Tag: Stock pick

  • Why Are Evolution Mining shares crashing over 5% today?

    Frustrated and shocked businesswoman reading bad news online from phone.

    Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) shares have fallen further into the red today.

    At the time of writing, the ASX gold shares have fallen by over 5% to $11.30 each.

    The update means Evolution Mining shares have now fallen roughly 11% this week alone, reversing any gains made through late June.

    The stock is now down around 11% year to date, but still an impressive 44% higher than this time last year.

    What has happened to Evolution Mining shares today?

    There isn’t any price-sensitive news out of Evolution Mining today, or earlier this week, to explain the latest sell-off.

    It’s likely the latest share price drop is due to broader weakness across the gold sector.

    The price of gold has fallen sharply over the past month. At the time of writing, gold is trading around US$4,110 per ounce, down from around US$4,500 in June and significantly below the US$5,300 to US$5,400 range seen earlier this year.

    Given that lower gold prices translate directly into lower expected revenue and cash flow for ASX gold miners like Evolution Mining, it has a direct influence on share prices.

    At the same time, it’s likely that many investors are taking their profit off the table after the shares climbed higher through June.

    Evolution is due to release its June-quarter production and cash-flow results in mid-July. Ahead of major operational updates, it’s not usual for some investors to sell some of their shares in anticipation of the next announcement. This is particularly the case when commodity prices are falling. 

    What do brokers tip next for the ASX gold miner?

    It looks like the experts are divided about the outlook for Evolution Mining shares over the next 12 months; however, the majority agree there will be some upside ahead.

    Market Index data shows the majority of brokers have a hold rating on the gold stock. However, the average target price of $13.82 implies a potential 21% upside over the next 12 months.

    TradingView data shows some analysts are a little more bullish. The majority (nine out of 20) of analysts have a buy or strong buy rating on Evolution Mining shares. Another eight have a hold rating on the stock, and three rate the shares as a sell or strong sell.

    The average $13.66 target price also implies around a 21% upside, at the time of writing. However, the more bullish of the bunch have forecast the shares to surge another 72% up to $19.45 a piece over the next 12 months. 

    The team at Morgans think recent sector weakness provides a compelling entry point for Evolution Mining shares. The broker has a buy rating and a $15 target price on the mining shares.

    Macquarie also has a buy rating on the ASX gold shares and a $14 target price.

    Bell Potter is also bullish on the outlook for the gold giant’s shares. The team has a buy rating and a $16.45 target price.

    The post Why Are Evolution Mining shares crashing over 5% today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Evolution Mining right now?

    Before you buy Evolution Mining 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 Evolution Mining 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

    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 Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Qube shares: Scheme now effective and special dividend declared

    Man holding out $50 and $100 notes in his hands, symbolising ex dividend.

    The Qube Holdings Ltd (ASX: QUB) share price is in focus today after the company announced the Supreme Court has approved the scheme of arrangement for Rubik Australia to acquire all Qube shares, and the board declared a fully franked special dividend of 34.65 cents per share.

    What did Qube report?

    • The Supreme Court of NSW approved Rubik Australia’s acquisition of 100% of Qube shares.
    • Qube declared a fully franked special dividend of $0.3465 per ordinary share.
    • Trading in Qube shares will be suspended at close today, with scheme implementation scheduled for 14 August 2026.
    • Scheme consideration for shareholders is $5.20 cash per share, less the interim and special dividends.
    • Key scheme dates: Special Dividend Record Date is 14 July, payment on 23 July, Scheme Record Date is 24 July, Implementation Date is 14 August 2026.

    What else do investors need to know?

    The court’s approval means the scheme is now legally effective and Qube has lodged the orders with ASIC. Shareholders (other than UniSuper, which will receive shares in Rubik Australia Holdings) set to receive cash for their Qube shares need to be on the register at 7:00 pm, 24 July 2026.

    The total cash payment per Qube share from Rubik Australia will be reduced by the sum of both the $0.0535 interim dividend declared in February and the $0.3465 special dividend. The special dividend record date is 14 July 2026 and payment will be made on 23 July 2026.

    What’s next for Qube?

    Trading in Qube shares on the ASX will be suspended after today’s close. The scheme implementation remains on track for 14 August 2026, when eligible shareholders can expect payment. Any changes to the timetable will be communicated through the ASX.

