Tag: Stock pick

  • 5 oversold ASX shares to buy before the end of April

    A couple sits on a sofa, each clutching their heads in horror and disbelief, while looking at a laptop screen.

    I believe some of the best investment opportunities tend to show up after a sell-off.

    When quality companies fall a long way from their highs, the starting point changes. That is where I start paying closer attention.

    Here are five oversold ASX shares I would be looking at before the end of April.

    CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

    CSL is down more than 50% from its highs, which is a big move for a biotech company of this quality.

    The business itself still has strong foundations. CSL Behring remains a leader in plasma therapies, and demand for those treatments continues to build over time.

    What has changed is the price. After such a large pullback, I think CSL shares are starting to look much more interesting for long-term investors. If the company can rebuild momentum, this could be one of those periods that looks like an opportunity in hindsight.

    Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

    Breville has pulled back around 20%, which has taken some pressure out of its valuation.

    This is a business that has successfully expanded outside Australia, and that is still driving its growth today. Its products continue to resonate in key markets like the US, which supports that trend.

    At a lower share price, I think the setup looks more balanced. It still has room to grow, but you are no longer paying the same premium as before.

    Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

    Xero has fallen more than 50% from its highs alongside the broader sell-off in software stocks due to artificial intelligence (AI) disruption concerns.

    The long-term shift toward cloud-based accounting is still playing out, and Xero remains one of the key platforms in that space.

    And while AI will always be a risk, I think those concerns may be overstated and Xero still has many years of growth ahead. And after such a sharp decline, I think the risk-reward looks more favourable than it has in a long time.

    WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

    WiseTech is down more than 60% from its peak, which is a significant reset.

    Its CargoWise platform is already embedded in global logistics, which gives it a strong position in how goods move around the world.

    At this level, I think the sell-off is worth paying attention to. This is still a business with a large runway, but it is now being priced very differently to where it was at its peak.

    Catapult Sports Ltd (ASX: CAT)

    Catapult has pulled back close to 60% from its highs despite continuing to deliver strong results.

    The sports technology business has been shifting toward a subscription-based model, which should support more consistent revenue over time.

    I think the interesting part here is how the company is evolving. As data becomes more important in sport, Catapult has a chance to deepen its role with teams rather than just expand its customer base.

    At this much lower share price, I think it is one ASX share that could deliver strong returns if it continues to execute successfully.

    Foolish takeaway

    A big pullback does not guarantee a good investment, but it can change the starting point.

    These ASX shares all have strong growth potential and are now trading well below their previous highs. That is why I think they are worth a closer look before the end of April.

    The post 5 oversold ASX shares to buy before the end of April appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Breville Group Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Breville Group Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in CSL. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL, Catapult Sports, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Catapult Sports, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • The easy way to buy ASX dividend shares and build passive income

    a man wearing casual clothes fans a selection of Australian banknotes over his chin with an excited, widemouthed expression on his face.

    Building a passive income stream from ASX dividend shares often means choosing individual companies and monitoring their payouts.

    But if you’re not a fan of stock picking, don’t worry. There is a simpler approach. Exchange traded funds (ETFs) allow investors to access a diversified group of income-generating shares through a single investment.

    Two ASX ETFs stand out for those focused on dividend income.

    Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY)

    The first ASX ETF to consider is the Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF.

    It provides exposure to a broad group of ASX shares with higher forecast dividend yields.

    It tracks the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index, which focuses on companies expected to pay above-average dividends. The portfolio is diversified, with limits of 40% per industry and 10% per company. It also excludes A-REITs.

    The fund includes some of the largest income-generating companies on the ASX. Its top holdings feature names such as BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS), and Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS).

    This structure allows investors to access a wide range of dividend-paying shares without relying on a small number of companies. It also offers a low-cost way to build exposure to income across the Australian market.

    Betashares S&P Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: HYLD)

    Another ASX ETF to consider for passive income is the Betashares S&P Australian Shares High Yield ETF.

    It takes a similar approach to dividend investing. It provides exposure to a portfolio of 50 Australian shares with high forecast dividend yields. The fund also applies additional screening to improve the quality of those yields.

    This includes filtering out potential dividend traps, such as companies expected to pay unsustainably high dividends or those with elevated volatility relative to their forecast payouts.

    The portfolio also includes major ASX names such as BHP, Westpac, ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ), and Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG).

