The ASX 200 stayed in green territory all session, steadily climbing to close with a 0.6% gain. That leaves the index at 9,092.3 points as we head into the weekend.

This happy day for Australian investors followed an upbeat Thursday session for US markets overnight.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) enjoyed a modest 0.1% gain.

Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) ran much hotter, rising 1.57%.

But let's get back to the local markets now for an examination of how the various ASX sectors fared amid today's pleasant trading conditions.

Winners and losers

There were only a couple of sectors that weren't invited to today's ASX party.

The most conspicuous absentee was real estate investment trusts (REITs). The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) was left out in the cold, slumping 0.78%.

The other unlucky corner of the market was utilities shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) slipping 0.09%.

Let's get to the winners now, though. Leading said winners this Friday were tech shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) was on fire, shooting 2.31% higher.

Mining stocks were in high demand too, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ)'s 0.98% surge.

Gold shares were also popular. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) roared 0.9% higher this session.

Financial stocks had a day to remember as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) soaring 0.75%.

Energy shares didn't miss out. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) enjoyed a 0.66% jump this Friday.

We could say something similar for consumer discretionary stocks, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ)'s 0.44% leap.

Its consumer staples counterpart was a little less enthusiastic. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) still managed a 0.3% improvement, though.

Communications stocks were our next corner of the market, with the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) advancing 0.25%.

Healthcare shares were decent performers, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) put on 0.08% today.

Finally, industrial shares only just got over the line, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ)'s 0.04% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Gold stock Pantoro Gold Ltd (ASX: PNR) was our chart-topper this Friday.

Pantoro shares rocketed up 5.88% to close at $2.88 each today. That was despite no news or announcements from the company today.

Here's the rest of today's best:

Enjoy the weekend!

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.

This rather woeful Wednesday for the local markets followed a similarly downbeat night up on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in a foul mood, dropping 0.34%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was even more cross, falling 0.6%.

But let's get back to the Australian boards now and dive a little deeper into how the various ASX sectors handled this hump day's tough trading conditions.

Winners and losers

There were only a few sectors that escaped today's session intact.

But first, it was real estate investment trusts (REITs) that bore the brunt of investors' displeasure. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) took a 1.02% plunge this Wednesday.

Consumer discretionary stocks were on the nose as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) tanking 0.81%.

We could say the same for communications shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) cratered 0.79%.

Consumer staples stocks were in that ballpark as well, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)'s 0.76% dive.

Next came industrial stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) sank 0.67% this session.

Financial shares didn't get a break either, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) tumbling 0.59%.

Energy stocks weren't riding to the rescue. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) dipped down 0.42% today.

Nor were mining shares, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ)'s 0.19% slide.

Our last losers were healthcare stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) was sent down 0.09% this Wednesday.

Let's turn to the winners now. Leading the charge were utilities shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) galloping 2.54% higher.

Gold stocks were a safe haven too. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) jumped 0.3% today.

Finally, tech shares held up well, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ)'s 0.16% advance.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA) was our winner this Wednesday. Codan shares enjoyed a big surge in demand today, shooting 9.3% higher to $44.54 a share by close.

There wasn't any price-sensitive news out from the company today, although perhaps investors got some inspiration from a presentation released this morning.

Here's how the other winners landed their planes: 

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.

By the time trading wrapped up, the index had finished 0.33% lower at 9,232.6 points.

This miserly start to the Australian trading week followed a more upbeat end to the American week on Friday night (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) closed the week on a generous note, rising by 0.28%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was even more upbeat, gaining a healthy 1.3%.

But let's get back to this week and our local markets now and dive a little deeper into what was happening amongst the various ASX sectors this Monday.

Winners and losers

Despite the market's losses, there were still plenty of green sectors this session.

But first, it was again financial stocks that were singled out for punishment. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) cratered 2.27% lower this Monday.

Consumer discretionary shares got the cold shoulder too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) slumping 0.45%.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) were also unlucky. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) sank 0.28% today.

Our other losers were utilities stocks, evident from the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)'s 0.23% slip.

Let's get to the green sectors now, though. Leading those winners were gold shares. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) continued its recent run with another 2.61% surge.

Communications stocks had a day to remember as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) soaring 1.7%.

Healthcare shares were in demand too. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) vaulted 1.45% higher today.

Mining stocks also ran hot, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ)'s 1.22% jump.

We could say something similar for tech shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) ended up bouncing 0.57% higher.

