We're helping you keep track of ex-dividend dates with an article every Friday.

Here are some of the ASX shares due to go ex-dividend next week.

To receive the next dividend, you must own the ASX share before its ex-dividend date.

ASX shares with ex-dividend dates coming up 

Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH)

This ASX healthcare share will pay an 85% franked dividend of $1.30 per share on 14 October.

The ex-dividend date is Monday, 21 September.

New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC)

This ASX coal share will pay a fully franked dividend of 30 cents per share on 15 October.

The ex-dividend date is 21 September.

Southern Cross Engineering Ltd (ASX: SXE)

This ASX industrials share will pay a 100% franked dividend of 7.5 cents per share on 7 October.

The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, 22 September.

Latitude Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: LFS)

This ASX financial share will pay a 100% franked dividend of 5.5 cents per share on 22 October.

The ex-dividend date is 22 September.

Fleetwood Ltd (ASX: FWD)

This ASX industrials share will pay a 100% franked dividend of 9.5 cents per share on 9 October.

The ex-dividend date is 22 September.

St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM)

This ASX materials share will pay a fully franked dividend of 5 cents per share on 16 October.

The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, 23 September.

IPD Group Ltd (ASX: IPG)

This ASX industrials share will pay a fully franked dividend of 7.9 cents per share on 8 October.

The ex-dividend date is 23 September.

Genesis Energy Ltd (ASX: GNE)

This ASX utilities share will pay an unfranked dividend of 6.3 cents per share on 9 October.

The ex-dividend date is 23 September.

Bisalloy Steel Group Ltd (ASX: BIS)

This ASX materials share will pay a fully franked dividend of 13 cents per share on 9 October.

The ex-dividend date is Thursday, 24 September.

Salter Brothers Emerging Companies Ltd (ASX: SB2)

This ASX financial share will pay a 50% franked dividend of 2 cents per share on 22 October.

The ex-dividend date is 24 September.

Wiseway Group Ltd (ASX: WWG)

Wiseway Group shares will pay a 100% franked dividend of 0.006 cents per share on 9 October.

The ex-dividend date is 24 September.

PRL Global Ltd (ASX: PRG)

PRL Global shares will pay a 100% franked dividend of 3 cents per share on 23 October.

The ex-dividend date is 24 September.

Teaminvest Private Group Ltd (ASX: TIP)

This ASX financial share will pay a 100% franked dividend of 1.5 cents per share on 5 October.

The ex-dividend date is Friday, 25 September.

The post 13 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fell 1.6% to close at 9,115.2 points.

The market had a choppy week amid the Reserve Bank announcing no change to interest rates.

Only four of the 11 market sectors finished the week in the green.

Let's review.

Utilities shares led the ASX sectors last week

The Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) share price gained 11.55% to finish the week at $12.07.

On Thursday, Origin revealed a statutory profit of $1,574 million for FY26, up from $1,481 million in FY25.

Origin will pay a final dividend of 30 cents per share with 100% franking.

The APA Group (ASX: APA) share price rose 1.51% to $10.06.

APA will announce its FY26 results on Thursday, 20 August.

Mercury NZ Ltd (ASX: MCY) shares fell 1.44% to $5.47.

Mercury will report its FY26 results on Tuesday.

The Meridian Energy Ltd (ASX: MEZ) share price dropped 1.5% to $4.60.

Meridian will release its FY26 results on Wednesday, 26 August.

The AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL) share price ascended 7.17% to $8.82.

AGL reported a 2% decrease in net profit after tax (NPAT) to $631 million for FY26.

AGL shares will pay a final dividend of 26 cents per share, fully franked.

Contact Energy Ltd (ASX: CEN) shares edged 0.93% higher to $7.59.

The New Zealand electricity supplier reported a 28% lift in NPAT to NZ$423.4 million for FY26.

The company will pay a final dividend of 24 NZ cents per share, fully imputed at 24%.

Contact Energy is one of 8 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

Genesis Energy Ltd (ASX: GNE) shares increased 4.76% to $2.20.

Genesis Energy will announce its FY26 results on Thursday, 27 August.

The LGI Ltd (ASX: LGI) share price dropped 9.55% to $1.99.

LGI will release its FY26 results on Friday, 21 August.

View our reporting calendar for more company announcement dates.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 utilities shares gained 7% while the broader market fell heavily last week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Genesis Energy report?

• Electricity netback: $189/MWh, up 11.6% on prior corresponding period (pcp)
• Total customers: 490,227, down 5.8% on pcp, with the final stage of transition to a single brand
• Total electricity sales: 1,543 GWh, down 153 GWh on pcp, reflecting milder temperatures and brand migration
• Hydro generation: 703 GWh, down 1 GWh on pcp, with increasing storage levels
• Thermal generation: 527 GWh, down 567 GWh on pcp, with Huntly Unit 5 in temporary hibernation until December 2026
• FY26 EBITDAF expected at the lower end of guidance range

What else do investors need to know?

