After keeping to red territory all day, the ASX 200 ended up closing 0.5% lower. That leaves the index at 8,796.7 points as we head into the weekend.

This rough day for the Australian markets followed a similar session on Wall Street overnight.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was not in a good mood, dropping 0.2% lower.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was punished even harder, falling a nasty 1.47%.

But let's return to the local boards now and take a closer look at what was happening with the various ASX sectors this Friday.

Winners and losers

No one should be surprised to see that there were more losers than winners today.

Leading said losers were gold stocks. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) was slammed this session, crashing 4.95%.

Broader mining shares were also slammed, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) tanking 2.91%.

Tech stocks sank hard as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) cratered 1.6%.

Next on the red list were healthcare shares, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)'s 0.34% dive.

Our final losers this Friday were financial stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) lifted 0.1% by the closing bell.

Let's turn to the green sectors now. It was utilities shares that fronted the pack, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) surging up 1.77%.

Energy stocks ran hot, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) soared 1.66% higher this Friday.

Communications shares were also in demand, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 1.62% lift.

Consumer staples stocks weren't left out either. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) bounced up 1.06% today.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) came next, with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) seeing its value spike 1.02%.

After REITs, we had industrial shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) enjoyed a 0.65% improvement this session.

Last and least, consumer discretionary stocks just stuck the landing, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ)'s 0.48% jump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Today's top stock was once again the financial services company AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP). AMP shares rocketed another 6.32% today to close at $2.02 each.

This seems to be a continuation of the goodwill we saw yesterday following the earnings update that was released.

Here's the rest of today's best: 

Enjoy the weekend!

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

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

I am less interested in what might move next month and more interested in whether the business can become much larger, stronger, or more valuable over time.

The three ASX 300 shares below all look capable of doing that, in my opinion.

Catapult Sports Ltd (ASX: CAT)

Catapult Sports is one of the more interesting growth shares on the ASX.

The company provides technology used by elite sports teams to track athlete performance, manage workload, analyse video, and improve decision-making.

That may sound niche, but I think the long-term opportunity is attractive.

Professional sport keeps becoming more data-driven. Clubs and leagues are spending more on tools that can help them reduce injuries, improve training, support coaching decisions, and find small performance advantages.

What I like about Catapult Sports is that its products can become part of the way teams operate. Once performance staff, coaches, and athletes are using the platform, the relationship can become deeper and stickier over time.

This is still a growth business, so investors should expect some volatility. Catapult needs to keep converting its customer base and recurring revenue into stronger profits.

But over 10 years, I think the company has a genuine chance to become a much larger global sports technology business.

SiteMinder Ltd (ASX: SDR)

SiteMinder is another ASX 300 share I would be happy to buy and hold.

The company provides software for hotels, helping them manage bookings, distribution channels, direct sales, payments, and online visibility.

I like this business because it sits behind a problem that hotel operators face every day.

Hotels need to sell rooms across multiple platforms, manage pricing, reduce friction, and compete for guests in a digital travel market. That can be difficult, especially for smaller and independent operators. SiteMinder gives hotels the tools to handle more of that complexity in one place.

The travel sector will always have cycles. Weak consumer spending, economic slowdowns, and global shocks can affect hotel demand.

But the long-term shift toward digital hotel commerce looks hard to reverse. I think more accommodation providers will need better technology to compete.

And if SiteMinder keeps expanding its platform and improving monetisation, I think it could be a rewarding 10-year holding.

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

Bega Cheese is a very different type of ASX 300 share.

It is tied to food, dairy, branded products, and everyday consumer demand. That gives it a more defensive feel than many smaller growth shares.

What interests me is that the Vegemite owner appears to have a clearer earnings improvement pathway.

Its FY26 EBITDA guidance is $222 million to $227 million. Looking further out, the company has outlined an FY31 EBITDA target of more than $310 million.

That growth is expected to be supported by investment in areas such as milk-based beverages, yoghurt, and Tatura cream cheese capability.

There are still things to watch, including input costs, supermarket pricing pressure, execution, and competition.

But if management can deliver on its targets, Bega could look like a much stronger business in 10 years.

Foolish takeaway

I think these are the kinds of ASX 300 shares that can reward investors who are willing to look beyond the next earnings update.

Each business still has plenty to prove, which is why I would not treat any of them as risk-free blue-chip holdings. But that is also where the opportunity sits.

Catapult, SiteMinder, and Bega Cheese all have clear ways to become better businesses over time, whether through deeper customer relationships, stronger platforms, improved efficiency, or expansion into higher-value areas.

For a 10-year holding period, that is what I want to see. The share price may not reward investors evenly along the way, but I think the long-term direction looks attractive.

The post 3 ASX 300 shares I would buy and hold for 10 years appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After a strong start to FY27 in the first week of July, the broader market has stalled around the 8,800-point level as investors weigh renewed Middle East tensions, rate uncertainty, and the approaching August reporting season.

Beneath that flat headline, however, something interesting is happening.

S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) shares are quietly surging. This sector has been one of the best-performing pockets of the ASX in recent sessions, as investors rotate into defensive names ahead of earnings season volatility.

Here are three ASX consumer staples shares benefiting from this upswing.

Woolworths: Resilience in a cautious consumer environment

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) has been one of the quiet achievers of the past month.

The company provides something most ASX shares cannot guarantee: recurring revenue regardless of economic conditions.

Australians keep buying groceries, cleaning products, and personal care items through every cycle.

This earnings visibility is what institutional investors rotate toward when uncertainty rises.

Catapult Wealth's Blake Halligan recently assessed Woolworths' defensive credentials, noting:

Food retail sales were up 5.9% in the third quarter of 2026 when compared to the prior corresponding period.

