How happy?

Well, a year ago, you could have picked up Bannerman Energy shares for $2.24. At Friday's close, those shares were changing hands for $4.21 each. That sees the ASX 300 uranium share up a very impressive 87.95% over 12 months.

For context, the ASX 300 has gained 9.52% over the same period.

But if you think the ship has sailed on the potential outsized gains from the Aussie uranium company, you might want to have another look.

That's according to Fairmont Equities' Michael Gable, who expects the stars are aligning to deliver more outperformance from Bannerman Energy shares (courtesy of The Bull).

Should you buy the ASX 300 uranium share today?

"Bannerman is a uranium development company," said Gable, who has a buy recommendation on the ASX 300 uranium share. "Its flagship Etango project is based in Namibia."

One of the reasons for Gable's bullish outlook on Bannerman Energy shares is the potential looming shortfall in global uranium supplies.

"The uranium sector continues to appeal because demand should continue to outpace supply for the next several years," he said.

Indeed, in Shaw and Partners' new Uranium Super-Cycle report, the broker said it expects that structural supply deficits, accelerating nuclear demand, and tightening fuel contracting cycles will see the uranium spot price hit US$175 per pound in 2027. Uranium was trading for around US$88 per pound this past week.

Fairmont Equities Gable is also encouraged by Bannerman's JV deal with the China National Nuclear Corporation.

According to Gable:

The company recently announced a joint venture with the China National Nuclear Corporation. The deal de-risks the Etango project and reduces funding risk involving development. BMN is exposed to potential upside in uranium prices. The shares have risen from $2.35 on August 20, 2025 to trade at $4.50 on February 26, 2026.

The ASX 300 uranium share announced its JV deal on 13 February.

Commenting on the JV Etango funding deal on the day, Bannerman Energy executive chairman Brandon Munro said:

By enabling the debt-free construction of Etango, this solution maximises flexibility and dramatically derisks the construction and ramp-up phases of project execution.

It also delivers us a Tier-1 cornerstone offtake partner on genuine and market terms, ensuring Bannerman remains strongly exposed to future uranium price upside potential.

The post Up 88% in a year, why this ASX 300 uranium share is forecast to keep running hot appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's according to the team at Shaw and Partners.

Both Paladin and Boss Energy shares are already off to a strong start in 2026.

Year to date at the time of writing, the Paladin share price is up 28.3%, while Boss Energy shares have gained 14%. That compares to a 1.1% gain posted by the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) over this same period.

Why ASX uranium shares could charge higher from here

In a new report, Uranium Super-Cycle, Shaw and Partners recommends investors hold an overweight position in ASX uranium shares.

The broker expects that "a growing disconnect" between global uranium supply and long-term nuclear demand will see a big uptick in uranium prices, which should help lift profits for producers like Boss Energy and Paladin.

Uranium was recently trading for around US$88 per pound, after hitting a two-year high of $101 per pound on 29 January.

But citing structural supply deficits, accelerating nuclear demand, and tightening fuel contracting cycles, Shaw and Partners expects nuclear fuel to surge to US$200 per pound.

In the new report, the broker now forecasts a uranium spot price of US$175 per pound in 2027, up from its prior forecast of US$150 per pound. And in 2028, Shaw and Partners expects uranium will fetch US$200 per pound, up from the prior forecast of US$150 per pound.

Why the uranium price could more than double by 2028

Shaw and Partners' bullish outlook on the price of the nuclear fuel, and the resulting expected strength of ASX uranium shares, follows on what it called a "sharp market signal" when uranium spiked from US$85 per pound to US$102 per pound in only three days at the end of January.

Andrew Hines, head of research at Shaw and Partners, said this big move shows just how sensitive the uranium market is to incremental buying pressure.

According to Hines:

The January spike demonstrated how quickly this market can reprice. A relatively modest amount of financial buying was enough to move the spot price materially. If utilities return to the term market in size, we believe the upside move could be significant.

Shaw and Partners noted that global nuclear capacity currently consumes some 180 million pounds of uranium a year. That's significantly more than the existing mine production of around 150 million pounds a year.

And bringing more uranium to the market isn't something the miners can do overnight.

"On paper there are new projects slated for development, but in practice these are technically complex, capital intensive and often in challenging jurisdictions," Hines said.

Atop Paladin and Boss Energy, Shaw and Partners' preferred exposure to ASX uranium shares includes:

• Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN), whose shares are up 28.6% year to date
• NexGen Energy Ltd (ASX: NXG), whose shares are up 24.5% year to date
• Peninsula Energy Ltd (ASX: PEN), whose shares are down 3.3% year to date

"The narrative around nuclear has shifted decisively," Hines said. "Energy security, decarbonisation and AI-driven power demand are converging. Nuclear is no longer a fringe solution. It is becoming central to energy policy."

The post Why ASX uranium shares like Paladin and Boss Energy could be set to rocket appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The team at Macquarie have looked at two Australian uranium companies and believes one's looking good, while the other has some issues to work through.

Let's have a look at what they're saying.

Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN)

This company is not a producer yet, but has recently made significant progress on funding for its Etango project in Namibia.

In mid-February, Bannerman announced that a Chinese company, the China National Nuclear Corporation, would invest up to US$321.5 million in the Etango project for a 42.75% stake.

Bannerman would then own 52.25% of the project with a Namibian organisation holding the remaining 5%.

The company said the funding would allow for the debt-free construction of the Etango mine, and CNNC had also agreed to buy 60% of the production from the mine.

Macquarie said in a research note to clients that CNNC was a strong partner for the project, given it already owned a majority stake in the Rossing uranium mine in Namibia and 25% of Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN)'s Langer Heinrich mine.

