Tag: Stock pick

The high-yield ASX dividend stock APA Group (ASX: APA) is one of the top picks out there for passive income, in my opinion. I’d rather own shares of it than receive the Age Pension.

Australia’s Age Pension is one of the most generous in the world. It’s great that retirees have that safety net, but I like the idea of income coming into my bank account from assets I own myself.

APA is one of the biggest energy businesses on the ASX. Its main asset is a network of gas pipelines that spans the country. It also owns gas power stations, gas storage, gas processing, solar farms, wind farms, and electricity transmission.

Australia needs energy for residential and business usage, so APA plays an important role in Australian society. It actually transports half of the nation’s gas usage, so it’s an essential part of the national energy picture.

Let’s take a look at how an investor could use the high-yield ASX dividend stock to match the Age Pension.

Passive income guidance

I view APA as one of the most impressive passive income businesses on the ASX because of how consistently it has increased its payout. Of course, past dividend growth is not a guarantee of future dividend growth.

APA has increased its annual distribution for 22 years in a row. That’s the second-longest payout growth streak for a business on the ASX.

The business has provided distribution guidance that will take it to 23 years of consecutive growth.

APA management expects the business to hike its payout to 59 cents per security. At the time of writing, that represents a forward distribution yield of 5.6%, which I think is an excellent starting point and extremely competitive against the best term deposit rates right now.

Its earnings and cash flow are growing thanks to inflation-linked revenue, new energy projects being built and completed, and acquisitions.

Equal the Age Pension

Australian retirees recently received a payment increase, which is great news during this period of higher inflation and cost of living.

The maximum Age Pension that a single Australian can receive is $1,237.70 per fortnight. That translates into an approximate annualised figure of $32,180.

If an investor wanted to receive $32,180 of annual income from the high-yield ASX dividend stock from its projected FY27 payout of 59 cents per security, that investor would need to own 54,543 APA Group shares.

Of course, diversification is an important element of investing for passive income. I wouldn’t have 100% of my portfolio invested in APA shares; I’d spread it across a number of ASX shares that can generate returns.

The post 54,543 shares of this high-yield ASX dividend stock pay an income equal to the Age Pension appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• APA Group unveils $1.3bn Brigalow Power Plant deal to underpin growth
• Where to invest $20,000 in ASX dividend shares for passive income
• How much is needed in superannuation to target a $10,000 monthly passive income?
• Where to invest as interest rates charge higher
• How to build a $50,000 passive income from ASX shares

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 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.

S&P/ASX 300 Metal & Mining Index (ASX: XMM) shares are up 1.1% to 8,346.6 points on Wednesday.

Over 12 months, ASX mining shares have soared 29% while the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) has fallen 1%.

The mining index reached a record high of 9,326.9 points on 26 August. 

Higher demand for metals and minerals due to the green energy transition and strong commodity prices has contributed to the 29% rise.

This week, brokers have indicated continued confidence in several ASX mining shares by renewing their buy recommendations.

The brokers have also given each stock a 12-month price target, indicating where they think the valuation will go.

Let’s take a look.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

The BHP share price is $61.21, up 1% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 iron ore share has fallen 8%.

Morgan Stanley renewed its buy rating on BHP shares on Monday.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $68.

This suggests a potential 11% upside ahead.

Galan Lithium Ltd (ASX: GLN)

The Galan Lithium share price is 31 cents, up 3.3% today.

This ASX lithium share has fallen 23% over the past month.

Canaccord Genuity reiterated its buy rating on Galan Lithium shares on Monday.

The broker has a 12-month price target of 80 cents.

This implies potential capital gains of 158% ahead.

Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6)

The Minerals 260 share price is 88 cents, down 2% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 gold share has risen 1%.

Bell Potter reaffirmed its buy rating on Minerals 260 shares with a 12-month target of $1.45.

This suggests a potential 64% upside ahead.

