Tag: Stock pick

  • Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

    Winning woman smiles and holds big cup while losing woman looks unhappy with small cup

    The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) enjoyed another green day this Wednesday, its third of the week, as investors gained optimism about the state of the markets. By the time trading wrapped up today, the ASX 200 had added 0.14% to its value, pushing the index up to 8,820.6 points.

    This happy hump day for the local market comes despite a rough morning on the American markets.

    The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was hit hard, dropping by 0.8%.

    The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared a little better, but still fell 0.1%.

    But let’s return to ASX shares now and dive a little deeper into how this session’s optimism spilled into the different ASX sectors.

    Winners and losers

    There were far more green sectors than red ones this Wednesday.

    Leading the latter, though, were financial stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) was notably left out in the cold today, diving 0.72%.

    We could say the same for communications shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) dipping 0.23%.

    The other shunned corner of the markets today was tech stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) couldn’t quite stick the landing, sliding 0.06% lower.

    Let’s get to the green sectors now. Leading the charge higher were energy stocks, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ)’s 2.32% surge.

    Gold shares had another top day, too. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) saw its value spike 0.93%.

    Broader mining stocks were right behind that, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) soaring 0.9%.

    Consumer discretionary shares also ran hot. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) galloped 0.76% higher this session.

    Its consumer staples counterpart saw some demand as well, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)’s 0.19% lift.

    Next came utilities shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) had 0.17% added to its total this Wednesday.

    Healthcare stocks were in the same ballpark, with the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) jumping 0.12%.

    As were industrial shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) improved by 0.1% today.

    Finally, real estate investment trusts (REITs) managed to eke out a rise, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)’s 0.06% crawl higher.

    Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

    Coming in on top of the index charts this hump day was energy stock Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR). Karoon shares careened 7.4% higher today to close at $1.67 each.

    There wasn’t much in the way of news out from the company. But saying that, most energy stocks had a stellar session.

    Here’s how the other top stocks tied up at the dock:

    ASX-listed company Share price Price change
    Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) $1.67 7.40%
    IperionX Ltd (ASX: IPX) $7.16 7.19%
    Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU) $20.47 6.06%
    Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) $1.21 5.24%
    Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) $29.98 4.50%
    Catalyst Metals Ltd (ASX: CYL) $7.67 4.21%
    Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) $15.56 3.32%
    Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC) $8.59 3.87%
    Guzman y Gomez Ltd (ASX: GYG) $21.70 3.63%
    Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) $6.31 2.77%

    Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

    The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Karoon Energy 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 Karoon Energy 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 1 Jan 2026

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    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 positions in and has recommended Lovisa. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Lynas Rare Earths Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Lovisa. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • BHP shares hover near 52-week high as momentum builds. Is a breakout coming?

    Three miners stand together at a mine site studying documents with equipment in the background

    The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price is pushing higher again on Tuesday, up 0.86% to $47.99 in afternoon trade.

    At one point today, the stock climbed to $48.25, putting it within touching distance of its 52-week high of $48.49, which was reached on 7 January. Over the past year, BHP shares are now up almost 20%, comfortably beating the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), up 7%.

    With the share price sitting just below recent highs, is BHP setting up for another leg higher?

    Rising commodity prices are lifting sentiment

    The recent strength in BHP shares is closely linked to improving commodity prices.

    Iron ore, BHP’s largest earnings driver, is currently trading around US$108 per tonne, up roughly 8% over the past 12 months, according to Trading Economics. Prices have rebounded from mid-2025 lows as Chinese steel demand stabilises and supply growth remains controlled.

    Copper prices have also stayed firm, supported by long-term electrification trends and tight global supply. Together, these trends are supporting earnings expectations and improving confidence across the sector.

    BHP nears a key technical level

    Looking at the chart, BHP is now trading at an important level.

    The relative strength index (RSI) is sitting in the low-to-mid 60s, suggesting solid momentum without the shares looking overbought. That supports the idea that the rally may still have room to run.

    The main resistance level sits around $48.50, aligned with the recent 52-week high. A clear break above this level could attract further buying and put the low $50’s back on the radar.

    On the downside, support remains near $45, an area that has held during recent pullbacks.

    BHP’s beta of roughly 0.7 also means it tends to move less than the wider market, which can appeal to investors seeking steadier exposure to the resources sector.