Macquarie said the deal substantially reduces equity dilution to finance the project, and added:

Etango Financial investment decision mid-year now looks a lot more certain, placing it at the front of the greenfield uranium project queue – something that customers should value as BMN markets the remaining 40% of the initial (production).

Macquarie has an outperform rating and a $5.60 price target on this ASX uranium share, compared with its current price of $4.38.

Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE)

Boss Energy recently reported what it called a strong financial and operational result, chalking up a net loss of $7.9 million; however, this was largely due to the accounting treatment of inventory, while free cash flow was robust at $36.2 million.

The real story for investors is around what will happen longer term with the Honeymoon uranium mine, where the company said in mid-December that it had to throw away the assumptions under a previous feasibility study and start again.

On the upside, the company said there was a potential pathway forward for an alternative wide-spaced well design; however, it remained at concept stage at this point.

The company said there was the potential for lower costs and better production from the new design; however, more work remained to be done.

The team at Macquarie says this constitutes a major risk for investors.

As they said:

We still hold the view that Honeymoon will be challenging, and wide spacing trials carry risk. A complicated proposition; we believe investors should wait to see more definitive results from wider spaced leach trials first before making an investment decision.

Macquarie has a price target of $1.30 on this ASX uranium share, compared with $1.74 currently.

The post One uranium stock to buy and one to sell, according to Macquarie appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN)

The team at Fairmont Equities sees value in this ASX uranium stock. It believes Bannerman stands to benefit from increasing demand for uranium, which it expects to outstrip supply in the coming years.

As a result, it has named it as an ASX share to buy this week. Fairmont explains:

Bannerman is a uranium development company. Its flagship Etango project is based in Namibia. The uranium sector continues to appeal because demand should continue to outpace supply for the next several years. The company recently announced a joint venture with the China National Nuclear Corporation. The deal de-risks the Etango project and reduces funding risk involving development. BMN is exposed to potential upside in uranium prices.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

Morgans thinks that Australia's largest bank is undoubtedly a high-quality company. However, due to its stretched valuation, it isn't a buyer at current levels.

In addition, with much of the good news now priced in, the broker is recommending investors sell CBA shares. It commented:

CBA is a high quality company. But the bank's valuation has stretched well beyond peers, reflecting investor preference for safety and consistency. Much of the good news, including strong deposit margins and sector leading returns, is already priced in, leaving limited scope for upside from here. We see better value elsewhere in the sector and believe the current premium leaves the stock vulnerable to even modest disappointment, which supports our sell rating at these levels.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

Morgans is a little more positive on telco giant Telstra, but not enough to justify a buy recommendation.

The broker has named Telstra shares as a hold. It thinks the stock is fairly valued at current levels, stating:

This telecommunications giant offers stable earnings, a strong mobile network and dependable dividends, making it a defensive holding in a volatile market. However, while its core mobile business continues to perform well, the growth outlook is steady rather than exciting. The stock appears fairly valued at recent levels, reflecting its predictable cash flows and limited near term catalysts. For now, Telstra remains suitable as an income‑focused hold due to its defensive earnings stream, but we don't see a compelling reason to materially increase exposure.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Bannerman, CBA, and Telstra shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Bannerman Energy shares closed on Wednesday trading for $3.95. The stock entered a trading halt yesterday pending the release of an announcement regarding a strategic investment in its Etango Uranium Project, located in Namibia.

Following the release of that announcement this morning, Bannerman Energy shares are changing hands for $3.49 apiece, down 11.7%.

For some context, the ASX 300 is down 1.1% at this same time.

Here's what's happening.

ASX 300 uranium stock sinks on JV funding deal

Investors are favouring their sell buttons after the ASX 300 uranium stock reported executing a binding investment subscription and joint venture documentation with CNNC Overseas Limited (CNOL).

The agreement covers the funding, development and operation of Bannerman's Etango Uranium Project. At completion, CNOL will invest up to US$321.5 million in the project.

CNOL is a subsidiary of Chinese-listed China National Uranium Corporation and part of the integrated global nuclear utility, China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC).

Bannerman said the agreement is the preferred project funding solution for Etango, offering the highest forecast risk-weighted value outcome and enabling debt-free construction of the Etango mine. CNOL will also purchase 60% of the Etango uranium production at market-based pricing terms.

But the ASX 300 uranium stock could be facing pressure, with CNOL taking a 45% interest in Bannerman UK, a subsidiary, Bannerman Energy, which in turn owns 95% of the Etango Project.

Bannerman Energy will retain 52.25% underlying economic ownership of Etango, while CNOL will hold 42.75%, with Namibian social welfare organisation One Economy Foundation continuing to hold a 5% loan-carried shareholding.

Bannerman expects the transaction to complete in mid-2026.

What did management say?

Commenting on the JV Etango funding deal that's pressuring the ASX 300 uranium stock today, Bannerman Energy executive chairman Brandon Munro said, "The execution of this documentation represents the culmination of the extensive Etango funding workstream we have undertaken over the past two years."

He added:

We believe that this transaction delivers the optimised finance solution for the development of Etango and provides ideal support to our broader aspirations in the uranium business.

By enabling the debt-free construction of Etango, this solution maximises flexibility and dramatically derisks the construction and ramp-up phases of project execution. It also delivers us a Tier-1 cornerstone offtake partner on genuine and market terms, ensuring Bannerman remains strongly exposed to future uranium price upside potential.

As for the offtake agreement, Munro noted:

Importantly, the residual 40% of Etango offtake will be independently marketed by Bannerman, with strict confidentiality ring-fencing arrangements in place, and strengthened by the flexibility embedded in the cornerstone offtake with CNOL.

CNUC vice president Feng Li concluded:

We are confident that the synergy created between our technical capabilities, uranium demand profile, operational experience, and Bannerman's expertise and insight in the industry will position Etango to evolve into the next successful uranium mine in Namibia.

