Given we are, right now, in the middle of 2026's second ASX earnings season, it's an exciting time to be watching the stock market. Today, let's go through two ASX dividend shares that have just announced that their investors are set to enjoy a dividend pay rise in 2026.

2 ASX income shares that just hiked their dividends

Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB)

First up, we have ASX telco Aussie Broadband. Telcos are well-known for their dividend potential, and Aussie Broadband seems to be trying to live up to that reputation.

Today, the company revealed a final dividend worth 3.6 cents per share. That's a significant 50% increase over the final dividend of 2.4 cents per share that investors enjoyed last year. As well as an increase over 2026's interim dividend, also worth 2.4 cents per share.

As with all of Aussie Broadband's past payouts, this latest one will come with full franking credits attached.

Investors have not reacted well to this ASX share's earnings today. At the time of writing, Aussie Broadband stock is down by 6.35% to $4.73. At this price, this S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) share is trading on a trailing dividend yield of 1.01%.

Argo Global Listed Infrastructure Ltd (ASX: ALI)

Next up, we have the listed investment company (LIC) Argo Global Listed Infrastructure. Argo Global Infrastructure is run by the same team behind Argo Investments Ltd (ASX: ARG), a veteran fund manager on the ASX.

It seems the infrastructure LIC shares its parents' predilection for slow-but-steady dividend hikes. Its latest earnings were also released this morning. In these earnings, Argo Infrastructure announced that its final dividend for 2026 would be worth 5.5 cents per share. That's fully franked. That matches 2025's final dividend.

However, this ASX share's interim dividend earlier this year was worth a fully franked 4.5 cents per share. This takes Argo's full-year dividends to a record 10 cents per share. It also marks the fourth year in a row of annual dividend pay rises from the LIC.

Like Aussie Broadband, Argo Global Infrastructure shares have not reacted well to the latest earnings, and are currently down 1.5% at $2.61 each. At that price, this ASX share is trading on a trailing dividend yield of 3.83%.

The post These 2 ASX shares have given investors a 2026 dividend pay rise appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Aussie Broadband report?

• Underlying EBITDA of $165.3 million, up 19.6% on last year
• Revenue rose 9.2% to $1,295.4 million
• On-net broadband connections surpassed 1.11 million, up 41%
• Operating cash flow increased 42.5% to $167.2 million
• Fully franked final dividend of 3.6 cents per share, total FY26 dividend 6.0 cents (up 50%)
• Underlying NPAT rose 41.8% to $52.4 million

What else do investors need to know?

Aussie Broadband repositioned its portfolio with several strategic moves, including completing the acquisition of AGL Telco and Nexgen, and finalising the migration of More and Tangerine connections. These deals have expanded the company's customer base and capabilities, strengthening its platform for future growth.

The company also completed divestments of Buddy Telco and Digital Sense, sharpening its focus on core telecommunications services. Its net leverage ratio fell to 0.9x, providing flexibility for ongoing investment or acquisitions. Aussie Broadband has also launched a share buyback of up to $115 million, highlighting confidence in its financial position.

Growth in mobile services continued, with a 22% boost in mobile connections and the launch of new features like international roaming and eSIM. The outlook remains positive, as the company maintained customer retention despite intense competition and recent price increases.

What did Aussie Broadband management say?

Group CEO Brian Maher said:

FY26 was a defining year for Aussie Broadband. Our premium telco offering continued to attract customers and partners, delivering organic connections growth, strategic customer wins and strong financial performance despite a competitive market backdrop. We grew revenue while improving operating leverage, resulting in EBITDA margin expansion and accelerated earnings growth… The migration of More and Tangerine connections and the acquisitions of AGL Telco and Nexgen have increased our scale, broadened our customer base and enhanced our ability to meet the evolving needs of customers across all segments.

What's next for Aussie Broadband?

Looking ahead, Aussie Broadband expects to deliver underlying EBITDA between $205 million and $215 million in FY27—growth of 24% to 30%. The company's focus now moves from acquisitions to unlocking benefits from its enhanced scale and broader customer acquisition channels.

Continued momentum is anticipated, with the migration of AGL Telco services on track to complete in the second quarter of FY27. Capex for FY27 is forecast between $60 million and $65 million, as the company invests to support future organic and inorganic growth.

Aussie Broadband share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Aussie Broadband shares have declined 6%, trailing the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which is flat over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Aussie Broadband FY26 earnings: double-digit growth and new acquisitions appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Let's take a look at some new buy, hold, and sell calls from the experts.

Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB)

The Aussie Broadband share price is $4.62, up 2.4% today and up 10% over 12 months.

Aussie Broadband was the No. 1 stock for share price growth within the communications sector in FY26, up 26%.

Ord Minnett kept its buy rating on this ASX 200 telco share after reviewing the latest NBN Wholesale Market Indicators Report.

In a new note, the broker said: 

The recent release by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) of the NBN Wholesale Market Indicators Report for the March quarter highlights ongoing market-share gains for Aussie Broadband (ABB), particularly in the higher-speed tiers and customers utilising fibre to the premise (FTTP) technology.

Sector discounting around the end of financial year has been aggressive, and Aussie Broadband participated in this competitive dynamic.

We see low earnings risk into the FY26 result, however, given the recent guidance provided for operating earnings (EBITDA) and capital expenditure.

