I've had a look through the broker reports released over the past week and have come up with two ASX shares that they believe will do well.

Let's see what they think.

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

Credit Corp released its full-year results recently, which gave the brokers some new data with which to value the company.

The financial services company reported a record profit of $105.5 million, up 12%, with a 57% increase in US earnings driving the result.

The company said:

Increased investment and a focus on operational improvement accelerated the turnaround in US segment performance. Collections grew by 24%, while productivity and asset return measures also lifted. Consequently, US segment NPAT grew by 57%to $26.2 million and segment ROE improved by 2 percentage points to 8%.

Credit Corp Chief Executive Officer Thomas Beregi said the company was well-positioned to expand its current pipeline.

The company said it enters FY27 with an AU/NZ debt buying investment pipeline of $54 million and expects to outlay $100 million to $150 million over the year.

On the outlook broadly, the company said it is expecting to grow earnings by 4% to 12%, "with the range reflecting more challenging investment conditions in the US debt buying market as well as the potential to accelerate UK and Wizit lending volumes''.

Morgans has a buy rating on Credit Corp shares, with a price target of $18.25, compared with the $13.39 price at the time of writing.

The broker said execution in the US was "required to return CCP to delivering medium-term growth and improving investor sentiment more broadly''.

Macquarie has an outperform rating on the shares but a much less bullish price target of $13.34.

Credit Corp is valued at $908.7 million.

Acrow Ltd (ASX: ACF)

Acrow in June raised $80 million, with the funds going towards the purchase of Ausgroup Industrial Services and Preston Superdeck.

The company's Chief Executive Officer, Steven Boland, said at the time, "We are excited by the opportunity to undertake the acquisition of two strategic and highly complementary businesses across our Industrial Access and Construction Services divisions''.

Morgans has issued a new research note on the company, saying the acquisitions were "highly complementary", and that management had a strong track record of extracting value from such purchases.

Morgans raised its price target on Acrow from $1.28 to $1.30, compared to 93.75 cents at the time of writing.

The broker added:

We believe the outlook for ACF remains strong on the back of increased civil infrastructure activity and a growing pipeline of opportunities in Industrial Access. Over the longer term, we expect Brisbane Olympics-related activity to provide a meaningful tailwind.

The post 2 ASX shares to buy for returns better than 33% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because listed below are five ASX 200 broker buy ratings from this week.

Here's what is being recommended by brokers:

Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC)

UBS is positive on this copper miner's shares. It was pleased with the company's solid quarterly performance, which revealed production and costs largely in line with expectations.

According to the note, UBS has retained its buy rating with a reduced price target of $17.50. Based on its current share price of $15.19, this implies potential upside of 15% for investors.

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

The team at Morgans is bullish on this debt collector's shares. Following the release of its record FY 2026 results, the broker retained its buy rating with a trimmed price target of $18.25. This implies potential upside of over 35% for investors from current levels.

Morgans notes that "at ~7.7x FY27F PE, the valuation continues to appear undemanding."

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Macquarie is recommending Netwealth as an ASX 200 stock to buy ahead of its results release this month.

The broker believes the investment platform provider will deliver a result in line with the market's expectations. It also feels confident about its FY 2027 guidance.

As a result, Macquarie has retained its outperform rating on Netwealth's shares with a slightly improved price target of $32.60. Based on its current share price of $24.91, this implies potential upside of 31% over the next 12 months.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

The team at Bell Potter is recommending this biotechnology company's shares to investors this week.

In response to an "impressive" quarterly sales update, the broker has retained its buy rating on Neuren Pharmaceuticals shares with an improved price target of $25.50. 

Based on its current share price of $21.56, this implies potential upside of 18% for investors.

Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW)

Bell Potter remains bullish on this gaming technology company. In response to its second quarter update, the broker has retained its buy rating on the ASX 200 stock with a trimmed price target of $183.00. Based on its current share price of $118.08, this implies potential upside of 55% for investors over the next 12 months.

The broker highlights that its analysts "see a resumption in top line growth occurring in 4Q26. We believe LNW offers compelling value at 10x EV/EBIT(A) given growth metrics."

The post 5 ASX 200 broker buy ratings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Credit Corp report?

• Revenue up 7.4% to $585.95 million
• Net profit after tax rose 12.1% to $105.51 million
• Final fully franked dividend declared at 45.5 cents per share
• Interim fully franked dividend of 32.0 cents per share already paid
• Net tangible assets per share increased to $13.18 (from $12.86)

What else do investors need to know?

Credit Corp did not offer a dividend reinvestment plan during the 2026 financial year. There were no changes in group control or investments in associates or joint ventures during the period, maintaining consistency in company structure.