With today's intraday fall factored in, shares in the ASX 300 uranium stock remain up 19.9% over 12 months and up 98.8% since its April lows.

The post Why is this outperforming ASX 300 uranium stock crashing 12% on Friday? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

During the Monday lunch hour, the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) is just about flat.

Paladin Energy shares, meanwhile, are surging 8.2%, trading for $10.96 apiece.

If we add in Friday's 5.6% gains, then the Paladin Energy share price has already gained 14.3% in this brand-new year. And this is a $5 billion company we're talking about.

Here's how some of the other top ASX uranium shares are performing:

• Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE) shares are up 3.6% today and up 10.7% since 31 December
• Deep Yellow Ltd (ASX: DYL) shares are up 5.4% today and up 11.4% in 2026
• Lotus Resources Ltd (ASX: LOT) shares are up 9.2% today and up 15.5% this year
• Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN) shares are up 6.7% today and up 10.2% since 31 December

Here's what's sending the Aussie uranium miners soaring.

ASX uranium shares enjoying growing global demand

While Australia continues to drag its heels on developing nuclear energy stations for reliable baseload power, much of the rest of the world is ploughing ahead.

In November, for example, the United States reported its intentions to buy up to 10 new large scale nuclear reactors.

This latest surge in ASX uranium shares like Paladin Energy and Deep Yellow comes after investors learned that Duke Energy Corp (NYSE: DUK) had filed an early site permit application to build a new nuclear reactor in the US state of North Carolina.

Duke Energy this reflects its "strategic, ongoing commitment to thoroughly evaluate new nuclear generation options" to meet its customers increasing energy demand while reducing costs and risks.

Commenting on the application, Duke Energy North Carolina president Kendal Bowman said:

Nuclear energy has and will continue to play an essential role in powering communities in the Carolinas. Submitting an early site permit application is an important next step in assessing the potential for small modular reactors at the Belews Creek site.

Duke Energy said it has not yet made a final decision to build new nuclear units.

But Paladin Energy, Boss Energy and their rival ASX uranium shares look to be catching tailwinds with the US-based company reporting that it plans to add 600 megawatts of advanced nuclear to the system by 2037.

Management expects the first small modular reactor to come online in 2036.

The post Buying ASX uranium shares like Paladin Energy? Here's why they're starting 2026 with a bang! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In morning trade on Thursday, the All Ords is up a welcome 1%.

Here's how these leading ASX uranium stocks are tracking at this same time:

• Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE) shares are up 4% at $1.70
• Deep Yellow Limited (ASX: DYL) shares are up 8.1% at $1.73
• Paladin Energy shares are up 4.5% at $8.36
• Lotus Resources Limited (ASX: LOT) shares are up 4.6% at 17.3 cents
• Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN) shares are up 5.7% at $3.18

Here's what's spurring ASX investor interest today.

ASX uranium stocks catching US tailwinds

The Aussie uranium miners are catching tailwinds on two fronts today. And both are blowing out of the United States.

First, the US Department of Energy announced that it will loan US$1 billion (AU$1.5 billion) to Constellation Energy to help fund the restart of the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant. That site was home to the worst nuclear accident in the US in 1979 when one of the units suffered a partial meltdown.

In welcome news for ASX uranium stocks like Paladin Energy, however, US President Donald Trump is an adamant supporter of nuclear energy and encourages its use to help power the rapid growth of AI data centres.

Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT) has contracted the Three Mile Island nuclear facility to power its own data centre expansions. The plant is scheduled to recommence operations in 2027.

Commenting on what he labelled the "American nuclear renaissance", US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said (quoted by Newsweek):

Constellation's restart of a nuclear power plant in Pennsylvania will provide affordable, reliable, and secure energy to Americans across the Mid-Atlantic region. It will also help ensure America has the energy it needs to grow its domestic manufacturing base and win the AI race.

What other US nuclear news is fuelling investor optimism?

ASX uranium stocks, including Boss Energy, Paladin Energy, and Deep Yellow, are also getting a boost from news that the US intends to buy up to 10 new large-scale nuclear reactors.

In an interesting twist, Bloomberg reports the reactors may be paid for with part of Japan's US$550 billion pledge to fund US projects.

Energy Department chief of staff Carl Coe noted, "The role of having the government involved in private markets is sacrosanct — you just don't do it. But this is a national emergency."

The post Why are ASX uranium stocks like Paladin Energy going gangbusters on Thursday? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In a recent note to investors, the broker said that uranium developers are moving to be shovel-ready, but are reluctant to commit to offtake until term prices and contract floors improve. 

Uranium prices increased to US$77.90 per pound on Monday, up 0.58% from the previous trading day. Over the past month, the price of uranium has fallen 1.58%, but it remains 1.63% higher than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity.

Macquarie said Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) is its top pick for uranium producers. The broker also sees material upside for Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN) and Deep Yellow Ltd (ASX: DYL) as their respective Namibian projects move into development.

Here's what Macquarie analysts expect from the three stocks over the next 12 months.

Paladin Energy

The Paladin Energy share price is trading in the green on Wednesday morning. At the time of writing, the shares are 0.6% higher at $8.34 a piece. That's a 3.99% drop since this time last month, likely due to slumping uranium prices, but over the year, the shares are still 22.53% higher.

Macquarie has an outperform rating on the shares and an $11.25 target price. At the time of writing, that implies a potential 34.9% upside over the next 12 months.

In its note, the broker commented that Paul Hemburrow, Managing Director and CEO of Paladin Energy, outlined the final phases ahead of the Langer Heinrich ramp-up, which is expected to occur ahead of full mining and processing in FY27. 

"Mr Hemburrow indicated recoveries are stabilising within target levels and that the remaining mining fleet is expected to be in service in the 2HFY26. At the Patterson Lake Project (PLS) in Canada he highlighted the significant resource growth potential in the region which could provide upside outside of the 10-year life," the broker said.

