Tag: Stock pick

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares are in the spotlight on Wednesday after the mining giant released its third-quarter update.

At the time of writing, the Big Australian’s shares are up 1.5% to $56.41.

BHP share price pushes higher on quarterly update

Investors have been buying the company’s shares after it released a solid production update for the three months ended 31 March.

According to the release, total copper production decreased 3% to 1,461kt. However, copper production guidance for FY 2026 remains unchanged at between 1,900kt and 2,000kt and is now expected to be in the upper half of the range.

This was achieved with an average realised price of US$5.47 per pound, which represents a 31% increase on the prior corresponding period.

Another positive is that management has lowered its cost guidance for the massive Escondida copper operation in Chile. It now expects unit costs to be US$1.00 to US$1.20 per pound (from US$1.20 to US$1.50 per pound).

Iron ore production increased 2% to 197Mt for the quarter. This was driven by record production from WAIO, which posted a 2% lift in average realised price to US$84.91 per tonne. As a result, iron ore production guidance for FY 2026 remains unchanged at between 258Mt and 269Mt.

Elsewhere, steelmaking coal production was up 1% and energy coal production lifted 11% for the third quarter.

Management commentary

Commenting on the quarter, BHP’s outgoing CEO, Mike Henry, said:

BHP has delivered strong performance over the past nine months, including record material mined and concentrator throughput at Escondida and record production at WAIO. These results reflect the consistency of our operations and the strength of our high margin diversified portfolio in an evolving operating environment. In copper, strong performance at Escondida and Antamina supports our expectation of delivering production in the upper half of FY26 Group copper guidance.

We continue to make steady progress across our copper growth program, consistent with our focus on long-life, high-quality copper supply and disciplined capital allocation. During the quarter we submitted a permit application for Escondida’s new concentrator, and Resolution Copper achieved a key milestone, allowing the project to progress drilling required to complete its mine design and feasibility study.

Henry also commented on the impacts of the war in the Middle East. He said:

Our centralised procurement capability and our low-cost operations have positioned us advantageously in the face of industry wide pressure on the cost of energy and consumables as a result of the conflict in the Middle East.

The post BHP shares charge higher following third-quarter update appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• BHP Group delivers record copper and iron ore output, announces CEO succession
• 5 powerhouse ASX dividend shares to buy and hold until 2050
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday
• What are brokers predicting for BHP shares over the next 12 months?
• Should you buy BHP shares ahead of the miner’s production update?

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

NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT) shares are pushing higher on Wednesday.

In early trade, the data centre operator’s shares were up as much as 9% to $15.47 after returning from a trading halt, before pulling back.

Why are NextDC shares rising today?

The catalyst for today’s move has been the release of a major update highlighting a surge in customer demand and contracted capacity.

According to the release, NextDC reported a record increase in contracted utilisation, rising by approximately 250MW or 60% since the end of December to reach 667MW on a pro forma basis.

This represents a significant step change in demand for its data centre capacity, particularly from hyperscale and artificial intelligence (AI) customers.

Record demand and forward pipeline

In addition to the strong growth in contracted utilisation, the company revealed that its forward order book has increased by 83% to 544MW.

This forward order book represents capacity that has been contracted but is not yet billing, meaning it is expected to convert into revenue over time.

Management estimates that this existing contracted utilisation could generate more than $1 billion in EBITDA once fully operational, which is more than four times the midpoint of its FY 2026 EBITDA guidance.

But it may not stop there. The release notes that NextDC is currently in discussions with various existing and potential customers about further contracts, which are at various stages of progression.

Expansion plans underway

To support this surge in demand, NextDC is accelerating development at its S4 data centre in Western Sydney.

The company plans to invest approximately $1.5 billion to bring additional capacity online more quickly, ensuring it can meet customer requirements.

Management notes that the rapid increase in contracted utilisation has effectively pulled forward its development timeline, reflecting the strength of demand in the market.

This demand is being driven by structural trends such as cloud computing and the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence technologies.

Capital raising

Alongside the operational update, NextDC announced a capital raising to support its expansion plans.

This includes a fully underwritten entitlement offer to raise approximately $1.5 billion, as well as an expanded hybrid securities offering.

This morning, it revealed that it has successfully raised $1 billion from institutional investors at a 10% discount of $12.70 per new share.

