That might not be much of a surprise, as the results were fairly unremarkable: revenue grew just 3.3% for the half compared with the same period the previous year, and underlying net profit was 1.3% higher at $59.7 million.

In the 4WD accessories and trailering division, revenue was up 5.5% to $189.6 million, while underlying EBITDA fell 15.2% to $26.2 million.

The lighting, power and electrical division grew its profit by 9.4% to $37.1 million, while the powertrain and undercar division grew earnings by 6.7% to $39.9 million.

Where to from here?

On the all-important outlook, the company said its guidance was unchanged, with group revenue growth expected – albeit no specific figure given – and underlying EBITA of about $195 million, "in what is likely to remain a challenging environment''.

So what did the analysts think of the result? We've had a look at three research notes published since the results were announced, and they're quietly confident that Amotiv shares will perform well over the next 12 months.

Firstly, UBS, which has a price target of $11.40 on the stock, upgraded from $11 following the results release.

UBS said it was a credible result, and "better than feared" given the challenging consumer environment and cost inflation.

They added:

New contract wins and geographic diversification, along with solid cost control (Amotiv Unified program) helped offset some 1H26 headwinds. Looking to 2H26, pricing increases and further cost benefits should help offset potentially more challenging conditions in 4WD. We see risk of further deterioration within new car sales (especially on further interest rate increases), which we have partly factored in.

They noted that management was also targeting a $5 million cost reduction program.

On the current share price, which was $7.62 at the time of writing this article, they said, "we continue to see valuation as undemanding''.

Over at Morgans, the analyst team has downgraded Amotiv from a buy rating to accumulate, noting that their profit report was in line with expectations.

They added:

Whilst we view the valuation as undemanding (about 9.5x PE), we see limited near-term catalysts for the stock to re-rate and expect patience will be required as offshore investments are realised.   

Morgans has a price target of $9.15 on the stock.

And finally, over at Macquarie, the team there has a bullish share price target of $11.90 on Amotiv shares.

They said the result was "solid despite soft new vehicle sales, which had created downside risk concerns in the market''.

They said they saw several tailwinds, especially out to FY27, "including further successful execution of the offshore growth strategy''.

The post Are Amotiv shares a buy, hold or sell following the company's half-year results? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

While the numbers show steady progress, the market response indicates investors expected a better result.

The Amotiv share price is now down around 6% so far this year, with today's result largely in line with expectations.

Let's dive right in.

A steady result, but no fireworks

For the six months ended 31 December 2025, Amotiv reported higher revenue and profit compared to the same period last year.

Group revenue came in at just over $520 million, supported by solid demand across several parts of the business and contributions from recent acquisitions. Operating profit also increased, while net profit attributable to shareholders rose to around $46 million.

On the surface, it looks like a healthy result. However, once one-off items and acquisition-related costs are stripped out, the underlying profit growth was modest.

Margins still under pressure

A key takeaway from the update was that margins remain under pressure.

Amotiv continues to face higher costs across its supply chain, while pricing increases have yet to fully flow through. Some overseas operations run at lower margins than the core Australian business, which diluted overall profitability during the half.

The company also booked a small provision linked to a customer in the recreational vehicle segment. While not material for the group, it is a reminder that some parts of the market are still struggling.

Management said it is working through pricing actions and cost controls, which should help improve margins in the second half.

Balance sheet and cash flow remain solid

A key positive from the result is Amotiv's cash generation.

The company delivered strong operating cash flow during the half, with cash conversion improving to around 92%. That supports the balance sheet and gives management flexibility to invest in the business while continuing to return cash to shareholders.

Amotiv also declared a fully-franked interim dividend of 20 cents per share, up 8.1% on the prior corresponding period.

What does it mean for investors

Overall, Amotiv produced a steady result for the first half.

Revenue and profit moved in the right direction, and the business remains well-positioned in the automotive aftermarket space. However, margin pressure and softer trading conditions are still holding back stronger earnings growth.

At $8.44, the share price shows investors are waiting for clearer signs of improvement. That will depend on margins lifting in the second half.

The post Is this why Amotiv shares are stuck in neutral after today's results? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The team at Macquarie said they expected new vehicle demand to continue improving after growing 0.7% year over year in October, with a forecast that volumes will grow by the low to mid-single digits in the second half of calendar 2025.

Car sellers in the spotlight

Macquarie has an outperform rating on dealers Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE) and Autosports Group Ltd (ASX: ASG), but said on balance they prefer Eagers.

As they said in their note to clients:

Eagers is our preference given the scale of its organic and inorganic growth opportunities. Its acquisition of CanadaOne provides a platform for further North American inorganic growth, in what is a highly fragmented market.  

The Macquarie team expect Eagers' organic growth to be bolstered by the strength of electric vehicle BYD sales in Australia, as well as from an agreement struck as part of the CanadaOne deal to collaborate with Japan's Mitsubishi Corporation.

Eagers recently announced it would buy a 65% stake in CanadaOne for $1.04 billion.

Macquarie has a price target of $29.98 on Eagers stock and $3.63 for Autosports Group.