Coles: Consistent dividends and a reporting season catalyst

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) has been rising alongside Woolworths, benefiting from the same defensive rotation while adding its own catalyst.

Brokers retained a positive view on Coles this week, following a period where the supermarket's competitive positioning had been a source of investor uncertainty.

Coles pays a consistent, partially-franked dividend twice per year, giving income investors a meaningful yield alongside the stability of essential retail earnings.

The approach of the August reporting season adds a specific near-term catalyst.

Coles' FY26 full-year results will give investors the clearest picture of how effectively management has navigated cost inflation, loyalty program investments, and competitive pricing pressure over the past twelve months.

Bega Cheese: The defensive with a turnaround story

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA) is the least conventional of the three but arguably the most interesting from a value perspective.

The company is Australia's largest branded consumer dairy company, with a portfolio that includes Bega, Vegemite, and Farmers Union brands.

Like Woolworths and Coles, Bega benefits from the essential nature of its product categories.

But unlike the supermarkets, Bega carries an additional earnings recovery story on top of the defensive characteristics.

The company has been navigating a difficult period of input cost inflation and margin compression over the past two years.

Investors are buying after the company lifted its profit outlook. This has sent shares higher, driven by growing confidence that the earnings recovery management has been guiding toward is beginning to materialise.

The combination of an essential product portfolio, a recovering earnings trajectory, and a market environment rewarding defensives makes Bega one of the more interesting propositions in the sector right now.

Why ASX consumer staples shares are having their moment

The rotation into consumer staples reflects three specific forces converging in July 2026.

First, investors who rode materials and healthcare to strong FY26 and early FY27 gains are taking profits and redeploying into lower-volatility names.

Second, renewed Middle East escalation and its impact on oil prices are raising the spectre of further RBA rate hikes. This has historically favoured defensive sectors over rate-sensitive growth names.

Third, the August reporting season is six weeks away. Investors are positioning themselves in companies with more predictable earnings outcomes.

Consumer staples tick all three boxes: lower volatility, insulation from oil and rate sensitivity, and relatively predictable earnings that reduce binary-outcome risk.

Foolish Takeaway for ASX consumer staples shares

Woolworths, Coles, and Bega Cheese are each different versions of the same defensive investment thesis.

The broader market is stalling. Consumer staples are moving.

For investors who want to reduce portfolio volatility heading into the August reporting season while maintaining exposure to quality and income-producing businesses, the current rotation into consumer staples shares is worth paying attention to.

The post ASX consumer staples shares are quietly surging while the rest of the market stalls. Here is why appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three broker buy ratings that you might want to know more about are summarised below. Here's why brokers think these ASX shares are in the buy zone:

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

According to a note out of Morgan Stanley, its analysts have initiated coverage on this diversified food company's shares with an overweight rating and $6.70 price target. Morgan Stanley thinks that Bega Cheese shares are good value at current levels. The broker highlights the undemanding valuation multiple its shares trade on and the company's positive earnings growth outlook. For example, it believes Bega Cheese could grow its earnings per share at an average of 20% per annum between FY 2025 and FY 2028. This is being supported by increased protein consumption, cost savings, and optimisations. The Bega Cheese share price ended the week at $5.39.

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN)

A note out of Morgans reveals that its analysts have put a buy rating and $13.05 price target on this uranium producer's shares. Morgans thinks the uranium industry's outlook is very positive. It highlights that low prices over the past couple of decades means that supply of the chemical element is struggling to keep up with demand. So, with reactor demand increasing, Morgans is expecting there to be a structural supply deficit. This could be good news for uranium prices. It notes that China has a large number of reactors under construction and the US is targeting a significant increase in nuclear energy output over the next two decades. For Paladin Energy, given the quality of its assets, Morgans believes the company is well-placed to benefit from these trends. The Paladin Energy share price was fetching $11.07 at Friday's close.

Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL)

Analysts at Macquarie have retained their outperform rating and $9.50 price target on this gold miner's shares. According to the note, the broker is positive on the company's plan to merge with fellow gold miner Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU). Macquarie believes the combination of the two miners has the potential to become the second-largest Australian gold miner with significant production capacity. And while the broker acknowledges that there will be no operational synergies, it points out that there will be tax benefits and a potentially lower cost of capital. The Regis Resources share price ended the week at $6.35.

The post Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This is the second time in a month that the defensive sector has led the market.

Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) edged 0.3% higher to finish the week at 8,657 points.

The market whipsawed last week as the war in Iran dragged on and depressing economic data was released.

US President Donald Trump said he called off strikes on Iran after Persian Gulf leaders assured him of an acceptable deal in the works.

However, on Friday, reports emerged of Iran and Oman working together to create a permanent toll system for the Strait of Hormuz.

The Strait, through which about a fifth of the world's oil and gas is shipped, runs between the two nations and remains effectively closed.

Meanwhile in Australia, the market was surprised by a fall in employment in April that pushed the unemployment rate up to 4.5%.

Additionally, the latest monthly consumer sentiment index rose just 3.5% off the extreme low recorded last month.

Matthew Hassan, Head of Australian Macro-Forecasting at Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), commented:

… consumers remain deeply pessimistic.

Forward views are clearly still being weighed down by uncertainty around global energy supply with the Strait of Hormuz still effectively shut.

However, rate rise fears are also in the mix.

Fierce debate also broke out last week over how proposed capital gains tax (CGT) changes may disincentivise start-ups in Australia.

Amid volatile trading conditions, ASX 200 investors upped their exposure to defensive consumer staples shares.

Let's take a look at the impact.