    Another positive is that the Betashares S&P Australian Shares High Yield pays income monthly, which may appeal to investors looking for more regular cash flow.

    A simpler way to generate passive income

    Using ASX ETFs like these removes much of the complexity from dividend investing.

    Instead of selecting and managing individual ASX dividend shares, investors can gain diversified exposure to high-yield companies through a single trade.

    The post The easy way to buy ASX dividend shares and build passive income appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Betashares S&P Australian Shares High Yield Etf right now?

    Before you buy Betashares S&P Australian Shares High Yield Etf shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Betashares S&P Australian Shares High Yield Etf wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Woodside Energy Group Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Telstra Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group and Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • NAB shares: Are they cheap enough to buy after the latest drop?

    Young girl peeps over the top of her red piggy bank, ready to put coins in it.

    National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) shares have come back into focus this week after investors reacted to the latest update.

    The stock fell 3.60% on Monday to $41.02 following a market release, before stabilising on Tuesday. It finished up 0.46% at $41.21.

    That move leaves NAB shares down close to 10% over the past week, pulling them back from recent highs.

    The question now is whether this pullback has opened a buying opportunity.

    What triggered the recent sell-off?

    NAB’s recent update centred on changes to credit provisioning and capital settings ahead of its half-year result.

    The bank expects credit impairment charges of around $706 million for 1H FY26. That includes a $300 million increase tied to forward-looking provisions.

    Those changes reflect a more cautious view on the economic outlook, with added weight placed on downside scenarios.

    Sectors linked to fuel costs and supply pressures were flagged as areas of potential stress.

    There were also capital impacts. NAB said its Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio is expected to fall by around 20 basis points due to market volatility and provisioning changes.

    Alongside this, the bank confirmed an accelerated amortisation charge of roughly $1.35 billion tied to software assets.

    None of this points to an immediate earnings collapse, but it does shift expectations lower in the near term.

    A reset, not a breakdown

    The key point is that these changes are largely forward-looking.

    NAB is adjusting settings to reflect a more uncertain backdrop rather than reacting to a sudden spike in losses.

    The underlying business remains stable.

    The bank continues to generate earnings across lending, deposits, and business banking, supported by its scale in the country.

    Margins have been supported by higher interest rates, even as competition for deposits has increased.

    Credit quality, while expected to soften, is coming off a relatively strong base.

    Does the valuation look more attractive?

    At around $41, NAB is trading well below its recent peak and closer to the middle of its 52-week range.

    The stock also continues to offer a dividend yield above 4%, supported by ongoing profitability.

    That setup tends to attract income-focused investors when prices pull back.

    The recent decline has not been driven by structural issues in the business. Instead, it reflects a shift in assumptions around risk, provisioning, and capital.

    That difference is worth noting when weighing up value.

    Foolish bottom line

    NAB shares are not without risk in the current environment.

    Higher rates, global uncertainty, and pressure on borrowers all point to a more conservative outlook.

    Even so, the latest update looks more like a shift in expectations than a change in the business itself.

    A pullback of this size in a major bank can start to look more compelling.

    The opportunity comes down to how investors weigh near-term earnings pressure against longer-term stability.

    The post NAB shares: Are they cheap enough to buy after the latest drop? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in National Australia Bank Limited right now?

    Before you buy National Australia Bank Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and National Australia Bank Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron 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.

  • Why I don’t own Telstra shares (yet)

    A cute little kid in a suit pulls a shocked face as he talks on his smartphone.

    Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) shares finished Tuesday down 0.19% to $5.33.

    That leaves the stock hovering near the top end of its recent range, after a steady run through 2026.

    Over the past 12 months, the shares are up roughly 20%, supported by a mix of defensive demand and improving earnings visibility.

    It is the kind of price action that usually draws attention.

    But despite that, I do not currently own Telstra shares.

    Here is why.

    A quality business, no question

    Telstra is about as predictable as it gets on the ASX.

    It operates critical telecommunications infrastructure across Australia, with millions of mobile, broadband, and enterprise customers. That reach supports recurring revenue, pricing power, and steady cash flow.

    Recent price increases across mobile plans are also starting to come through. With a relatively sticky customer base, those changes tend to lift margins without a drop in demand. That has been a key driver behind the latest run in the share price.

    On top of that, Telstra remains a reliable dividend payer. The stock is yielding around 3.7%, with a payout backed by stable cash generation.