    This acquisition marks a significant turning point for Qube, with the board expressing confidence shareholders are being fairly compensated. Investors should keep an eye out for further updates on the transition process.

    Qube share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, Qube shares have risen 21%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 1% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Qube shares: Scheme now effective and special dividend declared appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Qube 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 Qube 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

    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.

  • BHP shares slump 13% from their peak: Are the ASX mining shares a buy, sell or hold?

    Upset man in hard hat puts hand over face.

    BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares have fallen further into the red in Wednesday morning trade.

    At the time of writing, the ASX mining giant’s shares are down around 3% for the day, and are changing hands at $56.98 a piece.

    The latest slump means BHP shares have now tumbled 13% from an all-time high recorded in mid-June.

    Thanks to a strong rally earlier in the year, the shares are still 25% higher year to date and around 49% higher than this time last year.

    What caused the latest sell-off?

    Improved copper prices and overall commodity tailwinds helped BHP shares reach a new all-time high in mid-June.

    But this was quickly followed by another softening in the price of both copper and iron ore, which dragged BHP shares lower. 

    Copper futures are now around US$6.12 per pound, down from a high of around a $6.6 per pound in June. 

    Iron ore prices have also fallen close to an annual low of around US$98 per tonne. In mid-May, the metal was trading around the US$111 per tonne mark.

    Ongoing conflict in the Middle East, sustained inflation concerns, slowing steel demand, and uncertainty about China’s property sector all also weighed heavily on investor sentiment over the past month.

    The question now is, what’s next for BHP shares?

    Are BHP shares a buy, sell, or hold?

    If broker analysis is anything to go by, the mining giant’s shares are now trading around fair value.

    Market Index data shows the majority of brokers have a hold rating on BHP shares. Although the average $62.66 target price implies a potential 10% upside at the time of writing.

    TradingView data shows the same sentiment. The majority of analysts (13 out of 19) have a hold rating on BHP shares. Another four rate the mining stock as a strong buy, and two rate the shares as a sell or strong sell.

    The average $63.54 target price implies a potential 11% upside over the next 12 months, at the time of writing. But the range between the maximum and minimum target prices is huge. Some forecast the shares to fall around 31% to $39.19. Meanwhile, others are bullish that BHP shares could soar 64% to $93.75 over the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

    Morgan Stanley is one of the more bullish brokers among the bunch. The investment bank recently reaffirmed its buy rating on BHP shares and maintained a 12-month price target of $67.50. The broker likes that BHP is exposed to surging copper demand and thinks the company’s iron ore operations are performing well.

    Elsewhere, DZ Bank recently upgraded its stance on BHP shares from sell to hold. The broker has an average price target of $65 per share.

    Catapult Wealth also has a buy rating on BHP shares, citing a robust balance sheet and an attractive dividend yield.

    Meanwhile, Sanlam Private Wealth has a hold rating on the mining giant and flags concerns around a cost blowout and impairment at the company’s Jansen potash project and the potential for more industrial action at BHP’s Pilbara operations.

    The post BHP shares slump 13% from their peak: Are the ASX mining shares a buy, sell or hold? 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

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

  • $650 million in cash and gold, guidance hit: Why this ASX 200 stock is still falling

    Group of business people joining together silver and golden coloured gears on table at workplace.

    Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares are back in the red on Wednesday as investors digest the gold producer’s latest update.

    At the time of writing, the Ramelius share price is down 3.51% to $2.885.

    The move adds to a difficult start to the year for the ASX 200 gold stock. Ramelius shares are now down around 5% over the past month and 30% in 2026.

    Ramelius has now closed out FY26, and the market is getting its first look at how the June quarter finished.

    Let’s take a closer look at the announcement.

    Stronger finish to the year

    According to the release, Ramelius produced 53,466 ounces of gold in the June quarter.

    That represents a 40% increase on the prior quarter and lifted full-year production to 192,182 ounces.

    This means Ramelius finished FY26 inside its guidance range of 185,000 to 205,000 ounces. Management said this was the 6th year in a row that the company has met its production guidance.

    The stronger quarter was helped by improved haulage rates, particularly at Dalgaranga, while the Never Never underground operation remained on track.