Ord Minnett trimmed its 12-month share price target to $6.30, implying a potential 36% upside from here.

James Hardie Industries plc (ASX: JHX)

The James Hardie Industries share price is $36.78, down 0.6% today and down 12% over 12 months.

After reviewing the building materials supplier's 1Q FY27 report, Morgans upgraded James Hardie shares to a hold rating.

Morgans said:

JHX has delivered a strong set of results for 1QFY27, beating consensus (and MorgansF) EBITDA forecasts by c.9% at the mid-point and prior guidance by c.10%.

The outperformance was largely attributed to execution and above-market growth, rather than an improving US housing market.

The result sets our baseline expectations higher, whilst we expect the business to follow the traditional earnings seasonality (bigger Jun/Mar quarters).

This result is better than expected. Higher growth in FY27 reduces the heavy lifting required in FY28 to achieve consensus' US$1.45/sh EPS forecast.

The broker has a 12-month target of $40, implying a potential upside of 9% in FY27.

Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG)

The Macquarie share price is $255.14, up 0.6% today and up 19% over 12 months.

Morgans kept its hold rating on this ASX 200 bank share following the AGM, 1Q FY27 update, and news of the CEO's retirement.

The broker said: 

Overall, MQG pointed to "satisfactory" trading conditions in 1Q27, while Greg Ward – currently Head of BFS – will replace the retiring Shemara Wikramanayake as CEO.

We lift our MQG FY27F/FY28F EPS by 1%-3% on slightly stronger CGM earnings forecasts.

MQG is a quality franchise and a proven performer, but with <10% upside to our target price, we maintain our Hold call.

Morgans increased its 12-month share price target from $248 to $255.

This suggests Macquarie shares are already fully valued.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Aussie Broadband, James Hardie, Macquarie shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That return was comprised of 2.77% capital growth and a 4.23% average dividend yield.

That's an improvement on last year's payout.

In FY25, dividends made up 3.84% of the total 13.81% return.

That was well below the long-term average of about 4.5%.

This last financial year, the market moved closer to the norm.

What pushed dividend yields higher last year?

The increase partly reflects higher earnings among resources companies due to rising commodity prices.

This contributed to an outstanding performance in the ASX 200 materials sector, which lead the 11 market sectors last year.

Materials stocks soared 47.48% and paid a healthy above-average dividend yield of 4.63%.

The energy sector paid an even higher dividend yield at 5.14% in FY26.

But neither paid the best dividend yield of the 11 market sectors.

That title belongs to a much more defensive segment.

Experts say capital gains tax (CGT) changes may prompt investors to seek better yield.

If that rings true for you, the following list will give you a general guide as to which sectors pay best.

Let's take a look at the dividend yields of each of the 11 market sectors in FY26.

Which ASX sectors delivered the best dividend yields?

The sectors are listed in order of highest dividend yield for FY26.

Utilities

The total return for the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) last year was 11.87%.

Dividends made up 5.98% of that total return.

Energy infrastructure company APA Group (ASX: APA) was the sector's best performer for growth.

APA Group shares rose 24%, and are currently trading on a trailing dividend yield of 5.84%.

Energy

The total return for the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) was 14.51%.

Dividends represented 5.14% of that return.

ASX 200 coal  producer New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) had the strongest share price growth at 44%.

New Hope Corporation shares have a trailing dividend yield of 4.78%.

Materials

The total return for the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) was 52.11% in FY26. 

Dividends made up 4.63% of that return.

The best performer was gold explorer, Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6), which rocketed 508% in FY26.

Minerals 260 does not pay dividends.

The largest company in the materials sector is BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), which has a trailing yield of 3.47%.

Consumer Staples

The total return for the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) was 13.72%. 

Dividends represented 3.63% of that return.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) was the top-performing consumer staples share, rising 29%.

Woolworths shares have a trailing yield of 2.24%.

Financials

The total return for the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) was 1.69%. 

The index lost 1.89% of its market cap last year, but dividends of 3.58% brought the sector into the green.

New Zealand-based infrastructure investment company, Infratil Ltd (ASX: IFT) was the fastest riser, lifting 29%.

Infratil shares have a trailing dividend yield of 1.22%.

Industrials

The total return for the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) was 5.24%.

Dividends made up 3.55% of that return.

Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS) shares were the fastest risers, rocketing 261%.

Electro Optic Systems does not pay dividends.

The biggest company in the sector is Transurban Group (ASX: TCL), which has a trailing yield of 4.68%.

Real estate & REITs

The total return for the S&P/ASX 200 Real Estate Index (ASX: XPJ) was a negative 2.24%.

The index dropped 5.32% in FY26, but an average dividend yield of 3.08% mitigated the capital loss.

Property fund manager Charter Hall Group (ASX: CHC) outperformed with capital growth of 19%.

The ASX 200 real estate investment trust (REIT) has a trailing dividend yield of 2.3%.

Communications

The total return for the S&P/ASX 200 Communications Index (ASX: XTJ) was a negative 9.41%.

The sector lost 12.4% of its value, but an average dividend yield of 2.99% partially offset the loss.

Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB) shares rose the most, lifting 26%.

Aussie Broadband has a trailing dividend yield of 1.03%.

Consumer discretionary

The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) produced a negative total return of 1.21%.