Consumer staples stocks held their value too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) lifting 0.36%.

Next came industrial shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) managed to stay afloat with a 0.05% advance.

Finally, energy stocks tied with industrials, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ)'s 0.05% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Coming out on top of today's pile was classifieds stock Car Group Ltd (ASX: CAR). Car shares roared a healthy 9.92% higher today to close at $29.70 each.

This followed some pleasing earnings from the company this morning.

Here's the rest of today's best: 

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.

The market is taking a breather after hitting a new record of 9,296.7 points yesterday.

The August earnings season is now underway, which means dividends are being announced.

We'll help you keep track of ex-dividend dates over the next two months.

Next week, only a few ASX shares are going ex-dividend.

We've listed them below, along with the dividend amounts to be paid.

In order to receive a dividend, you must own the ASX share before its ex-dividend date.

On the ex-dividend date, share prices tend to fall because the stock becomes less valuable without the dividend entitlement attached.

Alcoa Corporation (ASX: AAI)

This ASX 200 mining share will pay an unfranked dividend of 10 US cents per share on 27 August.

The ex-dividend date is Monday, 10 August.

Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO)

This ASX 200 mining share will pay a fully franked US$2.11 per share on 24 September.

The ex-dividend date is Thursday, 13 August.

BKI Investment Company Ltd (ASX: BKI)

The ASX listed investment company (LIC) is an offshoot of the former company, Brickworks.

The ASX financial stock will pay a dividend of 4 cents per share on 28 August.

The ex-dividend date is Friday, 14 August.

Argo Investments Ltd (ASX: ARG)

This ASX LIC will pay a dividend of 20 cents per share on 18 September.

The ex-dividend date is Friday, 14 August.

Which ASX shares have dividend announcements next week?

On Monday, we'll hear from Car Group Ltd (ASX: CAR).

On Tuesday, we'll see earnings reports from SGH Ltd (ASX: SGH) and Life360 Inc (ASX: 360).

The big one next week is Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares.

CBA will announce its full-year FY26 results and final dividend on Wednesday.

The ex-dividend date for the CBA dividend will be 19 August.

AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL) and Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN) will announce their results and dividends on Wednesday.

Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) shares will be in focus on Thursday.

We'll also find out the dividends for Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) and Transurban Group (ASX: TCL) shares on Thursday.

On Friday, QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) will step up to the plate.

View our reporting calendar for more companies announcing dividends next week.

The post ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

When one analyst thinks a business is a buy, that's intriguing. When a number of experts all think a business is a buy, I think that could highlight a significant opportunity.

Let's look at two ASX shares that are heavily backed by experts.

Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN)

Bannerman Energy describes itself as a uranium development business. It says its flagship asset is the advanced Etango project located in the Erongo region of Namibia.

According to CMC Invest, there have been five buy ratings on the business within the last three months, with all of those ratings being a buy. The average price target on the business from those five analysts is $5.51, suggesting a possible rise of 62% in the next year.

The company recently announced its quarterly update for the three months to 30 June 2026. In that update it reported strong progress in both the early works of the Etango project and towards completion of the transformational strategic financing transaction with CNNC Overseas Limited (CNOL).

It said that Etango early works construction activities are tracking to the overall budget and schedule. The contractor workforce on site now exceeds 560 personnel. Bulk earthworks have advanced in line with the schedule – it's now 92% complete. The ASX share said production of heap leach drainage aggregate continues to deliver material.

The company also said that detailed design and procurement activities are on schedule, while long-term infrastructure and utilities supply activities are "progressing strongly".

In terms of the financing transaction with CNOL, it said it's progressively satisfying key conditions precedent for the CNOL strategic investment of up to US$321.5 million, and progressing the joint venture agreement.

The residual conditions precedent and the transaction completion are expected to occur in the third quarter of 2026, with a positive final investment decision (FID) on Etango expected shortly after that.

Finally, the ASX share noted that the long-term uranium price outlook remains strong, with the term price increasing to US$97 per pound.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)

South32 is another ASX share with significant analyst backing. The ASX mining share is involved in a number of commodities including copper, zinc, lead, silver, manganese, alumina and aluminium.

According to CMC Invest, there have been 10 ratings on the business in the last three months, with nine of those ratings being a buy.

South32 recently announced its FY26 fourth quarter update, which showed that production exceeded guidance in FY26. It increased its quarterly sales volume by 15%, capturing benefit of strong market conditions across many of its commodities.