    Managing Director Mark Zeptner said the June quarter was a strong finish to the year and showed “consistent delivery” from the operations team.

    Cash and gold balance grows

    Ramelius also finished the quarter in a strong financial position.

    The company reported underlying free cash flow of $183 million. This included growth capital and exploration, but came before dividends, share buybacks, and tax payments.

    It ended June with cash and gold of $649.6 million.

    Ramelius also kept returning money to shareholders during the quarter. It paid a fully-franked interim dividend of $54.4 million and completed $30.5 million of share buybacks.

    The total buybacks now stand at $140.7 million under the company’s $250 million buyback program.

    Why are Ramelius shares falling?

    Ramelius hasn’t yet provided final all-in sustaining costs (AISC) for the June quarter. These figures will be included in the full quarterly report, which is due on 29 July.

    Until those numbers land, investors don’t have the full margin detail, even though production and cash flow both look healthy.

    There is also a lot happening across the project pipeline.

    At Mt Magnet, stage one circuit works have started, while stage two and three works are close to completion. The camp expansion, wind project, and major project recruitment are also moving along.

    Ramelius is also working through the Edna May Hub transaction. The company estimates this could deliver almost $600 million of pre-tax value once cash, retained free cash flow, and share consideration are included.

    The post $650 million in cash and gold, guidance hit: Why this ASX 200 stock is still falling appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Ramelius Resources right now?

    Before you buy Ramelius Resources 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 Ramelius Resources 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

    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 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.

  • Cochlear shares are slipping again. Is the comeback already over?

    A woman puts her fingers in her ears with a pained expression on her face with her eyes closed as though trying to block hearing bad news or an unpleasant loud noise.

    Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) shares looked to be finding their feet last week. Not anymore.

    The hearing implant leader slipped 2.3% to $124.49 during Wednesday morning trade, putting the brakes on what had been an impressive recovery.

    The stock had rallied around 10% last week and is still up 28% over the past month. That’s no small feat after suffering one of the biggest share price collapses on the ASX this year.

    But before investors start celebrating, it’s worth remembering the bigger picture. Cochlear shares remain down 52% in 2026 and have lost almost 60% over the past 12 months.

    So, is today’s weakness simply a pause after a strong rebound, or are investors being reminded why the shares fell so hard in the first place?

    A reality check

    It’s easy to forget just how brutal April was. On 22 April, Cochlear dropped a trading update that landed like a lead balloon.

    Demand for hearing implants across developed markets came in below expectations. Then, to make matters worse, conflict in the Middle East disrupted shipments and triggered order cancellations.

    Management didn’t just trim guidance; it took a chainsaw to it. The company cut its FY26 underlying net profit forecast from $435 million to $460 million down to just $290 million to $330 million.

    The market’s response was swift and ruthless. Cochlear shares plunged more than 40% in a single trading session as investors suddenly questioned whether one of the ASX’s highest-quality healthcare companies had lost its mojo.

    Since then, the debate has been simple: was this a nasty bump in the road or the start of a much tougher journey?

    The bull case hasn’t disappeared

    Here’s the thing. Cochlear’s long-term competitive position hasn’t suddenly vanished.

    The company still controls around half of the global cochlear implant market, making it the clear industry leader. That leadership has been built over decades through research, innovation, and close partnerships with surgeons and hospitals around the world.

    Those advantages are incredibly difficult for rivals to replicate.

    The growth runway for Cochlear shares also remains enormous. More than six million people across developed markets are estimated to be eligible for cochlear implants, yet only around 3% have received one.

    That leaves plenty of room for future growth as awareness increases, diagnosis rates improve, and hearing technology continues to evolve.

    What do the experts think?

    Brokers aren’t exactly pounding the table, but neither are they rushing for the exits.

    According to TradingView data, most analysts currently rate Cochlear shares as a hold. The average 12-month price target is $127.33, only about 3% above the current share price. In other words, the market thinks the easy money from the recent rebound may already have been made.

    That said, there are still plenty of optimists. Six of the 18 analysts covering Cochlear rate the healthcare stock as either a buy or strong buy. The most bullish forecast sees the stock climbing another 38% over the next year.