Aftermarket sales strong

In the 4X4 accessories market, the Macquarie team has an outperform rating on Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV) and ARB Corporation Ltd (ASX: ARB), saying Amotiv's valuation is attractive and its FY26 guidance is "achievable".  

They added:

We remain positive on ARB's offshore growth opportunities, with export segment sales growth of 16.4% in FY25 increasing to 17.6% in its recent first quarter AGM update.

They have a price target of $44.90 on ARB shares and $11.66 on Amotiv shares.

In the automotive financing sector, the Macquarie team likes three companies, in descending order of preference: Fleetpartners Group Ltd (ASX: FPR), SmartGroup Corporation Ltd (ASX: SIQ), and McMillan Shakespeare Ltd (ASX: MMS).

Their price targets for the companies are $3.68, $8.99, and $19.69, respectively.

In other automotive news, used car digital platform company Carma Ltd (ASX: CMA) listed on the ASX this week after raising $100 million at $2.70 per share.

The shares have traded lower since their Wednesday listing and are now changing hands for $2.45.

Carma is differentiated from its peers in the sector by offering a testing and reconditioning service for cars sold on the platform, ensuring customers can buy with confidence.

As well as selling cars to retail customers, the platform also conducts wholesale auctions.

The post Macquarie has singled out the automotive stocks they say are worth a look appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

First, they're both in the auto parts business, with both companies exposed to the 4×4 accessories market.

Second, both ARB and Amotiv have come under selling pressure, which sees both of their share prices down around 12% since this time last year.

Third, both companies pay out fully franked dividends.

ARB shares closed yesterday trading for $38.88 each. This sees the ASX 300 stock trading on a fully franked 4.4% dividend yield.

Amotiv shares closed yesterday changing hands for $8.93 apiece. Amotiv shares now trade on a fully franked 4.6% trailing dividend yield.

And the fourth thing the two auto parts companies have in common is that the team at Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) expects both of them to outperform in the year ahead.

Why Macquarie is bullish on these ASX 300 stocks

In Macquarie's new Australian Automotive Sector report, the broker noted:

Sep'25 saw stronger volumes in the Prado, Triton, Hilux and Ranger, while the D-Max, BT, Landcruiser and Navara declining. The 4×4 index benefited from a 1.9k Prado swing which had only 1 vehicle in the pcp. This drove our 4×4/ARB index up +12.3% yoy in Sep'25 (+8.6% Dec half to date), while our APG/AOV index declined -9.3% (-8.1% Dec half to date).

We have an OP on AOV and ARB. AOV's val is attractive (c11x FY26e PE) with achievable FY26 guidance. We remain positive on ARB's offshore growth opportunities, which showed growth acceleration at the recent result (c31x FY26e PE).

The broker has an outperform rating on ARB with a 12-month price target of $44.90 a share. That's 15% above where the ASX 300 stock closed on Tuesday. And it doesn't include those upcoming dividends.

Macquarie also has an outperform rating on Amotiv, with an $11.66 12-month price target. That represents a potential upside of 31% from yesterday's close. And it also doesn't incorporate the dividends from the upcoming year.

What's been happening with ARB and Amotiv shares?

Amotiv reported its full-year FY 2025 results on 13 August.

The ASX 300 stock achieved a 1% year-on-year increase in revenue to $997.4 million. Underlying earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $226.4 million were up 1.2% from FY 2024.

ARB reported its FY 2025 results on 19 August. Although sales revenue was up 5.3% year on year to $730 million, net profit after tax declined by 5% to $98 million.

The ASX 300 stock ended the financial year with cash reserves at $69 million and no debt.

The post 2 beaten down ASX 300 stocks Macquarie tips to outperform appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

S&P Dow Jones Indices has announced its next quarterly rebalance, effective 22 September.

Tech share Macquarie Technology Group Ltd (ASX: MAQ) will also depart, as will cancer biotech Clarity Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: CU6).

You can find out which shares will enter the ASX 200 index on 22 September here.

What is an index rebalance?

Every three months, the S&P Dow Jones Indices team updates the composition of Australia's leading indices.

Rebalances ensure our indices accurately reflect the performance of the nation's largest companies by market capitalisation.

Indices provide a consistent way to measure the market's performance and monitor its momentum over any given period of time.

The ASX 200 is the benchmark index for the Australian share market.

What will happen to the stocks that drop out of the ASX 200?

Being part of the ASX 200 gives a company a bit of extra prestige.

Dropping out of the index indicates the company is not doing as well as before.

Leaving the ASX 200 can have tangible effects on a stock's price.

One reason is that many exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and managed funds are designed to track the ASX 200.

This means fund managers must adjust their holdings at each rebalance, selling ASX shares that are dropped and buying those added.

This often leads to extra trading activity around the rebalance date, which may influence a stock's price.

Rebalances have greater significance than ever before due to the rising popularity of ASX ETFs.

Betashares data shows Australians invested a record $5.28 billion into ASX ETFs in July alone.

The ASX ETF industry now has a record $289.2 billion in funds under management.

With so much money invested in ETFs, the rebalances can directly affect the passive investment support for individual stocks.

