 12 months and 5% YTD.

    Yellowcake reached a two-year high of US$101.5 per pound in January.

    2. Volatile geopolitics amplifying demand for resources

    Geopolitical defragmentation is prompting many nations to shore up their supply chains for critical materials.

    Post-COVID, there was already an appetite to reestablish local manufacturing of crucial goods.

    However, rising international tensions have encouraged nations to also focus on securing long-term supplies of metals and minerals.

    Countries like the US, and organisations like NATO, are ramping up defence spending and construction, which requires critical materials.

    Nations are now stockpiling commodities and doing supply deals with security partners, like Australia has done with the US.

    US tariffs have also altered world trade order and impacted relationships between nations, adding further pressure to lock down new resources supply arrangements.

    Wong and White say:

    Critical materials have become instruments of national security, reinforcing scarcity premiums and volatility.

    Many nations, including the US and Australia, have developed critical minerals lists and are offering incentives to miners to help them set up and fast-track new mines.

    All of this means demand for Australia’s minerals and metals is likely to rise.

    3. Iran war highlights value of nuclear power over oil

    The war in Iran highlights the vital role domestically-produced nuclear power is likely to play in countries’ energy security in the future.

    Oil and European gas prices skyrocketed after the US and Israel attacked Iran, resulting in disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

    That’s a big problem given more than 20% of global oil and gas exports pass through the strait.

    But in the future, nations may be less hamstrung by Middle East conflicts if they’re generating reliable nuclear power at home.

    Wong and White said the switch to nuclear power is gaining momentum, which is strengthening uranium demand relative to oil.

    They said:

    In a world increasingly defined by energy security concerns, nuclear power remains the most secure energy source.

    Furthermore, recent geopolitical developments in Venezuela and Iran highlight the growing risk of crude oil interdiction.

    As competing global power blocs develop, securing one’s domestic energy supply while denying one’s adversary access to energy can often serve the same strategic end.

    4. Capital investment in artificial intelligence (AI)

    Wong and White said a surge in artificial intelligence (AI) spending is also reshaping demand for minerals and metals.

    Massive investments in data centers, electrification and infrastructure are resource-intensive, driving multi-year structural demand for copper, aluminum, silver, platinum-group metals and energy.

    This resource-intensive spending is a secular trend tied to the AI technological transformation, as well as national security imperatives.

    Platinum is US$2,191 per ounce, up 123% over 12 months and up 6% YTD.

    The platinum price reached a record US$2,800 per ounce in January.

    Aluminium is at a near four-year-high of US$3,384 per tonne, up 26% over 12 months and 13% YTD.

    5. Supply-side constraints

    Wong and White said a shortage of global supply amid much higher demand is another factor pushing commodity prices up today.

    Critical minerals, including copper and silver, as well as other metals, face multi-year structural deficits due to chronic underinvestment in mining, geopolitical bottlenecks and volatile tariff policies.

    The energy transition and decarbonization push further elevate demand for uranium, battery metals and PGMs, assets that increasingly carry strategic and national security value.

    In extreme scenarios, these resources risk becoming unobtainable, reinforcing scarcity premiums across commodity markets.

    What about gold?

    It could be argued that gold is part of the current commodities supercycle.

    However, gold has nothing to do with electrification, power generation, and energy security, which Wong and White say are the key themes of this supercycle.

    Gold is benefiting from strongly increased central bank buying as nations seeks to diversify their reserves away from the US dollar.

    Investors have also aggressively bought gold due to its safe haven appeal amid turbulent global geopolitics, the US dollar’s weakness, and falling interest rates in most western nations (except Australia!)

    Some experts think the gold price could go higher than US$7,000 per ounce this year.

    Impact on ASX mining shares

    This new commodities supercycle has lifted many ASX mining stocks over the past year and created new share price records.

    The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price is up 31% over 12 months and soared to its highest level in 140 years at $59.39 this month.

    The Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) share price also reached a record high of $170.71, as did Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) at $31.96.

    Find out how other ASX mining shares have fared over the past year here.

    The post 5 key drivers of the new commodities ‘supercycle’: experts 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 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen 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.