Commenting on the capital raising, NextDC’s CEO, Craig Scroggie, said:

This is an exciting new phase of growth for NEXTDC and I am pleased to see such strong support from our shareholders in this Entitlement Offer. This equity raising, coupled with the Hybrid Securities Offer and other funding initiatives announced by the Company, provides NEXTDC with a strong liquidity position to fund our record 544MW4 pro forma Forward Order Book as at 31 March 2026.

Management commentary

Scroggie said the increase in contracted utilisation is unprecedented and highlights the strength of demand. He adds:

The scale of this increase in contracted utilisation and the resulting uplift in the Company’s pro forma Forward Order Book are unprecedented, underscoring the record levels of demand we continue to experience. I am particularly pleased to see our Western Sydney expansion strategy coming to fruition, with contracted capacity at S4 representing the culmination of years of planning and investment by NEXTDC.

While raising equity is not a step we take lightly, this is a unique opportunity to materially expand NEXTDC’s contracted capacity and de-risk the Company’s Western Sydney developments ahead of potential strategic partnership transactions with private capital partners from 2027.

The post Why are NextDC shares storming higher today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• NEXTDC completes $1bn institutional entitlement offer to fund growth
• 3 reasons to buy NextDC shares today
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• NextDC vs Wesfarmers shares: Which is a buy?
• Leading brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Nextdc. 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.

Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) shares slipped 2% to $19.97 on Tuesday, pausing what has otherwise been a powerful rally.

Even with the pullback, the numbers are hard to ignore. The rare earths producer is up roughly 61% year to date and an eye-catching 133% over the past 12 months.

After such a run, investors are asking the obvious question: Is there more upside ahead for Lynas shares, or has the rally gone too far?

Building momentum

On Tuesday, Lynas reported its highest quarterly sales revenue since 2022. The latest quarterly update suggests momentum is still building.

For the March quarter, Lynas delivered strong growth across key metrics. Gross sales revenue rose to $265 million, up from $201.9 million in the prior quarter. Sales receipts climbed to $234 million, pointing to improved cash conversion.

Production also held firm. Total rare earth oxide output reached 3,233 tonnes, including 1,996 tonnes of high-demand neodymium and praseodymium. These are critical materials used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and advanced electronics.

Pricing provided another tailwind. Average selling prices moved higher, supported by improved product mix and firmer market conditions. Lynas also flagged stronger demand across both light and heavy rare earths, including premium materials like dysprosium and terbium.

Deals in Japan and US

Beyond the numbers, Lynas made important progress securing long-term demand.

During the quarter, Lynas shares signed a new 12-year agreement with Japan Australia Rare Earths for NdPr supply. The deal includes volume commitments and a floor price mechanism, offering greater revenue visibility. There’s also upside through profit-sharing if prices rise above agreed levels.

In the US, Lynas advanced its strategic position with a letter of intent tied to government-backed funding. Around US$96 million is expected to support the purchase of rare earths materials, strengthening supply chains outside China.

Operational expansion, stronger balance

Operationally, expansion remains a key focus. At Mt Weld, the company continues to invest in boosting recovery rates and lifting output. A hybrid renewable energy system is also being rolled out, cutting diesel use and improving efficiency.

In Malaysia, production of samarium oxide began ahead of schedule, adding a new revenue stream and pushing further into higher-value products. Meanwhile, work continues on downstream processing, including developments in the US and potential projects in Vietnam.

The balance sheet of Lynas shares is also strengthening. Lynas ended the quarter with $1.07 billion in cash and short-term deposits, up from just over $1.03 billion previously. That’s despite ongoing investment, highlighting solid underlying cash flow.

So why is the market watching so closely?

Rare earths are back in focus as global demand rises and supply chain risks persist. Lynas shares stand out as one of the few large-scale producers outside China, giving it strategic importance.

Analysts remain broadly positive. According to TradingView data, 10 out of 16 brokers rate the stock a buy or strong buy. The average price target is $22.30, implying around 12% upside, while the most bullish forecasts reach $32.11.

After a huge run, volatility is inevitable. But with strong demand, long-term contracts, and expanding capacity, Lynas shares may not be done yet.

The post Boom or bust: What’s next for Lynas shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Why ANZ, Challenger, Hub24, and Lynas shares are dropping today
• Why is everyone talking about Regis Resources, Lynas and Rio Tinto shares on Tuesday?
• Lynas shares slip after update: here’s what’s turning heads
• Lynas Rare Earths shares in focus after record revenue and new supply deals
• Up 130% in a year, are Lynas Rare Earths shares still a good buy today?