Aussies love ETFs because they're diversified investments that are purchasable in a single trade for one brokerage fee.

Most ETFs follow an index, which means they are very cheap to run, resulting in low ongoing management fees for investors.

9 ASX shares about to leave the ASX 200

Here are the stocks that will be exiting the ASX 200 in the next rebalance.

The post 9 ASX shares including Nuix and PolyNovo dumped from ASX 200 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

If you guessed it was because they went ex-dividend, you'd be close to the mark, but not quite right.

In fact, shares in salary packaging services company Smartgroup Corporation Ltd (ASX: SIQ) did go ex-dividend, meaning you'd have to have owned the shares before today to be in line to receive the 19.5 cents per share dividend on September 23.

But the same can't be said for the other two biggest losers, auto accessories company Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV) and synthetic skin company Polynovo Ltd (ASX: PNV).

What all three do have in common is that they will be dropped from the ASX 200 Index effective prior to the start of trade on September 22.

This is important for the price of a stock because inclusion in the index means it must be held by exchange traded funds (ETFs) and other funds which track the index, usually in proportion to how much of the index they represent.

Being punted from an index in the regular quarterly rebalance announced by S&P Dow Jones reduces the number of institutions that must own the stock and creates new selling pressure as those institutions seek to sell the shares they do own.

All in all, nine shares will be removed from the ASX 200, and nine added in, with DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO), Superloop Ltd (ASX: SLC), and Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) among those joining the index.

At the upper end of the market, Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) was removed from the ASX 50, while software company Technology One Ltd (ASX: TNE) was added.  

The post What do the worst performing stocks on the ASX 200 today all have in common? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In a recent note to investors, Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) has highlighted its top automotive picks for strong growth.

Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV)

The Amotiv share price is climbing higher at the time of writing on Thursday morning. The share price is up 0.74% and changing hands at $9.57 a piece. 

For the year, the company's share price is 4.4% lower thanks to a sudden 21% nosedive in early April when the reciprocal US tariffs were announced. Since then, the owner of automotive aftermarket brands has recouped the majority of losses. 

Macquarie is positive on the stock's outlook. The broker has an outperform rating on the shares and a target price of $11.66. That's a potential upside of 21.8% for investors over the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

ARB Corp Ltd (ASX: ARB)

ARB's share price is also in the green this morning. At the time of writing, the shares are up 0.61% to $39.105 each. Like Amotiv, ARB's share price is 3.49% lower for the year, also due to a share price drop on the US tariff announcement in April.

Macquarie has an outperform rating on the auto accessories company's shares, and a 12-month target price of $44.90. At the time of writing, that's a potential 14.8% increase for investors.

What else does Macquarie have to say?

Market volumes in August were up 2.9% year-on-year to 103.7k, bringing calendar year-to-date volumes down by 0.5%, the broker explained.

"We expect new vehicle demand will continue to improve and expect 2HCY25 volumes will be up low to mid single digits, supported by 1) easier comps (2HCY24 -4.9%); 2) potential for further rate cuts; and, 3) housing price growth. This would see CY25 volumes flat to down low single digits."

August saw stronger volumes in the Prado, Triton, and Hilux, while the Ranger, D-Max, BT, Landcruiser, and Navara declined over the month.

The 4×4 index benefited from a 2,000 vehicle swing in the Prado, which registered only 3 vehicles in the prior corresponding period. This drove Macquarie's 4×4/ARB Index 6.7% higher year on year, while the APG/AOV Index declined -9.9% over the same period. 

"For 1H26e YTD (Jul +Aug), 4×4 volumes are up +6.8% yoy and down -7.4%, with >20% reductions across Outback, Navara, Outlander, Rav4. We have an OP on AOV and ARB. AOV's val is attractive (~11x FY26e PE) with achievable FY26 guidance, and we remain positive on ARB's offshore growth opportunities that showed acceleration of growth at the recent result (~30x FY26e PE)."

The post Start your engines: Macquarie's top ASX auto stocks are primed for growth appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX 200 shares are currently down 0.34% to 8,988.6 points.

As the August reporting season continues, millions of dollars in dividends are beginning to flow into investors' bank accounts.

To receive an ASX share's dividend, you must buy or already own the stock before its ex-dividend day, which is typically one business day before the record date.

The record date is the day a company reviews its shareholder register to determine who is entitled to receive the next dividend.

Next week, a huge number of stocks will go ex-dividend. We provide a sample of ASX 200 shares going ex-dividend below.

If you want to buy any of these ASX 200 shares while they are trading cum dividend, time is now critical.

16 ASX shares about to go ex-dividend

Which companies are reporting next week?

Next Monday, 25 August, we'll hear from Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN), Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Ltd (ASX: BEN), Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV), Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG), Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS), and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO).

On Tuesday, we'll see the latest numbers for ASX 200 supermarket share, Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL).

Wednesday is a big day with Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP), Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT), Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV), Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG), Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW), and WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) releasing results.

On Thursday, we'll see reports from Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL), Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN), Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN), Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC), Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR), South32 Ltd (ASX: S32), and Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES).

Friday will bring the latest numbers for ASX 200 property share PEXA Group Ltd (ASX: PXA), and Steadfast Group Ltd (ASX: SDF).

