Here's what's been piquing investor interest.

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN)

At the time of writing, Aussie uranium miner Paladin Energy shares are trading for $12 apiece. That sees this ASX 200 stock up 18.5% since last Friday's close.

Paladin Energy released its FY 2026 results on Wednesday.

Following the successful ramp-up of Paladin's Langer Heinrich Mine (LHM), the miner reported production of 4.82 million pounds of uranium (U₃O₈), which came in at the upper end of guidance.

The company also achieved a 71% year-on-year increase in sales revenue to US$304 million. That was spurred by both higher sales of 4.35 million pounds of uranium and a 7% increase in the realised average price, which came out at US$70 per pound.

Paladin Energy reported a gross profit of US$52 million, up from a gross loss of US$26 million in FY 2025.

The miner still ended the financial year with a net loss after tax of US$9.1 million, though that's a big improvement from the US$77 million net loss reported in FY 2025.

Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV)

The second ASX 200 stock shooting the lights out in this week's fairly stagnant market is fashion jewellery retailer Lovisa.

Currently trading for $26.38, Lovisa shares are up 14.2% for the week.

Most of those gains were delivered on Wednesday as investors pored over Lovisa's FY 2026 results release.

Highlights included a 17.6% year-on-year increase in revenue to $939 million. And earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) were up 14.1% to $158 million.

On the bottom line, Lovisa achieved a net profit after tax (NPAT) of $95.6 million, up 10.7% from FY 2025.

The company delivered a full-year dividend of 86 cents per share, 50% franked. That is up 11.7% from last year's dividend payouts.

Which brings us to…

ASX 200 stock Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN)

At the time of writing, shares in ASX 200 stock Ansell are up 15.8% from the week, changing hands for $40.40 apiece.

The ASX health and safety products company got a big boost on Monday after reporting its own FY 2026 earnings results.

Investors reacted positively to Ansell's record sales of US$2.14 billion, up 6.8% from FY 2025. Earnings grew strongly too, with Ansell reporting adjusted EBIT of US$322 million, up 14.1%.

And on the bottom line, the company reported a 15.8% year-on-year increase in adjusted NPAT to US$212 million.

Over the full year, Ansell paid 68.1 US cents per share in dividends, up 35.7% from the prior year's passive income payouts.

The post 3 ASX 200 stocks, including Paladin Energy, storming higher on earnings results this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Hundreds of S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) companies have announced their next dividends this month.

We're helping you keep track of ex-dividend dates with an article every Friday.

Here are the ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

We've listed the dividend amounts investors will receive and when they'll receive them.

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

ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week

The post 37 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After yesterday's rise kicked off the trading week on a positive note, investors built on that momentum today. The ASX 200 opened higher this morning and stayed in green territory all day, closing with a gain of 0.68%. That leaves the index at 9,164.6 points.

This terrific Tuesday for the local markets came after a mixed start to the American trading week on Wall Street overnight.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in an accommodating mood, rising 0.26%.

However, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) had a more Garfield-esque Monday, closing 0.76% lower.

Let's get back to the ASX now and take stock of how the different ASX sectors fared this session.

Winners and losers

Today's market rises were near-universal, with only two sectors missing out.

The first, and worst, of those sectors was energy stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) gave up an early lead to finish down 0.78% today.

The other red sector was real estate investment trusts (REITs), with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) sinking 0.16%.

Let's get to the happier sectors now. Leading the charge were tech shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) had a blowout, rocketing up 2.25%.

Consumer staples stocks ran hot as well, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)'s 2.11% surge.

Healthcare stocks were also popular. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) soared 1.4% higher this Tuesday.

Financial shares joined the party, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) shooting up 0.94%.

Consumer discretionary stocks were also at the festivities. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) galloped up 0.91% today.

Next came utilities shares, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)'s 0.59% jump.

Industrial stocks were right behind that. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) added 0.58% to its total this session.

Communications shares had a day to remember as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) advancing 0.4%.

Gold stocks didn't miss out. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) enjoyed a 0.34% lift today.

Finally, mining shares managed to find buyers, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ)'s 0.3% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Defence company Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS) was our top performer this Tuesday. Electro Optic shares exploded 23.02% higher today to close at $10.58 each.

This astonishing showing followed the company's latest earnings, which were obviously a delight for the market.

Here's how the other 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.

After a sour trading week last week, investors seem to have come back from the weekend with a little extra pep in the proverbial step, with the ASX 200 opening higher and staying in positive territory all day today. By the time the markets closed, the index had gained 0.49% to 9,103.1 points.

This happy start to the week's trading for the ASX followed a similarly buzzy end to the American trading week on Friday night (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in very fine form indeed, rising 0.98%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) wasn't quite as bubbly, but still gained 0.43%.

But let's return to this week and our local markets now for a closer look at what was happening amongst the various ASX sectors this session.

Winners and losers

Despite the market's rise this Monday, a few sectors still missed out on gains.

Leading those losers were consumer staples shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) was left out in the cold today, shrinking 0.95%.

Financial stocks also had a rough one, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) sinking 0.72%.

Utilities shares were shunned, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) slid 0.48% lower this session.

Our last losers were communications stocks, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 0.44% slip.

Turning to the green sectors now, it was mining shares that fronted the winners. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) roared 2.43% higher this Monday.

Gold stocks ran hot as well, with the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) soaring up 1.71%.

Tech shares also had a day to remember. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) enjoyed a 0.96% surge.

Healthcare stocks were in demand as well, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)'s 0.62% lift.

Energy shares were next. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) jumped 0.47% today.

Then came real estate investment trusts (REITs), with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) adding 0.12% to its total.