    On the flip side, two brokers recommend selling, with the lowest target price sitting at $95, implying a downside of roughly 23%.

    The post Cochlear shares are slipping again. Is the comeback already over? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Cochlear 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 Cochlear 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

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

  • IperionX launches US$50m capital raise for titanium expansion

    A briefcase full of money

    The IperionX Ltd (ASX: IPX) share price is in focus after the company announced it has priced an underwritten public offering of 2,275,000 American Depositary Shares (ADSs), raising nearly US$50 million before costs. The funds will support expansion of IperionX’s titanium production technologies and R&D activities.

    What did IperionX report?

    • Priced public offering of 2,275,000 ADSs at US$21.98 per ADS
    • Gross proceeds of approximately US$50 million (before costs)
    • Offering led by US institutional investors
    • Funds to be used for commercialising titanium and alloy technology, plus site expansion
    • Expected closing date: 9 July 2026 (subject to conditions)

    What else do investors need to know?

    Each ADS will represent 10 ordinary IperionX shares, with the total 22,750,000 shares to be issued from the company’s existing placement capacity under Listing Rule 7.1. The capital raise is being managed by Cantor as sole bookrunner, with Roth Capital Partners and B. Riley Securities acting as co-managers.

    Net proceeds from the offer will be directed towards advancing the scale-up and expansion of IperionX’s Virginia Titanium Manufacturing Campus, furthering its titanium metal research, and developing the Camden-Titan Project in Tennessee. Extra funds will go towards general corporate purposes.

    What’s next for IperionX?

    With fresh funding, IperionX plans to accelerate the commercialisation of its proprietary titanium technologies and continue building out its production capabilities in the United States. The company sees these investments supporting its goal to become a key producer of high-quality, lower-cost, and more sustainable titanium alloys.

    The outlook includes ongoing expansion at core US sites and increased R&D to enhance process efficiencies. Management also flagged continued focus on developing the Camden-Titan Project and supporting general business initiatives.

    IperionX share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, IperionX shares have declined 7%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 1% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post IperionX launches US$50m capital raise for titanium expansion appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in IperionX Ltd right now?

    Before you buy IperionX 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 IperionX 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

    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.

  • QBE shares surge again as $37 billion insurance giant faces leadership change

    A woman steps into a friend's umbrella after hers blows away.

    QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) shares are pushing higher on Wednesday after the company released a senior leadership update.

    At the time of writing, the QBE share price is up 2% to $25.49. By comparison, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 0.8% to 8,737 points.

    The move adds to a strong recent run for the ASX insurance stock, which is now up around 12% over the past month and 28% since the start of 2026.

    Here’s what the company told investors.

    Senior leader to retire

    In a statement to the ASX, QBE said Sue Houghton has advised the company of her intention to retire.

    She will step down from her role as Chief Executive Officer for Australia Pacific at the end of 2026.

    Houghton has been with QBE for more than 5 years and has spent over 35 years working across financial services.

    The Australia Pacific business is one of QBE’s 3 main divisions, sitting alongside North America and International.

    Group Chief Executive Andrew Horton said Houghton had made a strong contribution to QBE over the past 5 years and helped the Australia Pacific business improve its performance, capability, and customer outcomes.

    He said:

    On behalf of the Board and Executive Leadership Team, I thank Sue for her contribution and leadership and wish her every success in retirement.

    Houghton will remain in the role while QBE begins a search for her replacement.

    What is really moving QBE shares

    A senior leadership change could have taken some heat out of QBE shares, but investors seem comfortable with the way this one is being handled.

    The stock was already moving higher before the update, with investors backing the insurer after a solid start to 2026.

    QBE has been getting support from stronger underwriting, premium growth, and steady demand for large defensive financial stocks.

    The timing of Houghton’s exit is also helping. She is staying in the role until the end of 2026, which gives QBE plenty of time to find a replacement and manage the handover.

    Can QBE shares keep climbing?

    After a 26% gain in 2026, QBE shares have already had a strong run.

    But I wouldn’t say the run looks finished just because the stock is near its 52-week high.

    The leadership change should be manageable, especially with Houghton staying on until the end of next year.

    If QBE keeps underwriting well and claims don’t blow out, I think investors will be happy to stick with it.