The post 16 ASX 200 shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's according to the team at Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG).

Shares in the auto parts retailer are down 0.9% today, trading for $9.25 apiece.

That sees the Amotiv share price down 13.6% since this time last year.

Though that doesn't include the 40.5 cents in fully franked dividends the company paid out over the year. At the current share price, that sees the ASX 200 dividend stock trading on a fully franked yield of 4.4%.

The final dividend of 22 cents per share, declared last week, is still up for grabs.

If you want to bank that passive income payout, you'll need to own shares by market close on 26 August. Amotiv shares trade ex-dividend on 27 August. You can then expect to receive that payout on 16 September.

Now, here's why Macquarie is bullish on the outlook for Amotiv shares in the year ahead.

Why this ASX 200 dividend stock could fly higher

Amotiv reported its full-year FY 2025 results on Wednesday, 13 August.

Highlights included revenue of $997.4 million, up 1% from FY 2024, while underlying earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $226.4 million were up 1.2%. Management credited the modest improvements to cost reduction initiatives and the realisation of operational efficiencies.

Investors responded to the results by sending the ASX 200 dividend stock up 2.2% on the day.

Digging into the numbers, Macquarie said the result was mixed by segment, but noted that Amotiv is "managing the tough operating environment well".

The broker also said that Amotiv's FY 2026 EBITA guidance of $195 million, representing 1.6% year-on-year growth, is "achievable and in line" with both its own estimates and consensus estimates.

In fact, Macquarie believes guidance could be on the conservative side, noting, "We expect management has taken a cautious view on 4WD/APG earnings given the impairment, changes in vehicle mix, and subdued volumes in some models."

Connecting the dots, Macquarie concluded:

While headline numbers were pre-reported, key positives were Amotiv Unified program ahead of schedule and strong core PTU segment margins. FY26 guidance appears cautious but reflects recent volatility in the LPE/4WD segments. See upside risk if market conditions improve.

Macquarie has an outperform rating on the ASX 200 dividend stock with a 12-month price target of $11.66.

That represents a potential upside of more than 26% from the current Amotiv share price. And that's not including those upcoming FY 2026 dividends.

The post Why Macquarie tips 26% upside for this quality ASX 200 dividend stock 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:

Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV)

The Amotiv share price is up 4.5% to $9.61. Investors have been buying this automotive parts company's shares following the release of its full year results. Amotiv reported a 1% increase in revenue to $997.4 million and a 1.2% lift in underlying EBITDA to $226.4 million. And even though management warned that FY 2026 is "likely to remain a challenging environment", it expects to deliver modest earnings growth year on year.

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

The Evolution Mining share price is up 4% to $8.02. This gold miner's shares are racing higher today after it impressed with its full year results. Evolution Mining reported a 99% increase in underlying net profit to a record of $958 million. Evolution's CEO, Lawrie Conway, said: "The record financial performance in FY25 was achieved through safely delivering to plan across all of our operations. This is a great credit to the efforts of our employees and contractors who I sincerely thank for their achievements. Our cost and production performance in the year saw our balance sheet continue to strengthen, with gearing levels falling while successfully delivering several major capital projects."

Life360 Inc (ASX: 360)

The Life360 share price is up a further 5% to $42.92. Investors have been buying this location technology's shares after brokers responded positively to its second quarter results. One of those was Bell Potter, which has retained its buy rating with an improved price target of $47.50 (from $37.50). It said: "We have increased the multiples we apply in the EV/Revenue and EV/EBITDA valuations from 9.5x and 55x to 12.5x and 62.5x and also reduced the WACC we apply in the DCF from 8.5% to 8.3% due to the strong result and better-than-expected operating leverage. The net result is a 27% increase in our PT to $47.50 which is >15% premium to the share price so we maintain the BUY recommendation. Potential catalysts include a strong 3Q2025 result and potential further upgrade in the guidance."

Tyro Payments Ltd (ASX: TYR)

The Tyro Payments share price is up 9% to $1.17. Investors have been buying this payments company's shares after it revealed that it has received takeover interest, but not at a level that it believes would represent good value.

The post Why Amotiv, Evolution Mining, Life360, and Tyro shares are charging higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In a recent note to investors, Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) pointed to four strong automotive stocks that investors should buy today.

Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV)

The Amotiv share price is in the green on Wednesday afternoon. At the time of writing, the share price was 3.15% higher and changing hands at $9.015 a piece. For the year, the company's share price is 11.27% lower.

The company, which owns a portfolio of brands in the automotive market, is one of Macquarie's top stock picks. The broker has an outperform rating on Amotiv shares and a $10.90 target price. This represents a potential 20.9% upside for investors over the next 12 months, according to the share price at the time of writing.

ARB Corp Ltd (ASX: ARB)

ARB is Australia's largest designer, manufacturer, and distributor of four-wheel-drive and light commercial vehicle accessories. The company's share price is changing hands 2.96% higher on Wednesday afternoon. At the time of writing, the shares are trading at $34.75 a piece. Like Amotiv, ARB's share price is 10.78% lower for the year.