Industrial stocks managed a win. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) put on another 0.1% this session.

Finally, consumer discretionary shares got over the line, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ)'s 0.09% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Beating out some stiff competition to take out top spot on the index this Monday was tech stock Data#3 Ltd (ASX: DTL). Data#3 shares rocketed 17.85% higher today to finish at $11.09 each.

This huge gain followed the company releasing its latest earnings, which clearly had a lot going for them.

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.

What did Ansell report?

• Sales: US$2,140.2 million, up 6.8%; organic constant currency growth of 5.0%
• Adjusted EBIT: US$321.9 million, up 14.1%
• Adjusted NPAT: US$212.3 million, up 15.8%
• Adjusted EPS: US148.6¢, up 17.8%
• Operating cash flow: US$270.1 million, up 156.3%
• Full year dividend: US68.1¢ per share, up 35.7%; final dividend US41.5¢

What else do investors need to know?

Ansell continued its $200 million on-market share buyback, completing $118.4 million in FY26 and planning to continue the buyback in FY27. The company reported strong cash generation, boosting liquidity with $752 million of cash and undrawn facilities and reducing net debt to 1.3 times adjusted EBITDA.

Industrial and Healthcare divisions both saw higher sales and earnings. The Industrial segment benefited from mechanical glove innovation and recovery in major markets, while Healthcare sales were supported by cleanroom and surgical product demand.

Ansell navigated challenging tariff and supply issues, offsetting US tariffs and Middle East supply disruptions through sourcing moves and price rises. The Accelerated Productivity Investment Program (APIP) also hit its recurring $50 million annual savings target.

What did Ansell management say?

Ansell's CEO, Nathalie Ahlström, commented:

FY26 was a successful year for our company, with strong sales and earnings growth achieved against a backdrop of significant market challenges. Our ability to deliver on our performance commitments while navigating these challenges – including taking the necessary actions to offset the effects of higher tariffs in the US and the Middle East crisis – speaks to the strength of our customer relationships, the significant customer value of our safety solutions, and the resilience of our supply chain.

My initial months as CEO have shown me that Ansell is a company with strong foundations, and our FY26 financial results are a testament to this. My focus as we move forward will be to accelerate profitable growth and improve our customer centricity, through a program of commercial excellence to drive enhanced customer value, prioritising growth in strategic markets with the most profitable growth potential, and a series of operational excellence initiatives that will simplify our product and brand portfolios, our supply chain and our ways of working.

I am proud of the results we have achieved in FY26 and excited about the opportunity in front of us. My thanks go to the over 15,000 Ansell employees who helped deliver our strong performance in FY26 and warmly welcomed me into our company. I look forward to what we can achieve together in FY27 and beyond.

What's next for Ansell?

Looking ahead to FY27, Ansell is targeting adjusted EPS of US158¢ to US170¢, backed by expected constant currency sales growth from stronger volumes and recent pricing actions. The company aims to drive profitable expansion in key markets, with ongoing investment in commercial and operational excellence.

Key priorities include further productivity gains through IT upgrades, continuing the buyback program, and supporting higher dividends in line with ongoing strong cash generation. Management remains agile to adjust for tariff and geopolitical risks as conditions evolve.

Ansell share price snapshot

The Ansel share price has slightly underperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the past 12 months with a modest 1% gain.

View Original Announcement

The post Ansell FY26 earnings: Sales and profit surge boost outlook appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) lifted 0.28% amid a US-Iran interim peace deal and oil prices dropping to pre-war levels.

The ASX 200 finished the week at 8,828.7 points.

It's potentially significant that healthcare was out in front last week given the sector's poor performance over the past 12 months.

The S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) is down 39% over 12 months and down 25% in the calendar year to date.

The healthcare index hit a 9-year low of 21,947.2 points on 3 June.

Samy Sriram, a market analyst at online investment platform, Stake, says healthcare companies have had many headwinds.

They include currency challenges for those reporting in US dollars; three interest rate rises in Australia; cost of living pressures; higher shipping costs; new caps on insurance payouts in some nations; higher labour costs; and regulatory uncertainty in the US.

However, markets are cyclical. At some point in a downturn, share prices fall to levels that offer too much value to ignore, and investors dive back in.

Does 3 June represent that pivot point?

ASX 200 healthcare shares have increased 13% since 3 June compared to just a 0.49% bump for the broader benchmark index.

Let's review some individual company performances last week.

Healthcare shares led the ASX sectors last week

The CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) share price ascended 8.19% to close at $116.32 on Friday.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG) shares rose 4.55% to $2.76 apiece.

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd (ASX: FPH) shares dropped 2.17% to $31.53.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) shares lifted 5.37% to $172.80.

Resmed CDI (ASX: RMD) shares fell 3.75% to $26.68.

Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL) shares eased 0.74% to $20.05.

The Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC) share price lifted 1.73% to $39.49.

The Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) share price shot 13.87% higher to $118.14.

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) shares increased 6.62% to $14.50.

The Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN) share price rose 2.46% to $29.99.

The EBOS Group Ltd ASX: EBO) share price fell 3.87% to $16.91.

Mesoblast Ltd (ASX: MSB) shares ripped 9.23% to $2.13 apiece.

Megastar ASX 200 healthcare share, 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX), rocketed 23.37% to $4.54.

4DMedical shares are up 1,716% over 12 months.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

Here's how the 11 market sectors stacked up last week, according to CommSec data.

Over the five trading days:

The post Healthcare shares led the ASX 200 last week. Is a sector comeback underway? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The US and Iran launched missile strikes against each other in the Strait of Hormuz overnight as the US tried to restore shipping.

Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) raised interest rates for a third consecutive time to 4.35% today due to rising inflation.

In a statement, the RBA said:

Inflation picked up materially in the second half of 2025, and information since the beginning of this year confirms that some of this increase reflected greater capacity pressures.

In addition, the conflict in the Middle East has resulted in sharply higher fuel and related commodity prices, which are already adding to inflation.

There are early signs that many firms experiencing cost pressures are looking to increase prices of their goods and services.

The Brent crude oil price hit a four-year high earlier today as the market becomes increasingly pessimistic that the war will end soon.

Economists are warning that oil shocks have a long-tail economic impact, and the RBA appears acutely aware of the upside risk to CPI.

Today, four of the 11 market sectors finished in the red, with energy in the lead, up 0.89%, while financials lagged, down 0.5%.

Scores of ASX 200 shares hit fresh 52-week lows today.

They included former market darling CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) and retail stalwart Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) shares.

Let's take a look.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

The CSL share price hit a 9-year low of $122.48 today.

The ASX 200 healthcare giant has lost half its value over the past 12 months.

Company issues have compounded the impact of a broader ASX 200 healthcare sector rout due to many global headwinds.

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

The Wesfarmers share price reached a 52-week low of $71.31 today.

The market's largest ASX 200 consumer discretionary share is down 9% over 12 months.

Consumer sentiment is crumbling in Australia today.

Last month, the consumer sentiment index recorded its biggest fall since the beginning of the pandemic five years ago.

Amcor Ltd (ASX: AMC)

The Amcor share price hit a 12-year low of $51.42 today, and is down 28% over 12 months.

Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV)

The Endeavour share price fell to a record low of $3.13 today, and is down 22% over 12 months.

Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN)

The Harvey Norman share price hit a 52-week low of $4.39 today.

Stock in the ASX 200 furniture retailer has tumbled 15% over 12 months.

Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN)

The Ansell share price dropped to a 2-year low of $25.35 today, and is down 18% over 12 months.

Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL)

The Super Retail share price hit a 3-year low of $11.47 on Tuesday, and is down 12% over 12 months.

Austal Ltd (ASX: ASB)

Austal shares fell to a 52-week low of $4.01 today.

The ASX 200 industrial share has fallen 21% over 12 months.

ARB Corporation Ltd (ASX: ARB)

The ARB Corporation share price hit a 52-week low of $17.89 today, and is down 43% over 12 months.

Nick Scali Ltd (ASX: NCK)

The Nick Scali share price hit a 52-week low of $14.03, and has cooled 18% over 12 months.

Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW)

The Temple & Webster share price hit a 2-and-a-half-year low of $5.29 today.

This ASX 200 retail share has lost 69% of its market capitalisation in 12 months.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

The Inghams share price descended to a 52-week low of $1.71 today.

The ASX 200 consumer staples share has fallen 51% over 12 months.

Centuria Office REIT (ASX: COF)

Centuria shares dipped to a 52-week low of 92 cents today.

The ASX 200 real estate investment trust (REIT) has decreased 26% over 12 months.

Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1)

Accent shares hit a 13-year low of 51 cents, and are down 72% over 12 months.

Adairs Ltd (ASX: ADH)

The Adairs share price hit a 52-week low of $1.25, and is down 51% over 12 months.

The post CSL and Wesfarmers among scores of ASX shares hitting fresh 52-week lows appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This makes healthcare the worst performer of the 11 market sectors over the past 12 months.

It's even worse than technology, which is down 26% on fears that artificial intelligence (AI) is an existential threat to the sector.

However, while technology is turning around, healthcare remains in the doldrums.

The S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) hit a six-year low of 25,193 points today.

What's going on?

Expert explains multiple headwinds hitting healthcare

Samy Sriram, a market analyst at online investment platform, Stake, says there are multiple reasons for healthcare's downward spiral.

First of all, there are currency headwinds and the likelihood of further interest rate rises in Australia.

Sriram said:

A weaker US dollar is eroding the offshore profits of giants like CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), which accounts for 45% of the index.

At the same time, the RBA's decision to keep interest rates high to fight inflation is weighing heavily on the valuations of growth stocks like Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME).

The Australian dollar is currently at a four-year high of 71.3 US cents, up 12% over 12 months.

Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank has already raised interest rates twice this year, and the market is pricing in a 76% chance of another hike next Tuesday.

Cost-of-living pressures force patients to compromise

Sriram also says cost-of-living pressures are impacting healthcare companies, not only in Australia, but also overseas.

She commented:

… persistent cost of living pressures in the US are alarmingly turning some medical procedures into optional expenses.

We've seen this with Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH), an Australian company that manufactures and supplies hearing aids.

Their shares tumbled 35% due to patients deferring implants.

Last week, Cochlear downgraded its FY26 earnings guidance substantially.

The company now expects an FY26 underlying net profit of $290 million to $300 million, down from $435 million to $460 million.

Management commented:

Consumer sentiment has declined in key markets, reaching historic lows in the US.

The decline appears to be affecting discretionary healthcare decisions in the adults and seniors segment, adding to demand uncertainty in the near term.  

In Australia, consumer sentiment experienced its biggest fall in five years this month.

Iran war's impact on healthcare

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned of a global recession as the fuel crisis drags on, with no end to the war in sight.

A recession would further erode consumer confidence due to inevitable job losses.

For now, Sriram said the war in Iran was hitting healthcare through higher shipping costs.

She commented:

With hospital operators like Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC) already being squeezed by rising staff wages and capped insurance payouts, geopolitical volatility is putting extra strain on the books, despite having a turnaround in 2026.