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 recommended Lynas Rare Earths Ltd. 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.</p>

The Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) share price is in focus after the gold miner reported 381,000 ounces sold at a higher margin for the March 2026 quarter and generated strong underlying free cash flow of $301 million.

What did Northern Star Resources report?

• Gold sold: 380,807 ounces at an all-in sustaining cost (AISC) of A$2,709 per ounce
• Group underlying free cash flow: A$301 million
• Net mine cash: A$426 million
• Revenue from gold sales: A$2,012 million
• Cash and bullion balance: A$1,183 million at quarter end
• On-market share buy-back of up to A$500 million announced

What else do investors need to know?

Northern Star’s operational focus delivered higher-margin ounces and improved cash generation in the March quarter. Key operations at Kalgoorlie, Yandal, and Pogo reported stronger gold grades and efficiency, while the SLTIFR safety metric remained low at 0.6 injuries per million hours worked.

The KCGM Mill Expansion Project remains on track for early FY27 commissioning, though capital expenditure forecasts were revised upward due to inflation and construction delays. The company also refinanced its undrawn A$1.75 billion bank facility, extending maturity into 2030 and 2031.

What did Northern Star Resources management say?

Managing Director & CEO Stuart Tonkin said:

The March quarter demonstrated improved operational performance, with the Company forecast to deliver its revised FY26 production guidance of above 1.5Moz. As previously disclosed, this outlook remains particularly dependent on mill throughput at KCGM, with downside and upside potential.

Our share buy-back announcement during the quarter reflects confidence in the strength of our business, the structural uplift in cash generation expected from the ramp-up of the new Fimiston processing plant and the compelling value we see in our share price.
The KCGM Mill Expansion remains on track for commissioning in early FY27. At the same time, our team continues to optimise the engineering and design of the Hemi Development Project while advancing approvals.

What’s next for Northern Star Resources?

Northern Star reaffirmed FY26 guidance for gold sales above 1.5 million ounces at an AISC of A$2,600–A$2,800/oz. The focus remains on completing the KCGM Mill Expansion, progressing the Hemi Development Project’s approvals, and executing the announced share buy-back.

The company maintains its growth capital spending outlook, with investment to underpin production growth and longer-term efficiency. Exploration spending remains steady, aiming to extend mine life and support future production targets.

Northern Star Resources share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Northern Star Resources shares have risen 3%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 15% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Northern Star Resources March quarter 2026: higher-margin gold sales and solid cash flow appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

The Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU) share price is in focus today after the miner reported mineral sands revenue of $147 million for the March quarter, alongside ramping up activities at its rare earths refinery.

What did Iluka Resources report?

• Mineral sands revenue fell 46.8% quarter-on-quarter to $147 million
• Zircon sand sales reached 40.3kt; Z/R/SR sales totalled 70.2kt for the quarter
• Weighted average zircon sand price steady at US$1,491 per tonne
• Total capital expenditure at Eneabba rare earths refinery reached $977 million
• Net debt as at 31 March: $417 million (mineral sands) and $693 million (rare earths, non-recourse)

What else do investors need to know?

Production volumes were down significantly from the prior quarter as Iluka idled its Cataby mine and both synthetic rutile kilns, pending market improvements. Finished goods output in the first half of the year is being sourced from Jacinth-Ambrosia, with Balranald mine continuing its ramp-up phase and producing on-specification heavy mineral concentrate.

The company has already contracted 50kt of zircon sand sales for the second quarter, incorporating price increases of up to US$120/t depending on customer and grade. Logistics costs are climbing, and Iluka expects a weighted average zircon price increase of around US$45/t for Q2. In rare earths, construction at Eneabba is nearing a key milestone, with engineering almost complete and major equipment now on site.

What’s next for Iluka Resources?

Iluka’s operational focus for 2026 will be the progressive ramp-up at Balranald, aiming for steady-state HMC production by mid-year, and continued development at Eneabba in preparation for planned commissioning in 2027. The company continues to monitor market demand, energy costs, and logistics conditions, with synthetic rutile kiln restarts dependent on improving pricing and sales outlook.

With macroeconomic uncertainty and energy supply disruptions affecting global markets, Iluka is targeting improved pricing and cost control, and progressing major projects that support Australia’s supply of critical minerals for electrification and manufacturing.