    The underlying business is doing what it needs to do.

    So why not buy?

    The issue is not the business. It comes down to valuation.

    At around $5.30 per share, Telstra is trading close to its 52-week high. Much of the stability, pricing power, and income appeal already appears reflected in the price.

    That leaves little room for error.

    Growth is also part of the picture. Telstra is not a high-growth business. Earnings tend to move higher over time, but not quickly. That normally leads to steady share price gains rather than sharp re-ratings.

    At current levels, it looks more like a fully priced defensive than a discounted entry.

    That is what’s holding me back.

    Where I see better opportunity

    Right now, I am more focused on stocks that have been sold off despite holding up operationally.

    That is where I tend to look for upside.

    One example is WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC). The business continues to grow, but the share price has pulled back rapidly from earlier highs.

    That gap between performance and price is what stands out.

    If sentiment turns, the re-rating can happen quickly, rather than relying on slow earnings growth alone.

    What would change my view

    I would not rule out owning Telstra.

    But I would want a different entry point.

    A pullback would improve the risk-reward, especially given the defensive profile of the business. That could come through broader market weakness or a shift in sentiment.

    At the right price, Telstra could still play a role as a core portfolio holding.

    Right now, it is not quite there.

    Foolish takeaway

    Telstra remains a high-quality, income-generating business with a strong position in the market.

    But that alone is not enough.

    At current levels, the shares look fairly priced, with less upside than other opportunities.

    For now, I am staying on the sidelines and waiting for a better entry point.

    The post Why I don’t own Telstra shares (yet) appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Telstra Corporation Limited shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Telstra Corporation Limited wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron 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 Telstra Group and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Is this going to be the best-performing ASX ETF for the next decade?

    ETF spelt out with a rising green arrow.

    The ASX-listed exchange-traded fund (ETF) Global X S&P World Ex Australia GARP ETF (ASX: GARP) is a favourite of mine and offers plenty of positives. As a long-term investment, I think it could be one of the best ideas.

    Global X may not be as well-known as Vanguard or BetaShares in Australia, but it offers a range of ASX ETFs for Australian investors to buy.

    In my view, the GARP ETF could be one of the best funds to buy for investors hunting for stronger returns. I have that view for a few different reasons.

    High-quality growth

    One of the most important things to know about this fund is that it uses ‘GARP’ as an investment style. The ‘G’ stands for growth.

    But, this fund isn’t just seeking any business that’s growing, it’s trying to own investments that are high-quality.

    Instead of leaving judgements about quality and growth to a fund manager to decide, that fund uses filters to find those names.

    On the growth side of things, the ASX ETF looks at three-year sales per share growth and earnings per share (EPS) growth figures. Both sales and profit growth are important, so it’s good to see that both metrics are being considered.

    Quality is considered by looking at the companies’ financial leverage (meaning debt levels) and the return on equity (ROE). It’s good to know that the company’s growth is not being artificially boosted by unsustainable debt levels. These businesses are purely generating strong profits for shareholders because they have great business models, not because they’re using lots of debt.  

    Reasonable price

    The rest of the strategy employed by the GARP ETF is the ‘ARP’, which stands for ‘at a reasonable price’.

    In other words, the businesses are generating pleasing levels of growth, but we’re not paying too much to invest in that growth.

    How does the fund decide whether an investment is good value or not? It’s by looking at the earnings-to-price ratio, which is another way of considering the price/earnings (P/E) ratio.

    Therefore, the ASX ETF is looking for businesses with an attractive P/E ratio relative to its growth rate, which some investors call the PEG ratio.

    At the end of March, some of the largest positions in the portfolio included Nvidia, Eli Lilly, Alphabet, Meta Platforms, Berkshire Hathaway and Microsoft.

    Useful diversification

    While the biggest positions in the portfolio are unsurprisingly US companies, it’s important to know that this ASX ETF has a global portfolio of 250 companies across multiple countries and sectors. In other words, it can provide global diversification and it’s not too focused on one country or one sector.

    For me, this can be an all-in-one investment that ticks virtually all the boxes that an Australian investor could want.

    The post Is this going to be the best-performing ASX ETF for the next decade? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Global X S&P World Ex Australia Garp Etf right now?

    Before you buy Global X S&P World Ex Australia Garp Etf shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Global X S&P World Ex Australia Garp Etf wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor 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 no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • 5 powerhouse ASX dividend shares to buy and hold until 2050

    A fit woman in workout gear flexes her muscles with two bigger people flexing behind her, indicating growth.