(Ramsay Health Care shares hit an 18-month high of $44.73 in March. The ASX 200 healthcare share is up 21% over six months.)

Cochlear also discussed shipping issues and capped insurance payouts last week.

Cochlear said it expects "order cancellations and a heightened risk of delivery delays to some countries" due to instability in the Middle East, and that lower reimbursements to patients in China "will lower premium tier sales in China in the second half".

FDA uncertainty under Trump

Biotech investors are also growing wary of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Trump administration.

Leadership upheaval at the FDA, along with conflicting signals on approval standards across different categories of foods and medicines, has created uncertainty over how, and whether, new drugs and products will reach the market.

Earlier this month, a rare diseases advocacy group wrote to President Donald Trump and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., citing reduced flexibility at the FDA and a large proportion of biotech firms reporting difficulty raising funding.

Meanwhile, Secretary Kennedy has openly promoted vaccine scepticism and disputed scientific claims amid a global trend in fewer people seeking vaccinations, possibly as a reaction to mandatory programs and COVID-vaccine injuries during the pandemic.

At CSL's 2025 AGM, former CSL CEO Dr Paul McKenzie commented: "… we have seen a greater decline in influenza vaccination rates in the U.S. than we expected."

Last week, The Australian reported that the US military has now scrapped its annual flu shot requirement for service members.

Foolish Takeaway

All of these factors are hitting the healthcare sector hard, and sending many ASX 200 healthcare shares to multi-year low prices.

Here's how the top 10 ASX 200 healthcare shares by market capitalisation have performed over the past 12 months.

The post What's making healthcare the worst sector on the ASX 200, down 39% in a year? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The Australian share market has seen widespread selling across most sectors and weak investor sentiment. The ASX 200 is also reacting to a mixed start in US sharemarkets this week.

The softer market has also seen some ASX 200 shares fall to fresh 52-week lows.

Here are four of them.

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd (ASX: FPH)

Fisher & Paykel shares are down another 0.24% this morning to a new 52-week low of $29.18 a piece. The slump means the respiratory designer and manufacturer's share price is now 10% lower year to date and 9% lower than this time last year. There hasn't been any price-sensitive news out of the company recently to explain the decline, so it's most likely the result of a continued sector-wide sell-off of ASX healthcare shares. TradingView data suggests brokers are still bullish for the ASX 200 company's shares, with the majority holding a buy or strong buy rating on the stock. Brokers tip an average 20% upside to $34.86 over the next 12 months.

Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN)

Ansell is another ASX 200 healthcare company that makes gloves and other personal protection equipment. Its shares have also been caught up in the widespread ASX healthcare sell-off. At the time of writing, Ansell shares are down 1.06% to $26.24 a piece, marking a 22-month low. Again, brokers are bullish about the outlook for the ASX 200 company's shares. Out of 12 analysts, seven have a hold rating and 5 rate the shares a buy or strong buy. Brokers tip an average 34% upside to $35.18 over the next 12 months. Some think the shares can rocket even further. The maximum $40.45 target price implies a potential 54% upside at the time of writing.

Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN)

Harvey Norman shares have hit a fresh 52-week low of $4.47 in Tuesday morning trade. The share price has now crashed 36% for the year to date after the sell-off accelerated in late February. The ASX 200 retail giant has faced strong headwinds over the past year on the back of renewed concerns about rising inflation and how it could impact consumer spending. Tighter household budgets mean Australians are spending less on discretionary items this year. At the same time, after a strong rally in mid-late 2025, it looks like investors quickly took their profits off the table in early 2026. TradingView data shows that analysts are relatively divided about the outlook for the shares, with several neutral ratings, but they mostly agree that the shares are now trading below fair value. The average target price on the ASX 200 retail shares is $5.76, which implies another 29% upside at the time of writing. 

Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS)

Metcash shares have tumbled another 1.42% in morning trade to a new 52-week low of $2.78 a piece. It also represents the lowest point the shares have fallen to in nearly six years. The IGA network owner's shares have come under pressure following an underwhelming FY26 half-year result in December last year. It continues to face headwinds amid a tough retail environment and dwindling demand in its tobacco and liquor businesses. Analysts are mostly neutral on the outlook for the shares, but they do all agree that there will be some level of upside ahead. The average target price of $3.44 implies a potential 23% upside over the next 12 months, at the time of writing. 

The post These 4 ASX 200 shares have slumped to fresh 52-week lows: Buy, sell or hold? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX All Ords shares have risen 1.7% over the week as more companies revealed strong earnings results and dividends.

Next week, a large group of ASX shares go ex-dividend. We provide a sample of these stocks below.

To pick up a dividend payment, you must own the share before the ex-dividend date.

ASX shares about to go ex-dividend

Here are 16 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

Which companies are reporting next week?

According to the calendar, we will hear from Adairs Ltd (ASX: ADH), Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD), and Nib Holdings Ltd (ASX: NHF) on Monday.

On Tuesday, ARB Corporation Ltd (ASX: ARB), Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS), and Monadelphous Group Ltd (ASX: MND) are up.

On Wednesday, we'll get reports from Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP), Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP), and Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG).

Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW), Wisetech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), and Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) will also report on Wednesday.

On Thursday, Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR), Monash IVF Group Ltd (ASX: MVF), and Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN) will release their earnings.

Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC), Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL), and Worley Ltd (ASX: WOR) will also be in the spotlight.

On Friday, we'll see reports from Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SGR), and TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPG).

The post 16 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Ansell report?