Genesis continued to progress on strategic priorities, notably commissioning Stage 1 of the Huntly Battery Energy Storage System, with Stage 2 moving into detailed design. The company remains on track with its $145 million digital investment rollout, including billing and CRM system upgrades set for phased migration starting in Q2 FY27.

The customer base declined, mainly due to migration to a single brand and simplified product offering, which accelerated during the quarter. Genesis expects around $5 million in one-off operating expenses in FY26 due to this brand transition, with a further $6 million anticipated in FY27 before marketing expenditure returns to normal levels from FY28.

Despite milder weather affecting demand, hydro storage ended the quarter at strong levels, positioning Genesis well for the start of FY27. Coal stockpiles remain robust at over one million tonnes, and gas supply security has been bolstered with new contracts.

What's next for Genesis Energy?

Genesis will continue its transformation strategy, focusing on growing renewable generation and digital innovation. The company is targeting delivery of its Huntly BESS projects and grid-scale solar developments over coming years, with Tihori Solar Farm scheduled for Q1 FY28 commissioning and Leeston aiming for final investment decision in Q1 FY27.

Efforts to streamline to a single brand are designed to align supply and demand, enhance margins, and unlock value through better utilisation of flexible generation assets. Investors can expect focus to remain on margin quality, digital capability, and further expanding renewable capacity to support medium-term growth.

Genesis Energy share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Genesis Energy shares have risen 1%, matching the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 1% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Genesis Energy Q4: Margin lifts as single brand shift nears finish appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Genesis Energy report?

• Hydro generation rose to 745 GWh, up 264 GWh on the prior corresponding period (pcp), driven by strong hydrology and storage levels.
• Thermal generation decreased to 236 GWh, down 716 GWh on pcp, as Unit 5 was mainly offline and gas was sent to higher-value customers.
• Total customer numbers fell to 491,532, down 6.6% on pcp, as the company prioritised margin quality over volume.
• Electricity netback increased to $173/MWh, up 11.2% on pcp due to better pricing and a focus on portfolio quality.
• Total electricity sales were 1,380 GWh, down 94 GWh on pcp, reflecting the shift to higher-value segments.
• FY26 normalised EBITDAF guidance was upgraded to $515–$545 million (from $490–$520 million).

What else do investors need to know?

Genesis continued to push ahead with its Gen35 strategy, which includes significant investment in renewable projects and digital transformation. Construction has started at the Tihori (Edgecumbe) solar farm, with more progress at Leeston and Rangiriri sites as part of a target to expand solar capacity.

The company made headway with battery storage at Huntly Power Station—Stage 1 is nearing commissioning and Stage 2 has reached Final Investment Decision. Genesis also finalised the integration of Frank into its main brand and focused on margin improvement, which has helped enhance unit economics.

What's next for Genesis Energy?

Genesis is maintaining its focus on renewable energy, battery storage, and digital upgrades. The FY26 earnings guidance upgrade reflects expected benefits from effective cost management, favourable hydro conditions, and improved wholesale pricing. However, management notes that performance may be influenced by hydrology, gas supply, plant reliability, and broader market conditions.

Looking ahead, Genesis will keep developing large-scale solar, battery, and customer electrification projects to support the country's lower-carbon energy transition. The company also aims to grow its flexibility products in response to evolving customer demand and decarbonisation trends.

Genesis Energy share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Genesis Energy shares have declined 3%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 12% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Genesis Energy upgrades FY26 guidance on strong Q3 earnings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Genesis Minerals report?

• Gold sales of 65,049 ounces at an average price of A$6,755/oz, generating revenue of $439.4 million
• Quarterly (unaudited) NPAT between $145 million and $155 million
• Cash and equivalents rose by $196 million over the quarter to $599.9 million, with Genesis remaining bank debt-free
• Quarterly gold production reached 67,497 ounces across Leonora and Laverton operations
• All-in sustaining cost for the quarter was A$2,685/oz
• Underlying cash build of $252.8 million for the quarter before investing $56.6 million in growth and exploration

What else do investors need to know?

Genesis completed all third-party ore purchases during the quarter, with production from its Genesis mines ramping up in their place. The company continues to invest in sector-leading growth, including the Tower Hill open pit project, which is moving ahead of schedule with site works underway.

A major highlight was the proposed acquisition of Magnetic Resources for $639 million, anticipated to complete by June 2026 subject to conditions. This transaction will boost Genesis' growth strategy, potentially lifting group milling capacity to 8–9 million tonnes per annum. Additionally, Genesis has expanded its undrawn corporate financing facility to $300 million, further strengthening its balance sheet ahead of this deal.

What did Genesis Minerals management say?

Executive Chair Raleigh Finlayson said:

We continue to generate exceptional free cashflow while also investing in the ongoing growth of our business. This reflects an ideal combination of rising production from our mines, tight cost control, a robust gold price and no bank debt. We are also laying the foundations for the next chapter of growth, including the start of site works at the Tower Hill project, and look forward to providing an update on our long-term plan in the September quarter.