Consumer staples shares led the ASX sectors last week

The Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) share price rose 5.15% to finish at $34.68 per share on Friday.

The Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) share price rose 3.17% to $21.47.

IGA network owner Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS) lifted 3.39% to $3.05 per share.

Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV) shares fell 0.65% to $3.08.

The A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M) share price tumbled 7.67% to $5.66.

ASX 200 wine share Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) increased 5.88% to $4.50.

The Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA) share price rose 0.37% to $5.39.

Almond food producer Select Harvests Ltd (ASX: SHV) ascended 6.65% to $3.85 per share.

ASX 200 agricultural share Graincorp Ltd (ASX: GNC) decreased 8.64% to $4.76.

Elders Ltd (ASX: ELD) shares tanked 18.33% to $5.88 after the company released its 1H FY26 numbers last week.

The Australian Agricultural Company Ltd (ASX: AAC) share price rose 2.27% to $1.35.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 consumer staples shares outperformed again last week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Let's look closer at ten ASX shares that received buy ratings from them. They are as follows:

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

Morgan Stanley is bullish on this diversified food company. This week, it initiated coverage on the Vegemite owner's shares with an overweight rating and $6.70 price target. The Bega Cheese share price ended the week at $5.39.

Catapult Sports Ltd (ASX: CAT)

Bell Potter was pleased with this sports technology company's FY 2026 results. In response, the broker retained its buy rating with an improved price target of $4.65. This compares to its latest share price of $3.57.

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

UBS turned positive on this gold miner and upgraded its shares to a buy rating with an improved price target of $14.00. The Evolution Mining share price ended the week at $12.17.

Gentrack Group Ltd (ASX: GTK)

Bell Potter continues to see value in this software provider's shares. This week, the broker retained its buy rating and $5.70 price target on its shares. This is notably higher than its current share price of $3.18.

Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

Morgan Stanley put an overweight rating and $36.15 price target on this industrial property company's shares. This compares to its current share price of $30.28. The broker is feeling positive about Goodman ahead of its quarterly update next week.

Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1)

Morgans remains positive on this network-as-a-service provider following the announcement of another big contract win for its Latitude business. It has put a buy rating and $15.50 price target on its shares. The Megaport share price ended the week at $13.05.

Qualitas Ltd (ASX: QAL)

The team at Morgans upgraded this real estate investment company's shares to a buy rating this week with a $3.50 price target. This implies potential upside of 20% from its current share price of $2.92.

Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL)

Macquarie is positive on this gold miner's merger plans. After looking at the proposal, the broker has retained its outperform rating and $9.50 price target on Regis Resources' shares. This compares to its current share price of $6.35.

Santos Ltd (ASX: STO)

Citi is bullish on this energy producer and has put a buy rating and $9.00 price target on its shares. The Santos share price ended the week at $8.24.

Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW)

Over at Morgan Stanley, its analysts have also put an overweight rating and reduced price target of $8.00 on this online furniture retailer's shares. This is notably higher than its current share price of $5.04.

The post 10 ASX shares given buy ratings this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I've had a look at the research reports coming out of Morgan Stanley this week and picked out three which might be of interest.

Let's have a look.

Catapult Sports Ltd (ASX: CAT)

Catapult specialises in technology which can be used to track sportspeople on the field and during training, with the metrics used by coaches and athletes to improve performance.

The company released its full year results this week, and said its annualised contract value increased 28% year-on-year to US$133.8 million.

Chief Executive Officer Will Lopes said it was a transformational year for the company.

He added:

We set ourselves ambitious targets: maintain our organic growth rate, reinvest meaningfully in our platform, and stay focused through a period of significant M&A. We delivered on all of them. These results reflect the efforts of every person at this company, and to the world-class sports teams who trust us with their performance every day.

Morgan Stanley said it was "another strong result, with operating metrics all improving''.

They added:

Of particular note was the pleasing progress made with bedding down the IMPECT and Perch acquisitions. Combined, they were the first material acquisitions made in some time by Management. We think the FY26 result demonstrated CAT's ability to integrate and scale acquisitions effectively, with both IMPECT and Perch appearing to perform well post acquisition and contributing positively to growth, product breadth and cross-sell opportunities. This was achieved alongside delivering organic growth in the core business.

Morgan Stanley has an overweight rating on Catapult shares with a price target of $5.20 compared to $3.57 currently.

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

An interesting takeaway from the Morgan Stanley research note on Bega is that they believe that the increased use of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs is a tailwind for the company, because it, "supports smaller, nutrient-dense, protein rich consumption occasions''.

They added:

This shift favours BGA's convenient dairy formats, supporting volume, pricing, and margins over time.

Morgan Stanley is forecasting better than 20% compound annual growth in earnings per share for Bega from FY25-FY28, "driven by branded mix improvement and supply chain consolidation benefits''.

The broker has a price target of $6.70 on Bega shares compared to $5.42 currently.

Goodman Group Ltd (ASX: GMG)

Goodman is due to report its third quarter results next week.

Morgan Stanley has got in ahead of time with a research note that has a price target of $36.15 on the shares compared to $30.37 currently.

The broker said they will be looking for good news out of the company.

Given the VA Consensus is at FY26 EPS growth of 10%, we would suggest that the market is somewhat anticipating an earnings upgrade. However, the probability of a data centre contract/s is less certain, and therefore would be a positive surprise if delivered.