Macquarie has an outperform rating on the stock and a 12-month target price of $43.70. At the time of writing, this represents a potential 25.8% increase for investors.

Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE)

Eagers Automotive is the largest automotive retailing group in the Australian market. The company's share price is in the red on Wednesday afternoon, down 0.05% at the time of writing to $20.07 per share. Over the year, the share price has climbed an impressive 99.3%.

The broker has an outperform rating on the stock and a $20.60 12-month target price. At the time of writing, this represents a potential 2.6% upside for investors.

Autosports Group Ltd (ASX: ASG)

Autosports is a leading retailer of prestige and luxury cars. Its core business focuses on the sale of new and used motor vehicles. It also provides finance and insurance products on behalf of retail financiers and automotive insurers.

The company's share price is 1.16% lower at $2.56 at the time of writing. Over the year, the share price is 24.88% higher.

The broker has an outperform rating on the stock and a $2.82 target price, which represents a potential 10.2% upside for investors over the next 12 months.

What does the broker have to say?

For automotive dealers, the broker expects UPBT (Unadjusted Profit Before Taxes) margins have now bottomed, given broadly right-sized inventory and rate cuts providing bailment relief.

"It is unlikely the full benefit of further rate cuts is fully factored into consensus earnings. Every 25bp rate cut provides a ~$6.3m/$2.1m annualised benefit for APE/ASG's interest costs. We have an OP on APE and ASG," Macquarie said.

"APE is our preference given: 1) scale; 2) brand diversity; 3) BYD opportunity; 4) LT margin upside; and 5) potential offshore expansion. APE should achieve its larger than typical 2H skew of ~54%, supported by: 1) rate cuts ($6.3m 2H benefit); 2) Toyota incentive payments (~ $15-18m); and 3) BYD outperforming. 4.6k BYDs were delivered in CY25 YTD to 28.0k. This is 93% of APE's CY25 30k BYD volume guidance."

For the 4×4 accessories market, the broker says July 2025 volumes were flat to softer across many key models. 

"The Prado dynamic drove our 4×4/ ARB index up +6.8% yoy in Jul'25, while our APG/AOV index declined -5.0%. Volumes in APG's top 20 and also key 4×4 models, where it overindexes in revenue per vehicle, have improved over the last few months, but remain volatile," the broker said.

"Light Commercial vehicles as a % of total sales have reduced from 24.1% in CY21 to 22.2% in CY25. We have an OP on AOV and ARB. AOV's val is attractive (~10x FY26e PE) and we remain positive on ARB's offshore growth opportunities (~24x FY26e PE)."

The post 4 ASX All Ords automotive stocks to buy today: expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

And over the next few weeks, leading ASX-listed businesses are due to report their financial results for FY25, or the six months to June.

Alongside these numbers, we'll also get valuable insights into their outlook for the months ahead.

We have already shared the reporting dates for the top ASX 200 mining, energy, and healthcare stocks.

The reporting schedule for major ASX 200 consumer staples stocks can also be found here, including supermarket giants Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) and Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW).

We now turn our attention to 10 ASX 200 retail stocks set to report this month.

In ASX terms, retail companies fall under the 'consumer discretionary' sector.

In a nutshell, businesses in this sector provide non-essential goods and services that consumers can choose to purchase when they have sufficient disposable income.

This can make their performance sensitive to shifts in economic conditions, employment levels, or consumer confidence.

However, companies operating in the consumer discretionary space represent some of the most well-known names in Australian retail.

From furniture, hardware products, jewellery, consumer electronics, auto parts, and even pizza.

Before we get stuck into the dates, it's worth noting that the reporting schedule can still change as the companies below finalise their accounts.

FY25 reporting dates – ASX 200 consumer discretionary stocks

• Monday 11 August – JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH): Consumer electronic retailer offering the world's leading brands of computers, tablets, TVs, cameras, video games, and more.
• Wednesday 13 August – Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV): Specialist in automotive products – mainly for the after-market – and the fitment of accessories for new vehicles.
• Thursday 14 August – Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW): Australian online retailer of furniture and homewares products.
• Wednesday 20 August – Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG): Specialist in electrical kitchen appliances.
• Thursday 21 August – Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL): Diversified retailer operating a host of brands including Supercheap Auto, Rebel Sport, BCF, and Macpac.
• Wednesday 27 August – A triple lineup:
  • Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP): Largest Domino's Pizza franchisee outside the US. Operates more than 3,500 stores across 12 international markets.
  • Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV): Fashion jewellery retailer with more than 900 stores across 50 countries.
  • Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT): Global travel company providing leisure and corporate travel services through various brands.
• Thursday 28 August – A double header:
  • Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES): Diverse business and one of the largest companies on the ASX. Its brands include Bunnings, Officeworks, and Target.
  • Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP): Engaged in the sale and distribution of vehicle parts, accessories, and automotive equipment.

The post Unveiled: FY25 reporting dates for 10 ASX 200 retail stocks appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Investors are often drawn to the financials and resources sectors. After all, they occupy the largest representation on the Australian share market. 

However, there are some great opportunities to be found in other sectors. While these often fly under the radar, they have the potential to generate outsized returns. 