What's next for Genesis Minerals?

Genesis remains on track for its FY26 production outlook of 260,000–290,000 ounces at an AISC of A$2,500–A$2,700/oz. The company expects to finalise the Magnetic Resources acquisition in June and release an updated long-term production and cost plan—including FY27 guidance—in the September quarter 2026.

Site works and procurement at Tower Hill are well underway, aiming for first ore in FY28. Further, drilling and resource conversion work continues at other growth projects like Bruno Lewis, as Genesis looks to maintain its strong operating and financial momentum.

Genesis Minerals share price snapshot

Over the past 12 month, Genesis Minerals shares have declined 11%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 16% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Genesis Minerals posts March 2026 quarterly results 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:

Genesis Energy Ltd (ASX: GNE)

The Genesis Energy share price is down almost 4% to $1.78. This morning, this vertically integrated energy company announced the successful completion of the shortfall bookbuild component of its NZ$300 million underwritten renounceable rights offer. Settlement of the rights offer is expected to occur on 24 March for the ASX, with allotment and commencement of trading expected on 25 March. A total of approximately NZ$400 million was raised in aggregate across the rights offer and the NZ$100 million underwritten placement.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

The Northern Star share price is down 7.5% to $17.09. Investors have been selling this gold miner's shares following another pullback in the gold price. Traders have been selling the precious metal amid concerns that rising oil prices could cause inflation to surge and send interest rates higher. The selling has been so bad that the gold price lost almost 10% of its value last week. It isn't just Northern Star shares that are falling today. The S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Gold index is down a sizeable 7.6% at the time of writing.

Pls Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

The Pls Group share price is down almost 7% to $3.94. This is despite there being no news out of the lithium miner today. However, the resources sector is a sea of red on Monday, with most miners trading sharply lower. This appears to have been driven by concerns that the Middle East conflict could negatively impact global economic growth and ultimately demand for some commodities. The S&P/ASX 200 Resources index is currently down by 3.4%.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

The WiseTech Global share price is down 5% to $40.74. This logistics solutions technology company's shares have continued to fall amid broad weakness in the tech sector. Investors have been selling WiseTech and other tech stocks in response to AI disruption concerns and fears that the Middle East conflict could send interest rates meaningfully higher. The latter is bad for growth assets, with higher interest rates putting pressure on valuations.

The post Why Genesis Energy, Northern Star, PLS, and WiseTech shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Genesis Energy report?

• Successful completion of the NZ$300 million 1 for 7.9 renounceable rights offer
• Shortfall bookbuild cleared at NZ$2.22 per new share, NZ$0.17 above application price
• Aggregate of NZ$400 million raised, including a NZ$100 million placement
• Settlement on ASX expected 24 March 2026, NZX on 25 March 2026
• New shares to rank equally with existing Genesis Energy shares
• FY25 revenue reported at NZ$3.7 billion

What else do investors need to know?

Genesis Energy's shortfall bookbuild was well supported, delivering a premium over the general rights offer price. Eligible shareholders not taking up their full allocation, and ineligible shareholders, will receive NZ$0.17 per new share not taken up, with payment expected by 31 March 2026.

Settlement of new shares will enable trading to commence on both the NZX and the ASX. Genesis confirmed that these shares will have the same rights and status as existing ordinary shares. The company also continues as a leading NZ energy retailer with a strong mix of thermal and renewable generation assets, and a 46% stake in the Kupe Joint Venture.

What's next for Genesis Energy?

With the equity raise completed, Genesis Energy will focus on deploying these new funds to support its ongoing operational and growth initiatives. The capital injection strengthens Genesis' balance sheet and positions the business to further invest in its diverse generation portfolio.

Investors can expect updates on the company's use of proceeds and strategic roadmap, particularly around renewable energy opportunities and customer growth in New Zealand's competitive energy market.

Genesis Energy share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Genesis Energy shares have declined 4%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Genesis Energy completes NZ$400 million capital raise and rights offer appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Genesis Energy report?

• Announced a NZ$400 million capital raising via a placement and pro rata rights offer
• The placement aims to raise approximately NZ$100 million
• Pro rata, renounceable rights offer to raise around NZ$300 million
• New Zealand government to maintain a 51% stake post-raising
• Placement and rights offer (excluding the Crown) fully underwritten by Jarden Partners and Jarden Securities

What else do investors need to know?

Genesis Energy requested the trading halt to allow for the completion of the shortfall bookbuild process, where eligible shareholders and institutional investors can apply for additional shares not taken up in the rights offer. This aims to ensure a fair and transparent market for all participants, as some information may otherwise reach select investors ahead of the market.

The halt is expected to remain in place until the results of the shortfall bookbuild are announced, or normal trading resumes on 24 March 2026. Genesis plans to inform the market of the outcome as soon as it is finalised, highlighting the company's focus on transparency.