Bannerman Energy

Bannerman shares are also in the green this morning. At the time of writing, its share price is 0.46% higher at $3.30 a piece. Over the past month, the shares have slumped 10.22% but over the year, they're 19.38% higher.

Macquarie initiated coverage on the Australian uranium stock late last week. It assigned an outperform rating and $5.50 target price to the uranium developer. That implies a potential 66.7% upside for investors over the next year.

In its note this morning, the broker stated that Bannerman Executive Chairman Brandon Munro has outlined the company's flagship Etango uranium project, located in Namibia, and noted that it is fully permitted with a clear pathway to development. 

"Etango will be a conventional open pit with heap leach processing at 8Mtpa throughput, and excavation of heap leach ponds and primary crusher site has commenced," Macquarie said.

Deep Yellow

The Deep Yellow share price is 3% higher this morning to $1.72 a piece, at the time of writing. Over the month, the uranium stock has shed 17.05% of its share price, but the shares are still a whopping 42.15% higher than this time last year.

Late last month, Macquarie reduced its 12-month target price for Deep Yellow shares by 4% to $1.95 each, citing concerns about delays. Despite the cut, the target price still suggests a potential 13.4% upside ahead for investors, at the time of writing.

Macquarie highlighted that Deep Yellow CFO and acting CEO, Craig Barnes, and head of business development, Andrew Mirco, have provided an overview of the business and the company's strategy surrounding the de-risking of the Tumas Project. It included detailed engineering, procurement, early works, power, and water supply. 

"The company also indicated that the appointment of a new CEO/MD is imminent, and that this was unlikely to slow down the path to FID significantly given the team John Borshoff had built around him at DYL has strong project execution capabilities and an operational skill set," Macquarie said in the note.

The post Macquarie's top 3 ASX uranium stock picks tipped to gain up to 67% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The shares have dropped 18.47% over the past month but are still 8.04% higher than this time last year.

For context, the ASX All Ordinaries (ASX: XAO) index is down 0.28% at the time of writing. For the year it is 6.98% higher.

Bannerman Energy is an Australian uranium developer. It has a flagship Etango Project in Namibia, Africa, which is one of the world's largest undeveloped uranium assets. Bannerman has undertaken extensive feasibility studies at the site and has environmental approvals for a future mining operation.

And today, analysts at Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) have initiated coverage on the stock, with a very bullish outlook on where the share price will go from here.

The ASX All Ords stock is tipped to surge

In a note to investors, the broker revealed it has an outperform rating and $5.50 target price on the uranium developer.

At the time of writing that implies a huge potential 78% upside for investors over the next 12 months.

"Valuation: Our 12-mth TP based on 1.0x NAV is A$5.50/sh (on US$95/lb uranium). We already include the anticipated dilution from equity issuance to build Etango-8 (a strategic partner selldown could pose upside)," the broker said in its note.

Catalysts: Uranium price, Etango strategic partner entry, Etango FID (next 6 mths), Etango first drummed U3O8 (2028), Etango XP decision (~2030)….Investment Thesis and Recommendation Outperform. Etango is at the front of the greenfield uranium project queue, being fully approved in a proven and low risk jurisdiction with early works underway and long leads ordered. Strengthening uranium contract price structures are an enabler of the project, and driver of share price upside.

What else does Macquarie have to say about the energy stock?

Macquarie noted that the uranium industry lacks shovel-ready greenfield uranium projects, at a time when uranium demand growth is structurally accelerating. 

It explains that Bannerman Energy's Etango project is fully approved and has now commenced more substantial early works. A final investment decision (FID) is also approaching, and the company plans to deliver its first uranium to market in 2028. 

Given strong reactor growth (~70 under construction, nearly half in China), utilities will need more uranium – with restarts nearly exhausted, we forecast US$95/lb long term uranium prices. While BMN is retaining uncapped upside on majority volumes for now, which we believe is prudent, if floors rise to the ~US$85/lb zone it could start to make sense to layer in (would depend on financing structure).

The post Macquarie initiates coverage on this ASX All Ords energy stock; tips close to 80% upside appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Bannerman shares closed yesterday trading for $3.75. In late morning trade on Wednesday, shares are swapping hands for $3.42 apiece, down 8.8%.

Despite today's apparent profit-taking, Bannerman Energy shares remain up an impressive 45.6% since closing at $2.35 each on 20 August.

And according to Fairmont Equities' Michael Gable, the ASX 300 uranium stock is well-placed to keep rallying higher from here (courtesy of The Bull).

Should you buy the dip on Bannerman Energy shares today?

"Bannerman is a uranium development company with its flagship Etango project in Namibia," said Gable, who has a buy recommendation on the ASX 300 uranium stock.

"The company recently announced a major offtake agreement starting in 2029," he added.

Gable concluded:

I remain bullish on uranium miners, and BMN is displaying strong signs that it's bottomed out and is ready to rally further from here. After the peak in late June, BMN then pulled back to consolidate.

On 19 June, Bannerman Energy shares closed the day at $3.57 apiece, then trended lower through to 20 August.

What's happening with the ASX 300 uranium stock's offtake agreement?

Bannerman announced the offtake agreement that Gable referred to above on 5 September.

The miner reported that it had has executed two binding contracts with two Tier-1 North American generation companies for the sale of 1.0 million pounds of uranium over a five-year term from 2029 to 2033.

The uranium is targeted to be produced from the ASX 300 uranium stock's Etango project from 2028 onwards.

The company noted that Etango's significance as a "highly advanced and credible" new supply source is continuing to attract strong interest from global utilities. The contracting strategy was also reported to be flexible, enabling Bannerman to incorporate market-related pricing components to benefit from potentially higher forecast future uranium prices.