The index fell 3.56%, but an average dividend yield of 2.35% reduced the impact.

The Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE) share price experienced the most growth, rising 22%.

Eagers Automotive shares have a trailing dividend yield of 3.43%.

Healthcare

The total return for the S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) was a negative 36.15%.

The healthcare index fell 37.4%, and an average dividend yield of 1.25% did little to buoy investors' spirits.

4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX) was the outperformer, with its share price skyrocketing 1,786%.

4DMedical does not pay dividends.

The largest company in the sector is CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), which has a trailing dividend yield of 3.38%.

The healthcare sector is experiencing an extraordinary bounce back, with value investors returning just last month.

Since the pivot point on 3 June, the healthcare index has soared 23%.

Technology

The total return for the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) was a negative 36.97%.

The index lost 37.22% of its value, and a tiny average dividend yield of 0.25% was barely noticeable to investors.

The Aussie tech sector is comprised predominately of younger growth companies, and not many pay dividends yet.

ASX 200 tech shares tanked in FY26, with only four shares experiencing capital growth.

The stand-out was Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA) shares, which rocketed 119%.

Codan shares have a trailing dividend yield of 0.8%.

Technology is also on the rebound after bottoming out on 30 March.

The post Which ASX 200 sectors paid the highest dividend yields in FY26? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The benchmark index hit a record 9,202.9 points on 26 February before finishing the year at 8,778.7 points on 30 June.

There are 11 market sectors within the ASX 200.

In this article, we name the top-performing shares by capital growth in each market sector. 

No. 1 shares of the ASX 200 market sectors 

These were the No.1 shares of each market sector based on 12-month share price growth (excluding dividends).

We have listed the sectors from strongest to weakest.

Six of the 11 sectors declined in value last year. 

Materials

The ASX 200 materials sector was the best performer by far. 

The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) soared 47.48% and produced total returns of 52.11% in FY26. 

Australia is in the midst of a new mining boom with five key factors driving a new commodities supercycle.

The green energy transition, artificial intelligence (AI) build-out, and central banks diversifying their reserves with gold drove strong commodity price rises in FY26.

The best performing share within the ASX 200 materials sector was gold explorer, Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6).

The Minerals 260 share price ripped 508% to finish at 73 cents per share on 30 June. 

Consumer Staples

The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) rose 10.09% and delivered total returns of 13.72%. 

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) was the top-performing consumer staples share of the year.

The Woolworths share price rose 28.67% to $40.03 in FY26.

Energy

The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) rose 9.37% and delivered total gross returns of 14.51%.

ASX 200 coal  producer New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) recorded the strongest share price growth.

New Hope Corporation shares increased 44.32% to finish the year at $5.34 per share.

Utilities

The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) rose 5.89% and delivered a total return of 11.87%.

Energy infrastructure company APA Group (ASX: APA) was the best performer of the utilities sector. 

The APA Group share price ascended 24.11% to finish FY26 at $10.14.  

Industrials

The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) edged 1.69% higher and produced total returns of 5.24%.

ASX 200 defence share Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS) recorded the highest capital growth.

The Electro Optic Systems share price soared 261% to finish the year at $10.30. 

Financials

The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) fell 1.89% in value, but dividends lifted the total return into the green at 1.69%. 

New Zealand-based infrastructure investment company, Infratil Ltd (ASX: IFT) was the best performer of the financials sector.

The Infratil share price lifted 28.8% to finish the year at $12.61.

Consumer discretionary

The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) fell 3.56% and produced a total negative return of 1.21%.

The Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE) share price experienced the most growth in the consumer discretionary sector. 

The Eagers Automotive share price rose 21.83% to finish the year at $21.26. 

Real estate & REITs

The S&P/ASX 200 Real Estate Index (ASX: XPJ) dropped 5.32% and delivered a total negative return of 2.24%.

Property fund manager Charter Hall Group (ASX: CHC) outshone its property sector peers.

The ASX real estate investment trust (REIT) rose 19.12% to $22.66 on 30 June. 

Communications

The S&P/ASX 200 Communications Index (ASX: XTJ) tanked 12.4% and delivered a negative total return of 9.41%.

Telco stock Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB) rose the most in FY26. 

The Aussie Broadband share price ripped 26.09% to $4.93 on 30 June.

Technology

The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) dove 37.22%, with a total negative return of 36.97% in FY26. 

Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA) shares outperformed in the technology sector last year.

The Codan share price screamed 119.49% higher to $44.14 on 30 June.

Healthcare

Healthcare was the worst-performing sector of FY26.

The S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) tumbled 37.4% and delivered a negative total return of 36.15%.

The 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX) share price was absolutely unstoppable in FY26. 

Shares in 4DMedical skyrocketed 1,786% to $4.53 on 30 June. 

The respiratory imaging tech company was not only the shining star of the healthcare sector.

It was also the No. 1 stock for capital growth overall in FY26.

The post Top ASX 200 share of each market sector in FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that have failed to follow the market higher today are listed below. Here's why they are falling:

Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB)

The Aussie Broadband share price is down 5% to $5.27. Investors have been selling the broadband provider's shares following the release of a trading update this morning. Aussie Broadband revealed that it expects to report earnings in the middle of the previously announced underlying EBITDA FY 2026 guidance range of $162 million to $167 million. In addition, capital expenditure is expected to be at the upper end of the previously provided guidance range of $55 million to $60 million. This may have fallen short of the market's expectations for the financial year.