If you're looking for such opportunities, look no further!

In its 22 July report, Australian Automotive Sector, Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) named its 3 top picks in the Australian automotive sector.

Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE)

The first pick was Eagers Automotive. 

Eagers is a leading automotive retail group that operates dealerships across Australia and New Zealand. The company sells both new and used cars, and provides consumer finance. 

Eagers Automotive shares have been on a roll this year, rising 54% for the year to date. 

However, Macquarie is predicting the stock can continue rising. 

It currently has an outperform rating on the ASX All Ords stock and price target of $20.60.

When issuing this recommendation, the broker said:

We expect APE to achieve its larger than typical 2H skew. The ST margin outlook has stabilised, and we see material upside to LT margins. Offshore M&A and further rate cuts are material catalysts.

ARB Corporation Ltd (ASX: ARB)

The second pick was ARB Corporation. 

ARB designs, manufactures, and distributes 4×4 accessories and equipment. 

In contrast to Eagers Automotive, ARB shares are down this year, falling 17% for the year to date. 

However, Macquarie is expecting a turnaround. 

It currently has an outperform rating on the ASX All Ords stock and price target of $43.70. 

When issuing this recommendation, the broker said:

Australian new vehicle sales seeing green shoots after a softer FY25. Export growth opportunities remain strong and showing improving momentum in key markets will be a key catalyst.

Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV)

The third pick was Amotiv. 

Amotiv manufactures, imports, distributes, and sells automotive products and accessories. 

Like ARB Group, Amotiv shares have declined 17% this year. 

However, Macquarie expects the company to outperform going forward. 

The broker's outperform rating on the stock is accompanied by a price target of $10.90. 

When issuing this recommendation, Macquarie acknowledged that the ASX All Ords stock was out of favour. 

It also provided the following reasons to support its 'turnaround' thesis:

We're positive on FY26 given 1) better trends in key APG models; 2) APG NBWs; 3) cost out, & 4) low expectations (FY26e EBITA growth ~3% VA Cons.). We see potential for a val. rerate currently c10x PE.

Macquarie also named Amotiv in its SMID-Cap Best Picks July 2025 report.

The post 3 ASX All Ords automotive sector shares to buy in July: expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For investors who aren't sure where to look, Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) has just named its top S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) picks for the sector.

Here's what the broker has to say.

Top picks for auto dealers

In a note to investors, Macquarie said it thinks underlying profit before tax (UPBT) margins have bottomed.

The broker also said that the full benefit of further rate cuts hasn't been fully factored into consensus earnings. 

Every 25bp rate cut provides a ~$6.3m/$2.1m annualised benefit for APE/ASG's interest costs.

As a result, Macquarie has an outperform rating on ASX All Ords stock Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE) and a target price of $20.35. This represents a potential 8.94% upside from $18.68 as of lunchtime today.

The broker also has an outperform rating on Autosports Group Ltd (ASX: ASG) and a target price of $2.00. The stock is changing hands at $2.29 as of midday today.

We have an OP on APE and ASG. APE is our preference given: 1) scale; 2) brand diversity; 3) BYD opportunity; 4) LT margin upside; and 5) potential offshore expansion.

A larger than typical 2H skew is expected for APE of ~54%, which should be supported by: 1) rate cuts ($6.3m 2H benefit); 2) Toyota incentive payments (~$15-18m); and 3) BYD outperforming.

Top picks for auto accessories and aftermarket 

Volumes for 4×4 Accessories were mixed in June. Hilux, Prado, Triton, and D-Max had solid volumes, but Navara and Landcruiser were down 31% and 9%, respectively.

Our 4×4/ARB index was up +12.3% in Jun'25 and down -12.3% FY25YTD. Volumes in 2HFY25 (Jan-Jun 25) grew +7.7% sequentially. Our APG/AOV index declined -2.6% in Jun'25 and is down -4.6% FYTD.

Volumes in APG's top 20 and also key 4×4 models, where it over-indexes in revenue per vehicle, have improved over the last few months, but remain under pressure – Light Commercial vehicles as a % of total sales have reduced from 24.1% in CY21 to ~22% in CY25.

The broker has an outperform rating and a $10.90 target price on Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV). This represents a potential 28% upside from the current trading price of 8.51.

Macquarie also has an outperform rating and a $45.40 target price on ARB Corp Ltd (ASX: ARB). This is a potential 33.86% increase from the current trading price of $33.915.

AOV's val is attractive (~10x FY25e PE) and we remain positive on ARB's offshore growth opportunities (~24x FY25e PE).

The broker also has an outperform rating and target price of $5.85 on Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP), which is 11.8% higher than the trading price at lunchtime today.

The post What are Macquarie's top ASX All Ords picks in the automotive sector? 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.

When interest rates fall, consumers generally have more disposable income and access to cheaper credit, often boosting spending on discretionary items and lifting the performance of related shares. 

In simple terms, if your mortgage repayments go down by a couple hundred dollars, you might be more inclined to spend on luxuries like electronics, jewellery, a holiday or upgrades for your car. 