Commenting on the new agreements on the day, Bannerman Energy CEO Gavin Chamberlain said, "The signing of these limited, select offtake agreements with high-quality utility counterparties represents a further important step in our systematic advancement of Etango towards a targeted Final Investment Decision."

He added:

We are able to demonstrate to potential customers a strong foundation for confidence in our ability to meet future supply commitments. In combination with growing global nuclear demand and ongoing tightening in uranium markets, this further reinforces our position as a strategic, long-term supplier to major utilities.

With today's intraday slide factored in, shares in the ASX 300 uranium stock remain up 52.7% since this time last year.

The post Up 46% in a month, why this ASX 300 uranium stock can keep charging higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

4DS Memory Ltd (ASX: 4DS)

The 4DS Memory share price is down 64% to 1 cent. This morning, this semiconductor company revealed that following the conclusion of extensive analysis of its Sixth Platform Lot results, it has resolved to initiate a strategic review of its technology pathway. The review includes a pause in development activities and disengagement of collaborations with imec and Infineon Technologies. Executive chair, David McAuliffe, said: "While the decision to undertake a strategic review is difficult, it is also the right decision. This strategic review is about ensuring that our capital is deployed in a manner which is most advantageous toward creating shareholder value in a fast-moving industry."

Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN)

The Bannerman Energy share price is down almost 2% to $3.18. This is despite the uranium developer announcing binding offtake purchase commitments for 1 Mlbs of uranium over five years with two Tier-1 North American generation companies. Management notes that contractual terms under both agreements provide the company with delivery flexibility to preserve Bannerman's capacity for strategic patience ahead of final investment decision at Etango. Bannerman's CEO, Gavin Chamberlain, said: "The signing of these limited, select offtake agreements (the first for Bannerman) with high-quality utility counterparties represents a further important step in our systematic advancement of Etango towards a targeted Final Investment Decision. We are able to demonstrate to potential customers a strong foundation for confidence in our ability to meet future supply commitments."

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)

The Coles Group share price is down over 1% to $23.83. This has been driven by the supermarket giant's shares going ex-dividend this morning for its latest payout. Last month, Coles released its FY 2025 results and declared a fully franked final dividend of 32 cents per share. This will be paid to eligible shareholders later this month on 22 September.

Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA)

The Viva Energy share price is down almost 2% to $2.06. This has also been caused by the fuel retailer's shares going ex-dividend this morning. Last month, when the company released its half year results, it declared a fully franked 2.8 cents per share interim dividend. Eligible shareholders can now look forward to receiving this at the end of the month on 30 September.

The post Why 4DS Memory, Bannerman, Coles, and Viva Energy shares are tumbling 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:

Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN)

The Bannerman Energy share price is down 9% to $3.20. This has been driven by news that the uranium developer has completed an $85 million placement. According to the release, Bannerman Energy has received firm commitments for a placement of approximately 26.6 million shares to new and existing institutional and sophisticated investors at $3.20 per new share. This represents a 9% discount to its last close price. Management notes that the proceeds will support construction activities, infrastructure costs, and general working capital as it advances its flagship Etango Project towards a positive final investment decision.

Life360 Inc (ASX: 360)

The Life360 share price is down 2.5% to $30.62. This is despite there being no news out of the location technology company on Thursday. Though, it is worth highlighting that most ASX tech shares are trading lower today. This has led to the S&P/ASX All Technology Index tumbling 1.2% this afternoon.

Strike Energy Ltd (ASX: STX)

The Strike Energy share price is down almost 3.5% to 14.5 cents. This morning, this energy company announced the results of its strategic review. It revealed that it will refocus its asset portfolio to align to Western Australia's energy transition demands, exit non-core assets, and retain flexibility across gas processing and gas-fired power development pathways to maximise value. Strike Energy's chair, John Poynton, adds: "The Board's strategic review, conducted with independent support, has rigorously assessed Strike's portfolio and charted a clear path to unlock the full potential of our unique asset base."

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

The Xero share price is down almost 5% to $184.98. This has been driven by the completion of the cloud accounting platform provider's institutional placement this morning. Xero has raised $1.85 billion through the placement of approximately 10.5 million shares to sophisticated and institutional investors at $176 per new share. This was a 9.4% discount to its last close price. The proceeds will be used to partly fund Xero's acquisition of Melio. It is a fast-growing payments platform that is designed to help small businesses pay bills and manage accounts payable in the United States.

The post Why Bannerman Energy, Life360, Strike Energy, and Xero shares are tumbling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Today, you'd be giving back some of those profits.

Bannerman Energy shares entered a trading halt on Tuesday pending a capital raising announcement.

That announcement was released before the opening bell today. And investors are responding by hitting their sell buttons.

Shares in Bannerman Energy closed Monday trading for $3.52. In early trade on Tuesday, shares are changing hands for $3.21 apiece, down 8.8%.

Here's what's happening.

ASX 300 uranium stock slumps on $85 million capital raising

Bannerman Energy shares are taking a tumble after the company reported it had received firm commitments for a single placement of approximately 26.6 million new shares to new and existing institutional and sophisticated investors.

The ASX 300 uranium stock will raise some $85 million with the share issue.

So, why are investors favouring their sell buttons?

Well, because the new shares are being issued for $3.20 apiece. That's 9.1% below Monday's closing price before the stock entered a trading halt.

The uranium miner said it will use the new proceeds, along with its existing cash, to fund construction activities, infrastructure costs, and general working capital as it advances its flagship Etango uranium project, located in Namibia, towards a Final Investment Decision (FID). 

Bannerman said it expects to have cash reserves of around $140 million upon completion of the capital raise.

Management expects the new share placement to occur on 2 July.

What did management say?