• Total sales rose to US$1,026.6 million, up 0.7% on a reported basis
• EBIT (before significant items) increased to US$146.9 million, up 15.3%
• Adjusted EPS climbed 19% to US66.3¢
• Operating cash flow surged 71.8% to US$91.9 million
• Interim dividend of US26.60¢ declared, up 19.8%, with a 40% payout ratio
• Net Debt/EBITDA fell to 1.5x following share buybacks worth US$47 million

What else do investors need to know?

Ansell managed to offset the effects of higher US tariffs through price increases, especially in its industrial segment, helping maintain profit margins despite subdued trading conditions globally. Both its Industrial and Healthcare divisions delivered improved EBIT margins, thanks to increased synergies from its KBU acquisition and ongoing productivity programs.

The Accelerated Productivity Investment Program (APIP) reached its $50 million annual savings target, with cost-saving measures now shifting to IT upgrades and a system roll-out starting in North America. Ansell also resumed its on-market share buyback, with $47.2 million of shares repurchased in the half, supporting returns to shareholders.

What did Ansell management say?

Retiring Managing Director and CEO Neil Salmon said:

We delivered a strong set of first half results in what were subdued market conditions. Key investments made in recent years contributed to double-digit growth in earnings and a significant improvement in our EBIT margin, including higher synergies from the acquired KBU business and increased savings from our Accelerated Productivity Investment Program (APIP), which has now achieved its savings target of $50m… As we enter the second half, while we do not anticipate any meaningful improvement in market conditions, we continue to see growth opportunities in verticals and geographies favoured by increased public and private investment, enabled by our unmatched global presence and end-user focused sales approach. Based on this outlook, we are maintaining our guidance range for FY26 Adjusted EPS of US137¢ to US149¢.

What's next for Ansell?

Looking ahead, Ansell expects organic constant currency sales growth in the second half, with market conditions likely to remain steady. The company is maintaining its FY26 adjusted EPS guidance between US137¢ and US149¢ and plans further investment in manufacturing and IT systems to support future growth.

Earnings momentum from the first half is expected to continue, backed by ongoing productivity improvements, KBU synergies, and a strong balance sheet. The company highlighted its focus on seizing growth opportunities in key global markets while delivering shareholder returns through dividends and buybacks.

Ansell share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ansell hares have declined 13%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 4% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Ansell shares: earnings jump and dividend rises in FY26 half-year appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But that's not to say they believe there isn't money to be made, with bullish price targets on a number of stocks.

Doing it tough

The RBC team said broadly regarding the sector:

We are expecting a somewhat difficult reporting season for our covered Australian healthcare companies with most results either coming in line with consensus expectations or disappointing. We have a similarly challenging view for the remainder of 2026 with our covered companies likely affected by new management teams 'kitchen sinking' guidance, cost pressures impacting margins, and competitive threats constraining revenue growth.

RBC said they were flagging "potential result misses" from Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH), Regis Healthcare Ltd (ASX: REG), Nanosonics Ltd (ASX: NAN), Australian Clinical Labs Ltd (ASX: ACL), Monash IVF Ltd (ASX: MVF), and a beat from CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL).

They went on to say:

In this context, we favour stocks with strong near-term earnings outlooks that can hold their current valuation multiples and obtain share price appreciation through earnings growth.

These companies included CSL, ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD), Cochlear, Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN), and Integral Diagnostics Ltd (ASX: IDX).

Price targets looking attractive

Drilling down further into the companies expected to experience share price gains, RBC said they believed ResMed would deliver a "solid" result, with double-digit revenue and net profit growth.

RBC has a price target on ResMed of US$311 for its US-listed stock compared with $US257.58 currently, which would be a 20.7% gain if achieved.

For CSL, RBC expects "a better-than-expected result with revenue and gross profit exceeding consensus forecasts''.

RBC has a price target of $230 on CSL shares compared with $178.21 currently.

For Cochlear, the RBC team believe the hearing device company could miss consensus forecasts, but still has a bullish price target on the stock of $325 compared with $268.93 currently.

Regarding Ansell, RBC forecasts "a soft operational result with revenue and gross profit missing consensus expectations, but better cost management enabling an EBIT and NPAT beat''.

RBC has a price target of $41 on Ansell shares compared with $33.75 currently.

For Integral Diagnostics, RBC "forecast IDX's 1H26 revenue being in line with consensus, however earnings coming in below expectations''.

Despite this they have a bullish share price target of $3.50, compared with $2.59 currently.

The post What are the healthcare stocks where RBC Capital Markets thinks you can make money? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The typically small dividend paid by healthcare shares offset this only slightly, with the sector's total returning negative 23.66%.

By comparison, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) rose 6.8% and delivered total returns of 10.32%.

The sector was dragged lower by a significant share price fall for its largest company by market cap, CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL).

The declining share price of the third largest company, Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME), after a stellar run, also played a part.

The sector's deterioration in 2025 can be seen in the comparatively tepid share price lifts of the top three stocks of the year.

Let's take a look.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

The Neuren Pharmaceuticals share price leapt 49% to finish the year at $18.61.

For 1H FY25, the ASX 200 biotech reported revenue of $39.7 million, up 24%, and a net profit of $15 million, up 88%.

Neuren develops drug therapies to treat multiple serious neurological disorders with no or limited approved treatment options.

Its first approved drug, DAYBUE (trofinetide), for the treatment of Rett syndrome, was released to the market in April 2023.

Last month, the company got approval from US regulators for DAYBUE STIX.

DAYBUE STIX is a powder formulation of trofinetide for the treatment of Rett syndrome in adult and paediatric patients.

Yesterday, Neuren Pharmaceuticals informed investors that global sales could reach about US$700 million by 2028.