What's next for Genesis Energy?

Genesis Energy is expected to announce the final results of its entitlement offer, including details of the shortfall allocation, within the trading halt window. The capital raised will likely strengthen Genesis's balance sheet and support future growth initiatives, while the continued Crown stake keeps a stable ownership structure.

Investors should keep an eye out for further updates regarding the allocation and any potential impact on the Genesis Energy share price as trading resumes.

Genesis Energy share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Genesis Energy shares have declined 9%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Genesis Energy launches $400 million equity raising, announces trading halt appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fell 0.49% to close at 8,860.1 points.

Market spirits were dampened by news of lower unemployment, which raised the prospect of an interest rate hike this year.

Seven of the 11 market sectors finished in the red.

Let's recap.

Utilities shares led the ASX sectors last week

There are only 21 companies in the ASX 200 utilities sector.

Let's review the performance of the seven largest players by market capitalisation last week.

Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) shares rose 7.22% to finish the week at $11.73.

The APA Group (ASX: APA) share price rose 3.21% to $8.99.

Mercury NZ Ltd (ASX: MCY) shares were steady at $5.50.

The Meridian Energy Ltd (ASX: MEZ) share price rose 2.29% to $4.91.

The AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL) share price lifted 1.85% to $8.82.

Contact Energy Ltd (ASX: CEN) shares fell 2.56% to $8 apiece.

Genesis Energy Ltd (ASX: GNE) shares increased 1.94% to $2.10.

Energy sector also rises strongly

The ASX 200 energy sector was the second best performer, rising 3.56%.

US natural gas futures skyrocketed last week, and WTI crude oil futures rose 1% amid a persistently softer US dollar.

On Friday, analysts at Trading Economics said US natural gas futures were on track for a weekly gain of more than 70%.

That would be the largest increase among records dating back to 1990.

The analysts said:

US natural gas futures surged past $5.53 per MMBtu, approaching levels last seen in December 2022, as extreme cold forecasts boosted demand expectations and raised supply risks.

Temperatures are projected to remain mostly below normal through February 5 …

A severe winter storm is expected to affect roughly two-thirds of the country, increasing residential and commercial consumption and raising the risk of inventory drawdowns.

At the same time, output is around a three-month low, with part of this week's production decline linked to freeze-offs, particularly in southern regions.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 utilities shares led the market last week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Genesis Energy report?

• Hydro generation: 740 GWh, up 21 GWh year on year, driven by strong hydrology and plant availability
• Thermal generation: 85 GWh for the quarter, a record low; 869 GWh for the half, also a record low
• Total customer numbers: 495,706, down 4% versus a year ago, reflecting brand integration and churn
• Electricity netback: $159/MWh, normalising from Q1, with margin quality supported by disciplined pricing
• FY26 normalised EBITDAF guidance lifted to $490–$520 million (from $455–$485 million)
• Billing and CRM re-platform Release 1 live for 50,000 customers; Release 2 on track

What else do investors need to know?

Genesis continued to advance its long-term renewables pipeline, making progress on new onshore wind, solar, and battery projects destined to drive future portfolio flexibility and growth. The company also signed a framework agreement with Yinson Renewables for exclusive rights to over 1 GW of onshore wind projects and submitted a grid connection application for the 300 MW Castle Hill wind development.

On the operational side, Genesis completed the final investment decision for the 136 MWp Edgecumbe solar farm and acquired the 271 MWp Rangiriri solar project. Construction of Stage 1 of the Huntly BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) remains on schedule and on budget for commencement in Q1 FY27. The business retains focus on cost efficiency and late-life optimisation of its Huntly and Kupe operations.

What's next for Genesis Energy?

Looking ahead, Genesis Energy has increased its FY26 normalised EBITDAF guidance range to $490 million–$520 million, citing better-than-expected margin quality and continued strength across its diversified portfolio. Operating costs are trending higher as investment continues in strategic initiatives, including digital, renewables, and the Gen35 growth strategy, but second-half FY26 expectations remain in line with prior guidance.

The company aims to further expand its renewable and flexible generation assets, enhance digital capabilities, and maintain disciplined capital allocation. Further detail on progress is expected at Genesis' half-year results in February.

Genesis Energy share price snapshot

Over the pat 12 months, Genesis Energy shares have risen 6%, running slightly ahead of the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has increased 4% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Genesis Energy lifts FY26 guidance in strong Q2 earnings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Genesis Energy report?

• Hydro generation reached 904 GWh, up 218 GWh compared to the prior corresponding period (pcp), driven by above-average rainfall and strong operational availability.
• Thermal generation fell to 784 GWh, down 498 GWh on pcp, reflecting reduced reliance on coal and gas due to better hydro performance and portfolio optimisation.
• Total electricity retail sales reached 1,874 GWh, an increase of 188 GWh on pcp.
• Total customer numbers rose to 502,765, a 0.9% increase on pcp.
• LPG retail sales totalled 12.3 kt, while gas retail sales were 2.1 PJ for the quarter.
• Genesis ended the quarter with lake levels at 113% of average, up from 102% at 30 June, improving water security heading into summer.