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

The Mineral Resources share price is $52.63, up 0.5% today.

This ASX 200 mining share has fallen 19% over the past month.

UBS renewed its buy rating on the stock with a $74 target.

This implies potential capital growth of 40% over the next year.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)

The South32 share price is $5.04, up 0.3% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 mining share has fallen 2%.

Citi renewed its buy rating on South32 shares yesterday.

The broker has a $6 target, implying a potential 19% upside ahead.

Champion Iron Ltd (ASX: CIA)

The Champion Iron share price is $3.11, up 1.1% today.

This ASX iron ore share has fallen 12% over the past month.

UBS reiterated its buy rating on Champion Iron shares with a price target of $4.15.

This implies a potential 34% upside ahead.

AIC Mines Ltd (ASX: A1M)

The AIC Mines share price is 88 cents, down 2.8% today.

This ASX copper share has risen 9% over the past month.

Morgans reiterated its buy rating on AIC Mines shares with a price target of $1.20.

This implies potential capital gains of 36% ahead.

The post 7 ASX mining shares with 11% to 158% upside ahead: experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• Buy, hold, sell: Corporate Travel Management, JB Hi-Fi, BHP shares
• ASX 200 holds steady as investors brace for a big afternoon
• This ASX iron ore junior could rise more than 33% UBS says
• BHP vs Coles: Which ASX share is better for passive income?

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

S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares are 1% higher at 8,797 points on Wednesday. 

However, the market has fallen into the red over 12 months, down 0.6%, amid rising oil prices and interest rates.

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) lifted the official cash rate from 4.35% to 4.6% yesterday.

Experts say another rate rise may be required in November to combat persistently high inflation.

Inflation rose from 3.5% over the 12 months to July to 4% last month, according to data released today.

Amid the market weakness, brokers have raised their ratings on several ASX shares this week.

Let’s see a sample. 

Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM)

The Capricorn Metals share price is $15.22, up 1.9% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 gold share has fallen 8%.

Bell Potter upgraded Capricorn Metals shares to a buy rating this week.

The broker raised its 12-month price target from $18.05 to $18.10.

This implies a potential 19% upside ahead.

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

The Evolution Mining share price is $13.40, up 1% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 mining share has fallen 10%.

UBS upgraded Evolution shares to a buy call this week.

The broker increased its 12-month price target from $15.20 to $16.

This suggests a potential 19% gain ahead.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

The REA share price is $156.16, up 4.9% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 communications share has dropped 12%.

Bell Potter upgraded REA to a hold recommendation with a price target of $148.

This suggests a potential 5% downside ahead.

Healius Ltd (ASX: HLS)

The Healius share price is 42 cents, up 1.7% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 healthcare share has fallen 2%.

RBC Capital upgraded Healius shares to a hold rating with a 12-month price target of 42 cents.

This implies the stock is fully valued.

Alliance Aviation Services Ltd (ASX: AQZ)

The Alliance Aviation Services share price is 54 cents, up 6.9% today.

Over the past month, this ASX industrials share has fallen 18%.

Morgans upgraded Alliance Aviation Services shares to a buy rating on Monday.

The broker has a 12-month price target of 85 cents.

This indicates potential capital gains of 57% over the next year. 

Pinnacle Investment Management Group Ltd (ASX: PNI)

Pinnacle Investment Management shares are $13.30 apiece, down 4.7% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 financial share has declined 21%.

UBS upgraded the stock to a buy rating but reduced its price target from $18 to $17.

This suggest a potential 28% upside ahead.

The post 6 ASX shares upgraded by experts amid a weak market  appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday
• 3 ASX shares tipped to return 38% to 60%
• PEXA vs REA shares: Which property tech company is the better buy?

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

The APA Group Ltd (ASX: APA) share price is in focus after announcing a new $1.3 billion majority stake in the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant, set to deliver 400MW of dispatchable energy in Queensland. A 25-year, inflation-linked agreement with CS Energy underpins project returns.