    Dividends still matter to investors

    The stock is offering a dividend yield of around 3.5%, with franking credits. While payouts will always depend on commodity prices, BHP’s strong balance sheet provides it with the flexibility to continue rewarding shareholders.

    What investors should watch next

    With BHP trading just below its 52-week high, the next few sessions could be important. A breakout above resistance may confirm the uptrend, while a pause or pullback would not be unusual after a strong run.

    Investors will also be watching the company’s operational review on 20 January, followed by its half-year results on 17 February. Any updates on production, costs, or guidance at those events could act as a catalyst for the next move in the BHP share price.

    The post BHP shares hover near 52-week high as momentum builds. Is a breakout coming? 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 1 Jan 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 recommended BHP Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

  • Goldman Sachs tips 19% upside for Suncorp shares…plus dividends!

    A woman wearing a lifebuoy ring reaches up for help as an arm comes down to rescue her.

    Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN) shares are slipping today.

    Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) insurance company closed yesterday trading for $17.26. In early afternoon trade on Wednesday, shares are swapping hands for $16.85 apiece, down 2.4%.

    For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.2% at this same time.

    Taking a step back, Suncorp shares have fallen 25.8% over the past 12 months. Much of the selling pressure came amid elevated natural hazard payouts related to extreme weather events in the latter months of 2025.

    But investors’ capital losses will have been somewhat mitigated by the two Suncorp dividend payouts.

    Over the past 12 months, the ASX 200 insurance stock paid out a total of 90 cents a share in fully franked dividends. This sees Suncorp stock trading on a 5.3% trailing dividend yield.

    Suncorp shares tipped for big 2026 rebound

    While 2025 was a year to forget for Suncorp stockholders, 2026 could deliver a big turnaround.

    That’s according to the analysts at Goldman Sachs (courtesy of The Bull).

    The broker recently upgraded Suncorp shares to a buy rating with a $20 price target. That represents a potential upside of 18.7% from current levels. And it doesn’t include the two upcoming Suncorp dividends.

    What’s been happening with the ASX 200 insurance stock?

    Suncorp reported its full-year FY 2025 results on 14 August.

    Among the highlights, the 2025 financial year saw the ASX 200 insurer complete its sale of Suncorp Bank to ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ). Separately, Suncorp also sold off its New Zealand Life business.

    The sales helped drive a 52% year-on-year increase in Suncorp’s net profit after tax (NPAT) to $1.82 billion.

    Investors were also bidding up Suncorp shares on the day after management announced the company would commence an on-market share buyback of up to $400 million. That buyback that started in September is scheduled to run through to the end of FY 2026.

    “Our disciplined approach to capital management and robust capital position has enabled us to announce an on-market buy-back of up to $400 million,” Suncorp CEO Steve Johnston said.

    Johnston added:

    Our strong set of results delivered this year included the one-off profits on the sale of Suncorp Bank and New Zealand Life, significantly higher investment returns and weather costs across Australia and New Zealand that were favourable to allowance by more than $200 million.

    Looking at what could impact Suncorp shares in the months ahead, the insurance company forecasts gross written premium growth in the mid-single digits for the full FY 2026 financial year.

    The post Goldman Sachs tips 19% upside for Suncorp shares…plus dividends! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Suncorp 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 Suncorp 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 1 Jan 2026

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

  • Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

    Man presses green buy button and red sell button on a graph.

    Many of Australia’s top brokers have been busy adjusting their financial models and recommendations again. This has led to the release of a number of broker notes this week.

    Three ASX shares that brokers have named as buys this week are listed below. Here’s why their analysts are feeling bullish on them right now:

    Computershare Ltd (ASX: CPU)

    According to a note out of Citi, its analysts have upgraded this share registry company’s shares to a buy rating with a trimmed price target of $39.60. The broker believes that recent share price weakness means that the risk is now skewed to the upside for investors. Especially given its belief that increased mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings, and debt issuance activity could offset softer margin income. And while it has trimmed its earnings per share forecasts to reflect interest rate cuts, it sees plenty of value on offer with its shares at current levels. The Computershare share price is trading at $34.40 on Wednesday afternoon.