What else do investors need to know?

Genesis continued to progress strategic projects, including the Huntly battery energy storage system (BESS), with foundations in place for equipment deliveries by December and transformer manufacturing on track for commissioning in Q1 FY27. Digital investments remain on schedule, with the billing and CRM re-platform's first release expected to go live by the end of October, covering around 50,000 customer connections.

The company is pushing ahead on biomass supply, securing agreements with Carbona and Foresta, and $6 million in EECA funding to support development. Leeston Solar Farm has been completed, with Genesis now taking full ownership and control of the site.

What's next for Genesis Energy?

Looking forward, Genesis is set to provide more detail on its Gen35 strategy, capital allocation, and long-term earnings plans during its Investor Day in Taupo in late November. The company also remains on track to deliver its three "Big Rock" digital initiatives, as previously outlined in its $145 million investment program.

Ongoing maintenance and outages, including the three-month planned outage at Huntly Unit 5, are progressing to schedule. Management notes that Genesis remains well-positioned to deliver on its FY26 guidance, given strong hydro conditions and continued progress across its renewable and digital projects.

Genesis Energy share price snapshot

Genesis Energy shares have risen 17% over the past year, outpacing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 8% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Genesis Energy lifts hydro generation and customers in Q1 FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With reporting season over, ASX companies are slowly winding their way through the ex-dividend process.

After a company announces its financial results and dividend, ASX investors have a short window to buy the share with the payment attached.

On the ex-dividend date, the stock begins trading without the next dividend payment attached.

We typically see share prices fall on ex-div dates because the shares are inherently less valuable without the dividend included.

Ex-dividend dates provide two opportunities for investors.

You can buy an ASX share before its ex-dividend date, which gives you immediate entitlement to the next dividend payment.

Or, you can buy an ASX share on its ex-div date, when the share price typically falls, and take advantage of that dip.

As usual, we've seen plenty of examples of ASX shares falling on their ex-dividend dates this year.

Yesterday, South 32 Ltd (ASX: S32) shares closed 1.5% down after going ex-dividend.

The Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL) share price fell 4.2% on its ex-div date this month.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares dropped 2.15% on their ex-dividend date.

The Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) share price fell 1.3% on its ex-dividend date.

Nine Entertainment Co Holdings Ltd (ASX: NEC) shares provide an extraordinary example, plummeting 36% on ex-div day.

However, this was more a reflection of the special dividend paid to Nine shareholders this time around after the sale of Domain.

Nine Entertainment is one of several companies that announced special dividends during the August earnings season.

9 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week

Here is a sample of the ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

Further reading

If you own ASX shares and would like to review the earnings reports of your companies, please see our comprehensive calendar page.

The post 9 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) lost 0.27% to finish at 8,580.1 points on Friday.

The utilities sector's bump was a substantial outperformance, with its nearest competitor, ASX 200 materials, up just 0.8%.

This may indicate a shift to defensive shares, given that the utilities sector is known for stable returns and dividends.

Utilities delivered the highest dividends of all 11 market sectors in FY25 at 6.17%.

Last week, US President Donald Trump extended the 90-day reprieve on the full range of US reciprocal tariffs to 1 August.

Trump also stated that a new tariff on imported pharmaceuticals into the US from next year may be set as high as 200%.

This impacted several ASX pharma stocks, including Australia's biggest listed healthcare company, CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL).

The market was also surprised last week when the Reserve Bank of Australia decided to keep interest rates on hold.

The board members were split 6:3, with six voting for rates to stay on hold pending quarterly inflation data due out on 30 July.

Three board members voted for a rate cut.

In a statement, the RBA said:

With the cash rate 50 basis points lower than five months ago and wider economic conditions evolving broadly as expected, the Board judged that it could wait for a little more information to confirm that inflation remains on track to reach 2.5 per cent on a sustainable basis

The next board meeting to discuss interest rates is scheduled for 11-12 August.

Only five of the 11 ASX 200 market sectors closed out last week in the green.

Let's recap.

Utilities shares led the ASX sectors last week

Just 21 companies make up the ASX 200 utilities sector.

Let's review the performance of the seven largest players by market cap.

Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) shares surged 8.6% to $11.75. The Origin share price reached a 10-year high of $11.78 on Friday.

There has been no price-sensitive news regarding Origin shares since 26 May when the company upgraded its FY25 guidance.

However, two top brokers issued new notes on Origin shares last week.

Macquarie retained its neutral rating but raised its 12-month price target from $10.12 to $10.94 a share.

Meanwhile, Morgan Stanley retained its underweight rating and $9.46 price target.

Shares in ASX 200 energy infrastructure group, APA Group (ASX: APA), fell 0.84% to $8.29 apiece.