What did APA Group report?

• APA to acquire 80% majority stake in the Brigalow Peaking Power Plant for approximately $1,015 million.
• Total project cost estimated at $1,269 million, with existing balance sheet capacity to fund APA’s share.
• Returns supported by a 25-year inflation-linked hedge offtake agreement with CS Energy.
• The 400MW gas power plant will support electricity for over 150,000 homes.
• Part of APA’s broader $3.5 billion organic growth pipeline.

What else do investors need to know?

The Brigalow Peaking Power Plant will be located next to CS Energy’s Kogan Creek Power Station, boosting Queensland’s fast-start energy generation. APA will lead delivery under a construction management agreement, while CS Energy will retain a 20% interest and operate the facility once complete.

APA is also building a new gas lateral and storage pipeline, linking the plant with its Roma to Brisbane Pipeline under a separate agreement. Early works are now finished, with GE Vernova supplying turbines and Monadelphous starting main construction. Project completion is targeted for early 2029.

What did APA Group management say?

CEO and Managing Director Adam Watson said:

We are pleased to confirm this partnership with CS Energy to support Queensland’s energy security and transition.

The Brigalow project aligns with the goals of the Queensland Government’s Energy Roadmap, supporting energy reliability and affordability and demonstrating the important role the private sector can play to bring critical energy infrastructure projects to life.

The project also demonstrates momentum with our contracted power generation growth strategy as we continue to progress further opportunities to support Australia’s energy transition on both the east and west coasts.

What’s next for APA Group?

APA expects the Brigalow project to deliver returns in line with its hurdle rates and to play a vital role in supporting the energy transition. Management says the project forms part of its strategy to expand contracted power generation and strengthen national energy reliability.

Completion is slated for early 2029, with all major construction partners now engaged and works progressing. Investors can watch for further updates as APA advances its $3.5 billion growth pipeline.

APA Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, APA Group shares have risen 19%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has declined 1% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post APA Group unveils $1.3bn Brigalow Power Plant deal to underpin growth appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 54,543 shares of this high-yield ASX dividend stock pay an income equal to the Age Pension
• Where to invest $20,000 in ASX dividend shares for passive income
• How much is needed in superannuation to target a $10,000 monthly passive income?
• Where to invest as interest rates charge higher
• How to build a $50,000 passive income from ASX shares

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.

By now, you’d probably be aware that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) increased interest rates yesterday. The RBA’s 25-basis-point hike was the third time interest rates have been increased in 2026. The new cash rate of 4.60% is the highest Australians have seen since late 2011. This move has profound implications for ASX shares and Australian investors. So let’s get into how we should be investing in a high-rate world.

Most people associate an interest rate hike with higher mortgage payments. Whilst that is probably the most obvious and painful consequence of a rise in interest rates, there are other consequences as well.

The RBA made this move in order to tame the sticky inflation that has crept into the Australian (really the global) economy. Yes, higher interest rates mean that banks and other lenders must charge higher interest rates of their own on mortgages, business lending, and other lines of credit. But it also works to encourage saving over spending by bumping up the interest rates we can receive on products like term deposits, savings accounts, and government bonds.

As such, higher rates have traditionally been bad news for the share market. For one, they slow economic activity, which increases pressure on any company trying to extract profits from the Australian economy. For another, investors have a higher incentive to leave their cash in a safe investment like a term deposit, rather than risking it on the share market.

Higher rates also tend to have an impact on how investors value ASX shares, and not in a good way. But we’ll leave that for another time.

So how does one invest in this kind of environment? Well, I can only tell you what I’m doing.

ASX shares or cash?

For starters, I am not selling out of any of my high-conviction ASX share investments. The data consistently tells us that the share market is the place where the best investing returns are generated. That’s irrespective of how high or low interest rates are.

