Well, if you are, let's see what analysts are saying about the popular shares in this article, courtesy of The Bull.

Are they buys, holds, or sells? Let's find out:

Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP)

The team Medallion Financial Group isn't a buyer of this auto parts retailer's shares despite an 80%+ decline over the past 12 months.

It highlights that the Autobarn and Burson owner's earnings momentum has deteriorated and its competitive position has weakened. As a result, it doesn't believe an earnings recovery will be swift and has named Bapcor shares as a sell. It said:

Bapcor is an aftermarket automotive parts provider. It operates the Autobarn, Burson and Autopro brands. Earnings momentum has deteriorated. While the automotive aftermarket is generally defensive, Bapcor's competitive position appears to have weakened and an earnings recovery may take time. The shares have fallen from $5.22 on July 14, 2025 to trade at 62.5 cents on March 19, 2026. Investors may be better served redeploying capital into stronger businesses with clearer growth momentum.

Challenger Ltd (ASX: CGF)

The team at DP Wealth Advisory thinks this annuities company's shares are a hold at current levels.

Commenting on its recommendation, it said:

Challenger is an annuity provider, operating in an appealing space given the Federal Government's focus on meeting the challenges of an ageing population. CGF posted record annuity sales of $3.8 billion in the first half of fiscal 2026, up 32 per cent on the prior corresponding period. Normalised net profit after tax of $229 million was up 2 per cent. Japanese life insurer TAL Dai-ichi holds a 19.9 per cent interest in CGF, which is positive for CGF. But the interest rate sensitive nature of the TAL business leaves me with a hold on CGF.

DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

Over at Alto Capital, it has named this strong-performing counter-drone technology company's shares as a sell this week.

Although positive the long-term outlook for counter-drone solutions, Alto Capital highlights that DroneShield shares have rallied very strongly over the past 12 months. It believes this means the risk/reward is now unfavourable for buyers. It explains:

DroneShield operates in the counter-drone defence technology sector, providing detection and mitigation systems used to protect military, government and critical infrastructure assets. The company has benefited from strong investor interest in defence and security technologies, with the share price rallying sharply over the past year in response to geopolitical tensions and intensifying defence spending narratives.

While the long term outlook for counter-drone solutions remains compelling, DroneShield's valuation increasingly reflects significant future growth expectations. Revenue remains contract-driven and can be uneven, with earnings visibility still developing as the company scales up globally. Following recent share price strength and a re-rating, the current risk-reward balance favours taking profits at present levels.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Bapcor, Challenger, and DroneShield shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

By the time trading wrapped up today, the ASX 200 had gained a healthy 1.09% after initially rallying even harder this morning (up 2% at one point). This session's rise leaves the index at 8,692.6 points.

This happy Tuesday for the Australian markets follows an optimistic start to the American trading week in the early hours of this morning (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) returned from the weekend with a spring in its step, rising 0.5%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was even more enthusiastic, gaining a rosy 1.38%.

But let's return to the local markets now and take stock of how the different ASX sectors were lifted, or not, by today's market tide.

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

By the time the market's closed, the index had lost another 1%, leaving it at a flat 8,851 points as we head into the weekend.

This rather horrid end to the trading week for Australian investors follows a similarly rough morning on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) suffered a horrendous day, dropping 1.61%.

However, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared much better, 'only' falling 0.26%.

But let's get back to the local markets and take a closer look at how today's sell-off affected the different ASX sectors this session.

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

Four ASX shares that are falling more than most today are listed below. Here's why they are dropping:

Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP)

The Bapcor share price is down 47% to 90.5 cents. This morning, the auto parts retailer's shares returned from a trading halt after completing the institutional component of its $200 million equity raising. The struggling retailer raised $157 million from institutional investors at a 65% discount of 60 cents per new share. The company's new CEO, Chris Wilesmith, said: "Raising $200M of equity will improve our financial flexibility and business resilience in the current market conditions and provide headroom to focus on 'getting the engine running' to improve our operating performance and execution." The retail component of the entitlement offer, which is fully underwritten, is expected to raise a further $43 million.