On Wednesday, APA announced it had finalised agreements with CS Energy to deliver a natural gas pipeline connecting APA's Roma
Brisbane Pipeline with CS Energy's proposed Brigalow Peaking Power Plant in Queensland.

Mercury NZ Ltd (ASX: MCY) shares lost 0.18% of their value to close at $5.68 on Friday.

The New Zealand-based electricity, gas, and telco services retailer will release its full-year FY25 results on 19 August.

Meridian Energy Ltd (ASX: MEZ) shares rose by 0.18% to $5.42 per share.

The New Zealand-based renewable energy company will release its full-year FY25 results on 27 August.

The AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL) share price lost 2.94% to finish the week at $9.58.

Earlier this month, we reported that UBS has a neutral rating on this ASX 200 utility share with a price target of $11.50.

Genesis Energy Ltd (ASX: GNE) shares rose 2.82% to $2.19 apiece last week.

The Contact Energy Ltd (ASX: CEN) share price fell 2.24% to $8.28 on Friday.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 utilities shares outperform: Are investors switching to defensives? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Utilities shares are generally considered a 'safe haven' investment during market volatility.

The sector is comprised of just 21 companies, most of which are electricity, gas, or water suppliers.

Utilities providers generally have reliable earnings, which makes them a defensive investment during economic uncertainty.

However, the same can be said for ASX 200 healthcare shares, and they went the opposite way last week.

Healthcare was the worst-performing sector of the week, down 3.15%.

Sector heavyweight CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) played a role in the sector's decline, with the share price falling 6.67% to $239.31.

CSL delivered a presentation at two shareholder information meetings in Sydney and Brisbane last week.

Overall, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) virtually moved sideways last week, declining 0.08% to finish at 8,231.2 points.

Nine of the 11 market sectors closed out the week in the green.

The market is continuing its rebound following the US tariff-inspired market dip in early April.

The ASX 200 is now 3.74% above its level before the tariffs were announced in the US on 2 April.

Global markets, including the ASX 200, have settled since the US President announced a 90-day reprieve on the full tariff rollout.

For now, only a 10% baseline tariff applies to all nations except China.

Negotiations between the US and many of its trading partners continued last week.

On Friday, news broke of a deal between the US and the UK on beef.

In a post on Truth Social, the US President said:

The Deal I made today with the United Kingdom is GREAT for our FARMERS and RANCHERS! It's also wonderful for the United Kingdom. Everybody benefits, that's the way it should be!

Let's take a closer look at how the largest ASX 200 utilities shares performed last week.

Utilities shares led the ASX sectors last week

Let's recap the performance of the six largest players in the utilities sector.

Mercury NZ Ltd (ASX: MCY) shares shot 8.45% higher last week despite no news from the New Zealand electricity provider.

The Mercury share price finished the week at $5.65.

APA Group (ASX: APA) shares rose 4.62% over the five trading days to finish at $8.61.

APA presented at the Macquarie Conference last Tuesday. You can check out the company's presentation here.

Meridian Energy Ltd (ASX: MEZ) shares ascended 2.12% to $5.30 apiece.

AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL) shares lifted 2.03% to $11.05.

Genesis Energy Ltd (ASX: GNE) shares rose 1.94% to $2.10 apiece.

Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) shares rose by 1.57% to $11.03.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 'safe-haven' shares delivered divergent performances last week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Meantime, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fell to seven-month lows as US tariffs entrenched fear and uncertainty into the markets.

Overall, the Australian benchmark index fell 1.99% over the week to finish at 7,789.7 points on Friday.

The ASX 200 is, indeed, teetering on the edge of an official market correction.

What is a stock market correction?

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

The ASX 200 peaked at a closing value and all-time record high of 8,555.8 points on 14 February.

It's down 8.95% since then, so we are very close to a technical market correction.

In fact, just one more poor day of trade could take us there.

The US benchmark index, the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX), officially entered a market correction on Thursday night.

The S&P 500 closed at 5,521.52 points on Thursday, down 10.13% from its all-time high of 6,144.15 points on 19 February.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) entered a market correction a week earlier.

At the time of writing, the NASDAQ is down 13.7% from its record peak of 20,056.25 points on 19 February.

What happened last week?

Fear and uncertainty surrounding how US tariffs will impact global trade and global economic growth continued last week.

We learned that Australia would not receive an exemption on a 25% tariff on steel and aluminium that came into effect on Thursday.

Australian Ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, and many Australian Government officials campaigned over many months in the US to get a carve-out given our long-standing friendship with the US, our defence partnership under AUKUS, and the US trade surplus with us.

Meantime, speculation in the US that tariffs will eventually flow through to US consumer prices and weaken demand, potentially leading to a recession, intensified last week.

This followed a TV interview with US President Donald Trump in which he predicted a "period of transition" as the tariffs were rolled out.

As a result, investors continued to sell down stocks in favour of safe-haven assets like gold.