Investor sentiment also plays a role. As lower rates typically make equities more attractive compared to fixed-income investments, driving money into growth-oriented sectors like consumer discretionary.

For investors looking to anticipate these rate cuts with timely investments, here are some consumer discretionary shares worth watching. 

Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV)

Amotiv engages in the manufacture, distribution, and sale of automotive products, pumps, pool and spa systems, and water pressure systems.

It also focuses on manufacturing and marketing of towing, trailering, functional accessories and associated products for the automotive aftermarket.

It is behind brands such as Narva, Ryco, and Kaymar.

These consumer discretionary shares are down 20.21% over the last year, however a low interest rate environment could help the company turnaround. 

Broker Bell Potter's price target indicates the stock may have fallen below fair value. 

At the time of writing, shares are trading at $8.29 each. 

The broker has a price target of $11.00 along with a "buy" recommendation, indicating an upside of 32.68%. 

Lower interest rates can help AOV shares by supporting consumer demand for non-essential automotive accessories. 

Furthermore, lower rates generally reduce borrowing costs for businesses. When companies carry debt, it can benefit from lower interest expenses. 

This can improve its net profit margins and cash flow. This may enhance earnings per share (EPS), which can lift investor sentiment and share price. 

Adairs Ltd (ASX: ADH)

Adairs is a specialty retailer focused on home furnishings, furniture, and décor. Its retail brands include Adairs, Adairs Kids, and Urban Home Republic.

This consumer discretionary company has experienced significant volatility over the past year, however remains up 10% over the period.

Bell Potter also has a favourable view on the current price of these consumer discretionary shares.

At the time of writing shares are trading at $2.09. 

It currently has an "overweight" recommendation and price target of $2.35. 

This indicates an upside of 12.44%. 

Speaking on the upcoming RBA rate decisions in a report on Tuesday, the broker said future rate cuts can positively impact the retail sector:

While the second cash rate cut in May-25 for Australia should somewhat assist trends through to the rest of CY25, we see a more meaningful benefit from a third cut anticipated in Jul-25. We view good potential for retail sales trends to shift meaningfully in Sep-25 supported by the Jul/Aug cash rate cuts and easier comps into the end of 3QCY25.

The post If interest rates fall these consumer discretionary shares could rise appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because the broker has just named its top picks in the sector.

Which are Macquarie's top ASX All Ords auto picks?

Firstly, let's start with auto dealers. The good news for them is that Macquarie believes that profit margins are about to hit a cyclical bottom. Especially given interest rate cuts and reduced discounting. It said:

We believe dealer UPBT margins are likely approaching a cyclical bottom. GPM pressure should start abating as discounting reduces given broadly right-sized inventory. Additional rate cuts will provide relief to bailment costs and are a tailwind for UPBT margins. We believe the potential benefit of rate cuts is not fully factored into consensus earnings. Every 25bp rate cut provides a ~$6.3m/$2m annualised benefit for APE/ASG's interest costs.

Because of this, Macquarie has outperform ratings on both Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE) and Autosports Group Ltd (ASX: ASG) shares with price targets of $20.35 and $2.00, respectively. It adds:

We have an OP on APE and ASG. APE is our preference given: 1) scale; 2) brand diversity; 3) BYD opportunity; 4) LT margin upside; and 5) potential offshore expansion. APE's CY25 guidance is for ~30k BYD volumes and 15.2k have been delivered CY25YTD, supported by 7.4k Shark deliveries.

What else?

Macquarie highlights that 4×4 Accessories were mixed in May. It said:

: May'25 volumes were mixed across key models with strength in Prado & Landcruiser, while the Hilux, Ranger and Navara were all down double digits. Our 4×4/ARB index was up +4.8% in May'25 and down -14.6% FY25YTD. Avg vehicles per month in 2H25TD is +2% vs 1H25 before the seasonally strong month of June, so 2H25 volumes should see sequential improvement on 1H25. Our APG/AOV index declined -8.5% in May'25 and is down -4.8% FYTD. Volumes in APG's top 20 and also key 4×4 models, where it over-indexes in revenue per vehicle, remain under pressure.

Nevertheless, it remains positive on ASX All Ords shares ARB Corporation Ltd (ASX: ARB) and Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV). It has price targets of $45.40 and $10.90, respectively, on them. It adds:

We have an OP on AOV and ARB. AOV's val is attractive (~10x FY25e PE) and we remain positive on ARB's offshore growth opportunities (~24x FY25e PE).

In addition, Macquarie has an outperform rating and $5.85 price target on Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP) shares.

The post What are Macquarie's top ASX All Ords picks in the automotive sector? 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.

Today's rebound follows a horror day on the market yesterday.

ASX 200 shares fell to their lowest point since December 2023 yesterday, closing 4.23% lower at 7,343.3 points.

Overnight, the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) closed 0.23% lower, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) fell 0.91%.

Today's ASX 200 rebound suggests some investors are taking advantage of the market weakness caused by the new US reciprocal tariffs.

Many appear to be buying the dip and/or dollar-cost averaging some of their ASX 200 shares for longer-term gains.

Here are the 10 stocks rising fastest on the market today.