The post Morgan Stanley names 3 ASX shares to buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three broker buy ratings that you might want to know more about are summarised below. Here's why brokers think these ASX shares are in the buy zone right now:

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

According to a note out of Morgan Stanley, its analysts have initiated coverage on this diversified food company's shares with an overweight rating and $6.70 price target. The broker believes that Bega Cheese is good value at current levels. It highlights the undemanding valuation multiple its shares trade on and positive earnings growth outlook. In fact, the broker believes Bega Cheese could grow earnings per share at an average of 20% per annum between FY 2025 and FY 2028. This is being supported by increased protein consumption, cost savings, and optimisations. The Bega Cheese share price is trading at $5.42 on Friday.

Energy One Ltd (ASX: EOL)

A note out of Bell Potter reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating on this software provider's shares with a trimmed price target of $17.10. Bell Potter believes artificial intelligence (AI) displacement concerns are unwarranted. This is because Energy One serves a deeply regulated and sticky industry with mission-critical solutions. In addition, it highlights that tailwinds remain regarding growing complexity in energy markets, surging European trading volumes, and increasing distributed energy resources. It believes these trends reinforce the strength of the company's positioning as a one-stop-shop provider of software and services, rather than a collection of individual tools. It also notes that it remains attracted to the company's strong growth profile, expanding margins, and impressive SaaS metrics. The Energy One share price is fetching $12.21 at the time of writing.

Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW)

Another note out of Bell Potter reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating on this online furniture retailer's shares with a reduced price target of $7.00. The broker has reduced the target multiples for Temple & Webster's shares to 9x EV/EBITDA. Despite this, the broker still sees plenty of value in Temple & Webster's shares. In fact, it notes that the continuous decline in the share price means that its shares are back at the levels of the last profit optimisation cycle in 2022. However, this time around its shares are trading on a more attractive EV/sales multiple. Overall, it sees long term valuation support in a high-quality ecommerce retailer with range, pricing/scale advantages, AI/data capability backed by a strong balance sheet to take up inorganic growth opportunities. The Temple & Webster share price is trading at $5.09 this afternoon.

The post Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Meanwhile, three experts give us their views on three ASX 200 shares.

Let's check them out.

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

The Bega Cheese share price is $5.22, up 0.1% today and down 14% in the year to date (YTD).

Pac Partners has a buy rating on this ASX consumer staples share with a 12-month price target of $7.50.

This implies potential upside of 44% ahead.

In a new note, the broker said:

Bega Group Limited (ASX:BGA) is a great Australian food company with a scalable platform of #1 and #2 "better for you" dairy and spread brands.

We rate BGA a Buy for its high 21% average EPS growth to FY'29F with  FY'27F EV/EBITDA multiple of 9.9x at our Price Target of $7.50/share.

The ASX200 trades at a similar multiple with EPS growth of just 5-10%.

Pac Partners expects Bega Cheese to deliver at the high end of its FY26 earnings guidance due to its "earnings resilience in the short term" amid the current global oil shock, and the impact of $110 million spent on high-margin internal growth projects.

Pac Partners said:

Despite higher fuel and fertiliser costs, BGA has maintained 32-38% EPS growth guidance for FY'26F.

Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG)

The Macquarie share price is $242.70, up 2.5% today and up 19% YTD.

This week, Morgans maintained its hold rating on the ASX bank share and increased its price target from $223 to $248.

This implies limited share price growth over the next 12 months.

Morgans said:

MQG delivered a very strong FY26 result with NPAT (A$4.8bn) up +30% on the pcp and +8% above company-compiled consensus.

Whilst acknowledging this result was aided by significant volatility in commodity markets that assisted CGM, MQG's performance was generally strong across the board.

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

Kogan.com (ASX: KGN)

The Kogan share price is $3.43, down 3.4% today and down 8% YTD.

On The Bull, Nathan Lodge from Securities Vault explained his sell rating on the ASX consumer discretionary share.

Lodge said:

The online retailer benefited from pandemic-era demand. Kogan Group statutory revenue was up 5.5 per cent in the first half of 2026 when compared to the prior corresponding period. However, group statutory net profit after tax was down 20.2 per cent.

The company operates in a highly competitive, low-margin retail segment with limited differentiation. Inventory management and discounting cycles have also weighed on profitability in recent periods.

Consumer spending remains under pressure in a high interest rate environment. In our view, the market is unlikely to assign premium multiples given the lack of durable competitive advantages.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Bega Cheese, Kogan, Macquarie shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Does the broker rate them as buys, holds, or sells? Let's dig deeper into things:

Aeris Resources Ltd (ASX: AIS)

Morgans is feeling positive about this copper miner and has named it as a buy this week with a 70 cents price target.

Although its production was softer than expected during the third quarter, the broker was pleased with its cost performance and cash flow generation. It said:

Copper production missed on lower Tritton grades but this was offset by a solid cost performance and strong cash flow (+72% qoq), materially strengthening the balance sheet and funding flexibility. Tritton is set up for a stronger 4Q26, while Constellation, Golden Plateau and the Peel acquisition underpin a longer-term production and mine life extension story. Maintain BUY rating with an unchanged A$0.70ps Target Price.

ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ)

This banking giant delivered a decent half-year result according to Morgans. However, it isn't enough for a positive rating. Instead, the broker has upgraded ANZ's shares to a trim rating (between sell and hold) with an improved price target of $31.85. It said:

1H26 revenues were flat on an underlying basis, but cost decline and credit impairment charges were better than expected. Target price increased 4% to $31.85/sh, given 3-6% earnings upgrades and decision to recommence neutralising the DRP. Upgraded from SELL to TRIM, given potential TSR at current prices of c.-6%.

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

Morgans was pleased to see this diversified food company retain its guidance for FY 2026 despite cost pressures from the Middle East conflict.

In addition, it highlights that management has lifted its medium-term earnings target and provided a five-year plan.