All dividends paid during the year were fully franked, with total ordinary dividends reaching $46.26 million, up from $37.42 million in FY25. Credit Corp's financial statements have been audited, with an unqualified opinion confirming the results.

What's next for Credit Corp?

Looking ahead, Credit Corp's improved profitability and strengthened balance sheet position it to capitalise on further growth opportunities in the financial services sector. The absence of any structural changes or new investments suggests the group is continuing with its established business approach.

Investors will be watching for further updates in the upcoming annual report and results presentations, which will provide more details on Credit Corp's strategy for the next financial year.

Credit Corp share price snapshot

The Credit Corp share price has underperformed the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) over the past 12 months with a decline of 10%.

View Original Announcement

The post Credit Corp profit jumps 12% with fully franked dividend boost appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

ASX 200 to rise

The Australian share market looks set for a positive session on Tuesday following a strong night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 3 points higher. In the United States, the Dow Jones rose 1.3%, the S&P 500 climbed 1.5%, and the Nasdaq jumped 2.1%.

Buy Cedar Woods shares

Cedar Woods Properties Ltd (ASX: CWP) shares are good value according to analysts at Bell Potter. This morning, the broker has retained its buy rating and $9.30 price target on the property developer's shares. It said: "CWP's outlook is positive with sustainable, above sector average earnings growth, with FY27 revenue largely de-risked and a growing number of projects contributing to settlements in FY28. Demand is underpinned by resilient 1st homebuyer exposure and structural undersupply amid population growth, despite tax changes and higher rates." 

Oil prices tumble

ASX 200 energy shares including Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could be under pressure today after oil prices tumbled overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 5.3% to US$80.17 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 4.8% to US$83.73 a barrel. Traders were selling oil after the US and Iran paused fighting.

Gold price edges higher

ASX 200 gold shares Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) and Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) will be in focus after the gold price edged higher overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up slightly to US$4,107.3 an ounce. A weaker US dollar and falling oil prices boosted the precious metal.

Credit Corp results

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP) shares will be on watch today when the debt collector releases its FY 2026 results. Credit Corp is guiding to gross lending of $420 million to $430 million in FY 2026, which represents 15% growth at the midpoint of the range. This is expected to underpin a net profit after tax in the range of $100 million to $110 million. This will be up from $94 million in FY 2025.

The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday 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:

Humm Group Ltd (ASX: HUM)

The Humm share price is down 20% to 46.7 cents. This follows news that a proposed takeover by Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP) has collapsed. Credit Corp stated: "Following a period of commercial due diligence, Credit Corp raised a number of matters which it was unable to gain comfort on following further discussions with Humm. Consequently, it informed Humm on the evening of Friday 19 June that its bid was materially reduced relative to its non-binding indicative offer. Humm has confirmed over the weekend that a mutually acceptable transaction cannot be agreed between the two parties."

Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS)

The Metcash share price is down 2% to $3.11. Investors have been selling this wholesale distributor's shares following the release of its FY 2026 results. For the 12 months ended 30 April, Metcash reported a modest 0.2% increase in revenue (excluding charge-through sales) to $17.35 billion and a 2.4% decline in underlying net profit after tax to $268.8 million. Metcash's CEO, Doug Jones, said: "Our FY26 performance demonstrates the strength and resilience of the Metcash business model. Despite mixed trading conditions across our markets, we delivered solid earnings, strong cash generation and continued progress on our long-term strategic priorities. Our scale, our national supply chain, and our deep relationships with independent retailers remain powerful competitive advantages. We now support ~105,000 customers, ~6,300 bannered stores and reach ~95% of Australians – a unique platform that continues to generate resilient, high-quality cashflows."

Pls Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

The PLS share price is down 5% to $5.59. This is despite there being no news out of the lithium miner. However, it is worth noting that most lithium miners are falling on Monday. On Friday, Contemporary Amperex Technology shares tumbled around 4% on the Paris stock exchange.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

The WiseTech Global share price is down 14% to $31.72. Investors have been rushing to the exits today following reports that the Australian Federal Police (AFP) is investigating founder Richard White over alleged trafficking matters. It has been claimed that White exploited a former cleaner's immigration status and financial position and provided false information on a visa application. WiseTech has not responded to the reports.

The post Why Humm, Metcash, PLS, and WiseTech shares are sinking today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In 2026, ASX 200 shares have managed just a 1.1% rise after the unexpected global oil shock made investors very nervous.

However, experts are confident of strong growth ahead for a few select ASX stocks.

Let's take a look at some examples.

Droneshield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

The Droneshield share price closed steady at $2.74 on Friday.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 industrials share has fallen 7%.