Last month, it announced the sale of its aluminium value chain to Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI) for an implied enterprise value of US$5.6 billion, plus around US$1.2 billion of related rehabilitation provisions.

The company also noted that during FY26, it invested US$34 million in its greenfield exploration opportunities, which progressed multiple programs targeting base metals in highly prospective regions. It also invested US$60 million in exploration programs at existing operations and development options. This could help drive future value for the business.

These aren't the only ASX shares that could be compelling opportunities, of course.

The post 2 ASX shares highly recommended to buy: Experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This in-form display on the ASX boards follows a more downbeat session up on Wall Street last night.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) couldn't hold on to an early lead and finished 0.012% lower.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was more decisive, dropping 0.57%.

But let's return to ASX shares now and check out what the various ASX sectors were up to this Thursday.

Winners and losers

Despite the market's gains, we had an even split between red and green sectors today.

Leading those red sectors were tech stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) was hit hard, plunging 3.32%.

Consumer discretionary shares weren't popular either, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) diving 1.52%.

Next came healthcare stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) ended up slumping 1.43%.

Communications shares were also on the nose, evident from the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 1.15% dip.

Consumer staples stocks were no safe haven. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) went backwards by 0.53%.

Our last losers were industrial shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) slipping 0.46%.

Turning to the green sectors now, mining stocks headlined the winners. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) soared 1.37% higher this session.

Gold shares were in demand as well, illustrated by the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD)'s 1.34% surge.

Energy stocks ran hot too. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) saw its value climb 0.98%.

Utilities shares followed energy, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) lifting 0.65%.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) also enjoyed today's market sunshine. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) vaulted up 0.52% today.

Finally, financial stocks got across the line intact, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)'s 0.29% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Financial stock Generation Development Group Ltd (ASX: GDG) was our best performer on the ASX today. Generation shares rocketed a massive 37.13% this session to close at $4.58 each. This extraordinary leap higher followed an exceptionally well-received quarterly update.

Here's how the rest of today's top stocks tied up at the dock: 

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.

What did Alcoa report?

• Revenue rose 24% quarter-on-quarter to a record US$4.0 billion
• Net income attributable to Alcoa was US$407 million (US$1.53 per share)
• Adjusted net income grew 51% to US$562 million (US$2.12 per share)
• Adjusted EBITDA (excluding special items) increased to US$901 million
• Free cash flow reached US$422 million, finishing the quarter with US$1.4 billion in cash
• Set new year-to-date production records at four aluminium smelters and one alumina refinery

What else do investors need to know?

Alcoa announced a definitive agreement to acquire South32 Ltd's (ASX: S32) interests in bauxite, alumina, and aluminium assets across Australia, Brazil, and South Africa for upfront consideration of approximately US$4.1 billion. This move is expected to bolster Alcoa's position as a leading pure-play upstream aluminium company and deliver long-term value through operational synergies.

The company also celebrated the successful restart of its smelters in Spain, Brazil, Norway, and Australia, contributing to higher aluminium production and shipments this quarter. Alcoa completed collective bargaining agreements with unions in Australia, the United States, and Canada, ensuring stability for its workforce.

What did Alcoa management say?

President and CEO William F. Oplinger said:

During the second quarter, in addition to delivering strong financial results that captured favourable aluminium prices, our team executed on strategic initiatives, most notably the announced agreement with South32. We continue to demonstrate operational excellence and positive momentum in our disciplined approach to maximise value creation.

What's next for Alcoa?

Looking ahead, Alcoa has lowered its 2026 alumina production and shipment guidance due to disruptions at the Pinjarra refinery following Cyclone Narelle. Nevertheless, aluminium production and shipment targets remain unchanged, and the company expects to benefit from cost efficiencies, gradual recovery in energy markets, and the integration of the newly acquired AliGroup assets.

Management anticipates a steady operational outlook for the third quarter, with forecast improvements from restored stability and lower energy prices offsetting planned maintenance activities. Alcoa remains focused on executing its growth strategy and leveraging its upgraded global portfolio for long-term shareholder returns.

Alcoa share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Acola shares have risen 49%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 2% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Alcoa smashes Q2 revenue record, boosts portfolio with South32 acquisition appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

As the new financial year begins, brokers are running their rulers over several ASX shares and adjusting their ratings and 12-month price targets. 