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)

The Coles Group share price is down 2% to $23.51. This may have been driven by investors switching out of defensive assets and into risk-on assets. A number of defensive ASX shares are falling on Monday while the market charges higher.

Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS)

The EOS share price is down 2.5% to $9.10. This follows the release of a revenue update from the defence and space company this morning. EOS revealed that it expects to generate between $240 million and $270 million of revenue in 2026, excluding the recently acquired MARSS business. The high end of this guidance range is over double the $128.5 million it reported from continuing operations in FY 2025. This may have been overshadowed by news that the US and Iran have signed a peace deal, which could potentially mean softer than expected demand for defence products in the near term.

Santos Ltd (ASX: STO)

The Santos share price is down a sizeable 7.5% to $7.46. Investors have been selling Santos and other ASX energy stocks on Monday after oil prices pulled back meaningfully. Traders were selling oil in response to news that the US and Iran have signed a peace deal. Upon the announcement, US President Donald Trump said: "Let the oil flow!" This is great news for the world, but less so oil producers. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy index is down 5% at the time of writing.

The post Why Aussie Broadband, Coles, EOS, and Santos shares are falling on Monday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In morning trade, the ASX 200 share is down over 4% to $5.30.

This compares unfavourably to a 1.3% gain by the ASX 200 Index early on Monday.

Why is this ASX 200 share falling?

Investors have been selling the broadband provider's shares following the release of an update on its performance and transactions.

According to the release, the ASX 200 share has completed the acquisition of the telecommunications business of AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL). Management believes this adds significant scale to its customer base and provides material earnings growth potential through its long-term strategic partnership with AGL.

In exchange, AGL has been issued $115 million in Aussie Broadband shares under a share subscription agreement. This represents approximately 22 million fully paid ordinary shares, which is approximately 7% of the issued capital.

The migration of AGL's combined 350,000 NBN services and mobile connections will complete in the second quarter of FY 2027. Management expects this to deliver a step change in connections on the Aussie Broadband network.

The AGL telco business is expected to deliver $21 million in underlying EBITDA in the first 12 months post migration. However, it notes that there is upside potential from further growth in connections through AGL's existing marketing channels and bundled energy offerings, as well as from margin expansion through scale and efficiency gains.

Management is ultimately targeting 500,000 subscribers from AGL's 4.5 million customer base.

Elsewhere, the More and Tangerine Telecom customer migrations are on track, the acquisition of Nexgen has completed, and the divestment of Digital Sense Hosting has settled.

Trading update

The ASX 200 share also provided the market with a trading update this morning.

It revealed that it surpassed 1 million broadband connections in mid-May and is on track to become the third largest NBN service provider with more than 1.3 million NBN connections at the completion of the large-scale connection migrations and AGL telco acquisition.

In light of this, management expects to report earnings for FY 2026 in the middle of the previously announced underlying EBITDA guidance range of $162 million to $167 million. However, capital expenditure is expected to be at the upper end of the previously provided guidance range of $55 million to $60 million.

It is possible that this performance is softer than the market was expecting, putting pressure on the Aussie Broadband share price today.

The company's chief executive, Brian Maher, commented:

I'm immensely proud of the effort delivered by the team. Completing one transaction is significant but completing four transactions within six months, while delivering the largest migration of connections on the NBN network to date and continuing to grow the business organically, is exceptional. These transactions are central to our upgraded Look‑to‑28 ambitions, repositioning the Company to deliver higher‑quality and more sustainable earnings streams.

While competition remains strong, our FY27 pricing plans, continued focus on Australian‑based customer service, and high-quality network performance position us well to continue winning new customers, particularly those migrating from legacy technologies and lower‑speed services. The operational leverage from increased scale is expected to improve capital efficiency and support stronger returns over time.

The post Which ASX 200 share is sinking 4% on Monday? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After starting the week's trading at an opening loss this morning, the ASX 200 spent most of the day bouncing around, but ended up closing down 0.026%. That leaves the index at 8,729.4 points.

This cold-shower start to the trading week for Australian investors follows a rosier finish to the American week on Friday night (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in decent form, rising a confident 0.72%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) wasn't quite as enthusiastic, but still managed a 0.2% gain.

But let's get back to this week and the local markets now, and check out how the various ASX sectors traversed today's tough trading conditions.

Winners and losers

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

After kicking off the trading week on a positive note yesterday, investors couldn't keep up the momentum, with the index opening in the red this morning and staying that way all session. By the time the markets closed up shop, the ASX 200 had lost 0.39% and finished up at 8,657.8 points.

The US markets were closed for the Memorial Day public holiday last night, so the small gains we saw 'Stateside last Friday are still holding.

So, without further ado, it's now time to take stock of how the various ASX sectors fared amid today's frosty trading conditions.

Winners and losers

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

It's interesting when one expert rates a business as a buy, but when multiple investment professionals say a company is worth owning, it's a very interesting situation to look at.

Let's look at two businesses that have extremely positive ratings.

Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB)

Aussie Broadband describes itself as the fifth largest provider of broadband services in Australia, with long-term growth in the residential segment. The business provides other offerings like data, voice and managed solutions to business, enterprise and government customers. It also provides wholesale services to other telcos and managed service providers.