Canaccord Genuity renewed its buy rating on Droneshield shares last week.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $3.75.

This suggests a potential 40% upside ahead.

Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)

The Flight Centre share price finished at $11.92, down 1.6%, on Friday.

This ASX 200 travel share has ripped 19% over the past month.

Morgan Stanley reiterated its buy rating on Flight Centre shares with a price target of $16.

This implies potential capital gains of 34% ahead.

Seek Ltd (ASX: SEK)

The Seek share price closed 2.2% higher at $13.63 on Friday.

Over the past six months, this ASX 200 communications share has fallen 41%.

Citi reaffirmed its buy rating on Seek shares with a 12-month target of $24.15.

This suggests a potential near-80% upside ahead.

Turalco Gold Ltd (ASX: TCG)

Turalco Gold shares closed out the week at 55 cents apiece.

This ASX gold share has fallen 33% over six months.

Canaccord Genuity renewed its buy rating on Turalco Gold shares with a $1.75 target.

This implies potential capital growth of 220% over the next year.

IDP Education Ltd (ASX: IEL)

The IDP Education share price closed 6.7% higher at $2.56 on Friday.

Over the past six months, this ASX consumer discretionary share has tumbled 56%.

The language testing and international student placement provider was officially kicked out of the ASX 200 today.

UBS renewed its buy rating on IDP Education shares with a $5.15 target.

This suggests a potential 103% upside ahead.

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

The Credit Corp share price closed 0.9% higher at $13.07 on Friday.

This ASX financial share share has lifted 13% over the past four weeks.

Canaccord Genuity reiterated its buy rating on Credit Corp shares with a price target of $19.70.

This implies a potential 51% upside ahead.

Brazilian Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: BRE)

The Brazilian Rare Earths share price finished at $4.91, down 5%, on Friday.

Over the past month, this ASX rare earths share has fallen 16%.

Ord Minnett renewed its buy rating on Brazilian Rare Earths shares last week.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $6.95.

This suggests a potential 45% upside ahead.

Resmed CDI (ASX: RMD)

The Resmed share price closed 0.7% higher at $26.68 on Friday.

Over the past six months, this ASX 200 healthcare share has lost 27% of its valuation.

Citi renewed its buy rating on Resmed shares with a $38 target.

This suggests a potential 42% upside ahead.

The post 8 ASX shares with 30% to 220% upside ahead: Experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Despite the downgrade, Credit Group (ASX: CCP) and Amcor Plc (ASX: AMC) still have buy recommendations from the broker. 

These ASX shares have fallen significantly this year, however Morgans does see a rebound in sight. 

Here's the latest from the broker. 

Credit Corp's trading update broadly positive

Credit Corp released a trading update last week which led to a 10% single-day rise.

The debt collector revealed that it is on track to deliver record earnings in FY 2026. 

It is projecting net profit after tax of $100 million to $110 million, which would be up from $94 million in FY 2025. 

It also advised that its ledger investments will be higher than previously expected at $295 million to $330 million and gross lending is now projected to be higher at $420 million to $430 million.

Morgans maintained its buy recommendation but lowered its price target to $19.15 (previously $19.35). 

Management noted CCP is on track for strong earnings, with investment providing "a platform for growth in FY27". Sustained delivery of the 3Q PDL momentum, alongside conversion of the US scale-up is key to a re-rating in our view. CCP is trading on ~7x FY27 PE, which we view as undemanding given the earnings profile.

From yesterday's closing price of $11.505, this indicates an upside potential of 66%. 

Amcor results mixed

Amcor also released an important update last week in the form of quarterly results.

It reported a 77% rise in net sales to US$5.91 billion and an 87% increase in adjusted EBITDA to US$892 million.

Amcor shares jumped 5% following this result, however Morgans were less convinced than the general market. 

The broker said while AMC's 3Q26 earnings were largely in line with expectations, FY26 underlying EPS and FCF guidance was downgraded. 

Key positives include Berry synergy benefits tracking above initial expectations, continued progress on portfolio optimisation with further non-core asset divestments, and pass-through mechanisms working well with movement in resin prices due to the Middle East conflict not having a material impact on earnings. 

Key negatives include ongoing soft volumes, a downgrade to FY26 underlying EPS guidance (albeit better than feared), a reduction to FCF guidance, and leverage at the end of FY26 now expected to be higher than previously anticipated.

Based on this guidance, the broker reduced its price target to $65.40 (from $68.20). 

From yesterday's closing price of $55.20, this updated price target indicates an upside potential of 18%. 

Trading on 9.2x FY27F PE with a 6.7% yield, we believe AMC's valuation remains attractive with Berry synergies tracking well. Further non-core asset sales (particularly the North America Beverage business) will be a potential positive catalyst. BUY rating maintained.