Let's take a look at some downgrades from the experts this week. 

JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH)

The JB Hi-Fi share price is $76,45, down 2.2% today and down 32% over 12 months. 

UBS downgraded the ASX consumer discretionary share to a hold rating on Tuesday. 

The broker shaved its 12-month price target from $85 to $83.

This suggest a potential 8% upside ahead.

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

The Evolution Mining share price is $11.80, up 2.1% today and up 51% over 12 months. 

UBS downgraded the ASX 200 gold share to a hold rating on Tuesday.

The broker cut its 12-month price target from $14 to $12.60.

This implies a potential 7% upside ahead.

Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC)

The Whitehaven Coal share price is $7.50, up 0.2% on Thursday and up 34% over 12 months. 

UBS downgraded the ASX coal share to a hold rating on Tuesday. 

The broker lowered its 12-month price target from $9.10 to $8.70.

This indicates possible capital gains of 16% over the next year. 

Judo Capital Holdings Ltd (ASX: JDO)

The Judo share price is 90 cents, down 1.4% today and down 44% over 12 months. 

UBS downgraded Judo shares to a hold rating on Monday.

The broker has a 12-month target price of $1.05, indicating a potential 17% upside over FY27. 

Data#3 Ltd (ASX: DTL)

The Data#3 share price is $9.54, up 1.2% today and 25% higher over 12 months. 

Morgan Stanley downgraded the ASX tech share to a hold rating with a $10 target on Wednesday. 

This suggests potential capital growth of 5% over the next year. 

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)

The South32 share price is $4.23, down 1.2% today and up 36% over 12 months. 

Morgans downgraded its rating on the ASX 200 mining share from accumulate to hold.

The broker cut its price target from $5 to $4.50, suggesting a potential 6% upside ahead.

Morgans said: 

S32 has agreed to sell its entire ali business for total consideration of US$5.6bn (US$4.1bn upfront), and transfer of US$1.2bn closure/rehab liabilities.

Our view on S32's aluminium sale is genuinely mixed. It leaves S32 a simpler and, in important respects, a better business, but also a smaller and less valuable one.

We reduce our valuation on S32's ali assets to in line with the agreed Alcoa deal… As a result we update our rating to HOLD (from Accumulate).

Turaco Gold Ltd (ASX: TCG)

The Turaco Gold share price is 48 cents, up 6.7% today and up 4% over 12 months. 

Morgans downgraded the ASX gold share from a buy to a speculative buy rating this week.

The broker slashed its 12-month price target from $2.19 to $1.18.

This still implies a potential 145% upside ahead.

The post 7 ASX shares downgraded by brokers this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the South32 share price is up 10% to $4.29.

The stock is still down around 11% over the past month, so today's jump will be a welcome change for investors. It has also pushed South32 shares around 20% higher since the start of 2026.

Here's what sparked the move.

South32 sells its aluminium assets

According to the release, South32 has signed a binding, conditional agreement to sell a significant portion of its aluminium business to Alcoa.

The deal values the assets at up to US$5.6 billion. On top of that, Alcoa will take on around US$1.2 billion in rehabilitation provisions, bringing the total transaction close to US$7 billion.

The assets being sold include South32's 86% interest in Worsley Alumina, Hillside Aluminium in South Africa, and its stakes in the MRN bauxite mine, Brazil Alumina refinery, and Brazil Aluminium smelter.

Under the deal, South32 will receive US$3.1 billion in upfront cash, US$1 billion in Alcoa shares, and up to US$750 million in extra cash if alumina and aluminium prices meet certain levels through to 2030.

Management expects the sale to complete in the second-half of FY27, provided shareholder and regulatory approvals go through.

Why investors are buying today

The special dividend is likely one of the biggest reasons investors are sending the South32 share price higher today.

South32 plans to give shareholders at least half of the Alcoa shares it receives. The company expects this to be paid as a fully franked special dividend.

Based on the current value of those Alcoa shares, that dividend would be worth around US$500 million.

In addition, management said the deal should make South32 simpler, strengthen its balance sheet, and lower its costs.

The company expects annual overhead savings of around US$125 million once the full benefit comes through in FY29.

The upfront cash should also give South32 more room to fund its copper and zinc growth plans without putting too much pressure on the balance sheet.

South32's copper plans move ahead

The Alcoa deal wasn't the only update from South32 today.

