Tag: Stock pick

Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) this week reported what broker UBS described as a “strong” first-half result, beating market expectations in a period the company is describing as a transition year.

Profit down but stronger second half expected

The oil and gas major reported first-half revenue of US$2620 million, up 2% on the same period the previous year, and net profit of US$355 million, down 19%.

Santos Managing Director Kevin Gallagher said the company was entering the second half in a stronger position.

He added:

The first half marked an important step forward for Santos. We brought the Pikka project online safely and continued to progress Barossa through commissioning towards steady-state production, while the base business continued to perform strongly. Pikka achieved first oil in May, moved to continuous production in June and we lifted our first crude oil cargo last week. Production is expected to build towards the 80,000 bbl/d gross plateau late in the third quarter, and our drilling program is consistently beating technical limits, reducing the time and cost to drill a well. Barossa is safely progressing through commissioning to steady state production, with current production around 550 mmscf/d and planned to increase further to around 600 mmscf/d by end of the quarter. At steady state production the current cargo cadence is one approximately every eight days, while Darwin LNG delivered 100 per cent plant reliability in the first half.

Mr Gallagher said with the major development of Barossa and Pikka complete, the company was expecting second-half production to be 20% to 30% higher than the first half, “supporting stronger free cash flow and returns for shareholders”.

Mr Gallagher said the Papua LNG project would be a focus in the second half and was on track for a final investment decision in the fourth quarter of 2026.

He added:

Project financing continues to progress well, with at least 60 per cent targeted to be funded through project financing facilities. Strong performance from the base business and continued capital discipline are funding investment in the next generation of low-cost, high-margin production growth opportunities in our deep portfolio.

Santos shares a buy, but looking fully valued

UBS said in a note to clients following Santos’ financial report that the company’s strong dividend of US11.6 cents stood out, indicating the board had confidence in the second-half outlook.

They said the company was well-leveraged to higher oil prices.

They added:

STO has 80% of its LNG sales indexed to oil and/or Japan/Korea Marker on an approx 3 month lag, and so the spike in oil & LNG prices arising from the Middle East conflict carries stronger cashflows though to at least ~Nov-26. We expect STO will qualify for its new higher div payout (lifting from 40% of FCF ex growth to >60% of all-in FCF) when Pikka and Barossa reach plateau production, expected within the next 40 days turning on stronger cash returns from the Feb-27 result onwards.

UBS has a buy rating on Santos shares with a price target of $8.30, compared to $8.31 currently.

The post Are Santos shares a buy following their half year results? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

The WCM Global Growth Ltd (ASX: WQG) share price is in focus after the company posted a full-year net operating profit after tax of $66.7 million for FY2026 and announced a boost to its final fully franked dividend.

What did WCM Global Growth report?

• Net operating profit after tax: $66.7 million (down from $69.5 million last year)
• Pre-tax NTA per share: up from $2.02 to $2.18
• After-tax NTA per share: up from $1.80 to $1.94
• Portfolio return: 16.58% in FY2026 (vs benchmark’s 18.26%)
• Final fully franked dividend: increased to 2.35 cents per share (cps)
• Total FY2026 dividends paid: 8.52 cps

What else do investors need to know?

The board has revised its progressive quarterly dividend policy upwards, reflecting the company’s robust financial position. Shareholders can expect increasing fully franked quarterly dividends over the next financial year, with a total of 12.45 cps anticipated in the next 14 months.

The company’s portfolio continues to deliver strong long-term returns, outperforming its benchmark over three, five years, and since inception. Since listing in 2017, a $10,000 investment has grown to over $40,000 (before expenses and taxes, after fees and dividend reinvestment).

What’s next for WCM Global Growth?

Looking ahead, the board intends to keep lifting quarterly fully franked dividends, with payments of up to 2.60 cps forecast for Q4 FY2027. Management remains focused on long-term growth and maintaining robust performance above the benchmark.

The investment manager, AGP International Management Limited, will continue to raise WCM’s market profile to enhance share price performance and liquidity. The board sees the progressive dividend policy as a key way to add value and reward shareholders.

WCM Global Growth share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, WCM shares have risen 15%, outperforming the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which has risen 1% over the same period.

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The post WCM Global Growth earnings: Profit lifts dividend and outlook 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 Transurban Group (ASX: TCL) share price is trading lower today despite the toll road company revealing that it has been selected as the best value proposer to deliver Tennessee’s I-24 Choice Lanes project, in partnership with Ferrovial and Tikehau Star Infra. The 26-mile project has an estimated construction value of US$9.2 billion and a total concession value of around US$24.8 billion.