The post Why did this broker just lower its price targets on these ASX shares? 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 pushing higher:

Amcor (ASX: AMC)

The Amcor share price is up 5% to $55.29. Investors have been buying this packaging company's shares following the release of its quarterly results. The packaging giant reported a 77% jump in net sales to US$5.91 billion and an 87% increase in adjusted EBITDA to US$892 million. The key driver of this was the acquisition of Berry. Amcor's CEO, Peter Konieczny, commented: "Third quarter results were in line with expectations and reflect the resilience of our business as we mark the first anniversary of bringing legacy Amcor and Berry together as One Amcor."

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

The Credit Corp share price is up 10% to $12.06. This has been driven by the release of a market update from the debt collector this morning. Management revealed that it is on track to deliver record earnings in FY 2026. It is projecting net profit after tax of $100 million to $110 million, which will be up from $94 million in FY 2025. It also advised that its ledger investments will be higher than previously expected at $295 million to $330 million and gross lending is now expected to be higher at $420 million to $430 million.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

The Neuren Pharmaceuticals share price is up 5% to $12.97. This morning, Neuren advised that Q1 DAYBUE (trofinetide) net sales were US$101 million during the first quarter. This is up 20% from the prior corresponding period. Neuren's CEO, Jon Pilcher, commented: "This was a strong start to the year for DAYBUE. I am very encouraged by the initial uptake and enthusiasm for DAYBUE STIX following the limited launch in Centers of Excellence (COEs) and I look forward to seeing the impact of the recent broader US launch."

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

The Zip share price is up 4% to $2.63. This has been driven by a trading update from the buy now pay later provider. In the United States, Zip reported year-on-year total transaction volume (TTV) growth of over 40% in April. Pleasingly, this was achieved with strong credit outcomes. In addition, Zip reaffirmed that it expects to achieve full-year cash earnings before tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBTDA) of $260 million, with at least 40% TTV growth in the US market.

The post Why Amcor, Credit Corp, Neuren, and Zip shares are charging higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Tuesday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 set to rebound

The Australian share market looks set for a good session on Tuesday following a decent start to the week in the US. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is poised to open the day 43 points or 0.5% higher. In late trade on Wall Street, the Dow Jones is up 0.8%, the S&P 500 is up 0.95%, and the Nasdaq is 1.1% higher.

Oil prices sink

It could be a poor session for ASX 200 energy shares Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) after oil prices sank overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 4.75% to US$93.89 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 2.7% to US$100.31 a barrel. This was driven by news that Donald Trump is pressuring allies to protect tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.

RBA meeting

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) shares will be on watch on Tuesday when the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) makes its decision on interest rates. According to the latest cash rate futures, the market is pricing in a 71% probability of the RBA lifting the cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.1%.

Gold price softens

ASX 200 gold shares Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) and Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) could have a subdued session on Tuesday after the gold price softened overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is down 0.85% to US$5,019.4 an ounce. Inflation fears have been weighing on the precious metal.

ASX 200 shares going ex-div

A number of ASX 200 shares are going ex-dividend today and could trade lower. This includes job listings company Seek Ltd (ASX: SEK), plumbing parts company Reece Ltd (ASX: REH), and debt collector Credit Corp Ltd (ASX: CCP). With respect to Seek, it will be rewarding its shareholders with a fully franked 27 cents per share interim dividend on 1 April.

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

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

As we've reported, some of the biggest dividend increases among ASX mining shares this season came from the gold miners.

Next week, two of them go ex-dividend.

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares will pay a fully-franked interim dividend of 3 cents per share on 15 April.

This exceeds the company's commitment to pay a minimum annual dividend of 2 cents per share for FY26.

Ramelius Resources reported a 13% increase in EBITDA to $347.7 million but a 6% fall in net profit after tax (NPAT) to $160 million.

The ASX gold share goes ex-dividend on Monday.

Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) shares will pay a maiden fully franked interim dividend of 5 cents per share.

The gold miner reported a 130% jump in underlying NPAT to $144.8 million for 1H FY26.

The ASX gold share also goes ex-dividend on Monday.

Here is a sample of the other ASX All Ords shares with ex-dividend dates next week.

ASX shares about to go ex-dividend

The post 26 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week 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:

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

According to a note out of Morgans, its analysts have retained their buy rating on this debt collector's shares with a reduced price target of $19.35. This follows the release of Credit Corp's first-half results, which revealed profits that were 10% short of expectations. While disappointing, Morgans feels the selloff that followed, which dragged its shares 17% lower, was overdone and has created a buying opportunity for investors. The broker highlights that at just 7x estimated FY 2027 earnings, Credit Corp's valuation is undemanding. This is especially the case given that management has reiterated its guidance for FY 2026. The Credit Corp share price ended the week at $11.25.

NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT)

A note out of Macquarie reveals that its analysts have retained their outperform rating and $22.30 price target on this data centre operator's shares. Macquarie points out that Singtel and private equity firm KKR have acquired Singapore-based ST Telemedia Global Data Centres for approximately S$13.8 billion (A$15.5 billion). It estimates that this represents a 20x EV/EBITDA multiple, which is significantly greater than its 14.8x estimate for NextDC shares. In light of this, the broker continues to believe that NextDC shares are significantly undervalued at current levels, making now an opportune time for investors to open positions. The NextDC share price was fetching $12.71 at Friday's close.

ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD)

Another note out of Morgans reveals that its analysts have upgraded this sleep disorder treatment company's shares to a buy rating with a $47.73 price target. Morgans was pleased with ResMed's performance in the second quarter of FY 2026. The broker highlights that its result was a beat across the board, with double-digit revenue and earnings growth, further gross margin expansion, and solid cash generation. In response to ResMed's operating leverage, the broker has lifted its earnings estimates and valuation slightly. And with its shares down materially from recent highs, Morgans thinks now is a good time to invest. The ResMed share price ended the week at $37.92.

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

To narrow things down, let's take a look at three shares that Morgans has been running the rule over this week. Does it rate them as buys, holds, or sells? Let's find out:

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

Morgans notes that this debt collector released a half-year result that was short of expectations. However, due to significant share price weakness, the broker thinks a buying opportunity has opened up. It is recommending Credit Corp shares as a buy with a trimmed price target of $19.35. It said:

CCP's 1H26 NPAT of ~A$44m (flat on the pcp) was ~10% under consensus/MorgE. Whilst guidance was reiterated, the compositional mix shift towards AU debt purchases for FY26 (revised upwards) and the lowering of US purchasing guidance (noting some increased competitive pricing) saw the stock close ~17% lower.

Operational efficiency/productivity has improved, however delivering on US divisional growth is key to our long-term investment thesis and a key catalyst. At ~7x FY27 PE (MorgE) the valuation appears undemanding. BUY maintained.

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

This lithium miner's shares could be fully valued now according to Morgans. In response to its strong quarterly update, the broker has upgraded PLS shares to a hold rating with a $4.60 price target. It explains:

Strong 2Q26 with a material spodumene sales and revenue beat vs MorgansF and consensus expectations. Cash balance +12% qoq with total liquidity of ~A$1.6bn leaving significant flexibility to fund growth and consider shareholder returns.

Management is assessing the potential restart of the 200ktpa Ngungaju plant and other growth options in P2000 and Colina. Upgrade to HOLD (previously TRIM) on recent share price weakness with an unchanged A$4.60ps target price.

ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD)

Morgans was impressed with the sleep disorder treatment company's second-quarter update, which came in ahead of expectations.

The broker has responded to the result by upgrading ResMed shares to a buy rating with a $47.73 price target. It said:

2Q beat across the board, with double-digit revenue and earnings growth, further gross margin expansion and solid cash generation. Sleep and respiratory sales were strong in both regions, with above-market growth in the Americas and ROW returning to market growth, while SaaS beat expectations, but remained subdued by residential care headwinds.

Operating leverage improved again, with gross margin gains from manufacturing and logistics efficiencies, and FY26 guidance tightened to 62-63% (from 61-63%), reinforcing confidence in ongoing margin progression. We adjust FY26-28 forecasts modestly and move to BUY with a A$47.73 target price, viewing recent share weakness unjustified given sound fundamentals.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Credit Corp, PLS, and ResMed shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three ASX shares that brokers have named as buys this week are listed below. Here's why their analysts are feeling bullish on them right now:

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

According to a note out of Morgans, its analysts have retained their buy rating on this debt collector's shares with a trimmed price target of $19.35. The broker notes that Credit Corp delivered a first-half profit result that was 10% short of expectations. It feels the selloff that ensued, which dragged its shares 17% lower, was overdone and created a buying opportunity for investors. It highlights that at just 7x estimated FY 2027 earnings, its valuation is undemanding. Especially with management reiterating its guidance for FY 2026. The Credit Corp share price is currently trading at $11.56.

Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM)

Another note out of Morgans reveals that its analysts have upgraded this gold miner's shares to a buy rating with an improved price target of $190.00. The broker remains positive on the outlook of the gold price despite recent weakness and has upgraded its forecasts through to FY 2029. Morgans also highlights that Newmont is its favourite large cap gold miner. It likes Newmont due to its production growth, which it expects to support strong and growing cash generation for the near term. The Newmont share price is fetching $171.88 at the time of writing.