The company also confirmed that the Sierra Gorda joint venture has approved a fourth grinding line project in Chile. South32 owns 45% of Sierra Gorda, while KGHM Polska Miedz owns the remaining 55%.

The project is expected to lift processing capacity from about 48 million tonnes a year to 60 million tonnes.

First production is expected in mid-FY30, with the project reaching full production rates in FY31.

Once complete, South32 expects the project to add average annual production of about 19,000 tonnes of copper, 6,000 tonnes of molybdenum, 8,000 ounces of gold, and 170,000 ounces of silver.

The estimated growth capital spend is US$725 million on a 100% basis.

The post South32 shares go ballistic on massive Alcoa deal appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the Woodside share price is down 1.01% to $28.48.

That adds to a softer recent run for the ASX energy stock. Woodside shares are now down around 11% over the past month, although they remain about 20% higher since the start of 2026.

That strong start to the year came on the back of higher oil prices, which lifted sentiment across parts of the energy sector.

However, oil prices have pulled back today, and that appears to be weighing more heavily on Woodside shares than the company's latest announcement.

Here's what the company told investors.

Woodside signs a new gas deal

According to the release, Woodside said it has signed a sale and purchase agreement with Alcoa Corporation (ASX: AAI).

Under the agreement, Woodside will supply 31.1 petajoules of domestic gas from its Western Australian operations to Alcoa's alumina refineries in the state.

The gas will be supplied between 2027 and 2030.

Woodside said the agreement continues a longstanding supply relationship with Alcoa and supports local industries in Western Australia.

Alcoa's refineries produce alumina, which is the feedstock used to make aluminium. Aluminium is used across the construction, manufacturing, and energy sectors.

Woodside Executive Vice President, Marketing & Chief Commercial Officer, Mark Abbotsford, welcomed the agreement and said the company is continuing to bring gas to the Western Australian market.

The company also said the agreement supports local jobs and contributes to the state's energy security later this decade.

Why the deal is worth watching

While this isn't the kind of announcement that is likely to rapture investors into a cheer, it still gives the market something to note.

The agreement adds to Woodside's domestic gas position in Western Australia and locks in another customer for supply later this decade.

It also follows the Western Australian government's approval in December 2025 to extend the operation of the Pluto-Karratha Gas Plant Interconnector.

Woodside has been supplying domestic gas to Western Australia for more than 40 years.

In 2025, its share of Western Australian natural gas production was 90.3 petajoules. That represented about 21% of the state's domestic gas supply.

Oil prices remain the bigger driver

The gas deal is a positive update, but it isn't the main driver of Woodside's shares today.

Brent crude is trading below US$78 a barrel after easing again on Tuesday, while crude oil is sitting near US$74 a barrel.

According to Trading Economics, oil steadied as traders weighed signs of progress in US-Iran talks following pressure yesterday.

Washington also granted Iran a 60-day licence to sell oil, raising hopes of a faster recovery in global supply.

Furthermore, traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has picked up, with producers including Kuwait and the UAE finding alternative routes to export energy.

That has taken some heat out of oil prices after they helped support Woodside shares earlier in the year.

The post Woodside shares sink again as oil price pressure outweighs new gas deal appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the Alcoa share price is down a sizeable 7.86% to $94.39.

That adds to a difficult week for the stock. Alcoa shares are now down almost 20% over the past 5 trading days.

But zoom out, and the stock is still sitting on a huge 12-month gain. Alcoa remains up 114% over the past year, so today's fall is testing investor confidence after a very strong run.

So, what has spooked the market today?

Earnings hit from WA plant issues

According to The Australian, Alcoa has flagged "expected sequential impacts" to second quarter earnings, largely due to ongoing problems at its Pinjarra facility in Western Australia.

The company expects alumina segment performance to be unfavourable by about US$60 million. This includes about US$30 million of higher production costs at the Pinjarra refinery following disruption caused by Cyclone Narelle.

In addition, Alcoa is facing about US$20 million of higher energy costs, mainly from fuel oil and diesel linked to the Middle East conflict.

Lower price and volume impacts from bauxite offtake agreements are expected to add another US$10 million hit.

On top of that, third-party shipments are expected to be 120,000 tonnes lower in the second quarter because of the issues at Pinjarra.

Altogether, that adds about US$45 million to the earnings headwind compared with Alcoa's previous outlook.

Aluminium price pulls back

The timing of the update isn't helping either, with aluminium prices also easing after hitting a multi-year high.