Brainchip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN)

The Brainchip share price is down 7% to 13 cents. Investors have been selling the embattled semiconductor company's shares after it released its full-year results. Brainchip reported revenue of US$1.9 million for the 12 months and a massive operating loss of US$21.7 million. Brainchip's founder and director, Peter van der Made, said: "We recognize that the ultimate measure of our strategy is commercial success. The foundations we continue to build in 2026 – from silicon validation to reference designs – are the essential drivers of our commercial success, and we are executing this strategy with full conviction. We remain deeply committed to the success of this Company and look forward to your continued engagement."

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)

The Coles share price is down 9% to $20.20. This follows the release of the supermarket giant's half-year results. For the 27 weeks ended 4 January 2026, Coles reported a 2.5% lift in sales revenue to $23.6 billion and a 12.5% jump in profit after tax (excluding significant items) to $676 million. This was short of expectations. For example, Morgans was expecting a 3.5% increase in revenue and a 16.5% jump in underlying net profit after tax to $699 million.

Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN)

The Harvey Norman share price is down 8% to $5.81. This morning, this retail giant released its half-year results and reported a 6.9% increase in sales revenue to $5.16 billion and a 16.5% lift in profit after tax to $321.9 million. While this looks strong on paper, it was a touch short of consensus expectations.

The post Why Bapcor, Brainchip, Coles, and Harvey Norman shares are dropping today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the Bapcor share price is down a massive 48.69% to 88 cents, marking a record low for the company.

Here's what spooked investors.

Profit slump and balance sheet pressure

For the 6 months to 31 December 2025, Bapcor reported statutory revenue of $973 million, down 3.9% year on year.

Underlying EBITDA fell 40.4% to $76.9 million, while underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) dropped 87.3% to just $5.5 million.

On a statutory basis, the company posted a loss of $104.8 million. That included $110.3 million of significant items, largely related to impairments, inventory write-downs, restructuring costs, and accounting adjustments following an internal review.

Net debt rose to $387.3 million, up from $304.5 million a year earlier. Net leverage ballooned to 3.39x EBITDA, compared with 1.65x previously.

Free cash flow was negative $5.3 million for the half.

The board has elected not to declare an interim dividend.

$200 million raising at a steep discount

Alongside the results, Bapcor announced a fully underwritten $200 million equity raising to shore up its balance sheet.

The offer price has been set at 60 cents per share.

That represents a 48.4% discount to the theoretical ex-rights price of $1.16 and a 65% discount to the last close of $1.715 on 18 February.

Approximately 333 million new shares will be issued, representing around 98% of existing shares on issue.

The raising comprises a $150 million accelerated non-renounceable entitlement offer and a $50 million institutional placement.

Management said the funds will improve financial flexibility and resilience, with pro forma leverage expected to reduce to around 2.13x at 31 December 2025.

Banking terms revised

Given the sharp deterioration in earnings, Bapcor has also secured temporary amendments to its banking covenants.

Lenders have agreed to lift the net leverage covenant to 3.5x for upcoming test periods and lower the interest cover requirement before it resets in 2027.

While management framed this as a proactive balance sheet reset, the need for covenant relief highlights the pressure the business is under.

January trading offered limited reassurance. Group like-for-like sales were down 0.9%, with trade sales falling 2.4%. Networks, retail, and New Zealand recorded modest growth.

Foolish Takeaway

Today's sell-off points to concerns around earnings stability and balance sheet strength.

Issuing new shares equivalent to roughly 98% of existing stock is highly dilutive. Shareholders who don't participate will see their ownership materially reduced.

The need to loosen leverage and interest cover tests suggests earnings have deteriorated faster than expected.

On the positive side, the $200 million raise reduces balance sheet risk and gives management breathing room to execute its turnaround plan.

At 88 cents, the stock may look cheap. But from here, management needs to prove that margins can recover and that cash flow can stabilise. Until that happens, the share price may struggle to turn around.

The post Bapcor shares crash 49% after shock loss and $200m emergency capital raise appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Is Wisetech stock priced to buy?

The Wisetech share price has fallen around 50% from its peak of almost $130 in early Feb 2025. Declines in 2025 were largely driven by market pressure on high growth high valuation stocks as well as investor caution around the integration risks of its US $2.1 billion acquisition of e2open.

Coming into 2026, continued weak sentiment in high valuation stocks and a period of decelerated growth for the company are continuing the trend.

However, despite these headwinds, its core business continues to prosper. Wisetech's global logistics and supply chain software, CargoWise, reports solid results and continued, if decelerating, growth. And some brokers remain bullish, buoyed by the software's defensive moat against AI.