What did Transurban Group report?

• Transurban, with partners Ferrovial and Tikehau Star Infra, will design, build, finance, operate, and maintain the I-24 Choice Lanes in Tennessee, USA.
• The project covers 26 miles between Nashville and Murfreesboro, aiming to ease congestion and improve travel reliability.
• Estimated construction value: US$9.2 billion, with a total concession value of US$24.8 billion.
• Transurban’s equity share to be funded from existing balance sheet capacity over time.
• Financial close is expected by mid-2027, subject to finalisation of government funding.

What else do investors need to know?

This major win supports Transurban’s ongoing North American expansion and highlights its expertise in large-scale transport infrastructure. The project could strengthen the company’s global portfolio and long-term earnings outlook. However, the final capital and funding structure are yet to be finalised, with some details relying on government approvals and available concessional funding.

The project is designed to deliver more reliable travel choices for customers and potentially reduce congestion on one of Tennessee’s busiest corridors. The consortium approach with established partners Ferrovial and Tikehau Star Infra should also help manage project risk and execution.

What did Transurban Group management say?

Commenting on the news, Transurban’s CEO, Michelle Jablko, said:

The I-24 Choice Lanes Project represents an important opportunity to bring Transurban’s proven capabilities to Tennessee. The project is aligned with our strategy of pursuing disciplined, value-accretive growth opportunities in North America.

Our focus is always on the customer and creating journeys they can rely on. Together with our partners, we look forward to working with the state of Tennessee to deliver a project that transforms everyday connectivity and provides stress-free, reliable travel choice for decades to come.

What’s next for Transurban Group?

Transurban’s next steps include finalising the capital structure and securing government funding, with financial close targeted for mid-2027. The business expects to fund its share through existing balance sheet capacity over time.

This announcement furthers Transurban’s goal of disciplined growth while enhancing customer journeys in North America. Investors will be watching for updates on financial arrangements and project milestones as the I-24 Choice Lanes progresses toward construction and operation.

Transurban Group share price snapshot

The Transurban share price is trailing the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) slightly over the past 12 months with a decline of around 2%.

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The post Transurban Group chosen for landmark US$24.8bn Tennessee toll road project appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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 Transurban 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 Eureka Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: EGH) share price is in focus today as the company delivered a 29% jump in underlying EBITDA to $21.7 million, and posted a 24% rise in revenue to $56.7 million for FY26.

What did Eureka Group report?

• Revenue up 24% to $56.7 million (FY25: $45.8 million)
• Underlying EBITDA climbed 29% to $21.7 million, above guidance
• Underlying profit before tax rose 23% to $14.7 million
• Statutory net profit after tax fell 17% to $16.7 million
• Assets under management increased 29% to $500 million
• Final dividend of 0.73 cps, full-year dividend steady at 1.46 cps (unfranked)

What else do investors need to know?

Eureka continued to scale its all-age rental segment, with homes in this division rising to 1,357 from 436 the year before. The group now has over 4,000 homes across 61 communities, with occupancy rates staying strong at 97% for seniors and 95% for all-age rentals.

Net tangible assets per security increased by 4.9% to 57.7 cents. The company’s balance sheet remains robust, with a loan-to-value ratio of 34.2%, comfortably inside internal and bank limits. Eureka also executed a Sustainability Terms Deed Poll, converting $180 million of debt facilities into Social Loans supporting its affordable housing focus.

What did Eureka Group management say?

Simon Owen, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer said:

FY26 was the year our second earnings growth engine – all age rental – came online. We integrated seven new communities while delivering strong results in the seniors’ portfolio and finished above the top of our guidance range on both underlying measures. We enter FY27 with a significantly larger portfolio, a funded development pipeline and the same priority we have had throughout, which is to add well-managed homes in markets where the opportunity is the greatest.

What’s next for Eureka Group?

Looking forward, Eureka has guided for underlying earnings per share of at least 3.9 cents for FY27, forecasting at least 13% growth on FY26’s result. The company notes that FY27 has started on a strong foot, with three acquisitions already announced that will add 589 more homes and sites.

Eureka is also focused on delivering over 800 new rental homes through its development pipeline, including both modular expansions and greenfield opportunities. Management says balance sheet discipline and new capital partnership options will remain key priorities.

Eureka Group Holdings share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Eureka Group shares have risen 25%, outperforming the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which has risen 1% over the same period.