According to CMC Invest, there have been eight recent analyst ratings on the business, with seven of those being buys. The average price target of all of those ratings is $6.16, which suggests a possible rise of 14% over the next year from where it is at the time of writing.

The ASX share is delivering good growth, which is helping it deliver pleasing financial performance.

In the FY26 half-year result, it reported 13.7% year-over-year growth of broadband connections to 827,683. This helped it deliver revenue growth of 8.4% to $637.8 million, underlying operating profit (EBITDA) grew 13.5% to $74.7 million and underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) rose 40.9% to $22.3 million.

The business is expecting to grow its FY26 EBITDA to grow by between 17% to 21%, to between $162 million to $167 million, which is an excellent growth rate, in my view.

According to the projection on CMC Invest, the business is valued at 18x FY27's estimated earnings.

Universal Store Holdings Ltd (ASX: UNI)

Universal Store owns a portfolio of premium youth fashion brands. Its main business is Universal Store (trading under the Universal Store and Perfect Stranger retail banners) and CTC (trading under the THRILLS and Worship brands). It has close to 120 stores across Australia.

According to CMC Invest, there have been seven recent analyst ratings on the ASX share, with all of those being buys.

The average price target on Universal Store is $10.45, suggesting a possible rise of more than 40% over the next 12 months.

This business is growing at a rapid pace – in the FY26 half-year result, group sales increased by 14.2% to $209.6 million. Universal Store sales rose 11.9% to $174.8 million and Perfect Stranger sales soared 41.5% to $17.8 million.

Universal Store is expecting to open up to 17 stores in FY26 and it's pursuing "additional new store opportunities" while "being prudent to ensure long-term profitability."

According to the projection on CMC Invest, the ASX share is valued at just 12x FY27's estimated earnings.  

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

Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB)

Aussie Broadband shares jumped 20% higher in early February after the company announced it had signed an agreement to acquire AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL)'s Telco business. As part of the arrangement, the two companies have also agreed to an exclusive long-term partnership. Aussie Broadband already benefits from a sticky customer base, and now it has the opportunity to grow even more. Analysts tip an upside as high as 47% to $7.14 a piece, at the time of writing.

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

The ASX travel company's shares have crashed 43% for the year to date after news of an audit of its Spanish subsidiary spooked worried investors. The audit will review direct taxes paid (and owed) between April 2021 and March 2024, as well as indirect taxes for the period between January 2022 and December 2025. But Web Travel Group said it does not expect any material earnings impact from the Spanish tax review, and its FY26 earnings guidance is unchanged at 22% to 29% higher than in FY25. It looks like the investor sell-off was overdone. Analysts are tipping an upside as high as 170% to $7.40 at the time of writing.

Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

Goodman Group shares have also tumbled 18% so far in 2026, amid concerns about Australia's interest rate direction, high borrowing costs, and overall investor uncertainty. There is broad weakness across the property sector, and the dent in confidence has flowed through to the latest earnings results. But I don't think the downturn is here to stay. Analysts tip an upside as high as 60% to $40 over the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

AUB Group Ltd (ASX: AUB)

Again, AUB shares are down 22% for the year so far after investors exited their positions following news that the company completed a $400 million institutional placement to help fund its acquisition of UK insurer Prestige and support growth. The placement was priced below the share price at the time. The move signalled expectations that the share price would decline. It looks like the ASX shares have now hit rock bottom. Analysts tip an upside as high as 63% to $38.90 for the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL)

Super Retail Group shares have also been through the wringer in 2026. The share price shot to an all-time high after a record sales result in late February, but has slumped 20% since then amid market-wide volatility. As a retail company, Super Retail Group is heavily reliant on discretionary spending, but this is the first thing to retract when concerns about interest rates, cost of living, or economic volatility surface. Despite investor sentiment, the business remains strong and steady, so over the long term, we can expect the cyclical downturn to rebound. Analysts tip an upside of up to 50% to $19 at the time of writing for the ASX company's shares.

The post 5 ASX shares I'd buy with $5,000 today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

To narrow things down, let's see what analysts at Investor Pulse are saying about three, courtesy of The Bull.

Are they bullish, bearish, or something in between?

Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB)

The expert is tipping this broadband provider as an ASX 200 share to buy now.

It was pleased to see operational leverage starting to emerge and appears to support management's recent M&A deals. It said:

This telecommunications company continues to build a credible long term growth case as it pushes further into scale and diversification. First half group revenue of $637.8 million in fiscal year 2026 was up 8.4 per cent compared to the prior corresponding period. Underlying EBITDA of $74.7 million grew 13.5 per cent. We're impressed with the operational leverage beginning to emerge.

ABB recently acquired AGL Energy's telecommunications business, adding an estimated 350,000 broadband services and mobile connections to ABB's customer base. It recently entered into a binding agreement to acquire 100 per cent of Nexgen Investment Group, a provider of advanced business communication solutions. The deals strengthen ABB's small-to-medium sized enterprise business offering.

Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN)

This ASX share has been rated as a sell by the expert. While it concedes that Harvey Norman's dividend yield remains appealing, it believes its shares are now fully valued after a material re-rating over the past 12 months. It said:

Much of the operational recovery now appears reflected in the retail giant's share price. Fiscal year 2025 results and early fiscal year 2026 trading updates confirmed solid aggregated sales growth, aided by an improving UK performance and continuing strength in Europe.