10 ASX 200 shares leading the rebound

According to the ASX, these shares are rising fastest in today's market rebound.

Block, Inc. (ASX: XYZ)

Block shares are up 11.1% to $85.415 at the time of writing.

There is no company news for this ASX 200 financial share today.

Liontown Resources Limited (ASX: LTR)

The Liontown share price is up 10.3% to 48 cents.

There is no company news for this ASX 200 lithium share today.

Zip Co Limited (ASX: ZIP)

The Zip share price is up 10% to $1.31.

The buy now, pay later company announced an on-market share buyback of up to $50 million today.

The buyback will commence around 23 April and run for up to 12 months.

Zip CEO Cynthia Scott said:

The buy-back program we have announced today is consistent with our capital management framework and focuses on maximising shareholder returns. Zip will maintain a strong balance sheet following completion of the buy-back with ongoing flexibility to pursue future growth opportunities.

Life360 Inc. (ASX: 360)

Life 360 shares are 9.4% higher at $18.31.

There is no company news for this ASX 200 tech share on Tuesday.

PolyNovo Limited (ASX: PNV)

The PolyNovo share price is up 7.4% to $1.05.

The skin regenerative medicine company has not released any news today.

Whitehaven Coal Limited (ASX: WHC)

This ASX 200 coal share is 7.4% higher at $4.67.

There is no company news from Whitehaven today.

Mesoblast Limited (ASX: MSB)

The Mesoblast share price is up 6.8% to $1.725.

The ASX 200 biotech company has not released any news today.

Amotiv Limited (ASX: AOV)

Amotiv shares are up 6.6% to $7.28 apiece.

The auto parts retailer released a presentation relating to its manufacturing facility in Thailand today.

Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC)

This ASX 200 copper stock is trading 6.57% higher at $6.81.

The company announced it will release its 1Q FY25 results on Thursday, 1 May, after the market close.

Pro Medicus Limited (ASX: PME)

This ASX 200 healthcare share is up 6.5% to $188.44.

The ASX 200 healthcare company has not released any news on Tuesday.

The post Here are the ASX 200 shares leading Tuesday's market rebound appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Uncertainty about how the newly announced reciprocal US tariffs will impact ASX 200 shares fuelled today's dive.

Based on closing values, today's market rout has pushed the ASX 200 into an official market correction.

A market correction is defined as a major index falling 10% from its most recent peak.

The ASX 200 narrowly avoided a correction last month after it fell 9.43% from its record high on 14 February to a trough on 13 March.

The fall saw several blue-chip shares trading at multi-year lows, including Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) and CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL).

The ASX 200 began a rebound on 14 March, but this week's US tariffs news has brought that undone.

The ASX 200 closed down 10.38% from its 14 February high today.

Today, we heard from more companies about the potential impact of the tariffs on their operations.

Let's take a look.

ASX 200 dives as more companies reveal US tariff impact

Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV)

The Amotiv share price closed 16.72% lower at $7.32 after the auto parts retailer issued a trading update and commented on the US tariffs.

Amotiv said:

In response to these recent tariff announcements, the Group is assessing a range of tactical and strategic actions to manage the risks and realise the opportunities of these changes.

These include re-sourcing of finished goods, re-pricing and use of alternative manufacturing and supply locations.

Mesoblast Ltd (ASX: MSB)

Mesoblast shares closed 5.87% lower at $1.77.

The ASX 200 biotech company sought to reassure investors today.

In a statement, it said:

Mesoblast allogeneic cell therapy products are designated 'U.S. country of origin' and not subject to U.S. tariffs.

Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN)

Ansell shares closed 3% higher at $30.22 today.

The company issued a statement saying it would "fully offset the tariff increases through pricing".

Ansell said approximately 43% of its revenue comes from the US.

The majority of products sold in the US are imported from Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and China.

The company said:

Ansell plans to fully offset the tariff increases through pricing, and we have had conversations with customers to this effect including in the past 24 hours.

It is worth noting that the vast majority of manufacturing in our industry is conducted in Asian countries now subject to US tariffs, and US industry manufacturing capacity for comparable hand and body protection products is negligible.

Longer term, Ansell retains the flexibility to respond to changes in the relative attractiveness of traditional PPE manufacturing locations through 14 owned manufacturing plants in 9 countries and our extensive partner network.

Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

The ASX 200 consumer discretionary stock closed 12.01% lower at $26.44 on Friday, compounding a 5% decline on Thursday.

Breville issued a statement on the US tariffs yesterday:

Subject to the current uncertainty and fluidity in the economic environment, US tariff implementation and iteration, coupled with any country-specific responses, it is likely that the Group's input costs will increase for FY26.

The Group will continue to make tactical adjustments, where appropriate, to lessen the potential short-term impacts from any new tariffs.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

The CSL share price closed 1.7% lower at $253.30.

In a statement, the ASX 200 healthcare giant said:

At this stage pharmaceutical products are not subject to the reciprocal tariffs.

CSL is continuing to assess the broader impact of the tariffs and will monitor further announcements by the U.S. Government.

You can check out a complete reciprocal US tariffs list by country here.

The post ASX 200 plunges as US tariffs fall-out continues appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.