The gold price lifted to a new record high above US$2,990 per ounce on Thursday.

The commodity's rise drove ASX gold shares higher and contributed to the materials sector remaining just inside the green for the week.

Last week, eight of the 11 ASX 200 market sectors finished in the red.

Let's re-cap.

Utilities shares led the ASX sectors last week

Just 22 companies make up the ASX 200 utilities sector.

Here's how the six biggest shares by market capitalisation performed.

AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL) shares lifted 5.36% over the five trading days to close at $10.62 on Friday.

Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) shares rose by 1.81% to $10.38 over the week.

APA Group (ASX: APA) shares increased by 4.57% to $7.67.

Mercury NZ Ltd (ASX: MCY) shares fell by 4.66% to $5.11.

Meridian Energy Ltd (ASX: MEZ) shares lifted by 0.81% to $4.98.

Genesis Energy Ltd (ASX: GNE) shares rose by 1.49% to $2.05.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

The post Is the ASX 200 on the verge of a market correction? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The definition of a market correction is a major index falling 10% from the most recent peak.

The ASX All Ords' most recent closing high was 8,825.1 points on 14 February.

Today, the All Ords is at 8,005.4 points, up 0.49% for the day and down 9.31% since the peak just one month ago.

The fall can be largely attributed to market uncertainty over how the US tariffs will impact global trade, economic growth, and inflation.

So, with capital growth prospects looking pretty grim right now, dividends may be at the forefront of investors' minds.

Following last month's earning season, a bunch of ASX shares will begin trading ex-dividend next week.

If you want to catch any of these dividend payments, you have to buy the relevant stock before it goes ex-dividend.

The Fool does not advocate buying ASX shares purely for their next dividend.

But if you've been watching any of these stocks for a while, and they pass your fundamental analysis test, then perhaps you might like to take advantage of market weakness and pick them up for a bit less while also qualifying for the next dividend payment.

So, here is a sample of ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

21 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week

The post 21 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Term deposits are still offering 5%-plus risk-free yields, so investors may be wondering which ASX 200 shares will be able to match this or better it with their dividend payouts in 2025.

In recent years, many investors have relied upon the ASX 200 mining and banking stocks for strong dividend income.

But it's unlikely the banks and miners will wow us with their dividends this year, according to expert forecasts.

A volatile iron ore price and weaker Chinese demand will likely lower dividend yields from the ASX 200 miners.

Of the six large-cap miners, only Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) is tipped to pay more than a 5% dividend yield.

Exceptional share price growth for ASX 200 bank shares means dividend yields are likely to be lower this year.

Of the seven ASX 200 banks, only ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) and Bank of Queensland Ltd (ASX: BOQ) are expected to pay a 5%-plus dividend yield.

Where can investors find 5%-plus dividend yields?

In the weeks before the first earnings season of 2025, which got underway this week, we have been researching analysts' predictions for ASX dividends this year.

Here are some examples of ASX 200 shares tipped to pay a 5%-plus dividend yield in 2025.

We have calculated these yields based on consensus analysts' dividend forecasts published on the CommSec trading platform, and share prices at the time of writing.

18 ASX 200 shares expected to pay 5%-plus dividend yields

Which sectors paid the best ASX dividends last year?

Last year, the smallest of the 11 market sectors delivered the biggest dividend returns.

The ASX 200 utilities sector, comprised of just 22 companies, delivered total returns of 17.48%. Dividends accounted for 7.05% of those returns.

The second-biggest sector for dividends was the ASX 200 financials sector. Total returns were 33.72%, with dividends making up 5.5% of those returns.

The post 18 ASX 200 shares set to pay 5%-plus dividend yields in 2025 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But did you know that last year it was ASX 200 utilities shares that delivered the highest dividend returns?

Utilities produce and deliver basic essential services such as electricity, natural gas, and water. 

As we recently reported, the total return of the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) last year was 17.48%.

Dividends made up a considerable 7.05% of that total return — the highest of the 11 market sectors.

That's also well above the long-term average dividend yield of the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which is 4%.

So, what's the outlook for ASX utilities dividends this year?

Dividend forecasts for ASX 200 utilities shares

The utilities sector is the smallest of the 11 ASX 200 market sectors. It's comprised of just 22 companies.

In this article, I'll focus on the seven largest ASX 200 utilities shares by market capitalisation.

The following table shows the consensus analysts' forecasts for 2025 dividends, as published on the CommSec trading platform.

I've calculated the dividend yields they represent based on Tuesday's closing share prices.

I have also included the dividend amounts paid in 2024 so you can compare them to the 2025 forecasts.

These ASX 200 utilities shares are listed in order of market cap from biggest to smallest.

As you can see, APA Group is the ASX 200 utilities share expected to pay the highest dividend yield among this group of stocks in the new year.

APA is Australia's largest energy infrastructure company with a $26 billion portfolio of assets.

It owns and/or operates an extensive range of gas, electricity, solar, and wind assets.