Yet after a material re-rating over the past year, we see limited room for positive surprises. Competition in the consumer electronics category is intense. While the dividend yield remains appealing, consumer discretionary sector headwinds leave valuation multiples looking extended, in our view.

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

Finally, Wesfarmers has been named as a hold by the expert. It likes the resilience of the ASX 200 share, but not its valuation. It said:

Despite the recent market turbulence, we continue to hold this industrial conglomerate, reflecting group resilience amid consistency among its core retail divisions. The recent first half result for fiscal year 2026 reinforced our view, with statutory net profit after tax of $1.603 billion up 9.3 per cent on the prior corresponding period. Bunnings and Kmart Group sustained sales momentum by leaning into their low price positioning at a time when household budgets remain under pressure.

Wesfarmers chemicals, energy and fertiliser division has also become a more meaningful contributor, helped by firmer lithium prices and the ramp up of the Covalent Lithium refinery, which is now producing battery grade lithium hydroxide.

The post Expert gives its verdict on 3 popular ASX 200 shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Will the market be able to build on this on Friday and end the week on a high? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to sink

The Australian share market looks set to sink on Friday following a poor night in the United States. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open 162 points or 1.8% lower this morning. In late trade on Wall Street, the Dow Jones is down 2.2%, the S&P 500 is down 1.2% and the Nasdaq is down 1.1%.

Oil prices jump

It could be a good finish to the week for ASX 200 energy shares Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) after a strong night for oil prices. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 8.4% to US$80.93 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 4.85% to US$85.34 a barrel. Concerns over global fuel supply disruption were behind this rise.

ASX shares going ex-dividend

A number of ASX shares will be going ex-dividend this morning and could trade lower. This includes fuel retailer Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD), broadband provider Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB), and tech company Objective Corporation Ltd (ASX: OCL). Last month, Ampol declared a fully franked dividend of 60 cents per share. This will be paid to eligible shareholders at the start of next month on 2 April.

Gold price tumbles

ASX 200 gold shares Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) and Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) could have a poor finish to the week after the gold price tumbled overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is down 1.25% to US$5,070.6 an ounce. A stronger US dollar weighed on the precious metal.

Buy Catapult shares

Catapult Sports Ltd (ASX: CAT) shares are good value according to analysts at Bell Potter. This morning, the broker retained its buy rating on the sports technology company's shares with a trimmed price target of $4.85. It said: "Catapult remains one of our preferred tech stocks amongst the mid caps (along with Gentrack). We note Catapult is likely to come out of the S&P/ASX 200 at the next rebalance later this month but remain in the S&P/ASX 300. This could be viewed as a negative catalyst but in our view is already largely expected so should not come as a surprise."

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

Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB) is a smaller and more speculative investment, but I think what it lacks in size, it makes up for in potential.

So, which is the better investment?

Telstra: A reliable investment with limited room for growth 

Let me couch what I am about to say ­­– Telstra is, by almost all metrics, a high-quality business and a relatively safe bet. It dominates the Australian telecommunications market, owns critical infrastructure, generates strong cash flows, and offers an attractive, fully franked dividend. All of this stability makes it a highly dependable investment.

But where it lacks appeal for me is growth potential. Telstra's core markets are mature. And while its management has shown a disciplined approach to cost control, revenue growth from ordinary activities remains on the modest side – 0.9% uplift in FY25 on the prior corresponding period. That's not necessarily a deal breaker in and of itself, but it does limit the potential upside for investors.

At current prices, you're paying for stability and income certainty rather than earnings growth. If you're a defensive investor, it's going to win hands down. For growth investors, I think there's more value to be had elsewhere in the sector.

Aussie Broadband: Strong fundamentals and well positioned to grow  

Aussie Broadband plays in the same markets as Telstra. But unlike Telstra, which is defending an established base, Aussie Broadband is carving new pathways for itself, particularly in government and corporate contracts. These contracts tend to offer good margins and customer stickiness, positioning Aussie Broadband for accelerated growth. In FY25, it saw an 18.7% revenue uplift to $1.19 billion.

And as it scales its customer base, its operating leverage has room to grow. Fixed networks and systems will spread across a growing revenue base, allowing margins to expand. Telstra, on the other hand, may have already exhausted much of this margin expansion potential.

But it is important to note that risks can be heightened for a smaller player like Aussie Broadband. Across the telco sector, competition is fierce, and pricing pressure can be intense. Of course, these risks still apply to Telstra. However, as a well-established player with significant brand equity and scale, they are less likely to bother investors in any meaningful way.

That said, Aussie Broadband doesn't carry the legacy cost base of its much bigger competitor. And its disciplined approach to growth, prioritising return on invested capital rather than expansion at all costs, adds to its appeal for me.

The bottom line

Both are solid telco stocks, so you probably can't go wrong. If your strategy is defensive, then Telstra remains the safest bet. But if you are looking for exposure to earnings growth and are comfortable with some share price volatility, Aussie Broadband is my pick. At current prices, I think it's an opportunity to get in on a quality business that has the hallmarks of further impressive growth to come.  