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The post Eureka Group posts record all-age rental growth in FY26 results 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 recommended Eureka 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 Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6) share price is rising today after the company released strong new drilling results from its 100%-owned Bullabulling Gold Project, including 7.8m at 9.0g/t gold from shallow depth and 19m at 1.5g/t gold from 172m.

What did Minerals 260 report?

• Received assay results for 46 drill holes, totalling 11,163 metres across the Phoenix, Bacchus, Kraken and Gibraltar deposits
• Significant high-grade intercepts such as 7.8m @ 9.0g/t Au from 15.7m (Bacchus) and 2m @ 15.6g/t Au from 148m (Phoenix)
• Recent results at Gibraltar incorporated into the July 2026 Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE), now 190Mt @ 1.0g/t Au for 6.2Moz
• Infill drilling at Phoenix and Bacchus continues to support upgrading resources from Inferred to Indicated status
• Five drill rigs active on site, focusing on resource growth, regional exploration and production readiness

What else do investors need to know?

The Bullabulling Gold Project, located near Coolgardie in Western Australia, now boasts a 6.2 million ounce JORC Mineral Resource. The majority of recent drilling has targeted resource conversion and extensions, with strong results confirming continuity and thickness of mineralisation in key areas.

These results provide further confidence for ongoing studies and support the company’s production-readiness efforts. Exploration is planned to continue across three focus areas: resource expansion, regional targets, and progressing necessary studies for development.

What did Minerals 260 management say?

Minerals 260 Managing Director Luke McFadyen said:

These results reflect the systematic infill and extensional drilling undertaken across Bullabulling as we continue to build confidence in the scale, continuity and quality of the 6.2Moz Mineral Resource and test the broader mineralised system. The results continue to demonstrate strong continuity across the major deposits, with encouraging higher-grade intersections returned at Phoenix and Bacchus and opportunities to extend mineralisation beyond the current Resource.

Our focus is on opportunities to unlock further growth from the broader mineralised system, including the assessment of higher-grade trends within the 6.2Moz MRE, extensions to the existing deposits and near-surface targets across the project area.

What’s next for Minerals 260?

Looking ahead, Minerals 260 plans further drilling programs throughout the remainder of 2026 and into 2027. These will focus on both upgrading existing resources and exploring for new zones at depth and along strike.

Updates to the Mineral Resource Estimate are anticipated in mid-calendar 2027. The company is also progressing with geotechnical, metallurgical, heritage, and environmental studies as it prepares for potential future development options at Bullabulling.

Minerals 260 share price snapshot

The Minerals 260 share price is up over 500% over the past 12 months, vastly outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO).

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The post Minerals 260 drilling update: high-grade hits boost Bullabulling gold confidence appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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. 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 Vicinity Centres (ASX: VCX) share price is watch today after the shopping centre giant posted a statutory net profit of $1,391.2 million for FY26, with funds from operations rising to $700.1 million and annual distributions increasing to 12.40 cents per security.

What did Vicinity Centres report?

• Statutory net profit after tax rose to $1,391.2 million (up 38.5% from FY25).
• Funds from operations (FFO) were $700.1 million, a 3.9% increase on the prior year.
• FFO per security up 2.8% to 15.21 cents; AFFO per security up 3.6% to 13.04 cents.
• Annual distribution lifted 3.3% to 12.40 cents per security, with a payout ratio of 95.5% of AFFO.
• Net tangible assets rose 7.7% to $2.59 per security.
• Comparable net property income increased by 4.2%.

What else do investors need to know?

Vicinity Centres continued to reshape its portfolio during FY26, acquiring the remaining 75% interest in Brisbane’s Uptown for $212 million and DFO Eastern Creek in Sydney for $351 million. The group also divested non-strategic assets for $447.2 million, including Taigum Square, often at substantial premiums to book value. These moves have strengthened Vicinity’s premium asset weighting to 67% of its retail portfolio, reflecting a strategic pivot toward high-performing CBD and outlet centres.

Portfolio performance showed record leasing spreads (+4.2%) and occupancy of 99.6%, highlighting the strength in retail demand and a focus on differentiating asset quality. Gearing remains at the lower end of the target range (26.1%) after significant investment and asset recycling, with debt maturities well managed at a weighted average of 5.1 years.

What’s next for Vicinity Centres?

Looking ahead, Vicinity Centres is maintaining its focus on premium centre investments, mixed-use developments, and strategic tenant remixing. Major developments are progressing at Chatswood Chase in Sydney (which is now complete), Galleria in Perth (opening November 2026), and planning is underway to revitalise Uptown in Brisbane. Further expansion and repositioning at Chadstone and other flagship assets are also on track.