    Building a true “buy and hold” portfolio isn’t about chasing the highest yield. It’s about owning resilient ASX dividend shares that can keep paying and ideally growing dividends through cycles, downturns, and decades.

    With that in mind, here are five ASX dividend shares that could form the backbone of a long-term income portfolio.

    BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

    BHP Group stands out as a dividend heavyweight. Backed by world-class iron ore and copper assets, this ASX dividend share generates enormous cash flow during commodity upcycles.

    The company targets a payout ratio of at least 50% of earnings, which means dividends can surge when conditions are strong. The trade-off is volatility. Earnings and payouts will rise and fall with commodity prices, but over time, BHP offers powerful income upside.

    APA Group (ASX: APA)

    For stability, APA Group is hard to overlook. Its gas pipeline network operates under long-term contracts, delivering predictable cash flow and a consistent stream of distributions.

    While higher interest rates can weigh on infrastructure stocks, APA’s reliability makes it a core income anchor for many portfolios.

    Transurban Group (ASX: TCL)

    Transurban Group brings a different kind of strength. It owns monopoly-like toll roads across major cities, with many tolls linked to inflation. As populations grow and traffic increases, so too does revenue.

    The business carries significant debt, but its long-term concessions and essential infrastructure position it well for steady, inflation-linked income growth.

    Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

    No dividend portfolio feels complete without exposure to banking, and Commonwealth Bank of Australia remains the standout. It combines a dominant retail banking position with strong profitability and a long history of fully franked dividends.

    While valuation can sometimes look stretched and earnings are tied to the housing cycle, CBA offers high-quality, dependable income.

    Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

    Rounding out the mix is Woodside Energy Group, which adds serious yield potential. As a major LNG exporter, it benefits from global energy demand and typically pays out a large portion of earnings as dividends.

    That said, energy prices can be volatile, so payouts may swing. Still, it plays an important role in boosting overall portfolio income.

    Foolish Takeaway

    Together, these five ASX dividend shares provide exposure to multiple income drivers across resources, infrastructure, and financials. Some offer steady, defensive income, while others deliver higher but more variable payouts. That balance is what helps a portfolio navigate changing market conditions.

    Over time, a mix like this could reasonably target an average yield of around 4.5% to 6%, with the added benefit of franking credits from Australian shares. More importantly, it’s the potential for dividend growth – not just yield – that can drive long-term wealth.

    A “forever” portfolio doesn’t mean never reviewing your holdings. But it does mean choosing businesses you can hold with confidence. These five ASX names have the scale, assets, and cash flow to keep rewarding shareholders for years to come.

    The post 5 powerhouse ASX dividend shares to buy and hold until 2050 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy BHP Group shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and BHP Group wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in BHP Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Apa Group and Transurban Group. 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.

  • 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday

    Broker looking at the share price.

    On Tuesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) had a subdued session, slipping slightly into the red. The benchmark index fell slightly to 8,949.4 points.

    Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Wednesday? Here are five things to watch:

    ASX 200 to fall

    The Australian share market looks set to fall on Wednesday following a poor night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 69 points or 0.75% lower. In the United States, the Dow Jones fell 0.6%, the S&P 500 dropped 0.6%, and the Nasdaq also fell 0.6%.

    Oil prices rise

    It looks like ASX 200 energy shares Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have a good session after oil prices pushed higher overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 2.5% to US$89.59 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 3.5% to US$98.83 a barrel. This appears to have been driven by doubts over US-Iran peace talks.

    BHP Q3 update

    All eyes will be on BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares on Wednesday when the mining giant releases its third-quarter update. According to a note out of Morgans, its analysts are forecasting WAIO shipments of 67.5Mt. This will be down 1% on the prior corresponding period and 12% quarter on quarter due to the impacts of Cyclone Narelle. The broker will also be looking out for updates on its diesel supply.

    Gold price drops

    ASX 200 gold shares including Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a poor session on Wednesday after the gold price tumbled overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is down 2.2% to US$4,720.6 an ounce. A stronger US dollar and inflation concerns weighed on the precious metal. Northern Star will also be releasing its quarterly update.