Saying that, I have slowed down my buying. With a safe, risk-free return of what is now approaching 5.5% from many savings accounts, I am keeping more of my cash in the bank. I think this is prudent, given what is going on in the world right now. I don’t know what the future holds. But I do know that periods of high interest rates have often ended in recessions in the past. Thus, it makes sense to take advantage of these high rates while we can, and perhaps deploy that cash into more ASX shares once rates start falling.

I won’t be putting the majority of my capital into cash. International and ASX shares will remain the core of my investing portfolio for a long time to come. However, I do think that the relatively high returns that cash offers today are something to note. Depending on your own circumstances, it might be worth another look at the structure of your own portfolio.

The post Cash rate at 4.6%: Here’s how I’m investing in ASX shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Yancoal shares in focus after Hunter Valley mine approval
• 54,543 shares of this high-yield ASX dividend stock pay an income equal to the Age Pension
• 7 ASX mining shares with 11% to 158% upside ahead: experts
• 6 ASX shares upgraded by experts amid a weak market 
• APA Group unveils $1.3bn Brigalow Power Plant deal to underpin growth

Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen 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.

Global X has announced the estimated distribution amounts for a variety of its ASX exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

The ex-dividend date is Friday, 2 October.

In order to be eligible to receive an upcoming distribution, you must own the ASX ETF before it goes ex-dividend.

Global X reveals next lot of dividends for ASX ETFs

Here are the distribution amounts, rounded to two decimal places.

Global X will confirm the final payment figures tomorrow.

Investors will receive their distributions on 19 October.

Global X is offering a distribution reinvestment plan (DRP) for all of these ASX ETFs.

If you would like Global X to use your dividends to buy more units, you must complete a DRP election form.

Global X registrar, Computershare Ltd (ASX: CPU), needs to receive your DRP election form by 5pm AEST tomorrow.

ASX ETF name	Distribution amount
Global X Australia 300 ETF (ASX: A300)	44.32 cents per unit
Global X S&P/ASX 200 Covered Call Complex ETF (ASX: AYLD)	11.14 cents per unit
Global X Australian Bank Credit ETF (ASX: BANK)	6.34 cents per unit
Global X Australia ex Financial & Resources ETF (ASX: OZXX)	9.32 cents per unit
Global X Nasdaq 100 Covered Call Complex ETF (ASX: QYLD)	8.54 cents per unit
Global X Russell 2000 ETF (ASX: RSSL)	1.43 cents per unit
Global X USD High Yield Bond (Currency Hedged) ETF (ASX: USHY)	12.42 cents per unit
Global X USD Corporate Bond (Currency Hedged) ETF (ASX: USIG)	10.44 cents per unit
Global X US Treasury Bond (Currency Hedged) ETF (ASX: USTB)	8.13 cents per unit
Global X S&P 500 Covered Call Complex ETF (ASX: UYLD)	6.29 cents per unit
Global X S&P/ASX 200 High Dividend ETF (ASX: ZYAU)	16.52 cents per unit
Global X S&P 500 High Yield Low Volatility ETF (ASX: ZYUS)	12.81 cents per unit

Vanguard has also announced its next batch of estimated distributions for its ASX ETFs.

They include the most popular ETF on the Aussie market, Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS), as well as Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY), and Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS).

The ex-dividend date for Vanguard distributions is tomorrow. Vanguard will pay investors on 16 October.

BlackRock has also announced its next lot of estimated distributions for iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) and many others.

Those ETFs have already gone ex-dividend. BlackRock will pay its ETF investors on 9 October.

A group of 15 other ASX stocks and REITs are going ex-dividend this week.

The post ASX ETF dividends: Global X reveals next payments appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• With high valuations and pesky headwinds, this covered call ASX ETF could be a timely investment

Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has positions in Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF and Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF, Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF, 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.

There has been a sell-off among some of the real estate investment trusts recently, which analysts argue is creating a buying opportunity.