This would be a huge increase on the company's 2025 sales guidance of US$400 million.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals will report its full-year results on 25 February.

Sigma Healthcare (ASX: SIG)

The Sigma Healthcare share price rose 12% to finish the year at $2.94.

The ASX 200 large-cap healthcare share rode a wave of positivity last year after completing the Chemist Warehouse merger in February.

For FY25, Sigma Healthcare reported normalised revenue of $6 billion, up 82.2%.

It also reported a normalised net profit of $579.1 million, up 40.1%.

Sigma Healthcare will report its 1H FY26 results on 26 February.

Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN)

The Ansell share price lifted just 4% to close at $35.01 on 31 December.

For FY25, Ansell reported a 23.7% lift in reported sales to $2 billion, It also reported a 44.3% increase in EBIT to $282 million.

The results included the impact of its $635 million acquisition of Kimberly-Clark Corporation's PPE business (KBU) on 1 July 2024.

Ansell raised its prices last year to fully offset the cost impact of the new US tariffs.

Ansell will report its 1H FY26 results on 16 February.

The post Top 3 ASX 200 healthcare shares in 2025 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the ASX 200 healthcare stock is down 7.03% to $33.09, marking its lowest level since late October. The pullback extends a softer run for the stock, with Ansell shares now down around 8% over the past month.

While the sell-off follows a CEO transition update, investors are now assessing whether the sharp drop has left the stock oversold.

Let's take a closer look.

CEO transition triggers short-term selling

Ansell announced that long-serving CEO Neil Salmon will retire, with Nathalie Ahlstrom appointed as his successor. The transition will formally take place in February, following a short handover period.

Mr Salmon has spent more than 13 years at the company, including several years as CEO, overseeing significant operational improvements and major acquisitions. Any leadership change at a $5 billion company can create uncertainty in the short term, which likely explains part of today's market reaction.

Importantly, the board framed the move as an orderly succession, with Mr Salmon remaining involved as a senior adviser until mid-2026.

While this update may have unsettled some investors, it does not materially change Ansell's underlying business outlook.

The share price is flashing oversold signals

From a technical perspective, Ansell shares are beginning to look stretched on the downside.

The stock's relative strength index (RSI) has slipped into oversold territory, suggesting selling pressure may be close to exhaustion. At the same time, the share price has pushed below the lower Bollinger Band, a signal that often appears during short-term capitulation moves.

Adding to that, the current price level lines up with a key support zone that has held on several occasions over the past year. Historically, Ansell shares have attracted buyers when trading near this region.

Taken together, these indicators suggest the recent decline may be more about sentiment than fundamentals.

A high-quality defensive business

Ansell remains a global leader in personal protective equipment, supplying healthcare and industrial customers across more than 100 countries. The company benefits from long-term structural demand, strong brand positioning, and exposure to defensive end markets.

At current levels, Ansell is trading well below its recent highs, despite no deterioration in balance sheet strength or long-term growth drivers. The stock also offers a dividend yield of around 2.3%, providing some income support while investors wait for sentiment to stabilise.

Should investors consider buying the dip?

While short-term volatility may persist, the latest pullback appears to have pushed Ansell shares into oversold territory.

For long-term investors, this weakness could present an attractive entry point into a high-quality ASX healthcare name with defensive characteristics.

As always, a patient, long-term mindset could prove a winning strategy from here.

The post Ansell shares tumble to a 3-month low. Is this a buying opportunity? 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:

Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN)

The Ansell share price is down over 6% to $33.28. Investors have been selling this health and safety products company's shares after it announced the exit of its CEO. Ansell revealed that Neil Salmon has decided to retire after 13 years with the company. Replacing Salmon will be Nathalie Ahlstrom, who brings strong global experience having served until recently as CEO and President of the Fiskars Group. Commenting on the appointment, Ansell's chair, Nigel Garrard, said: "We are delighted to appoint Nathalie as Ansell's next Managing Director and CEO. Nathalie brings exceptional leadership experience, a track record of delivering results in complex global markets, and a deep understanding of innovation and operational excellence."

Elsight Ltd (ASX: ELS)

The Elsight share price is down almost 3% to $3.48. This morning, this global provider of resilient connectivity solutions for unmanned systems announced a new contract win with a U.S.-based commercial customer in the public safety sector. However, the value of the contract is only US$460,000 (A$682,000). Though, Elsight's CEO, Yoav Amitai, believes it is a positive signal. He said: "We see this as an early indicator of accelerating commercial momentum driven by regulatory progress in parallel to the continued growth in the defence market."

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS)

The Ramelius Resources share price is down almost 3% to $4.14. This follows the release of a quarterly update from the gold miner. Ramelius reported gold production of 45,610 ounces for the three months. This was down 17% from 55,013 ounces in the previous quarter. The company also posted underlying free cash flow of $67 million for the three months, which was down from $129 million in the first quarter. Management believes it is positioned to meet its FY 2026 guidance of 185,000 ounces to 205,000 ounces.

SGH Ltd (ASX: SGH)

The SGH share price is down 2% to $48.01. This has been driven by news that BlueScope Steel Ltd (ASX: BSL) has rejected its takeover proposal. The company's chair, Jane McAloon, said: "Let me be clear – this proposal was an attempt to take BlueScope from its shareholders on the cheap. It drastically undervalued our world-class assets, our growth momentum, and our future – and the Board will not let that happen. This is the fourth time we've said no, and the answer remained the same – BlueScope is worth considerably more than what was on the table."