    Buy Hub24 shares

    Bell Potter thinks investors should be buying Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB) shares following their 8% decline on Tuesday. This morning, the broker has retained its buy rating on the investment platform provider’s shares with a trimmed price target of $110.00 (from $120.00). It said: “Following the update we have downgraded our EPS estimates -1%/-2%/-2% with the miss dampened from mark-to-market impacts. FY27 Platform FUA guidance of $160- 170bn remains in play, with revised forecasts landing on the lower end of that range. A pickup in sentiment would likely push outcomes the other way. Acquisition of the superannuation fund trustee is also expected to have a limited influence on EBITDA line. For these reasons, we expect the multiple gap to peers can close over time.”

    The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy BHP Group shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and BHP Group wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor 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 Hub24. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group and Hub24. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Up over 70% in a month, is it too late to buy Zip shares?

    Woman sitting at a desk shrugs.

    Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) shares closed in the green again when the ASX bell rang on Tuesday afternoon. 

    The shares ended the day 2.8% higher, at $2.58, continuing on a huge price rally.

    The latest uptick means the shares have now flown 40% higher over the past 5 days. They’re also now up a massive 71% over the past month. 

    Despite the incredible rally, Zip shares are still 23% lower for the year-to-date thanks to a series of share price falls throughout the first six weeks of the year.

    Why are Zip shares suddenly flying higher?

    The BNPL provider posted its Q3 FY26 results ahead of the ASX open last Friday morning. The company also updated FY26 guidance figures ahead off the back of the results.

    The company posted record cash EBTDA of $65.1 million, up 41.5% year-on-year. Its total transaction volume grew 22.5%, total income jumped 20.2%.

    Following its strong third-quarter performance, Zip has upgraded its FY26 group cash EBTDA guidance to at least $260 million and reaffirmed all key target ranges for the year. 

    US transaction volume is forecast to rise over 40% in FY26. Meanwhile group operating margins are expected to remain above 18%. The result seems to align with expectations that the company can maintain its credit quality while scaling up its operations.

    Clearly investors were thrilled with the latest update. Zip shares have jumped over 25% since the announcement alone.

    The good news came off the back of what seemed to be a turnaround in investor confidence in mid-March.

    There wasn’t any price-sensitive news out of the Zip ahead of the results announcement to explain why the share price was flying higher earlier this month. 

    The share price increase is likely due to a combination of factors, including a shift in sentiment and investors buying back into the tech stock in the dip. This has now been accelerated by a positive results announcement.

    Is it too late to buy? Or is there more upside ahead?

    According to TradingView data, analysts are very bullish about the outlook for Zip shares, with 11 analysts holding a consensus buy or strong buy rating.

    There is more good news too. It looks like Zip shares could storm much higher this year.

    The average target price is $3.83, which implies that Zip shares could fly another 49% higher over the next 12 months.

    And some more are even more bullish, with a maximum price target of $5.40, which suggests 109% upside.

    The post Up over 70% in a month, is it too late to buy Zip shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Zip Co right now?

    Before you buy Zip Co 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 Zip Co wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor 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 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 compelling case for investing in this climate tech ASX ETF

    CO2 reducing icon on green leaf covered in a water droplet.

    A new report from Betashares has outlined the current shift taking place in the world of climate technology. 

    According to the report, it has previously been framed as an innovation story built on novel solutions, venture capital funding rounds and the promise of disruption.

    However, it has now moved decisively into its execution phase.

    According to Vinnay Cchoda Manager – Responsible Investments at Betashares, this marks a structural shift. 

    Climate technology is no longer a niche growth theme but a key constituent of the infrastructure and capital investment cycle underpinning the global economy.

    What is climate technology?

    Climate technology refers to the tools, systems, and processes used to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. 

    It also includes things like renewable energy (solar, wind), energy storage, electric transport, smart grids, and low-carbon industrial processes.

    More broadly, it now covers the infrastructure and technologies needed to transform how energy is produced, distributed, and used.

    This is along with solutions for resilience, such as water management and climate-resilient materials.

    Investment and application growing

    In yesterday’s report from Betashares, the ASX ETF provider said the case for climate technology has strengthened in recent times. 

    The physical impacts of climate change are increasingly being felt and have material economic consequences.

    The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) confirms that human-induced climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of extreme heat, heavy rainfall and drought across most regions – raising risks to infrastructure, food systems and productivity.

    At the same time, the transition is increasingly underpinned by energy system economics rather than environmental policy alone. 