I’ve selected two research reports published this week that make the case that the trusts in question have been oversold and are now worth a look for investors.

Let’s see who the analysts like.

HomeCo Daily Needs REIT (ASX: HDN)

HomeCo is down nearly 20% on a 12-month basis and is trading not far above its low for the period.

The shares have been sold off, particularly since the release of HomeCo’s results on 13 August.

Bell Potter has run the ruler over the company and believes the shares now represent good value.

One major selling point is the dividend yield, which is now sitting at 8.2%.

Bell Potter also argues that the sell-off in the shares has been overdone.

The broker said:

The stock has fallen 13.3% since results and underperformed peers over 3 months, a reaction we view as disproportionate to the underlying 2.2% FY27 earnings decline.  

Bell Potter said they expected earnings to trough this financial year, with growth returning in FY28 as the cost of debt reduces, assets are sold, and developments are completed.

The broker added that retail supply was lagging demand, “driving vacancy down and rental growth up”.

Bell Potter has a buy recommendation on HomeCo shares with a price target of $1.20 compared to $1.08 currently.

Charter Hall Group Ltd (ASX: CHC)

UBS believes Charter Hall has been oversold since early August and calls the company a “top pick” in the real estate sector.

The broker said:

Of the large cap REITs, CHC’s relative returns are most negatively correlated to bond yields which are up ~50bp in the past two months. While rising yields are clearly a headwind for the business (e.g. via lower valuations and transaction volumes), we think the market is assigning too much weight to a downside outcome despite a more resilient earnings base this cycle.

UBS said the market was likely wary of the shares, which were heavily sold off during the last interest rate increase cycle in 2022-23.

But the broker said the current rate cycle is far less dramatic, and “property values should hold up better given sharp devaluations booked across 2022-24”.

UBS has slightly reduced their price target on Charter Hall from $24.50 to $24, but that’s still well above the current level of $18.56.

Charter Hall is valued at $8.38 billion.

The post 2 ASX real estate funds that could return 23% to 35% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Is this the best ASX dividend share to buy in October?
• HomeCo Daily Needs REIT announces September 2026 quarterly distribution
• How to build a $50,000 passive income from ASX shares
• Buy, hold, sell: Regal Partners, HomeCo Daily Needs REIT, APA Group shares
• How much passive income can I earn off an $800,000 superannuation balance?

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 recommended HomeCo Daily Needs REIT. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The Aussie share market is having a strong session on Wednesday.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is currently up 0.96% to around 8,792 points after climbing as high as 8,797 points earlier today.

That puts the benchmark at its highest level in around 3 weeks and has it knocking on the door of 8,800 points again.

There’s plenty of buying across the market as well.

At the latest check, 149 shares were trading higher, compared with just 44 in the red and 7 unchanged.

But what I find interesting is where the rally has come from.

Wall Street didn’t give the local market much to work with overnight, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI), S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX), and Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) all finishing slightly lower.

Instead, it appears investors have found something to like much closer to home.

Inflation comes in below expectations

The big move higher came shortly after the latest inflation figures landed at 11:30am AEST.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) revealed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 4% over the 12 months to August.

That’s up from 3.5% in July and is the highest annual inflation rate since May 2024.

But there was some better news in the numbers.

Economists had been expecting headline inflation to come in at 4.1%, while prices rose 0.4% during August.

That compares with the 0.5% increase economists had predicted.

Underlying inflation was also slightly softer.

The trimmed mean CPI rose 0.2% for the month, below forecasts for a 0.3% increase, while the annual rate remained at 3.6%.

And that was enough to get investors buying.

Bond yields moved lower following the release.

Traders also scaled back expectations for another interest rate hike in November.

That comes just one day after the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) lifted the cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.6%.

ASX shares rally

The shift in interest rate expectations has helped lift shares across much of the market.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) is leading the way, with its shares up 6.74% to $24.86.