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

Analysts at UBS have retained their buy rating and $174.00 price target on this cloud accounting platform provider's shares. According to the note, the broker appears pleased with Xero's investor update this week which focused on AI and its US growth opportunity. It highlights that its AI and US-based Melio payments businesses are expected to break even in FY 2028, which is ahead of its expectations. In light of this, the broker believes that the market is undervaluing the Melio business. It was also pleased to see management stress that its moat was resilient against AI disruption. Though, that hasn't stopped its shares from being sold off for that reason on Wednesday. The Xero share price is trading at $80.82 today.

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

Some shareholders saw that as a sign that it was time to head for the exits, selling the stock down from $14.28 last Friday to just $11.74 today.

But the team at Morgans have run their ruler over the result and believes the company has been oversold.

Steady as she goes

Firstl,y to the results, the company, which provides financial services to "the credit-impaired consumer segment'', said its US collections were up 23% on the previous corresponding period, and its loan book had grown 7% over the half year.

The net profit of $44.1 million "was in line with the prior year''.

The company also said it expected to have a stronger second half, with full-year net profit guidance reaffirmed as likely to be 6% to 17%.

Credit Corp Chief Executive Thomas Beregi said, despite generally mixed US economic data, the company had not experienced any deterioration in collection performance.

He said:

US debt collection outcomes, including payment arrangement delinquency, have not show any deterioration since mid-2023 despite a modest increase in unemployment over the same period.

In the Australia and New Zealand markets, the company said refreshed marketing and improved operational execution had produced record half-year loan volumes, with new customer volume up 25% on the same period last year.

Confident of a positive full-year result

The team at Morgans analysed Monday's result and said the $44.1 million net profit was about a 10% miss to consensus estimates.

They went on to say:

Despite full year guidance being reaffirmed in this result, the mix shift in ledger investment towards Australia whilst US investment was downgraded would have been a key area of concern for the market (notably the competitive tension around pricing), in our view.   

Despite this, given that Credit Corp retained its full-year guidance, Morgans made only minor changes to its forecasts for the company. While it lowered its price target to $19.35 from $21.50, this still represents an impressive 64.8% return if achieved.

Keep in mind that the company is also paying a trailing fully-franked dividend yield of 5.7%.

Morgans went on to say re the outlook:

Execution in the USA is required to return Credit Corp to delivering medium-term growth and improving investor sentiment more broadly. The management team has a solid long-term track record of execution and recent earnings and data points show improving delivery. We view improved execution along with a valuation de-rating from historic multiples as providing favourable risk reward.  

The post This financial stock could deliver better than 60% returns, one broker says 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:

Brainchip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN)

The Brainchip share price is down 2% to 15.2 cents. This semiconductor company's shares have been under heavy selling pressure since the release of another disappointing quarterly update. Despite entering the commercialisation stage a few years ago, Brainchip revealed cash receipts of just US$0.4 million for the three months ended 31 December. Given that its market capitalisation is still $350 million, it wouldn't be surprising if the selling continues if there's no meaningful improvement in its sales.

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

The Credit Corp share price is down over 15% to $12.07. Investors have been selling this debt collector's shares following the release of its half-year results. Credit Corp posted a 4% increase in revenue to $283.6 million and flat net profit after tax of $44.1 million. Looking ahead, management believes it can still achieve its net profit after tax guidance range of $100 million to $110 million. Investors don't appear confident it will get there.

Graincorp Ltd (ASX: GNC)

The Graincorp share price is down 3% to $6.00. This may have been driven by a broker note out of Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG). This morning, the broker downgraded the grain exporter's shares to a neutral rating (from outperform) with a reduced price target of $6.60 (from $8.30). Macquarie appears concerned that margins could remain under pressure in the near term, which could weigh on its earnings growth.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

The Neuren Pharmaceuticals share price is down 12% to $14.25. This morning, Neuren Pharmaceuticals revealed that the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has given a negative trend vote on its marketing authorisation application for trofinetide in the European market. Neuren's CEO, Jon Pilcher, commented: "Given the totality of experience with trofinetide in clinical trials and real world use over many years, this negative trend vote is frustrating for us and the Rett syndrome community in the EU. We fully support Acadia's intention to seek re-examination of the CHMP opinion in February, if necessary."

The post Why Brainchip, Credit Corp, Graincorp, and Neuren shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Today's share price drop means Credit Corp's shares are now 13.2% lower for the year to date. They are also 18.81% below the trading price this time last year.