    The post QBE shares surge again as $37 billion insurance giant faces leadership change appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in QBE Insurance right now?

    Before you buy QBE Insurance 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 QBE Insurance 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

    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 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.

  • Want passive income? These ASX dividend shares keep delivering

    Man holding out Australian dollar notes, symbolising dividends.

    Building a reliable passive income stream doesn’t have to mean chasing the ASX dividend shares with the highest yields.

    In fact, some of the best income investments are businesses that combine attractive payouts with the ability to grow those payments over time. That’s especially important for retirees, who need their income to keep pace with inflation.

    With that in mind, here are two ASX dividend shares I think deserve a closer look.

    APA Group (ASX: APA)

    APA Group has built one of the strongest income records on the ASX.

    The ASX dividend share has increased its annual distribution every year since the mid-2000s, giving it one of the longest uninterrupted distribution growth streaks on the market. Only Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL) has a longer record among major ASX companies.

    APA expects to pay an annual distribution of 58 cents per security for FY26. At today’s share price, that equates to a distribution yield of around 5.7%, making it highly competitive with even the best term deposit rates.

    And the income story may not stop there. It’s expected that APA will increase its annual distribution again in FY27 to around 59 cents per security, lifting the forward yield to approximately 5.8%.

    Importantly, APA isn’t funding those distributions by standing still.

    The company continues investing heavily in projects that should support higher cash flows over time. It is expanding its East Coast gas grid, progressing early works in the Beetaloo Basin, growing remote power generation in the Pilbara, and building a new gas peaking power station in Queensland.

    At its FY26 half-year result, APA reported an organic growth pipeline worth around $3 billion. Those investments should help grow earnings over the coming years and support further distribution increases.

    AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL)

    AGL offers a different type of income opportunity.

    The ASX dividend share has fallen around 11% so far in 2026 and remains roughly 20% below its February highs, leaving investors with an attractive dividend yield of approximately 5.7%.

    Even better, AGL’s recent dividends have been fully franked, lifting the grossed-up yield to around 8% for eligible investors.

    The business also benefits from operating in an essential industry. Regardless of economic conditions, households and businesses still need electricity and gas. That helps underpin demand for AGL’s services and provides a relatively defensive earnings base.

    However, investors also need to understand the risks. Australia’s energy sector is undergoing one of the biggest transformations in its history. Coal-fired power stations are progressively being retired and replaced by renewable energy generation and large-scale battery storage.

    AGL sits at the centre of that transition. The company must invest billions of dollars to modernise its generation fleet while navigating government regulation, wholesale electricity price volatility, and the complexities of the National Electricity Market.

    Those challenges create uncertainty, but they also provide opportunities if management executes successfully.

    The post Want passive income? These ASX dividend shares keep delivering 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

    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 positions in and has recommended Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Apa Group and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Atlas Arteria closes IFM takeover and begins board renewal

    Two company members shaking hands on a deal.

    The Atlas Arteria Ltd (ASX: ALX) share price is in focus today after the company announced the close of the IFM Takeover Offer, with IFM subsidiary holding 67.43% voting power. The company also revealed a new interim Chair and details about its ongoing board succession process.

    What did Atlas Arteria report?

    • The IFM Takeover Offer closed on 7 July 2026, with the bidder securing 67.43% of Atlas Arteria’s voting power.
    • Debbie Goodin retired as Independent Non-executive Chair and Director after the offer closure.
    • John Wigglesworth appointed Interim Chair of Atlas Arteria Limited and Non-executive Director of Atlas Arteria International Limited.
    • Jean-Georges Malcor appointed Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee.
    • The board is accelerating its search for a new independent Chair, considering both internal and external candidates.

    What else do investors need to know?

    The board has reaffirmed its approach to related party transactions, emphasising that any potential conflicts of interest or material transactions involving IFM will continue to be overseen by independent directors. This is in line with Atlas Arteria’s established practices and existing agreements.

    Atlas Arteria also operates an international portfolio, including toll road businesses in France, Germany and the United States. The company’s focus remains on disciplined management and delivering long-term value for investors.

    What did Atlas Arteria management say?