The gold miner is rallying amid reports that Gold Fields could return with an improved takeover offer after its initial proposal was rejected.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA) shares are also having a good day, climbing 4.55% to $155.57 after receiving a broker upgrade from Bell Potter.

Elsewhere, Goodman Group (ASX: GMG) shares are up 2.92% to $26.94, while Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) shares have gained 2.82% to $76.45.

The big miners are also helping push the index higher.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares are up 0.9% to $61.18, while Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares have added 0.95% to $165.93.

The post Why has the ASX 200 jumped to its highest level in 3 weeks? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday
• How much do I need in my superannuation to retire comfortably at age 67?
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
• ASX 200 slips as RBA boosts interest rates to 15-year highs
• ASX 200 holds steady as investors brace for a big afternoon

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

There aren’t many S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares that have been hit harder than WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC).

The WiseTech share price is currently trading around $33 a pop, leaving it down almost 20% over the past month.

Zoom out further, and things look much worse, with the logistics software company’s shares losing more than 60% over the past 12 months.

But at these levels, I think the market has gone too far.

In fact, I believe WiseTech is now one of the most undervalued growth stocks on the ASX 200.

And I’m becoming increasingly bullish on where its shares could go from here.

Look beyond the share price

It’s easy to look at WiseTech’s chart and assume something has gone seriously wrong with the business.

But its FY26 numbers tell a very different story.

Revenue jumped 79% to US$1.396 billion, while underlying EBITDA increased 56% to US$644.5 million.

CargoWise remains the part of the business that excites me most.

Revenue from the platform increased 11% to US$756.9 million in FY26, while customer attrition remains extremely low.

WiseTech also has more large global freight forwarders moving onto CargoWise, giving the company another long runway for growth.

That makes the current valuation much more interesting to me than it was when the shares were trading above $100.

The next chapter could be much bigger

But I don’t think investors should value WiseTech purely on what it earned last year.

The acquisition of e2open has dramatically increased the company’s size and created another major opportunity to improve margins.

WiseTech has already been cutting costs across the combined business, while its growing use of AI could drive further efficiencies.

The company is targeting FY27 revenue of US$1.48 billion to US$1.54 billion and underlying EBITDA of US$725 million to US$780 million.

That implies underlying EBITDA growth of roughly 12% to 21%, with margins expected to reach 49% to 51%.

Meanwhile, leverage is expected to fall to around 2.2 times by the end of FY27 and below 2 times in FY28.

Put those pieces together, and I think WiseTech could emerge from this period as a considerably larger and more profitable business.

Would I buy WiseTech shares?

Absolutely.

The market is currently treating WiseTech like its best days are behind it.

I think the opposite could prove true.

CargoWise remains an outstanding global software platform, and margins have plenty of room to improve.

Yes, there are risks, particularly around integrating e2open and delivering its FY27 targets.

But with WiseTech shares around $33, I’m more interested in the potential reward.

I think this sell-off has created one of the most attractive growth opportunities on the ASX 200.

The post Is WiseTech the most undervalued growth stock on the ASX 200? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 6 ASX shares set to soar 39% to 135%
• Want to retire early? Here’s where I’d put my money
• 5 best ASX shares to buy in October
• These 3 ASX 200 shares have lost 49%+ in 2026. Are any now bargains?
• Should I invest $5,000 into WiseTech and Xero shares?

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

CSL vs Pro Medicus shares: Which ASX healthcare stock should you buy in October?

When Aussie investors think “healthcare blue-chip”, CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) probably springs to mind. But rapid-growing tech player Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) is making waves of its own. Both operate in the fast-evolving healthcare sector, but their businesses, fundamentals and shares shape up very differently. With October upon us, here’s how CSL and Pro Medicus compare for investment appeal right now.