The post Aussie Broadband vs Telstra: Which telco stock deserves your dollar? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

We don't necessarily need to look at the technology sector to deliver big returns – there are some great candidates that could outperform the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) over the longer-term.

The following businesses have strong growth potential, in the eyes of experts.

Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB)

Aussie Broadband is an Australian telco that it's growing its market share of NBN connections across residential, businesses, government and wholesale.

Broker UBS rates Aussie Broadband as a buy, with a price target of $6.20.

The business generated solid growth in the HY26 result, its on-net broadband connections reached 827,700, up 13.7% year-over-year. Revenue grew 8.4% to $637.8 million, underlying operating profit (EBITDA) increased 13.5% to $74.7 million and underlying net profit (NPATA) grew 24.5% to $31.3 million.

The company highlighted "strong growth outlook for business, enterprise and government with higher value contract wins, strong sales pipeline and enhanced SME [small and medium enterprise] capability with [the] acquisition of Nexgen".

UBS thinks that Australia Broadband's earnings per share (EPS) is going to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 33% over the next three years.

The broker said:

The earnings growth is largely underpinned by the structural growth opportunity we see as Australian broadband market share shifts from the incumbents to challenger brands. Challenger market share is currently at 22%, with our analysis pointing to this reaching at least 35% presenting a still to be won A$3.0bn revenue opportunity.

UBS projects that the ASX growth share could make a net profit of $72 million in FY26 and $176 million in FY30, a forecast rise of 140% over that period.

Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

Breville designs and develops small kitchen appliances, particularly coffee machines, which includes a number of brands including Breville, Sage, Lelit and Baratza. It also has a coffee bean business called Beanz.

Despite the impacts of US tariffs, the company was able to deliver net profit growth of 0.7% in the first half of FY26, along with 10.1% revenue growth. The board of directors decided to increase the interim dividend per share of 5.6% to 19 cents.

Tariffs have been a key issue for the ASX growth share and market to navigate. Broker UBS said that the company has handled it well so far:

US tariffs have been the key concern for BRG. Gross margin (GM) compression in 1H26 (-151bps in Global Product) a function of some China sourced products sold in 1H26 & no price rises in core US range, but this has been well managed:

(1) execution of production shift of 80% of 120v product from China to lower tariff markets (Cambodia, Indonesia, Mexico) at pace handled well;

(2) distribution/retailer mix has been optimised; and

(3) price raises for tail products has had a neutral $ gross profit outcome (assisted by competitor pricing & range decisions).

Looking to FY27E, gross margin upside exists due to the shift for a full 12mths to lower US tariff countries although uncertainty is likely to continue. Longer term, AI adoption at BRG is expected to assist CODB [cost of doing business] management & operating leverage tailwinds.

The Australian stock is rated as a buy by UBS with a price target of $39.

UBS projects the ASX growth share could generate net profit of $139 million in FY26 and $160 million in FY27. That means, at the time of writing, the Breville share price is valued at 29x FY27's estimated earnings.

The post Experts rate these 2 ASX growth shares as buys this month! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Here is a sample of the large number of ASX All Ords shares with ex-dividend dates next week.

ASX All Ords shares about to go ex-dividend

Which companies will we hear from today?

The big one today is the half-yearly report from supermarket network Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL).

Woolworths shares ripped this week after the ASX All Ords consumer staples giant reported a 16% profit lift to $859 million for 1H FY26.

We'll also hear from TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPG), Michael Hill International Ltd (ASX: MHJ), and Pexa Group Ltd (ASX: PXA).

The latest report from The Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SGR) will also be interesting, as investors seek further news on the turnaround plan for the beleaguered casino operator.

Yesterday, Star Entertainment shares bounced on news of a debt refinancing deal, including extra liquidity to fund the turnaround plan.

The post 35 ASX All Ords shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here are three new opinions published on The Bull this week.

Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW)

The Charter Hall Long WALE REIT has fallen 4.6% over the past 12 months.

The ASX REIT reported operating earnings of $90.6 million, up 2%, for 1H FY26.

Dylan Evans from Catapult Wealth has a buy rating on this ASX real estate investment trust (REIT).

Evans said:

This Australian real estate investment trust reported solid first half results in fiscal year 2026, which were in line with expectations.

Statutory earnings of $153.6 million increased 209 per cent compared to the prior corresponding period.

Net tangible assets of $4.68 per security were up 2 per cent from June 30, 2025.

CLW's share price has declined due to the re-emergence of inflation and its impact on interest rates and bond yields.

CLW appeals for its reliable income stream. It was recently trading on a dividend yield above 6.5 per cent, supported by a high quality property portfolio with occupancy of 99.9 per cent and a weighted average lease length of more than nine years.

ASX Ltd (ASX: ASX)

The ASX share price has fallen 21.1% over the past 12 months.

The company reported an 11.2% increase in revenue to $602.8 million for 1H FY26.

Statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) was $263.6 million, up 8.3%, and total expenses were $264.3 million, up 20%.

Evans has a hold rating on this ASX financial share.

He explains:

The financial markets operator has struggled for several years. It continues to face regulatory scrutiny after technology issues.

Total expenses of $264.4 million in the first half of 2026 were up 20 per cent, partly as a result of costs associated with the inquiry by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, which cited ASX operational and governance issues in its interim report.