Credit Corp share price crashes on results day

Here's what the debt collection company posted this morning:

• Revenue up 4% to $283.6 million

• Net profit after tax (NPAT) flat at $44.1 million

• Dividends per share flat at 32 cents

What happened in H1 FY26?

Credit Corp posted a flat NPAT of $44.1 million for the first half of FY26. This was despite reporting a 4% increase in revenue, to $283.6 million, for the six-month period.

The debt collectors' US business reported the strongest growth, with revenue from its US debt buying segment up 25% to $73.7 million. Its NPAT also surged 63% to $11.7 million.

The company's overall results were dragged down by weaker results in its Australian and New Zealand segment. This business segment faced significant headwinds over the first half of the year.

Its Australian/NZ debt buying division and collection services saw revenue drop 6% to $108.1 million and NPAT decline 10% to $10.9 million. The business segment has suffered over the past few months after several issuers temporarily suspended debt book sales, which impacted the company's collection volumes.

The AU/NZ lending business segment reported a 4% increase in its revenue, to $101.8 million. But its NPAT fell 14% to $21.5 million. This was despite a 14% increase in total settled loans to $223.3 million.

"While the AU/NZ debt buying market remains competitive as buyers attempt to secure volume in a diminished post-COVID market, there are some early signs of increasing supply," the company said in a media release this morning. 

"Interest bearing credit card balances grew +12% over the half year. In time, this growth will likely be reflected in charge-offs and sale volumes."

Credit Corp said it would pay investors an interim dividend of 32 cents per share. This is unchanged from the FY25 interim dividend and "is consistent with the long-standing practice of paying out ~50% of earnings".

What's ahead for Credit Corp?

The business is still optimistic about the outlook for the full FY26 financial year. Credit Corp has kept its guidance unchanged. The company expects NPAT of $105 million, which sits in the middle of its $100 to $110 million guidance range.

The company projects that H2 of FY26 will deliver NPAT of $61 million, compared to $44 million in H1.

The post Credit Corp share price crashes 14% following H1 FY26 result appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Both companies made statements to the ASX on Wednesday admitting that early-stage talks were underway.

Humm Group said in its statement that on November 19, the company "received a confidential, conditional, non-binding indicative proposal from Credit Corp to acquire 100% of the shares in the company''.

Confidential talks underway on ASX takeover bid

Humm Group said it had been in discussions with Credit Corp since the proposal was launched.

The company said Credit Corp was offering 77 cents in cash per Humm Group share, but if that offer was unsuccessful, Credit Corp would then launch an off-market takeover at 72 cents per share, "conditional upon Credit Corp achieving acceptances for 50.1% of Humm Group's shares''.

Humm Group added:

The Humm Group board, with the assistance of its financial and legal advisers, is carefully evaluating Credit Corp's proposal. Directors are committed to acting in the best interests of all Humm Group shareholders and are open to supporting a proposal that they believe represents appropriate value for shareholders. The board is prepared to work constructively with Credit Corp to see if a proposal can be developed that it is prepared to recommend for consideration by the shareholders.

The Humm Group board said it had told Credit Corp it was willing to engage on the proposal and had offered to provide the opportunity for it to conduct due diligence, with discussions ongoing about a suitable non-disclosure agreement to cover those talks.

No formal bid at this stage

The board added that the proposal was at this stage "non-binding and incomplete", and that "Credit Corp has expressly stated that the proposal does not constitute a proposal to make a takeover bid for the purposes of the Corporations Act''.

Humm Group shares shot 9.1% higher after the proposal was made public, trading at 72 cents. The company's shares have traded as high as 78 cents over the past year and as low as 43 cents.

Credit Corp shares on Wednesday were 1.3% lower at $13.76.

Humm Group said in the same statement that it had received a section 203D notice seeking to remove three of the company's directors from the board, although a resolution to call a meeting to move such a motion had not been filed.

Humm Group was valued at $330 million at the close of trade on Tuesday, while Credit Corp was valued at $948.9 million.

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Credit Corp shares closed up 0.9% on Friday, trading for $13.72 apiece. That sees shares in the debt collection company down 24.5% over 12 months.

Though those losses will be somewhat mitigated by the two fully franked dividends totalling 68 cents a share the company paid out over the full year. At Friday's closing price, that sees Credit Corp shares trading on a fully franked trailing dividend yield of 5.0%.

Now, here's why Macquarie expects a much stronger performance from Credit Corp shares in the year ahead.

ASX 200 dividend stock earns an upgrade

In a report released on Thursday, Macquarie upgraded Credit Corp shares to outperform after analysing the latest results from rival United States operating debt collection companies PRA Group and Encore Capital "to provide a read-through for CCP's US segment".

And those results have some promising implications for the ASX 200 dividend stock.