The post Why Ansell, Elsight, Ramelius, and SGH shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shares in the health and safety products company closed yesterday trading for $35.58. In morning trade on Thursday, shares are swapping hands for $34 apiece, down 4%. That gives Ansell a market cap of just under $4.9 billion.

For some context, the ASX 200 is up 0.1% at this same time.

Today's underperformance of Anell shares looks to be driven by news of a top leadership changeover.

Here's what's happening.

ASX 200 healthcare stock under new leadership

Before market open today, Ansell announced that Neil Salmon has decided to retire from his role as managing director and CEO.

Salmon has been with the company for 13 years and has served as CEO since 2021.

The ASX 200 healthcare stock reported that Nathalie Ahlstrom will succeed Salmon as CEO and managing director. She will join Ansell on 26 January for a transition period, before taking over the reins on 16 February.

Salmon will then continue as a special advisor to the board and to Ahlstrom until 30 June, helping to provide a smooth transition.

The Ansell board noted that Ahlstrom brings strong global experience. Until recently, she served as CEO and president of the Fiskars Group, with the board expressing confidence that she is the right leader to steer Ansell through its "next chapter of innovation and growth".

Ahlstrom will be based out of Ansell's Brussels hub in Belgium.

What did management say?

Commenting on the CEO transition that's throwing up headwinds for the ASX 200 healthcare stock today, Ansell chair Nigel Garrard said, "We are delighted to appoint Nathalie as Ansell's next managing director and CEO."

Garrard continued:

Nathalie brings exceptional leadership experience, a track record of delivering results in complex global markets, and a deep understanding of innovation and operational excellence. These qualities, combined with her strategic vision, will help ensure that Ansell continues to strengthen its market position and deliver long-term value for our stakeholders.

Addressing the outgoing CEO, Garrard said, "Neil has played a pivotal role over his 13 years with Ansell and, as CEO, in creating the foundations of the company's recent success."

Garrard added, "Results can be seen in strong organic growth in difficult market conditions, improved productivity and success implementing the company's long term sustainability strategy."

"Ansell is a wonderful organisation to lead," outgoing CEO Salmon said.

Salmon concluded:

It has been very rewarding to see the company flourish and deliver on our ambitious goals during my time as CEO…

As I prepare to conclude my executive career, I look forward to supporting a smooth transition and to assist Nathalie in any way I can.

With today's intraday fall in the Ansell share price factored in, shares in the ASX 200 healthcare stock are up 0.8% over 12 months, and up 11.5% over the past six months.

The post $5 billion ASX 200 healthcare stock tumbling on CEO exit appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Ansell report?

• CEO Neil Salmon to retire after 13 years, including since 2021 as Managing Director and CEO
• Nathalie Ahlström, former President and CEO of Fiskars Group, appointed as next CEO
• Salmon to continue as Special Advisor until 30 June 2026 for a smooth transition
• Board credits Salmon with strong organic growth, productivity, and successful integration of major acquisitions
• Ahlström to start transition on 26 January 2026, becoming CEO on 16 February 2026

What else do investors need to know?

Ansell's leadership handover comes after several years of operational improvements, including the integration of the Kimberly-Clark PPE business—the company's largest acquisition. The Board has sought to maintain continuity, with Mr. Salmon staying on as Special Advisor during the changeover.

Nathalie Ahlström brings experience from global roles at Fiskars, Fazer Group, and Amcor, and her appointment signals a drive to further innovation and international market reach. Her employment terms include both short and long-term incentives tied to performance, reflecting Ansell's ongoing commitment to shareholder value.

What did Ansell management say?

Chair Nigel Garrard said:

We are delighted to appoint Nathalie as Ansell's next Managing Director and CEO. Nathalie brings exceptional leadership experience, a track record of delivering results in complex global markets, and a deep understanding of innovation and operational excellence. These qualities, combined with her strategic vision, will help ensure that Ansell continues to strengthen its market position and deliver long-term value for our stakeholders.

What's next for Ansell?

The incoming CEO will lead Ansell into its next stage of growth, with a focus on innovation, operational excellence, and reinforcing global market leadership in personal protective equipment. The Board expects a seamless transition under Ahlström's guidance, building on the foundations established under Neil Salmon's tenure.

Investors can anticipate Ansell continuing to develop new products, pursue sustainable sourcing and manufacturing, and target further opportunities for both organic growth and acquisitions.

Ansell share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ansell shares have risen 5%, running slightly ahead of the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has climbed 4% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Ansell announces CEO transition: Nathalie Ahlström to succeed Neil Salmon in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

You've come to the right place!

Below, we look at two stocks analysts expect to be well-placed to outperform in the year ahead (courtesy of The Bull).

A compelling buy-the-dip opportunity

The first ASX 200 share tipped as a buy is SGH Ltd (ASX: SGH), also known as Seven Group Holdings.

SGH shares are up 0.4% in early afternoon trade today, changing hands for $46.26. That sees the share price up a modest 1.6% over 12 months. SGH stock also trades on a fully franked 1.3% trailing dividend yield.

And with the share price down 11% since 11 August, DP Wealth Advisory's Andrew Wielandt believes SGH shares are now trading for a bargain.

"This diversified company focuses on industrial services and energy," Wielandt said.

He noted:

Businesses include WesTrac, Coates and Boral, along with significant exposures to Beach Energy and Seven West Media. WesTrac is the sole authorised Caterpillar dealer in Western Australia, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.

Commenting on the growth outlook for the ASX 200 stock, Wielandt said, "We expect the Caterpillar dealerships to benefit from strong expected demand in the resources sector. SGH should also benefit from equipment hire."

And with the SGH share price still well down since August, now could be an opportune time to wade in and buy the dip.