For FY27, guidance points to FFO of 16.0–16.2 cents per security and AFFO of 13.9–14.1 cents per security. The group expects comparable net property income growth around 3.5% and continued investment to support the evolving retail landscape.

Vicinity Centres share price snapshot

The Vicinity Centres share price has fallen short of the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the past 12 months with a decline of 3%.

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The post Vicinity Centres FY26: Profit up, distributions rise as premium focus delivers appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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. 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 Downer EDI Ltd (ASX: DOW) share price is in focus today after the company reported a 51% jump in statutory net profit and a 17% lift in fully franked dividends for the 2026 financial year.

What did Downer EDI report?

• Statutory NPAT rose 51.2% to $225.4 million
• Underlying NPATA increased 9.8% to $306.7 million
• Underlying EBITA grew 6.1% to $502.9 million, with a margin uplift to 5.1%
• Overall revenue fell 7.5% to $9.74 billion
• Total fully franked dividend increased 17.3% to 29.2 cents per share
• Cash conversion remained strong at 91.1%, exceeding targets

What else do investors need to know?

Downer’s financial year emphasised improving margins by focusing on higher quality, more resilient contracts across core infrastructure and services. While revenue dipped due to portfolio simplification and foreign exchange impacts, profit and cash performance improved on the back of disciplined execution, cost control and project delivery.

Work-in-hand rose 10% to a record $38.5 billion, backed by solid new wins in defence, water, renewables, and government infrastructure. The company also continued its on-market share buy-back program, having repurchased approximately $96.5 million of shares by year end.

What did Downer EDI management say?

Peter Tompkins, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, said:

FY26 reflects the continued benefits of our focus on operational discipline, cost leadership, revenue quality and consistent execution.

Over the past three years, we have built a more focused and resilient business, improving margins, strengthening the balance sheet and enhancing the quality of our earnings.

What’s next for Downer EDI?

Looking to FY27, Downer is targeting further revenue and earnings growth and continued margin improvement. The company expects a stronger second half as new contracts ramp up and volumes improve in road services and facilities.

Management remains upbeat about the medium-term outlook, highlighting growth opportunities in energy transition, data centres, defence, and transport infrastructure. Downer aims to maintain strong market positions while delivering steady returns to shareholders.

Downer EDI share price snapshot

The Downer EDI share price has outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the past 12 months with a gain of around 7.5%.

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The post Downer EDI posts stronger margin and profit in FY26 earnings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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. 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 MA Financial Group Ltd (ASX: MAF) share price is in focus after the company reported record first half underlying revenue of $230.1 million, up 41% on 1H25, and a strong 45% lift in underlying earnings per share (EPS) excluding large notable items.

What did MA Financial report?

• Underlying revenue rose 41% to $230.1 million (up 31% to $214.6 million excluding large notable items)
• Underlying NPAT (ex LNI) increased 59% to $35.9 million
• Underlying EBITDA (ex LNI) jumped 43% to $68.2 million
• Assets under management surged 44% to $15.5 billion
• Fully franked interim dividend lifted to 8 cents per share, up from 6 cents per share in 1H25
• Finsure managed loans climbed 25% to $193 billion and MA Money loan book soared 127% to $7.5 billion

What else do investors need to know?

MA Financial’s results showcased strong momentum across all divisions, with particular strength in Asset Management and Lending & Technology. Recurring revenue reached a record 72% of underlying revenue (ex LNI), improving the quality and predictability of earnings.

The company has already made a strong start to the second half, with accelerating fund inflows, new real estate and hospitality transactions, and MA Money’s loan book surpassing $8 billion post-balance date. Strategic investment in extending the platform into New Zealand has yielded early results, with New Zealand AUM crossing NZ$100 million.

What did MA Financial management say?

Joint CEOs Julian Biggins and Christopher Wyke said:

The Group’s performance in 1H26 demonstrates the scalability of our diversified business model. Delivering 45% underlying earnings growth during a period of significant market volatility and macroeconomic headwinds is a strong result. Our Assets under Management and Loan books continue to demonstrate good growth and transactional activity is rebounding from cyclical lows to benefit the business. We’ve had a very strong start to 2H26 and believe that the Group is in great shape to deliver strong earnings growth into the future. This is demonstrated by the release today of our new three-year strategic targets which we believe are achievable given the scalable business platform we now have in place.

What’s next for MA Financial?

Looking ahead, MA Financial is targeting further growth across all business segments, underpinned by its updated three-year strategic targets to December 2029. Management expects underlying EPS excluding notable items to be materially higher in FY26 compared to FY25, with earnings skewed to the second half.