Iluka Resources share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Iluka resources shares have risen 112%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 15% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Iluka Resources quarterly earnings: revenue, production, and project updates appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Scentre Group earnings: sales rise and more visitors for Westfield in 2026
• Perpetual provides Q3 FY26 update: reveals AUM decline, Corporate Trust growth
• Ampol Q1 2026 trading update: Refiner margins soar, production lifts
• NEXTDC completes $1bn institutional entitlement offer to fund growth
• Treasury Wine Estates improves depletions and unveils regional model

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 Scentre Group Ltd (ASX: SCG) share price is in focus after the company reported customer visits at Westfield destinations grew 3.1% to 160 million in early 2026, with portfolio sales up by 5%.

What did Scentre Group report?

• Customer visitation reached 160 million, up 3.1% or 4.9 million on the prior period.
• Total business partner sales for the March quarter rose 5.0% to $7.0 billion.
• Specialty sales increased 5.3% during the quarter.
• Portfolio occupancy improved to 99.8%, up 20 basis points from March 2025.
• 636 leasing deals completed, with specialty releasing spreads averaging +3.3%.
• Successfully settled a 19.9% divestment of Westfield Sydney for $864 million.

What else do investors need to know?

Scentre Group’s leasing activity remains strong, with average specialty rent escalations of 5.3% in the March quarter. Recent leasing deals reflect confidence from business partners, while the group’s redevelopment of Westfield Bondi continues, aiming to lift the centre to a world-class level.

On capital management, the group redeemed US$750 million in senior bonds and issued a $750 million 6-year senior note at a 1.20% margin, signalling a proactive approach to debt and liquidity. Scentre also exited its $50 million investment in a Dexus-managed fund tied to Westfield Chermside.

What’s next for Scentre Group?

Scentre Group is sticking with its target for full-year funds from operations (FFO) of at least 23.73 cents per security in 2026, a 4% rise. Distributions are forecast to increase by 4% to 18.43 cents per security.

Management cautioned about the effect of geopolitical volatility and broader economic factors but confirmed the company continues to monitor these potential impacts closely and remains focused on delivering value for investors and communities.

Scentre Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Scentre Group shares have risen 4%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 15% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Scentre Group earnings: sales rise and more visitors for Westfield in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Iluka Resources quarterly earnings: revenue, production, and project updates
• Perpetual provides Q3 FY26 update: reveals AUM decline, Corporate Trust growth
• Ampol Q1 2026 trading update: Refiner margins soar, production lifts
• NEXTDC completes $1bn institutional entitlement offer to fund growth
• Treasury Wine Estates improves depletions and unveils regional model

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.

There are 11 recognised ASX sectors. 

Each sector has a benchmark index that tracks the performance of ASX-listed companies in that sector.

Healthcare and tech shares in focus

Recently, the two worst-performing sectors have been ASX healthcare and technology.

Year to date, the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology (ASX:XIJ) index is down 16%. 

Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX 200 Health Care (ASX:XHJ) index is down 17%. 

This is relevant for investors to monitor because when sectors are heavily sold off, it creates buying opportunities. 

Quality, blue-chip stocks can be oversold and be scooped up as value plays by savvy investors. 

However in the last month, there has been a sharp difference between these two sectors. 

Many technology shares have begun to recover, experiencing sharp gains since the end of March. 

In fact, since March 30, the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology (ASX:XIJ) index has rocketed 19%. 

Healthcare shares on the other hand, have remained relatively flat.

Why are healthcare shares still flat?

The Information Technology Index experienced an extraordinary 48% sell-off between August 29 and March 30, driven by investor fears about high valuations and the potential for AI tools to wipe out SaaS companies.

Sentiment has now shifted, driven by a combination of value investing and a belief that AI will enhance some of these platforms rather than destroy them. 

Meanwhile unlike tech, healthcare isn’t getting the same sentiment-driven bounce because its headwinds are more structural.

Upheaval at the US FDA under the Trump administration has created regulatory uncertainty for many Australian biotechs with US ambitions.

Additionally, healthcare companies tend to generate most of their profits well into the future. 

This means rising interest rates hit them harder than most. 

Higher rates make those future earnings worth less in today’s dollars, dragging on share prices even when the underlying businesses are performing fine.

Where is the opportunity for healthcare shares?

For investors focussed on long-term returns, many healthcare companies are priced at relative values right now due to these headwinds. 