Wielandt concluded:

Fiscal year 2026 guidance fell short of market expectations. Share price weakness provides a buying opportunity. The shares have fallen from $51.86 on August 11, the day prior to reporting full year 2025 results, to trade at $44.72 on December 11.

Which brings us to…

ASX 200 share offers attractive re-rating potential

The second stock you may wish to add to your Christmas list is Ansell Limited (ASX: ANN).

Shares in the health and safety products company are up 0.2% at the time of writing, trading for $36.06 each. Ansell shares have increased by 9.5% over the past 12 months. The ASX 200 share also trades on a 2.1% unfranked trailing dividend yield.

Looking ahead, EnviroInvest's Elio D'Amato sees further strong growth potential.

"Ansell makes personal protection equipment for healthcare and industrial workplaces," said D'Amato, who has a buy recommendation on Ansell shares.

According to D'Amato:

Organic sales growth, efficiency gains and favourable foreign exchange movements supported upgraded earnings per share guidance to between $US1.37 and $US1.49 in fiscal year 2026.

The balance sheet remains sound, and margin momentum is improving across its healthcare and industrial divisions.

And the ASX 200 share should appeal to ESG investors as well.

D'Amato noted:

Environmentally, ANN benefits from tightening global sustainability standards in personal protective equipment procurement and ongoing investment in cleaner manufacturing processes. ANN intends to be net zero, including scope 3 emissions, by 2045.

Connecting the dots, D'Amato concluded, "ANN offers defensive earnings, improving cash flow prospects and attractive re-rating potential."

The post Analysts name 2 top ASX 200 shares to buy today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN)

The Ansell share price is up 5.5% to $36.20. This follows the release of a trading update from the health and safety products company before its annual general meeting. Management said: "Our first quarter results tracked well versus expected pace on solid sales, including in our US business, and improved margins from favourable FX, lower freight costs, KBU synergy delivery, and continued manufacturing productivity gains." In light of this, the company has upgraded its earnings guidance for FY 2026. It now expects FY 2026 adjusted earnings per share of 137 US cents to 149 US cents (from 133 US cents to 145 US cents).

Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE)

The Boss Energy share price is up over 16% to $1.85. This has been driven by a couple of pieces of news. The first is the release of the uranium producer's quarterly update. The heavily shorted company reported record quarterly production of 385,910 lbs of U3O8 drummed. This is up 11% from the June quarter. Also getting investors excited is news that the United States has pledged more than US$80 billion to purchase nuclear reactors. This marks the country's biggest push to expand its nuclear power generation in decades.

Cedar Woods Properties Ltd (ASX: CWP)

The Cedar Woods share price is up 8% to $8.70. Investors have been buying this property developer's shares following the release of another strong quarterly update. Cedar Woods reported record presales of more than $763 million for the first quarter. This represents a 36% increase over the same quarter last year. It is also a 16% rise from the June quarter. In light of this strong start to the financial year, management has upgraded its guidance for the full year. It now expects its bottom line to grow by 15% (from 10% previously).

Nick Scali Limited (ASX: NCK)

The Nick Scali share price is up 11% to $24.99. This morning, this furniture retailer released a first quarter update and revealed a 10.7% increase in same store sales. Managing director, Anthony Scali, said: "We expect sales revenue for the first half FY26 to be 7-9% more than the previous year. As a result of the anticipated revenue growth in Australia and New Zealand, the Australia and New Zealand statutory net profit after tax for the first half FY26 will be in the range of $39-40 million, compared to $34 million in the prior corresponding period."

The post Why Ansell, Boss Energy, Cedar Woods, and Nick Scali shares are charging higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the Ansell share price is up 6% to $36.48, with the market reacting strongly after the company raised its guidance.

Trading update

Management now expects FY26 adjusted earnings per share of US$1.37 to US$1.49, up from the previously provided range of US$1.33 to US$1.45.

The upgrade follows a solid start to the financial year for Ansell, with management reporting sales and margins tracking ahead of plan, buoyed by favourable foreign-exchange trends, lower freight costs, synergy gains from its Kimberly-Clark PPE business acquisition, and ongoing manufacturing productivity improvements

Whilst US tariffs have been a hot topic this year, Ansell has found ways to manage this shift by increasing its prices and reducing its sourcing from China, which faces higher US tariffs. Management's goal is to fully offset the impact of the tariffs through a range of measures designed to protect the bottom line.

Ansell also reported solid productivity gains as its Accelerated Productivity Investment Program (APIP) continues to deliver results. The program has generated $47 million in cost savings so far in FY25, and management is targeting $50 million in cost savings for FY26. The company is also investing in a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to streamline operations and unlock digital efficiencies.

The integration of Kimberly-Clark's PPE business (KBU) (Ansell's largest-ever acquisition) was completed ahead of schedule, achieving $5 million in cost synergies and prompting a lift in its FY27 synergy target from $10 million to $15 million.

Ansell also reaffirmed its $200 million on-market share buyback, with $29 million completed so far this year to date.

Foolish bottom line

After a few years of losing ground following the COVID pandemic hype, Ansell is a business that is finally finding its footing. Favourable exchange rates may have contributed to this positive trading update, but this is more than just luck.

The company is creating its own luck through disciplined price increases and operational efficiency gains. With tariff risks under control, synergies running ahead of plan, and earnings guidance upgraded, Ansell's 6% share price jump is earned.

Ansell shares are now up 30% from their tariffs-related lows from earlier this year, and investor confidence is growing once again. It looks like full steam ahead for Ansell.

The post Ansell shares surge 6% on AGM and trading update appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.