    Interim Chair John Wigglesworth said:

    We are entering a crucial period for Atlas Arteria. As we look ahead after the closure of the takeover offer, the Boards recognise the importance of focusing on optimising value for our investors. We thank Debbie for her significant contribution to Atlas Arteria over many years. Her support for a smooth transition has underscored her relentless commitment to act in the best interests of all securityholders. While the process for determining a new independent Chair of ATLAX continues, I am committed to engaging constructively with IFM.

    What’s next for Atlas Arteria?

    The board recruitment process for a new permanent Chair is underway, with both internal and external candidates being considered. Until an appointment is made, John Wigglesworth will act as Interim Chair and work constructively with IFM and other stakeholders.

    Reflecting its new ownership, Atlas Arteria will maintain strong governance practices around related party decisions and continue to focus on sustainable business practices across its international toll road assets.

    Atlas Arteria share price snapshot

    Over the past 12 months, Atlas Arteria shares have risen 1%, slightly trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 2% over the same period.

    View Original Announcement

    The post Atlas Arteria closes IFM takeover and begins board renewal appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Atlas Arteria right now?

    Before you buy Atlas Arteria 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 Atlas Arteria 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

    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 only 3 ASX blue-chip shares I’d buy and hold until 2036

    Man sits smiling at a computer showing graphs.

    ASX blue-chip shares can be one of the smartest ways to build long-term wealth without trying to predict tomorrow’s biggest winner

    I’d focus on owning exceptional businesses with strong competitive advantages, proven management teams, and industries that should continue growing regardless of short-term market swings.

    With that in mind, these are the three ASX blue-chip shares I’d be comfortable buying today and holding for the next decade.

    CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

    Every long-term portfolio deserves exposure to a world-class healthcare company, and CSL remains one of Australia’s best.

    The ASX blue-chip share has endured a difficult period following earnings downgrades and acquisition-related concerns, but I see those as execution challenges rather than structural problems.

    The biotechnology giant is the world’s second-largest producer of plasma-derived therapies, operating in an industry protected by enormous barriers to entry. Building a global plasma collection network takes decades, billions of dollars, and extensive regulatory approvals, making it incredibly difficult for competitors to catch up.

    The long-term investment case remains compelling. Demand for plasma therapies continues to grow, supported by ageing populations, expanding healthcare access, and increasing diagnosis rates for immune disorders.

    After its significant share price decline, CSL also trades at a far more reasonable valuation than investors have become accustomed to over the past decade.

    For patient investors, this looks like a rare opportunity to buy one of the ASX’s highest-quality businesses at a meaningful discount to its former highs.

    REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

    REA Group has quietly become one of Australia’s greatest business success stories.

    While many investors think of it as a property company, it’s really a technology platform with extraordinary pricing power and one of the strongest network effects on the ASX.

    Real estate agents need to advertise where buyers are looking, while buyers naturally gravitate to the largest property marketplace. That creates a virtuous circle that’s incredibly difficult for competitors to break.

    The $19 billion ASX blue-chip share also generates exceptional profit margins and strong free cash flow thanks to its asset-light business model.

    Importantly, REA doesn’t need Australia’s property prices to rise forever. Whether people are buying, selling, renting, or simply researching homes, the platform continues attracting millions of users every month.

    The company also has additional growth opportunities through mortgages, financial services, and property data, giving it multiple avenues to expand beyond traditional listings.

    Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG)

    Macquarie is unlike any other financial institution on the ASX.

    Often called the “millionaires’ factory”, the company has spent decades building a global investment banking and asset management business with operations spanning infrastructure, renewable energy, commodities, and specialist financial services.

    One of Macquarie’s greatest strengths is its ability to adapt. Over the years, the ASX blue-chip share has successfully reinvented its business model several times as markets evolved, allowing it to continue generating attractive returns through very different economic environments.

    The company’s global footprint also reduces its reliance on the Australian economy, while its growing infrastructure and renewable energy businesses position it to benefit from long-term structural trends.

    Macquarie’s earnings will always fluctuate with market conditions, but its culture of disciplined risk management and capital allocation has consistently created long-term shareholder value.

    The post The only 3 ASX blue-chip shares I’d buy and hold until 2036 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy CSL 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 CSL 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 16 June 2026

    .custom-cta-button p {
    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
    }

    More reading

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