The question for investors is whether the share price can return to its previous highs. While the current price may not amount to a universal buy signal, it could prove an attractive entry point for long-term investors, albeit with some higher risk attached.  

Is Xero stock priced to buy?

February 2025 saw Xero trading at around $180 per share but has recently dropped below the $100 mark. Still a hefty price tag, but is it a steal for one of our most high-profile tech growth stocks?

There is no single event driving the share price declines for Xero. A combination of sector headwinds, acquisition decisions and overvaluation concern in growth stocks have fuelled the sell-off.

In June 2025, Xero announced the acquisition of US-based bill pay platform, Melio, in a bid to expand its footprint in the lucrative US market. But the US $2.5 billion price tag and the decision to partly finance the purchase through the issue of new shares left some investors cold. In addition, some investors worried that the acquisition wouldn't produce results, given the more competitive US landscape.

That said, Xero continues to post revenue growth and strong cashflow. And the potential in the US market is significant, if it can execute. Given its track record of disciplined growth over the last few years, I believe it can.

For me, Xero remains a solid option for long-term investors. There is a valid question around whether it can return to the lofty valuations of early 2025. However, if it makes a successful play in the US market with Melio, I believe it will deliver some solid returns in years to come.

Is Bapcor stock priced to buy?

Aftermarket automotive parts provider, Bapcor, has experienced share price declines of over 50% in the last year, from highs above the $5 mark in February 2025. The drop has been driven by a combination of earnings downgrades, operational disruption and notable leadership movements. In addition, lower discretionary consumer spending has impacted its retail business.

In December 2025, Bapcor reported an expected net loss of $5-8 million for the first half of FY2026, down from a profit forecast of $3-7 million. This represented its second downgrade of the year, after initially anticipating $14-18 million in profit.

On the leadership front, the company announced the appointment of experienced CEO, Chris Wilesmith (ex Jaycar Electronics, Mitre 10 and Supercheap Auto) on 18 December 2025. Response to the move was positive, with the share price jumping 12%. But it has come on the tail of significant group leadership movement that has left some investors wary.

At this point, Bapcor is a turnaround play. The experienced hand of Wilesmith at the helm offers some reassurance. But there is a significant journey ahead.

For me, Bapcor is one for the watch list, for now. However, more risk-tolerant investors may see an opportunity at current prices.  

The post Down 50% from recent highs: Is it time to buy these ASX stocks? 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.

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

Will the market be able to build on this on Monday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to rise again

The Australian share market looks set for a good start to the week following a strong finish to the last one on Wall Street on Friday. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 41 points or 0.45% higher. In the United States, the Dow Jones was up 0.4%, the S&P 500 rose 0.9%, and the Nasdaq stormed 1.3% higher.

Oil prices charge higher

It could be a decent start to the week for ASX 200 energy shares Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) after oil prices charged higher on Friday night. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price was up 0.9% to US$56.52 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price was up 1.1% to US$60.47 a barrel. Traders were bidding oil prices higher after Donald Trump wouldn't rule out a war with Venezuela.

Quarterly rebalance

This morning, a number of ASX 200 shares will leave the benchmark index after being kicked out at the quarterly rebalance. Leaving the index this morning are the likes of Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP), HMC Capital Ltd (ASX: HMC) and Corporate Travel Management Ltd (ASX: CTD). Joining the index this morning are stocks including Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB), Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG), and Silex Systems Ltd (ASX: SLX).

Gold price rises

ASX 200 gold shares Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a good start to the week after the gold price pushed higher on Friday night. According to CNBC, the gold futures price was up 0.5% to US$4,387.3 an ounce. Rate cut optimism gave the gold price a boost.

Buy Boss Energy shares

Bell Potter thinks that investors should be buying Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE) shares after their sell off. This morning, the broker has reaffirmed their buy rating on the uranium producer's shares with a reduced price target of $2.00 (from $2.90). It said: "Our valuation assumes production at Honeymoon over the short 10Y mine life is limited to ~1.6Mlbs pa and costs remain elevated, until such a time that management have completed the work to guide otherwise."

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

What did Bapcor announce?

Under the revised terms, Bapcor's debt covenant will temporarily rise from the current limit of 3x adjusted EBITDA to a new limit of 3.5x adjusted EBITDA.