According to Trading Economics, aluminium futures in the UK recently fell below US$3,500 per tonne, their lowest level in a month.

The price was around US$3,475.50 per tonne, down 1.43%. That leaves aluminium down about 2.9% over the past month, but up almost 40% since this time last year.

The pullback has been linked to demand concerns, higher US interest rates, and rising oil prices as tensions in the Middle East escalated.

Has the rally gone too far?

After a 114% gain in 12 months, expectations were already high.

Today's update does not change the fact Alcoa is still a major aluminium producer. But it does make the recent rally harder to justify.

Higher costs, lower shipments, and a softer aluminium price are not what investors want to see after such a big share price run.

This may leave some investors waiting for a better update before getting more confident on the stock.

The post Why this ASX 200 stock is crashing after doubling in a year appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

They've named two new ASX 200 shares in this list, which I'll get to shortly.

First, let's look at their broader take on the economy.

Relief rally could be on the way

As a starter, they are basing their outlook on a solution to the Middle East conflict, which has been in a stalemate for some weeks now.

As they said:

A Middle East resolution in the relatively near future remains our central case. Both sides ultimately have strong incentives to negotiate a deal. There is still a decent but finite buffer of energy product reserves, but the clock is ticking on a deal being struck in coming weeks.

CG said that a truce would see a bigger "relief rally" in markets outside of the US, in their opinion, "however the global growth outlook has undoubtedly been tempered by the events in the Middle East, which should favour the tech-led US market at the margin once any short-term relief rally has faded''.

In Australia, CG said the underperformance of the local market versus global equities since the market's February highs has been "stark".

They said:

The initial period of relative underperformance in March was related to Australia's perceived sensitivity to a global energy shock as the outbreak of the US-Iran war saw investors move to price significant downside risks for the global economy. While Australia is well ahead of its late March lows, the local rebound has been held back by a number of factors.

These include a lack of technology exposure, rising domestic macroeconomic concerns, and some disappointing earnings announcements.

ASX 200 shares to consider

In terms of the stocks they like in this scenario, they have added Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL) and TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE) to their list.

They said their conviction in Aristocrat had improved materially since its "broadly in-line" first-half result.

They added:

The result suggests the business has returned to consistent execution and double‑digit earnings growth, while importantly demonstrating that it continues to gain share in US land-based gaming, which is key to our thesis. Pleasingly, iGaming momentum also remains strong as the high-growth segment scales towards its US$1bn FY29 revenue target.

With regards to TechnologyOne, they said it was a high-quality software business, "with a deeply embedded customer base across key verticals including government and education''.

They added:

The company's operational momentum is strong, with FY26 tracking towards the top end of guidance and FY27 is shaping up as another ~20% profit before tax growth year. We remain confident in TNE's resilience against AI disruption, runway for growth, supported by earnings upgrades from its AI tool Plus.

Other companies in CG's favoured list locally include Alcoa Corporation (ASX: AAI), Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN), and Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX).

The post Canaccord Genuity has just added these two ASX 200 shares to its best ideas list appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After recording losses at the start of the week, investors seemed to find their sense of optimism today, with the ASX 200 staying in green territory all session, and closing 0.7% higher. That leaves the index at 8,785.7 points.

This turn of fortunes for Australian investors followed an upbeat night over on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) recovered from an early slump to finish 0.45% higher.

Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) only just managed to get over the line, gaining just 0.026%.

But let's get back to the local markets now and dive a little deeper into what was happening amongst the various ASX sectors this hump day.

Winners and losers

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

Stocks hitting 52-week highs after big gains on Tuesday included: 

• Alcoa Corporation (ASX: AAI)
• Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS)
• Develop Global Ltd (ASX: DVP)
• SRG Global Ltd (ASX: SRG). 

Many holders of these companies will likely be considering profit taking after considerable gains, while those on the outside looking in might be curious if there is further value. 

Here is what experts are saying. 

Alcoa keeps steaming ahead

Alcoa is a global industry leader in bauxite, alumina and aluminium products.

It rose almost 2% yesterday to hit new yearly highs of over $110 per share. 

It has been spurred on this year by healthy earnings results and a solid dividend.

In the last 12 months its share price is now up over 168%. 

Based on analyst forecasts, it appears there are mixed views on how much further upside is in store. 

9 analysts out of 17 still rate the stock as a strong buy, however the average 12 month forecast sits at $107.88, right around current levels. 