Commenting on the $85 million capital raise that's pressuring the ASX 300 uranium stock today, Bannerman Energy executive chairman Brandon Munro said, "We are delighted with the strength of the support from our existing register and the high quality of the new institutional shareholders that provided cornerstones for this placement."

Munro added:

The collective scale and quality of the participating investors is a strong endorsement of our Etango uranium project and corporate strategy.

Our enhanced balance sheet strength is a powerful enabler for us to execute our streamlined strategy of financing and constructing Etango. Against the backdrop of improving sector sentiment and nuclear utility activity, we will continue taking measured steps towards realising the Company's opportunity to deliver uranium into a sector pinch-point.

With today's intraday slide factored in, shares in the ASX 300 uranium stock remain up 82% since 22 April.

The post Up 100% since April, why is this ASX 300 uranium stock plunging today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN)

The Bannerman Energy share price is up 14% to $3.38. Investors have been buying the uranium developer's shares today despite there being no news out of it. However, it is worth highlighting that the uranium industry has been red hot this week with strong gains being made across the board. This has been driven by a jump in uranium prices. The catalyst for this jump was news that Canadian investment fund Sprott plans to acquire US$100 million in physical uranium. It appears to believe the chemical element is undervalued at current levels.

Clarity Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: CU6)

The Clarity Pharmaceuticals share price is up 5% to $2.34. This morning, this clinical-stage radiopharmaceutical company announced that it has entered into a commercial manufacturing agreement with SpectronRx for its lead diagnostic product, 64Cu-SAR-bisPSMA. Clarity's executive chairperson, Dr Alan Taylor, commented: "This Agreement, combined with other supply and manufacturing agreements for isotope and finished product we have secured to date, ensures that we are ready to roll out large-scale manufacturing and distribution of 64Cu-SAR-bisPSMA on day one of commercialisation. This will enable a seamless launch as soon as we have US FDA approval."

DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

The DroneShield share price is up over 8% to $1.92. Investors have been buying this counter-drone technology company's shares despite there being no news out of it today. But with tensions escalating in the Middle East, investors may believe that DroneShield is about to get a boost in sales. This latest gain means that the company's shares are now up over 150% since the start of the year.

Lotus Resources Ltd (ASX: LOT)

The Lotus Resources share price is up 10% to 19.2 cents. This has been driven by a combination of rising uranium prices and the release of an update on the Kayelekera uranium project in Malawi. Lotus revealed that it has officially commenced cold commissioning at its Kayelekera processing plant. This is a key milestone ahead of the project's planned production restart in the third quarter of 2025. The company's managing director, Greg Bittar, commented: "The commencement of this critical restart stage positions Lotus well for Q3 2025 restart of production at Kayelekera."

The post Why Bannerman Energy, Clarity, DroneShield, Lotus Resources are charging higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

On Friday, this side of the market is glowing like plutonium with strong gains being recorded across the board.

ASX uranium stocks rocket

Here's a summary of how a number of ASX uranium stocks are performing today:

• The Alligator Energy Ltd (ASX: AGE) share price is up 15% to 3 cents
• The Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN) share price is up 9% to $2.76
• The Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE) share price is up 12% to $3.97
• The Deep Yellow Ltd (ASX: DYL) share price is up almost 9% to $1.25
• The Lotus Resources Ltd (ASX: LOT) share price is up 9% to 18.5 cents
• The Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) share price is up 7% to $5.80

Why are they rocketing?

Investors have been fighting to get hold of uranium stocks today after the industry was given a major boost.

According to Reuters, U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to sign executive orders on Friday that aim to jumpstart the nuclear energy industry.

Trump is expected to do this by easing the regulatory process on approvals for new reactors and strengthening fuel supply chains.

The report notes that in response to the first rise in power demand in two decades from the boom in artificial intelligence, President Trump declared an energy emergency on his first day in office. The report states:

A draft summary of the orders said Trump will invoke the Cold War-era Defense Production Act to declare a national emergency over U.S. dependence on Russia and China for enriched uranium, nuclear fuel processing and advanced reactor inputs.

The summary also directs agencies to permit and site new nuclear facilities and directs the Departments of Energy and Defense to identify federal lands and facilities for nuclear deployment and to streamline processes to get them built. It also encourages the Energy Department to use loan guarantees and direct loans to increase the build out of reactors. Trump only used the Loan Programs Office in his first administration to support a large nuclear plant in Georgia.

This could be very good news for uranium demand and could give prices a boost in the coming years.

Should you invest?

While short sellers are betting heavily against ASX uranium stocks, there are a number of brokers that think investors should be taking the other route.

For example, Bell Potter recently put a buy rating and $4.65 price target on Boss Energy's shares and a buy rating and $1.45 price target on Deep Yellow's shares.

The post Why are ASX uranium stocks rocketing today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Many analysts have suggested this should be a good year for ASX small-cap shares because they tend to do well when interest rates are on the way down, as they are all over the world.

Let's check out some buy recommendations from a few brokers published on asx.com.au.

Analysts rate these 4 ASX small-cap shares a 'buy'

Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN) 

The Bannerman Energy share price is currently $3, down 0.66%. 

Canaccord Genuity has a speculative buy rating on this ASX small-cap uranium share. Its 12-month price target is $4.33. 

Canaccord is positive on Bannerman due to the on-time and on-budget construction progress at its Etango-8 uranium project. There is also an anticipated 3.5% annual growth in uranium demand through to 2035 amid more small modular reactors being built worldwide.

The broker says: 

With a cash balance of $81.1mn the company can easily fund these early works ($95.7mn at end of SepQ). Sourcing a strategic partner remains the largest hurdle. BMN is still evaluating and progressing various funding sources, including project/corporate debt as well as potential offtake and joint venture opportunities with strategic counterparties who can add value to the Etango Project.