The group is aiming for continued growth in funds under management, lending, and corporate advisory fees, with plans to expand distribution capabilities in the US and New Zealand and build further brand awareness. Management notes its EBITDA margin initiatives are on track, and the business is well positioned to create value for shareholders.

MA Financial share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, MA Financial shares have declined 27%, trailing the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO).

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The post MA Financial delivers record 1H26 earnings and lifts 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 recommended Ma Financial 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 Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL) share price is in focus today after the company reported strong financial results for the year ended 30 June 2026, with revenue rising 13% to $10.87 billion and underlying net profit up 17% to $621 million.

What did Sonic Healthcare report?

• Revenue: $10,867 million, up 13% from FY2025
• Underlying EBITDA: $1,933 million, up 11%
• Underlying net profit after tax (NPAT): $621 million, up 17%
• Earnings per share: 125.6 cents, up 14%
• Total dividend: $1.08 per share (final dividend $0.63, franked to 60%)
• Strong organic revenue growth of 5%

What else do investors need to know?

Sonic Healthcare completed several strategic acquisitions during FY2026, including major German provider LADR and Cairo Diagnostics. The integration of these businesses is on track, with over 40% of expected synergies realised in year one for LADR. The company has also continued to sharpen its focus on advanced diagnostics, with standout growth in its genetics and specialist pathology businesses, both in Australia and internationally.

Management is investing in the digital and AI transformation of core systems. Around $30 million per year is earmarked over the next three years to modernise finance, supply chain and HR, supporting future productivity. Meanwhile, a $445 million sale and leaseback of its Brisbane hub laboratory strengthened Sonic Healthcare’s balance sheet and capital flexibility.

What’s next for Sonic Healthcare?

Looking ahead to FY2027, Sonic Healthcare expects continued organic growth across its major markets, underpinned by demand for personalised and preventative healthcare. The company has provided EBITDA guidance in the range of $1,950 million to $2,030 million (constant currency), excluding costs from its IT transformation program. Some earnings headwinds are anticipated from regulatory changes in Switzerland and a slower ramp-up of profit from its large UK NHS contract.

The group intends to continue progressing US operational improvements, realise further synergy benefits from its recent acquisitions, and optimise costs through automation and strategic procurement.

Sonic Healthcare share price snapshot

It has been a tough 12 months for the Sonic Healthcare share price. During this time, the company’s shares have underperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) with a decline of 18%.

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The post Sonic Healthcare share price in focus on FY26 profit jump and digital push appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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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 recommended Sonic Healthcare. 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 Ridley Corporation Ltd (ASX: RIC) share price is in focus after the company reported underlying EBITDA jumped 61.8% to $157.8 million, and a 100% franked final dividend of 5.35 cents per share, for the year ended 30 June 2026.

What did Ridley report?

• Underlying EBITDA: $157.8 million, up 61.8% from $97.5 million in the prior corresponding period
• Underlying NPAT: $61.0 million, up 41.5% year on year
• Final dividend: 5.35 cps, fully franked (up from 5.00 cps in FY25)
• Operating cash flow: $122.4 million, up from $68.3 million last year
• Leverage: 0.85x (target range: 1–2x)
• Statutory NPAT: $27.6 million (after significant items)

What else do investors need to know?

Ridley completed the acquisition of Incitec Pivot Fertilisers during the year, driving a step-change in earnings and expanding its position in the Australian agricultural sector. The business now holds number one positions across fertilisers, bulk stockfeeds, and packaged feeds and ingredients.

Fertilisers contributed EBITDA of $72.2 million over nine months, meeting the higher end of expectations, while Bulk Stockfeeds and Packaged Feeds saw growth in volumes, though operational constraints temporarily affected ingredients performance.

The company maintained a solid balance sheet, with headline leverage below the 1–2x target, despite the fertiliser acquisition. Ridley’s cash generation improved, supporting a progressive dividend and ongoing investment.

What’s next for Ridley?

Ridley expects earnings growth from each division in FY27 as it continues integrating its fertilisers business, expands capacity in bulk stockfeeds, and aims for operational recovery in packaged feeds and ingredients.

Management intends to stick with its capital allocation framework and maintain a dividend payout between 50–70% of NPAT. Investment remains focused on efficiency, network upgrades, and pursuing disciplined growth opportunities. The company sees its diversified position providing resilience through changing agricultural cycles and external challenges.

Ridley share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ridley shares have risen 3%, slightly outperforming the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which has risen 1% over the same period.

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The post Ridley: FY26 profit jumps on fertiliser boost 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.