This temporary increase will apply only for the 31 December 2025 and 30 June 2026 testing periods. The covenant will then revert to the previous 3x threshold. Management said the change reflects lenders' ongoing support for Bapcor's operational reset and financial recovery efforts.

CFO Kim Kerr noted that the move underscores the lending syndicate's confidence in the company's turnaround program and its ability to stabilise and rebuild performance.

While the market marked the stock slightly lower today, this announcement comes during an otherwise strong week for Bapcor shareholders. The stock is still up roughly 14% over the past five days following the news that Chris Wilesmith will become the company's new CEO in January. It's a leadership change that investors clearly welcomed.

Wilesmith's appointment was viewed as a credible catalyst for much-needed change after a turbulent period marked by profit downgrades, rising short interest, and operational missteps. A seasoned automotive and retail operator with experience at Supercheap Auto, Jaycar, and Mitre 10 New Zealand, Wilesmith brings deep sector expertise and a track record of operational discipline.

Today's covenant update, by contrast, is more of a housekeeping item. Although it points to ongoing financial pressure, it also indicates that lenders are aligned with Bapcor's recovery efforts and willing to offer temporary flexibility as the business restructures.

Foolish bottom line

For investors, the mixed reaction is understandable: the company still faces meaningful operational and financial challenges, yet the pieces for a reset are falling into place. Leadership change, lender support, and a clearer path to stabilisation suggest that this week's rally is a sign that confidence is beginning to rebuild.

Whether that optimism holds will depend on execution, but for now, Bapcor appears to be regaining the market's trust.

The post Why Bapcor shares are falling today despite a powerful 14% rebound this week 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.

Bapcor shares surged as much as 12% today after the company announced the resignation of CEO Angus McKay and the appointment of Chris Wilesmith as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director.

Why the optimism?

The market's strong reaction reflects a clear message from investors: they are ready for a reset.

A new CEO is likely to bring in fresh ideas and could be the catalyst that Bapcor needs to reset its trajectory.

Bapcor shares are down 56% so far in 2025, but investors will be looking at the new CEO's background with great optimism.

Wilesmith, a seasoned operator in the automotive aftermarket and broader retail sector, brings decades of experience across businesses closely aligned with Bapcor's core segments. According to the ASX announcement, he has held senior leadership roles at Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL) owned brand Supercheap Auto, as well as Jaycar Electronics, and Mitre 10 New Zealand. This should give him deep insight into trade, retail, and supply-chain operations across Australia and New Zealand.

The board highlighted his track record in growing businesses within the very categories Bapcor competes in. That relevance appears to have resonated strongly with shareholders, many of whom have been waiting for more stability and clearer execution after a difficult period for the company.

The market's enthusiasm also reflects a desire for renewed strategic direction. Bapcor has faced operational and profitability challenges in recent years, including multiple earnings downgrades, rising short interest, and ongoing concerns around its turnaround efforts. With customer-facing brands such as Autobarn, Autopro, and Burson, the business remains a meaningful player in the Australian automotive aftermarket, but execution has held it back.

Wilesmith will officially step into the role on 14 January 2026, with outgoing CEO Angus McKay assisting through a transitional period. The ASX filing notes that Bapcor's board thanked McKay for the progress made in simplifying the organisation and stabilising its foundations, but the decision to transition leadership now signals the company's focus on a new phase centred on recovery and growth.

Bapcor shares Takeaway

Investors appear to view Wilesmith's appointment as a credible catalyst for that next phase. His combination of automotive experience, operational discipline, and exposure to both supplier and competitor dynamics positions him well to address Bapcor's challenges while unlocking value in its trade and retail networks.

While the share price pop reflects renewed optimism, the real test will come as Wilesmith begins to shape strategy, rebuild confidence, and demonstrate that Bapcor can return to sustainable earnings growth.

For now, the market has rewarded the company for making what many see as a decisive and much-needed leadership shift.

The post Bapcor shares soar 12% on the appointment of a new CEO 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 today:

Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP)

The Bapcor share price is up 13% to $2.01. This has been driven by news that the struggling auto parts company has appointed its new CEO. In January, Chris Wilesmith will join as CEO and managing director. Bapcor's chair, Lachlan Edwards, said: "Chris brings deep and broad automotive aftermarket experience to Bapcor. His previous senior roles in growing businesses in each of Bapcor's segments will be critical to take our businesses into their next phase of driving growth and performance."