However, Evans thinks the outlook for ASX Ltd is improving.

It has consistently grown its revenues, courtesy of a near monopoly position.

If the company can reduce costs and sustain revenue growth, earnings should benefit moving forward.

Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB)

The Aussie Broadband share price has increased 28.4% over the past 12 months.

Aussie Broadband reported a 13.5% increase in underlying EBITDA to $74.7 million for 1H FY26.

Earlier this month, the telco announced it intends to buy the telecommunications business of AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL).

Aussie Broadband will pay AGL $115 million worth of scrip upfront, with a further $10 million in scrip to be paid in tranches.

Jonathan Tacadena from MPC Markets has a sell rating on the ASX telecommunications share.

He says:

ABB's acquisition of AGL Energy's telecommunications business looks like a genuinely good deal.

It adds an estimated 350,000 broadband services and mobile connections to ABB's customer base.

The acquisition is expected to be completed in June 2026. Migration is expected to be completed in the first half of fiscal year 2027.

ABB shares soared sharply on the news, but then retreated. Technically, that's a bearish sign.

We believe good news from the AGL deal is priced into the stock, so we would be inclined to cash in some gains.

The Aussie Broadband share price has fallen from $6.09 on 22 October to $5.11 at yesterday's close.   

The post Buy, hold, sell: Charter Hall Long WALE, ASX, Aussie Broadband shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

In late morning trade, the Aussie Broadband share price is up 13.25% to $5.13, making it one of the strongest performers on the ASX today.

Here is what investors need to know.

What was announced today

According to the release, Aussie Broadband has signed an agreement to acquire the AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL) Telco business. The transaction includes AGL's broadband, mobile, and voice customer base, along with supporting systems and assets.

At completion, the deal is expected to add approximately 350,000 broadband and mobile connections to Aussie Broadband, along with approximately 46,000 voice services. The acquisition is expected to be completed in June 2026, with customer migration to follow during the first half of FY27.

As part of the arrangement, the 2 companies have also agreed to an exclusive long-term partnership. Under this structure, AGL will continue to market telecommunications services under the AGL brand, while Aussie Broadband will provide the network, services, and customer experience.

How the deal is being paid for

AGL will receive $115 million worth of Aussie Broadband shares on completion, based on the volume-weighted average price (VWAP) prior to the announcement.

A further up to $10 million in shares may be issued over time, subject to meeting agreed connection growth targets. These additional shares would be issued in tranches and are linked to performance outcomes.

Aussie Broadband said the acquisition is expected to be earnings per share (EPS) accretive in the first year after migration of customers.

Expected financial contribution

In the first full year after customer migration, the agreement is expected to deliver around $235 million in revenue and around $21 million in underlying EBITDA.

Over time, Aussie Broadband expects the number of AGL Telco connections, excluding voice services, to grow to more than 500,000 over 5 years. Management believes the transaction will strengthen its position as one of Australia's largest NBN service providers.

About the business

Aussie Broadband provides broadband, mobile, and voice services to residential, business, and wholesale customers across Australia. The company is known for its Australian-based customer support and focus on service quality.

Following this transaction, Aussie Broadband expects to service close to 400,000 mobile connections across its segments once migration is complete.

What investors are watching next

Aussie Broadband is due to report its half-year results on Monday, 23 February 2026.

The update will be closely watched for earnings performance, guidance, and further details on integration plans.

The post Why Aussie Broadband shares are soaring 13% today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did AGL Energy report?

• Statutory profit after tax: $94 million (includes $143 million loss in the fair value of financial instruments and $116 million significant items)
• Underlying EBITDA: $1,092 million (flat compared to 1H25)
• Underlying net profit after tax: $353 million, down 6% on 1H25
• Interim fully franked dividend: 24 cents per share
• 4.7 million total customer services, up 108,000 since FY25
• FY26 earnings guidance narrowed: underlying EBITDA of $2,020–$2,180 million; underlying NPAT of $580–$680 million

What else do investors need to know?

AGL's retail transformation program is progressing, with key capabilities deployed and committed benefits on track. The company also grew its development pipeline to 11.3 GW, signing new long-term power purchase agreements for wind farms in South Australia and Western Australia.

The 500 MW Tomago Battery project in New South Wales has begun construction, while the Liddell Battery's first 250 MW is targeted to be operational in the third quarter. AGL has also struck a deal to divest its telecommunications business to Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB) , with migration of customers planned for FY27 and an expected $115 million investment in ABB shares.

What did AGL Energy management say?

AGL Managing Director and CEO Damien Nicks, said:

The strength of our first half result was delivered by our excellent operational performance. In Customer Markets we saw an improvement in customer margins, driven by growth in our customer base and a return to more sustainable margins.

What's next for AGL Energy?

AGL has narrowed FY26 earnings guidance and is targeting $50 million in sustainable net operating cost reductions in FY27. Focus areas for the remainder of the year include continued delivery of the retail transformation, advancing renewable and storage projects, and careful cost management.

The company expects second-half earnings to be seasonally lower due to customer demand patterns and legacy contract changes. All guidance remains subject to regulatory and operational factors.

AGL Energy share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, AGL Energy shares have declined 24%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 5% over the same period.

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The post AGL Energy posts 1H26 profit and narrows FY26 earnings guidance appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.