Some of the ASX healthcare stocks that have fallen the furthest include: 

• Australia’s largest healthcare company, CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) is down 42% in the last year
• Sleep technology company ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD) shares are down almost 13% year to date
• Medical imaging technology company Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) shares are down 36% year to date
• Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) is a cochlear implant device manufacturer. Its share price has fallen 35% year to date. 

Foolish takeaway 

The headwinds impacting healthcare stocks are unlikely to subside in the short term. 

However many of these companies are structurally sound, and are suffering from broader factors rather than structural issues. 

This leaves plenty of room for growth in the long term. 

The post Are ASX healthcare shares the next to rally? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Cochlear cuts FY26 earnings outlook amid softer sales
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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 positions in and has recommended CSL, Cochlear, and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL, Cochlear, and Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT) share price is in focus today following the release of its third quarter FY26 update, highlighting total Assets Under Management (AUM) declining to A$219.2 billion and steady growth in Corporate Trust’s Funds Under Administration.

What did Perpetual report?

• Total AUM at 31 March 2026 was A$219.2 billion, down 3.6% from December 2025.
• Net outflows of A$2.8 billion (or A$4.9 billion excl. cash), mainly from global strategies.
• Corporate Trust Funds Under Administration rose 0.3% to A$1.32 trillion.
• Managed Funds Services FUA increased 1.3% to A$588.2 billion, with new client growth.
• Expense growth guidance for FY26 maintained at 1–2%.
• Wealth Management FUA fell 4% to A$21.1 billion, mainly due to negative market movements.

What else do investors need to know?

Perpetual’s Corporate Trust division continued to see growth even as market volatility persisted, particularly benefiting from new and existing clients in the Managed Funds Services and Digital & Markets areas. The robust non-bank client segment helped support Debt Market Services, although some segments faced declines.

Perpetual also announced the sale of its Wealth Management business to Bain Capital Private Equity. The transaction is expected to complete later in 2026, subject to conditions, and work is underway to ensure a smooth transition.

A stronger Australian dollar against the US and UK currencies, combined with market declines, particularly impacted Perpetual’s international AUMs.

What did Perpetual management say?

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Bernard Reilly said:

The business has been resilient through what continues to be a highly volatile period in global equity and economic markets. In the March quarter, our Corporate Trust business continued to deliver consistent growth for Perpetual, benefiting both from growth from existing clients and new client wins. … All our teams remain focused on delivering investment outperformance for our clients through these turbulent times. We believe we are well placed in this period of volatility to strengthen our investment performance, particularly in our value-style strategies.

What’s next for Perpetual?

Looking ahead, Perpetual is keeping operating expenses under tight control, reaffirming its FY26 guidance for expense growth of just 1% to 2%. The group’s focus remains on supporting clients and strengthening investment performance, particularly in value-style strategies amid ongoing market uncertainty.

With the pending sale of the Wealth Management business, the company is set for a more streamlined operating model and will continue to invest in growth areas, especially those benefiting from changing client and market dynamics.

Perpetual share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Perpetual shares have risen 11%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 15% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Perpetual provides Q3 FY26 update: reveals AUM decline, Corporate Trust growth appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Iluka Resources quarterly earnings: revenue, production, and project updates
• Scentre Group earnings: sales rise and more visitors for Westfield in 2026
• Ampol Q1 2026 trading update: Refiner margins soar, production lifts
• NEXTDC completes $1bn institutional entitlement offer to fund growth
• Treasury Wine Estates improves depletions and unveils regional model

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 Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) share price is in focus today after delivering a strong first quarter for FY26, with total refinery production rising 10% and the Lytton Refiner Margin jumping to US$25.45 per barrel.

What did Ampol report?

• Lytton Refiner Margin increased to US$25.45 per barrel, up from US$6.07 in 1Q 2025
• Total refinery production rose by 10% to 1,434 million litres
• Australian fuel sales (Ex Net-sell) up 4.7% year on year to 3,464 million litres
• Group total sales volume stayed steady at 6,125 million litres
• Convenience retail volumes in Australia rose 3.5% to 898 million litres
• Australian wholesale volumes (Ex Net-sell) climbed 5.2% to 2,566 million litres

What else do investors need to know?

Ampol says it was well prepared for recent Middle East conflict disruptions, having secured crude and product supplies before tensions escalated. The company continues to work closely with Australian and New Zealand governments on measures to protect domestic fuel supply, including adjusting maintenance at its Lytton refinery and supporting changes to fuel standards.