Opthea Limited (ASX: OPT) 

The Opthea share price is $1.09, down 0.46% at the time of writing. 

Canaccord Genuity has a buy rating on this ASX small-cap healthcare share with a 12-month price target of $1.25.

The broker is looking forward to a data update for the Phase III Coast study of OPT-302, which it expects the eye diseases biotech to release in April.

The broker says:

OPT-302 is unique and differentiated, in our view, on safety and efficacy metrics, and we see the upside opportunity for peak sales of US$1b and upside to >$3/share, pending clinical, regulatory and commercial success.

PYC Therapeutics Ltd (ASX: PYC) 

The PYC Therapeutics share price is $1.27, down 2.31% at the time of writing. 

Canaccord Genuity has a buy rating on this ASX small-cap biotech share with a 12-month price target of $2.40.

The broker notes that a US competitor recently announced positive Phase 1b study data for another gene therapy targeting autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD).

The broker says:

While the asset is a competitive threat to PYC's, we note the ADPKD market is very large and there is room for multiple players.

We also think that PYC may have a differentiated mechanism because it directly targets the gene responsible for cyst formation in the kidney …

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL) 

The Nuix share price is $4.74, down 0.63%. 

Moelis Australia has a buy rating on this ASX small-cap tech share with a price target of $6.09. 

Moelis responded to Nuix's 1H FY25 update, which stated it was expecting 8% to 9% growth in Annualised Contract Value (ACV) compared to the previous corresponding period, down from an earlier 15% target for FY25. Nuix also noted that increased expenses will lower its earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) and cash flow for 1H25. 

Moelis said: 

… NXL is trading at a meaningful discount to our $6.09 target price and therefore we change our rating to Buy, however we highlight the need for further detail at the forthcoming 1H25 result to enhance our confidence.

The post Experts reveal 4 ASX small-cap shares to buy now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three ASX 300 energy shares that have unveiled their latest set of numbers and developments are listed below. Here's how investors have reacted to these releases:

Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN)

The Bannerman Energy share price is up 5% to $2.93. This morning, the uranium developer released its quarterly update and revealed that it has made significant progress with its Etango Uranium Project during the three months.

As a result, it is rapidly advancing towards a targeted final investment decision (FID). Management notes that this will be supported by a strong cash position and strengthening market conditions. In respect to the former, it finished the quarter with a cash balance of $81.1 million and zero debt.

Bannerman's Executive Chairman, Brandon Munro, said:

The December quarter saw significant progress at the Etango Uranium Project, with several important milestones achieved. Early works remained on schedule, including the completion of the construction water supply and storage dam, the first blast at the primary crusher site, and continued progress in detailed engineering for the processing facilities.

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR)

The Karoon Energy share price is up 5% to $1.50. This follows the release of the energy producer's quarterly update. The ASX 300 energy share reported fourth quarter production on a net revenue interest (NRI) basis was 2.59 MMboe, which was 3% lower than the third quarter. However, fourth quarter sales volumes of 3.14 MMboe were 53% higher quarter on quarter due to the timing of Bauna liftings. This resulted in sales revenue of US$222.2 million for the period.

Also going down well with investors was a separate announcement which revealed that Karoon Energy intends to undertake a further US$75 million of on-market share buyback over the course of the 2025 calendar year.

Lotus Resources Ltd (ASX: LOT)

The Lotus Resources share price is up 4.5% to 23.5 cents. This morning, this uranium developer released its quarterly update and revealed that it is making strong progress with its Kayelekera uranium project in Malawi.

Management advised that it the Kayelekera accelerated restart program is in full swing, targeting first uranium in the third quarter of 2025.

The ASX 300 energy share ended the period with a cash balance of $132.8 million. This follows the completion of a two-tranche placement and share purchase plan to raise $125.3 million after costs during the quarter.

The post 3 ASX 300 energy shares racing higher on strong quarterlies appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

A handful managed to outperform the 7.5% gains posted by the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), while many ended the year deep in the red.

The year just past was a very different picture to what most ASX uranium shares experienced in 2023 when the uranium price rocketed to new 16-year highs.

But after uranium topped US$106 per pound in January 2024, some of the heat came out of the market over the rest of the year, with the price sliding below US$75 per pound in December.

Though it's worth noting that prior to the 2023 rally, you'd still have to go all the way back to mid-2008 to find the nuclear fuel trading above US$75 per pound.

With this picture in mind, here are five of the best-performing ASX uranium shares to have bought and held in 2024.

Five top-performing ASX uranium shares of 2024

The first ASX uranium shares that outperformed most of its peers in 2024 is Deep Yellow Limited (ASX: DYL).

The year just past saw Deep Yellow progressing with its strategy to establish a multi-mine company with the capacity to produce more than 10 million pounds of the nuclear fuel per year. The uranium miner has two advanced projects: Tumas, located in Namibia, and Mulga Rock, in Western Australia.

Deep Yellow shares closed out 2023 trading for $1.09 apiece. On 31 December 2024, shares ended the day at $1.13, up 3.7% over the year. Longer-term, at today's intraday prices, the Deep Yellow share price has gained 369% over five years.

The second best-performing ASX uranium share on my list for 2024 is NexGen Energy Ltd (ASX: NXG). The company's primary focus is its Rook I uranium project in Saskatchewan, Canada.

NexGen shares ended 2023 trading for $10.06 apiece and closed out 2024 at $10.81, up 7.5%. Longer-term, NexGen shares have gained 71% since July 2021.

Moving on to our third ASX uranium stock that outpaced the pack in 2024, we have Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN). The company's flagship Etango project, located in Namibia, has been labelled as one of the world's largest undeveloped uranium assets.

Bannerman shares ended 2023 trading for $2.69 and finished 2024 at $2.90, putting the Bannerman share price up 7.8%. Longer-term, the Bannerman share price is up 725% over five years.