Electro Optic Systems still generating buzz

Electro Optic Systems is an Australian company that develops and produces advanced electro-optic technologies. The company's products are used in space information and intelligence services, optical, microwave and on-the-move satellite products, optical sensor units, and remote weapons systems for land, sea, and air.

It has benefited from global defence spending over the last couple of years, and now sits more than 500% above levels from a year ago. 

When stocks explode this much in a short period, brokers and analyst ratings can lag, as markets reassess true value. 

That seems to be the case here, as Electro Optic Systems still has plenty of tailwinds working in its favour.

At the same time, broker targets indicate it is fully valued. 

However the team at The Motley Fool has consistently covered key contract wins and exciting updates that indicate it could continue rising. 

Develop Global hits new highs 

Develop Global shares rose an impressive 3% yesterday to hit fresh 52-week highs of $6.47 per share. 

The mineral exploration and development company has now seen its share price rise 65% over the last year. 

Bell Potter recently placed a price target of $7.10 on this ASX mining stock, indicating it still has modest upside potential. 

The broker is optimistic after Develop Global won a new contract at the Finniss Lithium project with Core Lithium.

SRG Global soars 16% in single session

Yesterday, SRG Global shares rocketed 16% in a single day following an earnings guidance upgrade. 

According to an ASX release, the company has secured $1.85 billion of contracts with blue-chip clients across a diverse range of sectors.

The impressive rise now takes its 12 month gain to nearly 140%. 

It closed trading yesterday at $3.66 per share. 

Unfortunately for prospective investors, it now appears to be fully valued. 

Analysts forecasts via TradingView have an average one year price target of $3.35 on this ASX stock. 

The post These ASX stocks have hit the ground running in June – can they keep rising? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After an early wobble this morning, the market found its footing and spent most of the session in positive territory. By the time the markets wrapped up today, the ASX 200 had advanced 0.4% and finished at a flat 8,692 points.

This happy start to the Australian trading week came after a similarly upbeat end to the American trading week on Friday night (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) fared well, managing a 0.58% gain and resetting its record high.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) charted a similar trajectory, rising 0.19%.

But let's get back to this week and our local markets now and check out what was happening amongst the different ASX sectors this session.

Winners and losers

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

Shares looking like a good buy

UBS has upgraded its rating on the miner and aluminium producer to a buy, saying that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has disrupted the market for Alcoa's products and will continue to do so.

The broker's analyst team said:

We upgrade Alcoa to Buy as we believe smelter outages due to the protracted conflict in the Middle East will more than offset near-term demand risks resulting in stronger for longer aluminium prices & premiums. This will more than offset lower for longer alumina prices resulting in earnings resilience that is not priced in.

UBS said demand indicators for aluminium were soft and inventories in China were elevated, therefore, "against this backdrop we expect London Metals Exchange (LME) prices to consolidate near-term''.

But longer term, "we are constructive on the outlook for aluminium and believe tighter fundamentals will support elevated prices of more than $3,000/t over the next 1-2 years''.

UBS said, using conservative LME prices, they were forecasting "sequentially higher" EBITDA and free cash flow for the company in the second quarter, while divestments could drive the company's net debt below its target range of US$1 to US$1.5 billion, "opening the door for buybacks in 2H26 that will act as a positive catalyst''.

UBS said it expected more than three million tonnes worth of supply disruption from the Middle East conflict, "resulting in deficits that are likely to support higher aluminium prices & premiums over the next 1-2yrs, regardless of if/when flows through the straits of Hormuz resume''.

On the capital management front, UBS said Alcoa said during its 2025 investor day that it was targeting the monetisation of US$500 million to US$1 billion in assets from 2026-30.

Press reports confirmed that Alcoa is in advanced negotiations to sell its idle Massena East aluminium smelter in New York to the digital asset and Bitcoin mining firm, NYDIG, Alcoa have indicated a potential sale in 2026; we do not factor this into our net debt forecasts but this could lead to accelerated cash returns.

UBS is forecasting Alcoa to have net debt of less than US$500 million by the end of 2026, which they say could open the door to a buyback.

Bullish target price

UBS has a price target of $110 on Alcoa shares compared to $100.41, up 7.6% on Monday.

Alcoa is valued at $24.62 billion.

The post Why are Alcoa shares among the top ASX 200 performers today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

By the time the markets closed, the ASX 200 had shed a nasty 1.26%. That leaves the index back under 8,500 points at 8,496.6.