The company has locked in supplies of diesel and jet fuel through to the end of May, and gasoline supplies to the end of June, despite rising landed crude costs. Demand from both consumers and commercial customers in Australia and New Zealand has remained stable despite recent price increases, and Ampol’s integrated supply chain has helped navigate ongoing global supply challenges.

What’s next for Ampol?

Looking ahead, Ampol is focused on maintaining reliable domestic fuel supplies amid continuing global uncertainty, especially following disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz. The company is proceeding with a major maintenance program at the Lytton refinery in August, after rescheduling it in response to current market conditions.

Management highlighted that elevated refiner margins may continue for the time being, but also flagged ongoing volatility in crude costs. Ampol plans to leverage its trading and shipping operations, aiming to keep supporting customers and ensure resilience throughout the supply chain.

Ampol share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ampol shares have risen 45%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 15% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Ampol Q1 2026 trading update: Refiner margins soar, production lifts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Iluka Resources quarterly earnings: revenue, production, and project updates
• Scentre Group earnings: sales rise and more visitors for Westfield in 2026
• Perpetual provides Q3 FY26 update: reveals AUM decline, Corporate Trust growth
• NEXTDC completes $1bn institutional entitlement offer to fund growth
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Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips. This article was prepared with the assistance of Large Language Model (LLM) tools for the initial summary of the company announcement. Any content assisted by AI is subject to our robust human-in-the-loop quality control framework, involving thorough review, substantial editing, and fact-checking by our experienced writers and editors holding appropriate credentials. The Motley Fool Australia stands behind the work of our editorial team and takes ultimate responsibility for the content published by The Motley Fool Australia.

When it comes to blue chips, I like businesses that already have scale and strong market positions but are also finding ways to improve their operations or expand into new areas. That combination can create a more interesting long-term setup.

That said, here are three ASX blue-chip shares I would look at right now if I had $5,000 to invest.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

Telstra is often viewed as a steady income stock, but I think there is more going on beneath the surface.

The telco share is starting to show operating leverage across the business, with growth in earnings supported by cost control and efficiency gains. Its mobile division continues to benefit from higher average revenue per user and customer growth, which is helping drive overall performance.

What I like is how disciplined the business has become. Cost reductions, capital management, and targeted investment are all working together to improve returns.

There is also a clear focus on long-term infrastructure, including network investment and connectivity, which keeps Telstra central to Australia’s digital economy.

When I look at it this way, Telstra starts to feel less like a slow-moving incumbent and more like a business that is steadily improving its earnings profile.

Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)

Flight Centre has gone through a full cycle over the past few years, and what is emerging now looks quite different from the pre-COVID business.

The travel agency company is becoming more efficient, with productivity gains showing up across the group. In the first half, total transaction value reached a record $12.5 billion, while cost margins improved to their lowest level for a first half.

What I find interesting is how the model is evolving. There is a growing contribution from corporate travel, new revenue streams from cruise markets, and a stronger focus on technology and AI to improve productivity and customer experience.

These changes are helping the business scale more effectively than before, which I think could support strong long-term returns.

Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH)

Implantable hearing solutions company Cochlear is one of those businesses where the long-term story is tied to a very specific and growing need.

Hearing loss remains under-treated globally, and awareness continues to increase. That creates a steady expansion in the addressable market over time.

The recent launch of the Nucleus Nexa system, which includes upgradeable firmware, shows how the company continues to invest in innovation after decades in the industry.

There have been some short-term impacts as the product rolls out and contracts are renewed, but adoption is building, and the second half is expected to benefit from broader availability.

What gives me confidence here is the combination of a strong market position and ongoing product development. That tends to support growth over longer periods, even if results can move around in the near term.

Foolish Takeaway

I think these ASX blue-chip shares could be good options for investors this month.

Telstra is becoming more efficient while maintaining its core position; Flight Centre is evolving into a more productive, technology-enabled operator; and Cochlear continues to build on a long history of innovation.

That mix of scale and progression is what I look for when putting money to work in this part of the market.

The post Where I’d invest $5,000 in ASX blue-chip shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Are ASX healthcare shares the next to rally?
• Cochlear cuts FY26 earnings outlook amid softer sales
• Stagflation: How to position an ASX stock portfolio
• Why I don’t own Telstra shares (yet)
• How to build a second income from ASX shares without taking big risks

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