The case for CSL

CSL is a long-established giant in global biotherapy and vaccine development, with more than a century under its belt. Its core business sprawls from treating rare diseases and producing vaccines, through to iron deficiency and kidney health, with operations in over 40 countries. CSL’s key divisions include CSL Behring (plasma therapies), Seqirus (vaccines), and Vifor (nephrology), making it a highly diversified healthcare operator.

Looking at the numbers, CSL boasts a massive $87.3 billion market cap, cementing its blue-chip status on the ASX. Its price/earnings (P/E) ratio sits at 18.12, considerably lower than many growth-focused healthcare peers. A dividend yield of 2.29% and a payout of $4.05 per share will appeal to income-minded investors, though notably, its dividends are currently unfranked. For 2026 to date, the shares have delivered a positive return of 4.8%.

Interestingly, CSL’s reported earnings per share (EPS) in this snapshot is negative (-5.35), which doesn’t mathematically square with a positive P/E ratio. Note: CSL’s reported P/E ratio may be based on a different earnings measure (e.g. underlying or forward earnings) than the EPS figure shown, which is why they may appear inconsistent.

The case for Pro Medicus

Pro Medicus is a healthcare technology company specialising in medical imaging software used by radiology clinics and hospitals. Its main products — advanced Radiology Information Systems (RIS) and Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) — help streamline image management and reporting for some of the world’s top medical centres, especially in the US. The company also offers workflow optimisation, network design, and training.

While much younger and nimbler than CSL, Pro Medicus has grown into a $16.94 billion company as of the latest data snapshot. Its valuation is rich: a P/E ratio of 63.49 reflects the high growth investors expect from healthcare tech disruptors. For dividend hunters, Pro Medicus pays out a much smaller (but fully franked) yield of 0.43%, with a dividend of $0.69 per share.

Notably, Pro Medicus has posted positive EPS (2.536), but its shares have struggled this year, dropping -26.8% year to date. That underperformance stands in sharp contrast to CSL’s modest gains.

Valuation comparison

Here’s how CSL and Pro Medicus compare on fundamentals, using the latest available numbers:

Metric	CSL	Pro Medicus
Market Cap	$87.30 billion	$16.94 billion
P/E Ratio	18.12	63.49
Dividend Yield	2.29% (Unfranked)	0.43% (100% Franked)
Dividend per Share	$4.05	$0.69
Year To Date Return	4.8%	-26.8%
Earnings per Share	-5.350	2.536

Note: CSL’s positive P/E and negative EPS figures may seem inconsistent; this could be because underlying or forward earnings have been used for the P/E.

Recent share price performance

Comparing recent share price action up to 28 September, here’s how their shares moved heading into October:

• As of 28 Sep 2026, CSL shares closed at $181.91, gaining 2.8% on the day and advancing 4.8% year to date.
• As of 28 Sep 2026, Pro Medicus shares ended at $162.15, rising 0.7% for the day but down sharply, by -26.8% year to date.

So while CSL has trended higher in 2026 so far, Pro Medicus has seen a notable pullback despite its earlier strong run.

Which is the better buy?

If I had to choose just one ASX healthcare share for October, my pick would be CSL. Here’s why: Despite a challenging couple of years, CSL offers the steadiness of a global leader with a long track record, a mid-range (for healthcare) P/E ratio, and a solid dividend yield — all with demonstrated year-to-date gains. Its scale, diversification, and staying power make it hard to look past, even allowing for some confusion around current reported earnings.

Pro Medicus is an exciting disruptor with unique tech and exposure to US healthcare, but its lofty valuation (P/E above 60) and steep share price slide this year make it tougher for me to justify at current prices. While Pro Medicus’ 100% franking is a perk, its yield is modest and its short-term momentum is firmly negative.

For a mix of quality, income and market resilience in the current environment, I think CSL stands out as the better buy for October.

The post CSL vs Pro Medicus: Which ASX healthcare share is better? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Experts name 3 popular ASX 200 shares to buy this week

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 CSL. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL and Pro Medicus. 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 draft. 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.