As a result, it has retained its accumulate rating with a $6.50 price target. The broker said:

We attended BGA's Investor Day. Despite the cost pressures associated with the conflict in the Middle East, BGA reiterated its FY26 EBITDA guidance. It also upgraded its FY28 EBITDA target and provided an FY31 EBITDA target for its next 5-year strategy. BGA's targets underpin solid earnings growth profile across the forecast period, whilst maintaining a strong balance sheet.

Our FY26 forecasts remain unchanged, while in FY27 and FY28, we have reduced NPAT for higher D&A associated with BGA's capital growth projects. We maintain an Accumulate rating with a new price target of A$6.50. BGA remains well placed given its portfolio of iconic household brands, its focus on developing higher margin products with functional health benefits, its expansion into growth channels both domestically and overseas and network optimisation plans.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Aeris, ANZ, and Bega Cheese shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because Bell Potter has named one ASX 200 share that it believes offers both.

Which ASX 200 share?

The share in question is Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA).

It is focused on the processing, manufacturing, and distribution of dairy and associated products to both Australian and international markets. This includes the iconic Vegemite brand.

According to the note, the broker was pleased with what it heard from Bega Cheese at its investor day event.

Bell Potter highlights that management continues to target strong earnings growth over the coming years. It said:

FY28e targets: FY26e EBITDA guidance $222-227m was unchanged, with recently announced product levies of 8-15¢/L or kg implemented quickly and with the ability to move on short notice. FY28e EBITDA guidance has been firmed from >$250m to $260-265m with the majority of the uplift from FY26e to FY28e linked to already announced initiatives, principally the closure of Strathmerton.

FY31e targets: BGA has issued its initial FY31e baseline EBITDA target of $310m+, which is driven by two strong themes in the branded business, being: (1) Continued investment in high growth categories such as milk based beverages and yoghurt, where category growth has been +8-10% p.a. and BGA unveiled a planned +25% uplift in yoghurt capacity; and (2) Continued investment in its Tatura cream cheese capability, where volumes have grown at +14% p.a. and a +28% capacity expansion is planned.

Importantly, Bell Potter believes this is achievable. The broker explains:

The FY28-31e baseline projections would look highly achievable based on current dynamics in the categories being targeted and requires BGA to execute at a rate not inconsistent with what they have achieved over the FY23-26e.

Big potential returns

In response to the investor update, Bell Potter has retained its buy rating and $7.75 price target on the ASX 200 share.

Based on the current Bega Cheese share price of $5.54, this implies potential upside of 40% for investors over the next 12 months.

In addition, it expects a 2.5% dividend yield over the period, rising to 3.5% by FY 2028.

Commenting on its recommendation, the broker said:

Our Buy rating is unchanged. BGA has articulated a strategy to generating double digit EPS growth to FY31e, through low risk investment in its core competencies of yoghurt, cream cheese and milk based beverages. In addition, BGA has also implemented levy frameworks that reduce the risk of prolonged Middle East disruption on the cost base and retailers have already followed suit with on shelf price moves.

The post Bell Potter is tipping a 40% return from this ASX 200 share appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing: 

• Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA) shares are down 6% to $5.50
• Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP) shares are falling 9% to $16.10

This continues the downward trend in 2026 for both companies. 

Let's see what could be influencing the drop today. 

Bega Cheese

Bega is an Australian-based dairy processor and food manufacturer. Its well-known brands include Bega Cheese and Vegemite.

Its share price is down just over 6% today despite there being no price-sensitive news out of the company. 

This takes its yearly tally to a 9% fall. 

It is a disappointing result for the company, as broadly, the consumer staples sector has performed well in 2026. 

This has been driven by geopolitical uncertainty and high interest rates, which have pushed investors toward defensive assets.

This has led to a 9% rise year to date for the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ).  

Domino's Pizza Enterprises

Dominos shares are tumbling 9% today and are now trading for approximately $16.14. 

They are one of the most shorted ASX shares on Tuesday. 

This is a fall of 26% year to date for the fast-food pizza franchise. 

Similar to Bega, there is no price-sensitive news out of the company today. 

It has struggled in 2026 along with other consumer discretionary shares. 

The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) is down 14% year to date. 

What are experts saying?

Following today's heavy sell-off, investors might be considering buying the dip on Bega and Domino's shares. 

In recent news out of brokers, Bell Potter recently placed a hold rating and $18 price target on Domino's shares.

Although it acknowledges that its shares are trading on low multiples, it feels that this is justified based on its modest earnings growth outlook.

This price target is 11.5% higher than today's share price. 

Meanwhile, for Bega shares, PAC Partners placed a $7.50 price target on the consumer staples stock last month. 

Should Bega shares bounce back to this target, it would be a 36% recovery. 

The post Why are Bega Cheese and Dominos shares crashing today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fell 1.79% to finish the week at 8,786.5 points.

ASX investors are feeling increasingly pessimistic that the war in Iran will end anytime soon.

This was likely a factor behind the support for ASX 200 consumer staples and utilities shares last week.

Consumer staples and utilities are among the most defensive of the 11 market sectors during economic upheaval.

This is because staples and utilities companies have reliable income streams, given they sell essential goods and services.

Another sector considered somewhat defensive is real estate investment trusts (REITs), which lifted 0.14% last week.

The glaring exception among defensives last week was healthcare, a sector that continues to face multiple headwinds.

A 42% dive in Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) shares pushed the S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) to a 6-year low last week.

Technology also finished just inside the green, as the sector continues its rebound from a prolonged downturn.

Iran war drags on

Oil and gas prices spiked 15% to 18% and ASX 200 shares spent four consecutive days in the red last week.

The world is anxiously awaiting news of when a second round of US-Iran peace talks will begin.