    EBR Systems Inc (ASX: EBR)

    A note out of Morgans reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating on this medical device company’s shares with an improved price target of $2.95. Morgans highlights that EBR Systems delivered a clear step-up in commercial execution during the fourth quarter. This includes volumes doubling quarter on quarter and revenue coming in materially ahead of expectations. It believes this confirms an accelerating physician uptake. In addition, the broker views clinical momentum with the WiSE-UP post-approval study and the TLC-AU feasibility study as supporting longer-term adoption and label expansion. So much so, its updated total addressable market has increased by 60% to US$5.8 billion, giving the company a materially larger opportunity. This is being underpinned by growth in leadless pacing and de novo CRT applications. The EBR Systems share price is fetching $1.11 at the time of writing.

    Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

    Analysts at Bell Potter have retained their buy rating on this mining and mining services company’s shares with an increased price target of $68.00. Looking ahead to its quarterly update, the broker is expecting a small decline in iron ore production, slightly higher costs, and steady lithium production. However, due to significantly better than expected commodity prices, the broker has boosted its earnings estimates and valuation materially. In addition, it highlights that Mineral Resources is positioned to benefit from a recovery in lithium markets, with around 338ktpa of offline spodumene production capacity. The Mineral Resources share price is trading at $60.44 today.

    The post Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Computershare 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 Computershare 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 1 Jan 2026

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

  • How is Ethereum stacking up against the Bitcoin price so far in 2026?

    A smiling woman holds a Bitcoin token in her hand.

    The Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) price is up 4.2% over the past 24 hours. The world’s first and biggest crypto is currently trading for US$95,292. That gives Bitcoin a market cap of US$1.9 trillion, according to data from CoinMarketCap.

    Ethereum (CRYPTO: ETH), the world’s second biggest crypto, is outpacing those gains today. The Ethereum price is up 7.1% since this time yesterday, trading for US$3,329. This sees Ethereum commanding a market cap of US$402 billion.

    As for the two top cryptos’ performance 14 days into 2026, that title also goes to Ethereum.

    On 31 December, Ethereum was trading for US$2,973, which now sees the number two crypto up 12% year to date in 2026.

    The Bitcoin price has gained 7.9% over this same time, having closed out 2025 trading for US$88,321.

    Ethereum and Bitcoin price still well below all-time highs

    Despite the solid start to 2026, both top cryptos remain well down from the record highs they notched in 2025.

    Ethereum traded at an all-time high of US$4,954 on 25 August last year. This leaves the Ethereum price down 32.8% from that high watermark.

    The Bitcoin price notched its own record high of US$126,198 six weeks later, on 7 October. Bitcoin is currently trading 24.4% below that all-time high.

    The sell-down from those record highs for both cryptos was partly driven by profit-taking following months of strong gains. The latter half of 2025 also saw investors begin to question the pace and depth of likely interest rate cuts from global central banks.

    Much like tech and other growth stocks, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and most non-stable coins have proven to be highly susceptible to interest rate moves. Most economists still expect at least one rate cut from the embattled US Federal Reserve in 2026, which could help support crypto prices.

    Crypto waters are calming

    Zerocap analyst Emir Ibrahim noted that the outsized moves crypto investors have historically experienced in the Bitcoin price have been smoothing out.

    “For over a decade, Bitcoin’s halving was a North Star for crypto investors,” he said. “Things are a bit different as we move into 2026, however, and it has become clear that the rhythmic four-year boom-bust cycle is effectively broken.”

    According to Ibrahim

    In previous cycles, we’d be bracing for a multi-year crypto winter right about now. Instead, we’re seeing a market anchored by patient capital. It’d be hard to ignore that institutional participation has fundamentally changed the math on the asset class.

    BTC ETFs alone now hold about US$140 billion, about 7% of total supply, and issuance has dropped below 1% annually.

    Ibrahim concluded, “It’s clear that BTC’s volatility is no longer an outlier among other assets; it’s on par with major high-growth tech stocks at the end of 2025.”

    The post How is Ethereum stacking up against the Bitcoin price so far in 2026? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in The Ticker Is ETH right now?

    Before you buy The Ticker Is ETH 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 The Ticker Is ETH 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 1 Jan 2026

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

  • PLS shares near all-time high as lithium rebounds. Buy now or wait?

    a miniature moulded model of a man bent over with a pick working stands behind a sign that has lithium's scientific abbreviation 'Li' with the word lithium underneath it against a sparse bland background.

    PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) shares continue to attract strong buying interest as momentum builds across the lithium sector.

    At the time of writing, the PLS share price is trading 0.51% higher at $4.885. The stock has now climbed almost 20% in the past month and is up more than 120% over the past year.