IDP Education Ltd (ASX: IEL)

The IDP Education share price is up 1.5% to $5.66. This morning, this language testing and student placement company announced a voluntary change in its revenue recognition accounting policy that will see student placement revenue recognised across all jurisdictions at census date. In addition, management reaffirmed its adjusted EBIT guidance for FY 2026. It continues to expect adjusted EBIT in the range of $115 million to $125 million, including the impact of this accounting change.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

The Netwealth share price is up 2.5% to $27.15. This has been driven by news that the investment platform provider has agreed to pay compensation to members of the Netwealth Superannuation Master Fund (Fund) who suffered a loss through the collapse of the First Guardian Master Fund after reaching agreement with ASIC. The total value of the compensation payments is estimated to be $101 million. Netwealth's CEO, Matt Heine, said: "The agreed outcome allows us to move forward and continue our work in supporting our members, our clients and our business."

Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX: OBM)

The Ora Banda share price is up 5% to $1.47. Investors have been buying this gold miner's shares following the release of an update on drill results. These results are for the northern corridor, between Sand King and the historically mined Palmerston shallow open pit. High grade results were received, which the company notes is reinforcing the scale and growth potential of this emerging mineralised system. Ora Banda's managing director, Luke Creagh, said: "The drilling at Sand King continues to validate our view that we are only in the early stages of unlocking what is potentially a large mineralised system."

The post Why Bapcor, IDP Education, Netwealth, and Ora Banda shares are pushing higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

So, without further ado…

2 ASX 200 shares facing potential headwinds

First up, we have Lendlease Group (ASX: LLC).

Lendlease shares are down 0.7% during the Wednesday lunch hour, changing hands for $5 apiece.

This sees the Lendlease share price down 22.9% over 12 months. Losses that will have been only partly ameliorated by the stock's partly franked 4.6% dividend yield.

And looking ahead, DP Wealth Advisory's Andrew Wielandt expects Lendlease could continue to struggle in the near term.

"Lend Lease is a property developer and investment manager. The company is focusing on growing its Australian operations," said Wielandt, who has a sell recommendation on the ASX 200 share.

Wielandt explained:

The company has reduced debt and risk by divesting overseas projects and operations. However, in our view, this may lead to fewer development opportunities as it has less capital to recycle.

The company expects fiscal year 2026 to be one of transition. The shares have fallen from $6.77 on February 17 to trade at $5.125 on December 11. We prefer to be on the sidelines at this point, while monitoring developments.

Wielandt also recommends selling Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP) shares.

Bapcor shares are up 3.1% today, trading for $1.76 each. Despite that welcome lift, the Bapcor share price remains down 61.8% since this time last year. The stock also trades on a fully franked 7.7% dividend yield.

"Bapcor is an aftermarket automotive parts provider. It operates the Autobarn, Burson and Autopro brands," said Wielandt.

As for his sell recommendation on the ASX 200 share, he noted:

Shares recently hit a 12-month low after the company downgraded profit guidance. Bapcor expects to deliver a statutory net loss of between $5 million and $8 million in the first half of fiscal year 2026.

Performance in the trade segment was below expectations in October and November. Revenue declined in tools and equipment when compared to the prior corresponding period. The shares have fallen from $5.11 on July 23 to trade at $1.792 on December 11.

Wielandt concluded, "We retain a sell recommendation until there is clear evidence of an operational recovery."

Which brings us to…

Time to take profits on this surging Aussie miner?

Alto Capital's Tony Locantro believes investors would do well to take profits on Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) shares.

"MIN is a diversified resources company, with extensive operations in lithium, iron ore, energy and mining services across Western Australia," Locantro explained.

Shares in the lithium miner and diversified resources producer are up 3.8% today, changing hands for $52.49 apiece. That sees the Mineral Resources share price up 51.3% in 12 months. And investors who bought at the recent lows on 9 April will be sitting on eye-watering gains of 261% today.

Locantro noted:

The company delivered strong operational results in the first quarter of 2026, which included record iron ore output from Onslow Iron, triggering a $200 million payment. MIN's joint venture lithium terms with POSCO Holdings will realise it an upfront payment of $A1.2 billion for part of MIN's lithium business.

But with the ASX 200 share having rocketed higher over the past eight months, Locantro thinks further near-term gains appear limited.