Lucinda Jerogin, Associate Economist at CBA, said:

… fundamentally the situation has not changed; no talks, no fighting and no ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran has stated it will neither reopen the Strait nor engage in negotiations until the US lifts its naval blockade.

The longer the Strait remains closed, the greater the costs to the world economy through higher energy prices and supply chain disruptions.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned of a global recession given the long-tail impact of energy shocks.

In Australia, expectations of higher inflation and more interest rate rises do not bode well for the economy.

The market is factoring in a 69% chance of a rate rise next month. Meanwhile, consumer confidence has tanked.

The Westpac-Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Index recorded its biggest fall in five years this month.

All of these broader macroeconomic concerns likely contributed to support for ASX 200 defensive sectors last week.

Consumer staple shares led the ASX sectors last week

The sector's largest stock, Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW), gained 2.99% to finish at $37.89 per share on Friday.

The Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) share price rose 2.31% to $23.06.

IGA network owner Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS) fell 2.76% to $2.82 per share.

Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV) shares rose 7.36% to $3.50.

The A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M) share price edged 0.94% lower to $7.40.

ASX 200 wine share Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) lifted 12.22% to $4.50 on news of a revised operating model.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING) shares fell 0.5% to close at $1.98 on Friday.

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA) shares eased 0.51% to $5.87.

Almond food producer Select Harvests Ltd (ASX: SHV) rose 0.54% to $3.75 per share.

Cobram Estate Olives Ltd (ASX: CBO) shares lifted 1.69% to $3.61.

ASX 200 agricultural share Graincorp Ltd (ASX: GNC) increased 0.79% to $6.40.

The Elders Ltd (ASX: ELD) share price fell 2.13% to $7.35.

Stock feed producer Ridley Corporation Ltd (ASX: RIC) lifted 4.46% to $2.81.

The Australian Agricultural Company Ltd (ASX: AAC) lost 2.24% to finish the week at $1.31.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

The post Nervous investors turn to ASX 200 defensives as global energy shock drags on appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Today's fall builds on yesterday's 1.77% drop after missile strikes on energy assets in the Middle East caused a spike in oil prices.

ASX All Ords shares have fallen 8.13% since the war began, and the market is now 4% in the red for the year to date (YTD).

Meantime, brokers have named 3 ASX shares with buy recommendations amid all this volatility.

Let's take a look.

Helloworld Travel Ltd (ASX: HLO)

Helloworld Travel shares are steady at $1.44 on Friday, down 23.8% YTD and down 6.5% over 12 months.

Shaw and Partners reiterated its buy rating on this ASX travel share after the Australian Bureau of Statistics released new data.

The broker commented:

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Overseas Arrivals and Departures data for January 2026 bodes well for Helloworld Travel Limited (ASX:HLO) with Departures up 8.4% Financial YTD and the travel destination mix reasonably steady. 

Shaw and Partners kept its 12-month share price target at $2.80.

This implies a potential 94% upside from here.

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

The Bega Cheese share price is down 0.27% to $5.60 at the time of writing.

The ASX consumer staples share is down 7.67% YTD and up 8.6% over the past year.

This month, PAC Partners retained its buy rating and increased its price target by 7% to $7.50 per share.

This implies a potential 34% upside from here.

The broker said:

Bega Cheese Limited's (ASX:BGA) vision of a great Australian food company arrived this year with: a scalable platform #1 and #2 "better for you" brands; #1 Australian cold chain; off-shore leverage; and a 50% lift in dividend in 1H'26.

Starpharma Holdings Ltd (ASX: SPL)

The Starpharma share price is 47 cents, up 1.1% on Friday.

This ASX small-cap share has risen 25.7% YTD and soared 365% over 12 months.

PAC Partners has a buy rating on this ASX healthcare share.

The broker forecasts growth in partnerships and over-the-counter revenue over the next four years.

PAC Partners says it has a "high risk" 12-month price target range of 80 cents to $1 on Starpharma shares.

This suggests a possible minimum capital gain of 70% over the next 12 months.

PAC Partners commented:

Starpharma Holdings Limited (ASX:SPL) will start human clinical trials of its novel radiotherapy drug for a solid cancer target by the end of 2026.

This in-house project opens up SPL dendrimer applications beyond the Genentech, medicxi and RAD.ASX partnered projects.

The post 3 buy-rated ASX shares in today's falling market 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.

As reporting season continues on Friday, Morgans has run the ruler over the earnings results of three ASX 200 companies.

Let's take a look.

Transurban Group (ASX: TCL)

The Transurban share price is 3.3% higher at $14.34 on Friday.

Yesterday, Transurban reported a 6.4% lift in proportional operating earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) to $1,545 million for 1H FY26.

The market's largest industrial sector stock will pay a dividend of 34 cents per share.

Morgans said:

1H26 Operating EBITDA (+6% on pcp) missed Visible Alpha consensus by 3% while Free Cash (+2% on pcp) was in-line (both were below our forecasts).

Changes to FY26-28F EBITDA are immaterial. Free Cash downgraded 1-3% mainly due to higher debt service outlook.

DPS forecast remains in line with DPS guidance for FY26 and for 5% pa growth across FY27-29F (within the 4-6% pa Free Cash growth range of the 2025 management long-term incentive plan).

The broker retained a hold rating on this ASX 200 industrial share with a 1% reduction in its 12-month price target to $13.19.

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

The Bega Cheese share price is up 5.7% to $6.57 at the time of writing.

In earlier trading, the ASX 200 consumer staples share hit a new 52-week high of $6.72.

Yesterday, Bega Cheese reported a 55.3% increase in net profit after tax (NPAT) to $46.9 million for 1H FY26.