    This move marks a sharp reversal from where things stood mid-last year. On 20 June 2025, PLS shares were changing hands at $1.07. Since then, the stock has surged roughly 350%, highlighting just how quickly sentiment has shifted.

    With the share price near previous highs, is the recovery just getting started or already priced in?

    Lithium prices have roared back

    The biggest driver behind PLS’ rally has been the sharp recovery in lithium prices.

    Lithium carbonate prices in China have surged to around CNY 159,500 per tonne. Prices are now more than 100% higher over the past year, according to recent market data. This marks a clear shift from the deep downturn that hit the sector in 2024 and early 2025.

    Stronger demand from electric vehicles, grid storage, and battery manufacturing has combined with tighter supply conditions. Several high-cost producers were forced to cut output during the downturn, which has now left the market more sensitive to rising demand.

    Strong assets are doing the heavy lifting

    PLS operates the Pilgangoora lithium project in Western Australia, one of the largest hard rock lithium operations in the world. The company has also been expanding its downstream exposure and securing long-term partnerships across the battery supply chain.

    This scale and strategic positioning mean investors tend to see PLS as one of the strongest ways to gain exposure to a lithium stock on the ASX. In turn, this has helped drive renewed buying interest.

    How close is the stock to its peak?

    PLS shares are now trading not far below their all-time high of $5.66, which was reached in late 2022 during the previous lithium boom.

    On the technical side, the rally has become stretched. Momentum indicators such as the relative strength index (RSI) are pushing toward overbought territory. The share price is also trading well above key moving averages, which often increases the risk of short-term pullbacks.

    Support now appears to sit around the $4.40 to $4.50 zone, while resistance remains near the $5.66 peak.

    Foolish Takeaway

    PLS has delivered an outstanding rebound as lithium prices recovered sharply. The long-term outlook for lithium demand remains attractive, and PLS is well placed within the sector.

    However, after a 350% rise in a short period, the stock looks vulnerable to periods of consolidation or pullbacks. Investors should expect volatility from here, even if the broader lithium market conditions remain supportive.

    The post PLS shares near all-time high as lithium rebounds. Buy now or wait? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

    Before you buy Pilbara Minerals 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 Pilbara Minerals 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 1 Jan 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 is everyone talking about the Westpac share price this week?

    Half a man's face from the nose up peers over a table.

    The Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) share price is trading in the red on Wednesday afternoon. At the time of writing, the shares are 1.92% lower at $37.76 a piece.

    During 2026 so far, the shares have fallen 2.02%, but they’re still trading 18.81% above levels seen this time last year.

    Why is the Westpac share price in the spotlight this week?

    Investor interest in Westpac has jumped this week after some noticeable shifts in the company’s share price.

    The banking giant’s shares slid nearly 4% last week as an ongoing focus on inflation weighed on investor sentiment. Changing views on the RBA’s next move have also driven some volatility across the banking sector, putting Westpac in the spotlight as investors reassess bank margins, earnings outlooks, and valuations heading into 2026.

    Late last year, Reserve Bank Governor Michelle Bullock said that she didn’t see a rate cut “on the horizon for the foreseeable future” and signalled that the board might consider an extended hold period or even a rate hike in 2026. 

    The cash rate currently stands at 3.6%, a level it has maintained since the RBA’s last rate cut in August 2025. 

    Westpac’s economists recently revised their outlook for the RBA cash rate to an extended hold for the entirety of 2026.

    The bank’s Chief Economist stated that inflation is expected to moderate in 2026, but not soon enough to prompt the RBA to reconsider its current hawkish stance on the risks. “If our broader set of forecasts are borne out, rate cuts are still feasible in February and May 2027,” the Chief Economist said at the time.

    Westpac is also in the spotlight after it announced a new disaster relief package for customers impacted by Victorian bushfires. Immediate assistance includes deferred home loan repayments for up to three months, home and contents insurance support, deferred credit card payments for up to 90 days, and cash flow support for business customers. 

    What can investors expect from Westpac shares this year?

    Much like the rest of the big 4 banks, analysts’ sentiment is bearish about the outlook for the Westpac share price in 2026.

    TradingView data shows that analysts are relatively split – 7 have a hold rating on the stock, and another 9 have a sell or strong sell rating. 