He concluded:

MIN'S shares have risen from $14.40 on April 9 to trade at $51.90 on December 11. With most of the upside seemingly priced in and commodity cycles still volatile, it may be prudent to cash in some gains made on the strong share price recovery.

The post Alert! Analysts name 3 ASX 200 shares to sell today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Meanwhile, several ASX shares have hit 52-week lows today.

Is this an opportunity to buy, or should we be cautious on these ASX stocks?

Let's defer to the experts.

Premier Investments Ltd (ASX: PMV)

The Premier Investments share price hit a 52-week low of $14.19 on Thursday.

Premier Investments is chaired by retail legend Solomon Lew and owns the popular Peter Alexander and Smiggle brands.

Last week, the ASX retail share was smashed after a trading update revealed weaker discretionary spending in 1H FY26.

Macquarie responded by retaining its neutral rating on the ASX retail share.

The broker reduced its 12-month price target on Premier Investments from $20.80 to $16.20 per share.

This implies a potential upside of 14% in the new year.

The broker said:

PMV's shrunken 'Retail' business is challenged – and it remains unclear whether issues are specific to Smiggle, or extend to Peter Alexander.

PMV looks attractively valued (-16% pullback today) if consumer issues are confined to Smiggle, but level of disclosure leaves this unclear.

Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP) 

The Bapcor share price hit a 52-week low of $1.79 on Thursday.

The auto parts company downgraded its guidance in an update on Tuesday.

Bapcor said it now expects statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) for 1H FY26 to be a loss in the range of $5 million to $8 million.

The company now expects full-year statutory NPAT to be in the range of $31 million to $36 million.

CEO Angus McKay said:

Although the turnaround of the business is more challenging and taking longer than expected we are committed to doing the difficult work that will result in a stronger, more sustainable company.

Following the company's update, Macquarie gave Bapcor shares a neutral rating with a price target of $2.05.

This implies a potential upside of almost 15% in 2026.

Macquarie said:

Delivering revised FY26 guidance is critical to provide confidence in the underlying earnings base and alleviate any balance sheet concerns, stabilisation of revenue, earnings and market share in the trade segment.

As reported earlier this week, Bapcor shares will be dropped from the ASX 200 in the next rebalance on 22 December.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

The REA share price hit a 52-week low of $187.84 today.

REA owns the realestate.com.au property listings website.

Morgans has an accumulate rating on REA shares with a price target of $247.

This implies a potential upside of more than 30% in the new year.

After REA's 1Q FY26 trading update, Morgans commented:

REA's 1Q26 trading update benefited from a strong yield outcome (+13%), which helped to offset a softer new listings environment in the period (volumes down -8% vs the pcp).

Group revenue was A$429m (+4% on pcp), with EBITDA (ex assoc.) up 5% on pcp to A$254m.

Given REA is trading on ~42x FY26F PE (MorgansE), broadly in line with its 10-year historical average, and now with >10% TSR upside to our valuation we upgrade REA to ACCUMULATE.

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

The Xero share price hit a 52-week low of $113.11 on Thursday.

Xero is an accounting Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) provider.

Wilsons Advisory says Xero is its preferred large-cap tech share alongside TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE).

Wilsons Advisory equity strategist Greg Burke said Xero's forward EV/EBITDA has "de-rated sharply" from about 38x in July to about 24x today – the lowest on record. 

Burke commented: "Overall, with the growth story remaining firmly intact, XRO offers attractive value at current levels."

The post Opportunity knocks? Broker ratings on 4 ASX shares at 52-week lows appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But which are buys, holds, and sells? Let's take a look at three popular options and see if analysts are bullish, bearish, or something in between. They are as follows:

Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP)

This auto parts retailer's shares have come under significant pressure this month after downgrading its guidance for a second time.

While Morgans feels that this share price weakness could make the company a takeover target again, it isn't enough for the broker to recommend Bapcor as a buy. Instead, it has put a hold rating and $1.95 price target on its shares.

Commenting on its recommendation, Morgans said:

Management reiterated confidence in a materially improved 2H (implied ~A$40m NPAT at the midpoint); however, the magnitude and timing of today's downgrade – coming shortly after the 20-Oct update – warrants some caution around 2H expectations. The balance sheet also appears to be a point of concern, with BAP in discussions with lenders for covenant relief in FY26, with our estimates for gearing potentially approaching/exceeding the current covenant of ~3.0x (MorgansF ~3.05x).