Which brings us to the second best ASX uranium share on my list to have bought and held throughout 2024, Berkeley Energia Ltd (ASX: BKY). Berkely Energia primary focus is bringing its Salamanca uranium project, located near Madrid, Spain, into production.

Berkley Energia shares ended 2023 trading at 28 cents apiece and closed 2024 at 32 cents each, up 14.3%. Over the past five years, shares have gained 59%.

And the winner is…

Moving on to our top-performing ASX uranium share, we have Silex Systems Ltd (ASX: SLX).

Now, Silex Systems is not a uranium miner or explorer. Rather, the Aussie tech company focuses on commercialising its SILEX laser-based enrichment technology for the global uranium enrichment industry.

Silex shares closed out 2023 at $4.35 apiece and ended 2024 trading for $5.05, up 16.1% over the year. Longer term, the Silex Systems share price is up a whopping 1,369% over five years.

The post 5 of the best ASX uranium shares to buy and hold in 2024 revealed appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What kind of a bang are we talking about?

Well, since the opening bell on 2 January, the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) has gained a respectable 1.2%.

With that figure in mind, here's how these four ASX uranium companies have performed so far in 2025:

• Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE) shares are up 15.2%
• Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) shares are up 12%
• Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN) shares are up 26.4%
• Deep Yellow Limited (ASX: DYL) shares are up 18.2%

Boom!

And we're only three trading days into the new year.

Now, I chose these four ASX uranium stocks for a reason.

That's because they were all listed by Guy Keller, a portfolio manager at Tribeca Investment Partners, as having the potential to outperform amid what he calls the "historic run" we're seeing in the nuclear energy sector (courtesy of The Australian Financial Review).

Keller said:

On the ASX, Boss Energy is a key investment for us. We also like Paladin and developers such as Deep Yellow and Bannerman. Once the capital moves down the pecking order, the key to future gains could also be uranium exploration success.

'Stars aligning' for ASX uranium stocks

"The nuclear energy sector, and uranium in particular, is experiencing a historic run. After more than a decade of underinvestment, the stars are aligning for this critical energy source," Keller said.

He noted that the uranium price has been soaring as tech behemoths like Alphabet, Amazon and Microsoft "strike nuclear power deals to meet the rising energy needs of artificial intelligence and data centres".

Keller added that the big run higher for ASX uranium stocks over the past few days has partly been driven by "news of more supply issues from Kazakhstan", which accounts for 40% of global uranium production.

While global supply growth has been slow, Keller said that "new reactor construction led by China and India was adding more demand for uranium to meet growing energy demands".

He noted, "As it is, uranium is the only fuel capable of powering the world's 430 nuclear reactors, which have been providing low-carbon baseload electricity for decades."

Adding in the impact of Western sanctions on Russian nuclear fuel imports, Keller said (quoted by The AFR):

We are confident that supply will remain restricted. A significant portion of viable uranium deposits and current production are in countries with risky geopolitical landscapes.

These market dynamics present a compelling investment opportunity.

And Keller said that ASX uranium stocks like Boss Energy, Paladin, Deep Yellow and Bannerman were still undervalued compared to the miners of other commodities like lithium "despite strong fundamentals and a growing supply deficit" for the nuclear fuel.

According to Keller:

Investors should focus on companies with strong fundamentals and projects in stable jurisdictions. While the uranium sector can be volatile, the long-term outlook remains exceptionally positive…

The ASX uranium names are currently some of the most heavily shorted on the ASX and in our view there is now an asymmetric risk to the upside when the spot price moves higher.

The post 4 ASX uranium stocks to buy now amid an 'exceptionally positive' outlook for nuclear energy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In afternoon trade, the ASX uranium stock is up 7% to $8.46.

But this gain isn't even the strongest in the industry today.

For example, at the time of writing, Deep Yellow Ltd (ASX: DYL) shares are currently up 10%, Lotus Resources Ltd (ASX: LOT) shares are up 13%, and Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN) shares are up 14%.

Why are ASX uranium stocks rocketing?

Investors have been scrambling to buy ASX uranium stocks on Friday after there was some big news in the industry.

That news came from Canadian uranium giant Cameco Corp (NYSE: CCJ).

According to the release, Cameco has been informed by its partner Kazatomprom that production has been suspended at its Inkai joint venture in Kazakhstan.

The release notes that the Inkai JV has not received an extension to submit its updated project for Uranium Deposit Development documentation. This was an extension that was expected prior to the end of 2024.

Kazatomprom has informed the uranium miner that the extension was not received as expected due to the delayed submission of the necessary documentation to the Ministry of Energy.

In light of this, Kazatomprom has directed the joint venture to halt operations to avoid potential violation of Kazakhstan legislation.

Commenting on the news that gave ASX uranium stock's a huge boost, Cameco said:

Based on the information we had been receiving from JV Inkai and Kazatomprom, a process to address the update of the Project Documentation was underway and a positive outcome was expected. Reports received by Cameco as recently as December 26, 2024, made no mention of a production suspension being a risk in relation to this process.

We are disappointed and surprised by this unexpected suspension and we will be seeking further clarification on how this transpired, as well as the potential 2025 and 2026 production and financial impacts (including on future dividends), and what Cameco can do to help Kazatomprom and JV Inkai restart mining operations.

This is bad news for Cameco but good news for ASX uranium stocks. That's because any potential supply constraints could have a major impact on uranium prices. Especially given how demand is increasing for the chemical element.

Short squeeze

Also potentially giving uranium stocks a lift today is short covering.

Paladin Energy and a number of other ASX uranium stocks, such as Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE), are among the most shorted on the local market.

With their shares hurtling higher, it is possible that some short sellers will be buying shares to close their short positions.

The post Why Paladin Energy and these ASX uranium stocks are rocketing appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.