    The average 12-month target price is $33.41, which implies an 11.63% downside from the share price at the time of writing. However, some brokers think the share price could drop as low as $23.03 a piece. That would translate to a 39.09% downside for 2026.

    The post Why is everyone talking about the Westpac share price this week? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Westpac Banking Corporation right now?

    Before you buy Westpac Banking Corporation 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 Westpac Banking Corporation 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 1 Jan 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.

  • Treasury Wine Estates shares drop 50%: Is there any upside left in 2026?

    a man sits alone in his house with a dejected look on his face as he looks at a glass of red wine he is holding in his hand with an open bottle on the table in front of him.

    Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) shares are flat at $5.23 a piece at the time of writing.

    So far in 2026, the shares are down 1.13% and they’re a huge 50.75% lower than the price they were trading at this time last year. 

    What happened to Treasury Wine Estates shares in 2025?

    Treasury Wine Estates shares were one of the worst performers on the ASX 200 Index in 2025. Throughout the 12-month period, the share price gradually and consistently tumbled as overall weaker global demand for wine, higher costs, and disappointing earnings all weighed on the share price. 

    Last month, the company released an investor update and outlook for the first half of FY26. It said that trading conditions have weakened in recent months, particularly in the US and China. 

    The company’s CEO, Sam Fischer, said, “We are currently experiencing category weakness in the US and China, two of our key growth markets, which will impact our business performance in the near-term. Maintaining the strength of our brands and the health of their respective sales channels is of critical importance to our Management team and our Board as we navigate through the current environment.” 

    And as a result, the wine giant said that near-term improvement is now considered unlikely. 

    The company has reset expectations for its sales volume growth. Treasury Wine Estates now expects its earnings before interest and tax to be between $225 million and $235 million in H1 FY26. Although it still anticipates better performance in the second half of the year. 

    Management has also begun cutting costs to help combat the weaker trading conditions. Fischer launched a company-wide cost-cutting program called TWE Ascent shortly after his appointment to the role late last year. The program hopes to optimise the company’s portfolio, improve operating models, and reduce costs by approximately $100 million per year. However, the benefits of the cost savings won’t be seen until FY27.

    Is there any upside for the wine giant in 2026?

    Although Treasury Wine Estates shares performed poorly in 2025, many brokers think a lot of the bad news is already priced in.

    It looks like the shares have well and truly reached the bottom. But I’m on the fence about whether we’ll see much material upside over the next 12 months.

    But the experts are divided. TradingView data shows that 12 out of 17 analysts have a hold rating on the stock. The other five have a buy or strong buy rating on Treasury Wine Estates shares. 

    The average 12-month target price is $5.51, which implies a potential 4% upside for investors at the time of writing. However, some think the share price could nearly double to $8.55 by this time next year. That implies a potential 61.32% upside from the current trading price.

    While there is no crystal ball to predict exactly what will happen, with much of last year’s headwinds already factored into the stock, any resurgence in investor interest could only push the share price upwards this year.

    The post Treasury Wine Estates shares drop 50%: Is there any upside left in 2026? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Wondering where you should invest $1,000 right now?

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    Scott just revealed what he believes could be the ‘five best ASX stocks’ for investors to buy right now. We believe these stocks are trading at attractive prices and Scott thinks they could be great buys right now…

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

  • Why EBR Systems, Endeavour, Monadelphous, and Neuren shares are racing higher today

    Two happy excited friends in euphoria mood after winning in a bet with a smartphone in hand.

    In afternoon trade, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has given back its morning gains and slipped into the red. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is down 0.2% to 8,789.6 points.

    Four ASX shares that are not letting that hold them back are listed below. Here’s why they are rising today:

    EBR Systems Inc (ASX: EBR)

    The EBR Systems share price is up 5% to $1.10. Investors have been buying this medical device company’s shares following the release of a bullish broker note out of Morgans. According to the note, the broker has retained its buy rating on EBR Systems’ shares with an improved price target of $2.95. It said: “We view clinical momentum with the WiSE-UP post-approval study and the TLC-AU feasibility study as supporting longer-term adoption and label expansion. Updated TAM of US$5.8bn (+60%) highlights a materially larger opportunity, underpinned by growth in leadless pacing and de novo CRT applications.”

    Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV)

    The Endeavour Group share price is up 2.5% to $3.79. This may have been driven by the release of a broker note out of Citi. According to the note, the broker has upgraded the drinks giant’s shares to a buy rating with an improved price target of $4.10. It was pleased with improving sales trends reported by the Dan Murphy’s and BWS owner, but acknowledges that its earnings have fallen short of expectations due to margin weakness.