Given significant share price weakness, renewed corporate appeal may arise. However, absent a takeover, we view the investment case as challenged given the sharp deterioration in earnings visibility, ongoing staff turnover, margin pressure, market share losses, balance sheet risk, and anaemic sales growth.

Guzman Y Gomez Ltd (ASX: GYG)

Morgans is more positive on this quick service restaurant operator and has named it as a buy with a $32.30 price target.

The broker feels that the burrito seller's latest limited-time offer could be a boost to sales growth and supportive of its margins. It said:

GYG has launched its latest limited-time offer (LTO): the BBQ Chicken Double Crunch (BBQ CDC). Early feedback suggests the item is one of GYG's more indulgent menu items and taste tests have been overwhelmingly positive. The product leverages existing ingredients, meaning no incremental complexity or cost for stores, a margin-friendly innovation that aligns with GYG's operational discipline. Management has repeatedly emphasised that menu innovation is a key lever for same-store sales (SSS) growth, and this launch reinforces that commitment. We reiterate our BUY rating.

Nextdc Ltd (ASX: NXT)

Over at Ord Minnett, its analysts were pleased with recent updates from this data centre operator.

In response, the broker has retained its buy rating on NextDC's shares with an improved price target of $20.50.

Commenting on its deal with ChatGPT owner, OpenAI, it said:

Ord Minnett also sees upside from the agreement between NextDC (NXT) and Open AI, whose ChatGPT product is the most popular of the artificial intelligence apps, to collaborate on the development and operation of the Australian company's S7 data centre site at Eastern Creek in Sydney's west where it plans to build a hyperscale AI campus and a large 'supercluster' of GPUs (graphics processing units). ‍

We have raised our target price on NextDC to $20.50 from $19.00 to incorporate our assumed value of the agreement with Open AI, although we have not yet changed our earnings estimates due to the lack of detail and operational timelines. We reiterate our Buy recommendation.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Bapcor, Guzman Y Gomez, and NextDC appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But Macquarie analysts believe there is still money to be made buying Bapcor shares at these levels, with their 12-month price target on the stock indicating a total return of almost 15%.

Tough start to the year

Bapcor said on Tuesday that its trading performance in October and November was "below expectation mainly in the trade segment''.

The company went on to say:

Revenue declined in tools and equipment versus the prior corresponding periods though parts revenue has grown modestly. Trade is also investing in pricing across specific parts categories to regain market share. The price reductions have adversely impacted margins in the short term but are expected to drive volume growth in the future.

Bapcor updated its guidance for the first half to be a loss in the range of $5 million to $8 million, including about $13 million in non-recurring items.

The company also updated its full-year guidance, saying net profit was expected to be in the range of $31 million to $36 million, and excluding the non-recurring ietms from the first half, would be in the range of $44 million to $49 million.

Bapcor delivered a full-year net profit of $28.1 million for FY25, which was up 117% on the previous year due to lower significant items.

Working on a turnaround

The company's Chief Executive Angus McKay said on Tuesday the weaker operational result for October and November was disappointing.

Although the turnaround of the business is more challenging and taking longer than expected we are committed to doing the difficult work that will result in a stronger, more sustainable company. I am excited by the appointment of Craig Magill and Dean Austin to Key EGM roles in the trade and retail segments respectively. Craig has significant Bapcor and automotive experience and Dean brings extensive retailing and merchandising experience.

Shares still good value

Macquarie said in a research note sent to clients this week that the downgrade was a 17% reduction from previous expectations, and it has a neutral rating on Bapcor shares.

That said, Macquarie still has a 12-month price target of $2.05 on the shares, and once dividends are factored in, was forecasting a total shareholder return of 14.7% for Bapcor shares.

The updated price target was a steep 29% discount to Macquarie's previous price target on the shares however.

The research note also said:

Delivering revised FY26 guidance is critical to provide confidence in the underlying earnings base and alleviate any balance sheet concerns, stabilisation of revenue, earnings and market share in the trade segment.

Bapcor shares hit a 12-month low of $1.80 on Wednesday before recovering slightly to be 1.2% lower at $1.82.

Bacpor was valued at $627.9 million at the close of trade on Tuesday.