The company will release its 1H FY25 results on 24 February.

Broker ratings on utilities shares

Macquarie has an outperform rating on APA shares with a 12-month share price target of $8.13.

The APA share price has fallen by just over 20% over the past 12 months to $6.65 per share.

My colleague, James Mickeloboro, says APA shares are worth considering for income investors while they're down.

He points out that APA is one of the most reliable dividend payers on the Australian share market with almost 20 consecutive years of dividend increases.

Goldman Sachs has a neutral rating on Origin Energy with a 12-month price target of $10.40.

Origin shares have risen by 22.5% over the past year to $10.23 per share.

While positive on the company, Goldman says the Origin share price is fully valued now.

The broker says:

ORG remains well positioned to benefit from Australia's energy transition with the NEM's largest flexible gas generation fleet, strong cash flow from APLNG, and potential upside through Octopus, though we consider the stock fully valued after recent strong performance with risk for negative consensus valuation revisions on higher cash tax payments in FY25.

Goldman Sachs also has a neutral rating on AGL shares with a 12-month share price target of $11.65.

The AGL share price closed at $11.47 yesterday. The ASX 200 utilities share is up 44% over 12 months.

The post Which ASX 200 utilities share will pay the best dividend yield in 2025? 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:

Clarity Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: CU6)

The Clarity Pharmaceuticals share price is up 3.5% to $4.20. This follows news that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Fast Track Designation (FTD) for 64Cu-SAR-bisPSMA. This is for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positive prostate cancer lesions in patients with biochemical recurrence (BCR) of prostate cancer following definitive therapy. Clarity executive chair, Dr Alan Taylor, said: "Receiving the second FTD for 64Cu-SAR-bisPSMA and well within the 60-day period following our application submission, reserved by the U.S. FDA for review, is yet another significant milestone in our bisPSMA program."

Genesis Energy Ltd (ASX: GNE)

The Genesis Energy share price is up 5.5% to $2.07. Investors have been buying the energy retailer's shares following the release of an update. Genesis Energy revealed that retail customer growth was 4.7% over the prior corresponding period. This was supported by the acquisition of Ecotricity and the growth of Frank. It also advised that its gas netback was up 43.1% after the market reflected higher wholesale prices.

IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO)

The IGO share price is up almost 3% to $5.35. This morning, this battery materials company released an update on the Kwinana Lithium Hydroxide Refinery. IGO has a stake in this through its 49% interest in Tianqi Lithium Energy Australia (TLEA). According to the release, TLEA shareholders, IGO, and Tianqi Lithium Corporation (TLC) have agreed to cease all works and activities on Lithium Hydroxide Plant 2 (LHP2) at Kwinana. Investors appear pleased with the news and like the idea of less lithium hitting the market.

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

The Wesfarmers share price is up 3% to $74.50. This appears to have been driven by a broker note out of Goldman Sachs this morning. According to the note, the broker has upgraded the conglomerate's shares to a buy rating with an improved price target of $78.70 (from $69.50). Goldman said: "Reflecting our updated forecasts, WES will have the highest F24-27 EPS CAGR of 10% in our top 5 consumer coverage (vs WOW, COL, EDV, JBH) while ROIC will expand by 6pts to 25% vs peers flat, resulting in DCF and SOTP valuation uplift. Our 12m TP of A$78.7 implies 11% TSR, upgrade to Buy from Neutral. Our FY25/26/27e EPS is -1%/+2%/+5% above VA Consensus."

The post Why Clarity, Genesis Energy, IGO, and Wesfarmers shares are charging higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Although dividend season on the ASX is in a bit of a lull right now, that doesn't mean various shares on the All Ordinaries (ASX: XAO) Index aren't still paying out their latest dividends and thus have ex-dividend dates coming up.

Next week, there aren't too many blue chip ASX 200 stocks that have 'ex-div' dates scheduled. But we still have eight prominent All Ords stocks that will cut off eligibility for their next payouts for new investors.

Remember, when a share trades ex-dividend, it draws a line in the sand that divides eligible investors from non-eligible investors as to who gets the dividend in question.

It's usually only investors who own shares as of the market close on the last trading day before the ex-dividend date that receive the dividend paycheque. If you buy the shares on or after the ex-dividend date, you'll miss out and leave the rights to the dividend payment with the seller.

Because of this loss of value for new investors, it's typical to see a stock experience a drop in share price when the market opens on its ex-dividend date, reflecting the cash leaving the company.

With all that in mind, here are eight ASX All Ords shares that will undergo this process next week.

Eight ASX All Ords shares trading ex-dividend next week

*Dividend yield as of yesterday's market close

So not a whole lot of 'big' ASX names there. But even so, many investors hold at least one of these ASX All Ords shares, and so will be expecting a payout over the next month or two.

Remember, if you want the payouts from Pacific Smiles or Genesis Energy, you must own the shares before the end of today's trading.

The post 8 ASX All Ords shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.