Bega Cheese will pay an interim dividend of 7 cents per share.

Morgans said:

Pleasingly, BGA's 1H26 result materially beat expectations given a stronger than expected performance from its Bulk business.

However, the result from its much larger Branded business was solid and would have been even stronger if BGA had more yoghurt capacity to take advantage of the strong demand for protein given health and wellness trends.

Importantly, expansion plans in this area are underway.

FY26 earnings guidance was upgraded. Given its restructuring activity, expansion plans and new product pipeline, we continue to believe that BGA will beat its FY28 EBITDA target of +A$250m. We think A$265m is more likely.

This underpins a strong growth profile across the forecast period.

Morgans has an accumulate rating on the ASX 200 consumer staples share. Its 12-month share price target is $7.10.

APA Group (ASX: APA)

The APA share price is 1.7% higher at $9.16 on Friday.

Yesterday, APA reported a 7.6% lift in underlying EBITDA to $1,092 million, with margins up to 77.3%, for 1H FY26.

Statutory NPAT lifted to $95 million, up from $34 million last year.

The ASX 200 utilities share will pay an interim dividend of 27.5 cents.

Morgans said:

Inflation-linked revenues, a cost-out program and contributions from new assets underpin short-term earnings growth.

Potential return on and of the enlarged growth capex pipeline in a rising interest rate environment will be a key investor focus, as will the headwind of approaching expiry of the WGP earnings in FY35.

Underlying EBITDA upgraded 1-2% across FY26-28F (Vic+NSW), Free Cash Flow +/-4-5% (tax and interest paid), and DPS growth unchanged at +1 cps/yr.

The mid-6% cash yield doesn't compensate for ongoing decline in purchasing power of the DPS and flat equity value outlook.

Morgans has a trim rating on this ASX 200 utilities share with a 12-month price target of $7.96.

The post What is Morgans saying about APA, Bega Cheese, and Transurban shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

If you are, then it could be worth checking out the three ASX 200 shares in this article.

That's because they have been tipped to rise between 20% and 40% by analysts at Bell Potter. Here's what they are recommending:

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Bell Potter thinks that this gaming technology company's shares could have major upside potential.

This morning, the broker has retained its buy rating on the ASX 200 share with a $70.00 price target (from $80.00). Based on its current share price of $50.33, this implies potential upside of approximately 40% for investors over the next 12 months. It said:

We retain our Buy recommendation. We continue to expect ALL's leading R&D investment will drive market share gains. Top 2 game performance observed in both the core sales and premium gaming ops markets leaves us confident that ALL can grow the install base >4.0k per year and grow global shipments. Further, with leverage standing at 0.2x, ALL has substantial M&A firepower to boost growth inorganically.

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

Another ASX 200 share that Bell Potter expects to rise strongly is diversified food company Bega Cheese. This morning, in response to its half-year results, the broker has retained its buy rating with an improved price target of $7.75 (from $7.00). Based on its current share price of $6.21, this suggests that upside of 25% is possible for investors.

Bell Potter believes the Vegemite owner can achieve its $250 million EBITDA target in 2027. It said:

Our Buy rating is unchanged. BGA's >$250m EBITDA target is in reach and achieved by executing on capital investment and site consolidation initiatives already underway. Trading on a FY26e PE of 26.9x for three-year compound EPS growth of 24% p.a. BGA is a compelling GARP play and one of the few exposures on the ASX leveraged to the growing consumer preference for higher protein formats, through both its branded portfolio and specialised ingredient platform.

Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL)

Finally, this healthcare company's shares could be undervalued according to Bell Potter. It has retained its buy rating on the ASX 200 share with a slightly improved price target of $28.75 (from $28.50). Based on its current share price of $23.34, this implies potential upside of 23%.

Bell Potter was relatively pleased with Sonic Healthcare's half-year results and has lifted its earnings estimates. It said:

We have made modest changes to our earnings estimates across FY26e-FY28e with increases to EPS of 1.7%/1.4%/1.3%. The result is a c.1% upgrade in our TP to $28.75/sh, which represents c.23% upside to the current share price. We expect this result to support investor sentiment, which has struggled in recent times, with the prospect of trading multiples reverting toward long-term averages.

The post These ASX 200 shares could rise 20% to 40% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The company said in a statement to the ASX on Thursday morning that first-half revenue had come in at $1.87 billion, up 5%, while net profit was 55.3% higher at $46.9 million.

Strength across both major divisions

The company said its Branded Products division delivered a normalised EBITDA of $112.5 million, up 8%.

The company added:

Bega Group fuelled growth in core categories by launching new products to support evolving consumer needs and increased marketing investment to support its leading brands. The company continued to expand sales with growth in grocery, foodservice and international channels in line with strategic objectives. Additionally, the transformational manufacturing initiatives previously announced remain on track with cost savings projected in 2H FY2026 and FY2027.

The company also delivered strong results in its bulk division, with segment EBITDA of $41.1 million, up 68%.

The company said:

This significant improvement is due to a better initial alignment of farm gate milk prices to dairy commodity prices, incremental milk supply, additional toll manufacturing, and a focus on higher value commodities and nutritionals.   

Bega declared an interim dividend of 7 cents per share, payable on April 2, up from 6 cents for the same period last year.

The company also upgraded its full-year guidance to a normalised EBITDA range of $222 to $227 million, compared with $215 to $220 million given at the company's annual meeting late last year.

Bega added that it had a strong balance sheet, which positioned it well to invest in future growth plans.