This rough mid-week session for the Australian markets follows a similarly negative night on the American bourse.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) drifted lower, dropping 0.65%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was even more pessimistic, falling 0.84%.

But let's return to the local markets now for a deeper look into how today's tough trading conditions filtered down into the various ASX sectors this session.

Winners and losers

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

This disappointing mid-week session for Australian investors comes after a mixed night over on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) recovered from an early dip to post a 0.11% gain.

However, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) wasn't so lucky and ended up dropping 0.71%.

Let's get back to ASX shares now, though, and take a deeper dive into what was going on amongst the different ASX sectors today.

Winners and losers

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

What did Alcoa report?

• Quarterly dividend of US$0.10 per CDI declared
• Dividend is 100% unfranked
• Ex-dividend date: 18 May 2026
• Record date: 19 May 2026
• Payment due on 5 June 2026
• Default non-resident withholding tax rate: 30%

What else do investors need to know?

Alcoa CDI holders can receive their dividend payment in Australian dollars as the default, or elect to receive payment in US dollars, New Zealand dollars, or British pounds by providing up-to-date banking details. Holders have until 5pm AEST on 19 May 2026 to update or confirm their preferred payment method.

For CDI holders who don't register valid payment instructions or don't reside in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, or the US, the payment may be withheld (without interest) until those details are provided, or paid by cheque in Australian dollars for overseas holders. Non-residents should be aware that a 30% US withholding tax applies by default, unless eligible for tax treaty benefits and the correct forms are submitted before the record date.

What's next for Alcoa?

Alcoa's consistent dividend payments highlight its ongoing focus on shareholder returns. Investors should watch for any currency conversion updates on 1 June 2026, as well as consider updating tax and banking details to ensure timely payment.

Looking ahead, the company's next scheduled dividend update will likely reflect any operational or commodity market changes impacting Alcoa's ongoing capital management strategy.

Alcoa share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Alcoa shares have risen 125%, strongly outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 8% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Alcoa announces June 2026 dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In morning trade on Friday, two of the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) stocks are racing ahead of the 0.5% losses posted by the benchmark index at the time of writing, while one is trailing those losses.

Here's what's catching ASX investor interest.

Zip shares rocket on record quarterly earnings

Zip shares are racing higher today, up 11.7% and trading for $2.29 apiece.

This strong performance follows the release of the ASX 200 buy now, pay later (BNPL) stock's third-quarter (Q3 FY 2026) results.

Highlights for the three months included a 22.4% year-on-year increase in total transaction volume (TTV) to $4 billion. And total income was up 20.2% from Q3 FY 2025 to $335.2 million.

Zip shares are also getting a boost with the company reporting record quarterly earnings. Earning before tax, depreciation and amortisation surged 41.5% year on year to $65.1 million.

This led management to upgrade Zip's full-year FY 2026 cash EBTDA guidance to no less than $260 million.

Which brings us to…

Paladin Energy shares lift on production upgrade

Paladin Energy shares are also making news and enjoying a strong run today. Though not quite as strong as Zip shares.

Shares in the ASX 200 uranium stock are changing hands for $14.54 at the time of writing, up 2.7%.

Investors are bidding up Paladin Energy shares after the company released a positive operations and guidance update for its Langer Heinrich Mine (LHM).

Following an efficient ramp-up of LHM to full mining, and with 3.6 million pounds of uranium oxide produced so far in FY 2026, management increased full-year uranium production guidance to between 4.5 million and 4.8 million pounds. That's up from previous guidance of 4.0 million to 4.4 million pounds.

Also likely helping boost Paladin Energy shares today, the company reduced its full-year capital and exploration expenditure guidance.

And finally…

Alcoa shares slide on revenue dip

Joining Paladin and Zip shares in the headlines today, but heading in the other direction, is Alcoa, which produces and sells bauxite, alumina, and aluminium products.

Alcoa shares are down 2.9% at the time of writing, swapping hands for $97.14 apiece.

Investors have been pressuring the ASX 200 stock following the release of its quarterly update.

While adjusted EBITDA, excluding special items, increased 13% quarter on quarter to US$595 million, alumina production fell 5%, impacted in part by Cyclone Narelle.

This led to a 7% quarter-on-quarter decline in revenue to US$3.2 billion.

The post Why Paladin Energy, Alcoa and Zip shares are making headlines on Friday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.