    Monadelphous Group Ltd (ASX: MND)

    The Monadelphous share price is up 2.5% to $29.34. Investors have been buying this diversified services company’s shares after it announced another new contract win. Monadelphous has been awarded a major long-term maintenance contract with Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) worth approximately $300 million over five years. Monadelphous’ managing director, Zoran Bebic, said: “We are delighted to continue supporting Rio Tinto’s Pilbara iron ore operations, where Monadelphous has provided services for more than 30 years.”

    Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

    The Neuren Pharmaceuticals share price is up 7% to $20.71. This follows the release of a sales update from the pharmaceuticals company this morning. Neuren revealed that its US partner now believes global sales could reach about US$700 million by 2028. This will be a big increase on its 2025 guidance of US$400 million. Supporting this is the continued momentum it is experiencing, with more than 2,000 Rett patients treated by Daybue since US launch. There are an estimated 6,000 sufferers in the US.

    The post Why EBR Systems, Endeavour, Monadelphous, and Neuren shares are racing higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in EBR Systems, Inc. right now?

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    Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now… and EBR Systems, Inc. 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…

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    Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Endeavour Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has 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 government is looking to stockpile antimony – these four companies can help you gain exposure

    A coal miner smiling and holding a coal rock, symbolising a rising share price.

    Earlier this week, the Federal Government shed more light on its proposed $1.2 billion Critical Minerals Reserve, with Resources Minister Madeleine King revealing they’d be stockpiling critical minerals, including specifically antimony, gallium, and rare earths elements.

    Ms King said the reserve would “help attract further investment and help the sector deal with potential future market disruptions”.

    Give these stocks a once over

    We’ve had a look at some of the players in the antimony field, which might be worth a look now that the government will be intervening in a positive way in the sector.

    One company that issued a press release on Thursday welcoming the new strategic reserve is Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Ltd (ASX: SX2).

    As the company said in their release, their Sunday Creek project was well-placed to be a supplier:

    The company welcomes this landmark initiative which recognizes the strategic importance of securing domestic antimony supply for Australia and its allies. Sunday Creek, located just 60km north of Melbourne in Victoria, represents one of the most significant undeveloped gold-antimony deposits in the Western world and stands ready to support Australia’s critical minerals security objectives.

    The company said construction had started on an exploration decline at the project, and Chief Executive Officer Michael Hudson was touting Victoria’s historical strength in the sector.

    Victoria has always been Australia’s antimony state. Antimony has historically been Victoria’s second most important metal after gold, with a heritage stretching back to the 1860s. During World War I, central Victoria’s Costerfield mines were critical suppliers of antimony for British munitions. Today, Victoria remains Australia’s only antimony-producing state.  

    Another company with a well-timed release out on Wednesday was Resolution Minerals Ltd (ASX: RML), which reported new high-grade antimony and silver samples from its Antimony Ridge project, albeit in the US in this case.

    These samples were taken from within historically-mined areas at the project, and the company said the results “reinforce the potential for Antimony Ridge to host a high-grade, strategically significant U.S antimony system”.  

    New South Wales focus

    Back home in Australia, and Larvotto Resources Ltd (ASX: LRV) is aiming to bring its Hillgrove gold and antimony project in New South Wales into production this year.

    It’s a substantial project, as the company says on its website:

    Hillgrove is poised to become Australia’s largest producer of antimony, expected to produce 7% of global antimony requirements when global supply is tightening and Western governments are prioritising strategic supply chains. Hillgrove has been mined for antimony and gold since 1857. With a rich history within the region, Hillgrove continues to provide residential employment opportunities and support for local business and communities.

    And finally, Black Cat Syndicate Ltd (ASX: BC8) announced in October that new drilling had found visible antimony in the first four holes drilled at its Mt Clement project, which it said is “one of Australia’s largest and highest-grade antimony projects” with a resource of 13,200 tonnes at a grade of 1.7%.

    The company at the time said it had appointed a manager to drive the project faster, “given the strong demand and pricing for antimony”.

    The post The government is looking to stockpile antimony – these four companies can help you gain exposure appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

    Should you invest $1,000 in Southern Cross Gold right now?

    Before you buy Southern Cross Gold 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 Southern Cross Gold 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…

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