For Encore Capital's US segment, the broker said:

US purchases were +13% yoy, "capitalising on the ongoing attractive market opportunity…driven by ample portfolio supply. "

Collections: +25% yoy, supported by "deployment of new technologies, enhanced digital capabilities and continued operational innovation".

As for the outlook, Macquarie noted:

Encore raised FY25 global collections guidance to ~$2.55bn, +18% yoy. FY25 portfolio purchasing guidance to exceed the $1.35bn in 2024 is unchanged, as the US segment is set to surpass the $995m record level in 2024.

Supply: U.S. revolving credit remains near record levels, while the credit card charge-off rate increased to its highest level in more than 10 years in 2024 and still remains elevated. Lending and elevated charge-off rates continues to drive portfolio supply. U.S. consumer credit delinquencies, a leading indicator of future charge-offs, also remain near multi-year highs. "Purchasing conditions in the U.S. market remain highly favourable".

Turning to PRA Group's US segment Macquarie noted:

Purchases: 3Q25 purchases down 47% vs pcp, the 3rd consecutive qtr of declines as PRA are "more selective and maximising value".

Collections: US Core cash collections $310m, +16%, supported by 27% increase in legal collections following investment in the channel.

Outlook: Purchases guidance of $1.2bn (unchanged), vs $1.4bn in 2024.

Connecting the dots, Macquarie said, "Despite Macro uncertainty, operating performance and conditions support the outlook and the valuation is attractive."

The broker has a 12-month target price of $16.70 for the ASX 200 dividend stock. That represents a potential upside of 21.7% from Friday's closing price.

And it doesn't include those upcoming dividends.

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As we reported earlier today, overnight, the world's most-watched central bank cut the official federal funds rate by 0.25%. That brings the official US interest rate down to the new range of 4.0% to 4.25%.

But with the Fed's latest easing already baked into the markets, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is following US stock markets and heading lower today. In afternoon trade, the ASX 200 is down 0.6%.

Which brings us to the 'Australian Equity Strategy' report from the team at Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG).

Particularly, to the ASX stocks the broker believes stand to benefit the most from lower interest rates.

"We think a resumption of Fed cuts will continue to favour stocks over bonds, cyclicals over defensives and growth over value," Macquarie said.

Which ASX stocks could catch interest rate tailwinds?

With interest rates in the US coming down, Macquarie said it's added ASX stocks with tech and AI exposure.

Namely, data centre operator and developer NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT) and online job advertising company Seek Ltd (ASX: SEK).

Seek shares are bucking the wider selling pressure today, up 0.1% at $28.92 a share.

NextDC shares are up 1.5% at $18.01 a share.

Macquarie also said it's increasing its exposure to ASX growth stocks, "while reducing defensives, bond proxies and US housing, given [the] risk of higher yields".

Macquarie expects that jewellery retailer Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) and travel company Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB) both stand to benefit from lower interest rates.

The broker also pointed to a basket of cyclicals with US exposure that it said, "should benefit from renewed Fed cuts and stronger US growth, although partly offset by a weaker USD".

Macquarie said that ASX stocks that could benefit include:

• Payments giant Block Inc (ASX: XYZ)
• Gaming technology company Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)
• Gaming development company Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW)
• Electrical appliance manufacturer Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)
• Auto listings company CAR Group Ltd (ASX: CAR)
• Travel company Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)
• And debt collection company Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

And let's not forget gold.

As gold pays no yields itself, the gold price tends to perform better in low and falling interest rate environments, as do ASX gold stocks.

"Gold stocks have been strong outperformers since the Fed started to ease, and we think that continues," Macquarie said.

The broker believes that both Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) and Newmont Corp (ASX: NEM) are well-placed to benefit from lower rates.

The post These are the ASX stocks Macquarie expects to benefit from the Fed's interest rate cuts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With the August reporting season in the rearview mirror, dozens of companies have ex-dividend dates next week.

Here's a sample of the ASX shares going ex-dividend soon.

23 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week

How to make ex-div dates work for you

To receive an ASX company's next dividend, you must buy or already own the shares before the ex-dividend date.

If you're interested in buying a stock trading cum dividend, you have two options.

Buy it before the ex-dividend date, and earn a quick return with the upcoming dividend payment.

Alternatively, buy the stock on its ex-dividend date, when it will likely trade lower because the dividend entitlement is no longer attached.

We've seen examples of this recently, with CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares dropping 2.15% on their ex-dividend date.

TV network owner Nine Entertainment Co Holdings Ltd (ASX: NEC) plummeted 36% yesterday after going ex-dividend, too.

Sometimes there are exceptions, like we are seeing with WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) shares today.

The post 23 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.