    The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that global energy investment exceeded US$3 trillion in 2024, with roughly two-thirds directed towards clean energy, electrification, grids and storage.

    In that context, climate technology should no longer be viewed as a discretionary or thematic allocation. It represents a structural response to tightening physical constraints and a reconfiguration of the global energy and industrial system.

    How to gain exposure

    For investors looking for exposure to climate tech the Betashares Capital Ltd – Betashares Climate Change Innovation ETF (ASX: ERTH) is worth considering. 

    It provides exposure to a portfolio of global companies positioned to benefit from climate change mitigation and adaptation. 

    Importantly, this exposure includes early-stage innovators and established companies with scale, robust balance sheets and global revenue bases.

    As climate technology becomes increasingly embedded in mainstream capital expenditure and infrastructure cycles, a diversified listed exposure offers a way to participate in the transition without relying on the success of any single technology or policy outcome.

    The post The compelling case for investing in this climate tech ASX ETF appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Betashares Capital Ltd – Betashares Climate Change Innovation ETF right now?

    Before you buy Betashares Capital Ltd – Betashares Climate Change Innovation ETF shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Betashares Capital Ltd – Betashares Climate Change Innovation ETF wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell 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.

  • 3 excellent Vanguard ETFs for Australian investors in 2026

    Business women working from home with stock market chart showing per cent change on her laptop screen.

    There are lots of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) available from Vanguard for Australian investors to choose from, covering everything from broad market exposure to more targeted sectors.

    With so many options on offer, I think it could make sense to focus on funds that tap into major global markets and long-term growth trends, while still providing diversification.

    Here are three Vanguard ETFs I think stand out for Australian investors in 2026.

    Vanguard Global Technology Index ETF (ASX: VTEK)

    The VTEK ETF offers Aussies a targeted way to invest in one of the most influential sectors in the global economy.

    Technology continues to shape how businesses operate and how consumers interact with products and services. Areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and digital platforms are still expanding, and the companies leading these trends are continuing to invest heavily.

    This ETF provides exposure to around 300 global technology stocks, giving investors access to a wide range of businesses across developed and emerging markets. It is also structured with caps on individual holdings, which helps manage concentration risk.

    The recent tech selloff has made valuations more attractive in this part of the market. And with long-term drivers still in place, now could be a good time to consider this ETF.

    Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (ASX: V500)

    The V500 ETF is one of the simplest ways for Aussies to gain exposure to the US market.

    It tracks the S&P 500 index, which includes 500 of the largest listed companies in the United States. These businesses operate across sectors such as technology, healthcare, industrials, financials, and consumer goods.

    What I like about this ETF is the balance it provides. It offers exposure to high-quality stocks with strong earnings power, while also spreading that exposure across a broad range of industries.

    Over time, the US market has been a consistent driver of global returns, supported by innovation and scale. I believe this can continue over the long term.

    For Australian investors, the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF also provides diversification away from the local market, which is more concentrated in financials and resources.

    Vanguard All-World ex-US Shares Index ETF (ASX: VEU)

    The VEU ETF complements US exposure by covering the rest of the world.

    It includes holdings across Europe, Asia, and other regions (except the US). This creates access to economies that are growing at different rates and driven by different factors.

    That diversification can be valuable over time. Different regions can perform well at different stages of the cycle, and the Vanguard All-World ex-US Shares Index ETF captures that variation across a large number of companies and industries.

    It also provides exposure to emerging markets, which can add another layer of growth potential as those economies continue to develop.

    Foolish takeaway

    When investing in ETFs, I think it makes sense to combine exposures that can work together over time.

    The VTEK ETF provides access to long-term technology trends, the V500 ETF offers broad exposure to leading US companies, and the VEU ETF adds diversification across the rest of the world.

    Together, they create a simple framework that can capture growth across multiple regions and sectors, which is what I look for when investing for the long term.

    The post 3 excellent Vanguard ETFs for Australian investors in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Vanguard S&P 500 Us Shares Index ETF right now?

    Before you buy Vanguard S&P 500 Us Shares Index ETF shares, consider this:

    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and Vanguard S&P 500 Us Shares Index ETF wasn’t one of them.

    The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

    And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys…

    * Returns as of 20 Feb 2026

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    Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino 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 Vanguard International Equity Index Funds – Vanguard Ftse All-World ex-US ETF. 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.