Bega Group had consolidated net debt of $219.8 million as at 28 December 2025, compared to $207.2 million as at 29 December 2024, an increase of $12.6 million. The increase in net debt was primarily from an increase in working capital (partly due to higher milk prices) and a reduction in the utilisation of the Trade Receivable Facility. Bega Group's normalised EBITDA to net debt leverage ratio decreased from 1.3 times at the end of 1H FY2025 to 1.2 times at 28 December 2025.

Bega shares traded as high as $6.37 in early trade on Thursday, which was a 12-month high for the stock, which has improved from $4.85 over the past year.

The shares were changing hands for $6.22, up 2.5% by mid-morning.

Bega was valued at $1.85 billion at the close of trade on Wednesday.

The post Bega Cheese shares hit a 12-month high on strong profit numbers appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

So, to narrow down the options, let's take a look at what analysts are saying about three names, courtesy of The Bull.

One has been named as a hold, whereas the others are being tipped as buys. Here's what you need to know:

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

This diversified food company's shares are a hold according to Ord Minnett. The broker thinks that recent increases in the farmgate milk price could be a headwind in 2026 and weigh on its profit growth. It said:

Shares in this food and dairy company have performed well since late 2025, with the price increasing from $5.15 on November 7 to trade at $6.21 on February 5, 2026. The company's profitability has recovered as the gap between farmgate milk prices and global commodity prices has narrowed. However, farmgate milk price increases in fiscal year 2026 may limit further profit gains from the bulk segment. The company maintains its long term focus on achieving its fiscal year 2028 target of more than $250 million in earnings and a return on funds employed exceeding 10 per cent.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

The team at Family Financial Solutions thinks that Telstra could be a top ASX 200 share to buy this week.

It likes Australia's largest telco due to its resilient mobile earnings and defensive earnings. In addition, it thinks its fully franked dividend is attractive (and reliable). It explains:

Telstra is Australia's dominant telecommunications provider with infrastructure‑like cash flows. Reported net profit after tax of $2.3 billion in full year 2025 was up 31 per cent on the prior corresponding period. Cash earnings per share of 22.4 cents were up 12 per cent. The shares were trading at $4.935 on February 5, below our fair value of $5.40. Cost discipline, share buy-backs and resilient mobile earnings support steady upside in a market that still rewards defensiveness. On top of this, Telstra pays reliable, fully franked dividends. Its full year dividend of 19 cents a share in fiscal year 2025 was up 5.6 per cent on the prior corresponding period. TLS was recently trading on a dividend yield of 3.85 per cent.

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

Ord Minnett has named buy now pay later provider Zip as an ASX 200 share to buy.

The broker highlights that Zip is performing very positively in FY 2026 and believes this trend can continue. This is especially the case given that the second half is usually the stronger half for margins. It said:

This digital financial company operates in Australia, New Zealand and the United States. There's a lot to like about this buy now, pay later platform provider's first quarter result in fiscal year 2026. Total transaction volume (TTV) growth in the US was up 47.2 per cent and revenue was up 51.2 per cent.  Consequently, Zip's management has increased TTV guidance in the US to more than 40 per cent in full year 2026, which is up from 35 per cent. Margins were strong across the board, highlighted by an operating margin of 19.5 per cent in the first quarter, which is above the guidance range of between 16 per cent and 19 per cent for full year 2026. Margins are usually stronger in the second half.

The post Forget this ASX 200 share and buy Telstra and Zip shares: Experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here are three that the broker is bullish on for next year:

Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA)

This diversified food company could be an ASX share to buy for 2026 according to Bell Potter.

It has a buy rating and $7.00 price target on its shares. Based on its current share price of $6.01, this implies potential upside of 16% for investors over the next 12 months.

The broker likes the Vegemite owner due to its very positive growth outlook. It explains:

Following recent restructuring announcements, with regard to the closure of Strathmerton and winding down of the PCA operations, there appears a clear pathway towards a $250-270m EBITDA target. If successful in generating this return and having consideration for the cash costs to achieve this target (c$85- 100m), it would imply a share price of $8.00-9.00ps (at BGA's historical ~12x EBITDA multiple). In effect, BGA now has a clearly articulated strategy to generating >20% p.a. EPS growth to FY28e. Trading on a FY25-28e PEG ratio of ~1x, BGA is one of the more compelling growth exposures in the sector.

CAR Group Limited (ASX: CAR)

Another ASX share that the broker is positive on its auto listings giant CAR Group.

Bell Potter has a buy rating and $42.20 price target on CAR Group's shares. This implies potential upside of 38% for investors from current levels.

It highlights that its shares are trading on lower than normal multiples, which it believes is a buying opportunity for investors. It said:

CAR is trading around two-year lows at a P/E of ~28x, despite a defined product rollout map to drive value from its market-leading networks in its large, addressable markets, which includes C2C payments, pay-per-lead model, regional expansion and scope to develop market-based legacy advertising practices, underpinning a steady growth profile in our forecast EPS through FY26e-FY28e.

Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN)

A final ASX share that the broker is bullish on for 2026 is retail giant Harvey Norman.

Bell Potter has a buy rating and $8.30 price target on its shares, which implies potential upside of approximately 18% for investors over the next 12 months.

The broker believes that Harvey Norman's shares are still good value despite rising strongly in 2025. It explains:

Despite the strong re-rate in the name, HVN trades at ~2.0x market capitalisation to freehold property value as Australia's single largest owner in large format retail with a global portfolio surpassing $4.5b and collectively owning ~40% of their stores (franchised in Australia and company operated offshore). This sees our view that of the 1-year forward ~19x P/E multiple as justified considering the multiple catalysts near/mid-term.

The post Bell Potter rates these ASX shares as strong buys for 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.