The post Trading near 12-month lows, are Bapcor shares worth a look? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are falling more than most today are listed below. Here's why they are dropping:

Bapcor Ltd (ASX: BAP)

The Bapcor share price is down 20% to $1.87. Investors have been selling this auto products retailer's shares following the release of another disappointing update. Management advised that its performance in October and November was below expectation mainly in the Trade segment. In light of this, Bapcor now expects its statutory net profit after tax for the first half to be a loss in the range of $5 million to $8 million. For the full year, its statutory net profit after tax is now expected to be $31 million to $36 million. This is a downgrade on the guidance it provided in late October of $40 million to $50 million. Bapcor's CEO, Angus McKay, said: "The weaker operational performance in October and November is disappointing. Although, the turnaround of the business is more challenging and taking longer than expected we are committed to doing the difficult work that will result in a stronger, more sustainable company."

Emeco Holdings Ltd (ASX: EHL)

The Emeco share price is down 2.5% to $1.28. This follows the release of the mining equipment rental company's investor day update this morning. While the update was filled with positives and highlighted its many opportunities, there was no update to its guidance for FY 2026. It is possible that some investors had been expecting an upgrade at today's event. As things stand, Emeco still expects "moderate earnings growth" this financial year.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

The Liontown share price is down 3% to $1.47. This is despite the lithium miner announcing an offtake agreement with China's Canmax. The agreement will see the supply of 150,000 wet metric tonnes (wmt) of spodumene concentrate per year over two years in 2027 and 2028. Liontown's Managing Director and CEO, Tony Ottaviano, said: "Their participation in our 2025 institutional placement signalled strong confidence in the long term potential of Kathleen Valley, and this Offtake Agreement reinforces their commitment." While this is good news, it is possible that profit taking is weighing on its shares. After all, they remain up by 28% since this time last month despite today's weakness.

PWR Holdings Ltd (ASX: PWH)

The PWR Holdings share price is down over 4% to $7.73. This follows news that this automotive cooling products company has appointed its new CEO. PWR Holdings advised that it has promoted its CFO, Sharyn Williams, to the top job. Given the company's poor recent performance, it is possible that some investors were looking for an outside appointment with fresh ideas.

The post Why Bapcor, Emeco, Liontown, and PWR shares are tumbling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shares in the beleaguered S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) auto parts company closed yesterday trading for $2.35. In morning trade on Tuesday, shares are changing hands for $1.91 each, down 18.7%.

For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.3% at this same time.

Here's what's got investors reaching for their sell buttons.

Bapcor share price tanks on lower guidance

The Bapcor share price is under heavy pressure today after the company released updated guidance for the first half of FY 2026 as well as for the full FY 2026 year. And as you can guess by the market's reaction today, the revised guidance was to the downside.

The company said that its trading performance in October and November was "below expectation".

Bapcor's Trade segment was a particular drag on performance. Management said that revenue fell year on year in tools and equipment, noting that parts revenue managed to grow "modestly".

Part of the headwinds hitting the Bapcor share price arise as the company's Trade business has been investing in pricing across specific parts categories to regain Bapcor's market share. The company noted that these price reductions have crimped profit margins in the short term, while they are expected to drive volume growth in the future.

With the weaker-than-expected trading performance in October and November in mind, Bapcor said it now expects statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) for 1H FY 2026 to be a loss in the range of $5 million to $8 million.

Bapcor expects underlying NPAT for 1H26 (before one-off/non-recurring items) to be in the range of $5 million to $8 million.

As for the full 2026 financial year, the company now expects statutory NPAT to be in the range of $31 million to $36 million. That excludes the potential 1H26 impairment associated with the company's New Zealand segment.

The company expects underlying NPAT for FY 2026 (before the anticipated 1H26 one-off/non-recurring items) to be in the range of $44 million to $49 million.

What did management say?

Commenting on the performance update that's pressuring the Bapcor share price today, CEO Angus McKay said, "The weaker operational performance in October and November is disappointing."

Looking ahead, McKay added:

Although, the turnaround of the business is more challenging and taking longer than expected we are committed to doing the difficult work that will result in a stronger, more sustainable company.

I am excited by the appointment of Craig Magill and Dean Austin to key EGM roles in the Trade and Retail segments respectively. Craig has significant Bapcor and automotive experience and Dean brings extensive retailing and merchandising experience.

With today's intraday losses factored in, the Bapcor share price is down a painful 58.7% in 2025.

The post Why is the Bapcor share price crashing 19% on Tuesday? 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.