A $100,000 annual passive income generated completely from your superannuation balance is entirely possible.

This type of money sits well above the estimated cost for a comfortable retirement lifestyle. And it means your passive income will cover most of your expenses without needing to draw down aggressively on the rest of your balance. 

In retirement, you can move your superannuation from an accumulation phase to a retirement phase. This is where you can convert your savings into a regular income stream or withdraw lump sums. 

At this point, you can set up your superannuation to provide a regular income from your investment income, leaving the rest largely untouched, or you can withdraw dividend income in lump sums.

But the question is, how much do you need in your super to be able to earn this level of passive income when you transition to your pension phase?

Let's take a look.

How much do I need in my superannuation to earn an annual passive income of $100,000?

To calculate the amount of superannuation you need, you'll need to divide your annual passive income by the dividend yield of your portfolio.

The catch is that the answer changes depending on what that yield is.

Generally, as your yield goes up, the passive income you can earn off the same balance also increases.

This means that a portfolio with a dividend yield of say, 3%, generally needs to be double the size of one with a 6% dividend yield in order to earn the same passive income. 

Ok, what if my portfolio yields somewhere between 3% to 6%? How much do I need?

Say your overall portfolio has a dividend yield of around 3%, you'll need a balance of around $3.3 million to earn $100,000 per year in passive income. That's because $100,000 ÷ 3% = $3,333,333.

Of course, $3.3 million is a huge balance, and out of reach for most Australians.

But remember, as your yield increases, the required balance goes down. 

For example, if the yield of your portfolio is around 4%, your balance would need to be closer to $2.5 million to earn the same $100,000 annual dividend income.

For a 5% yielding portfolio, you'd need a balance of closer to $2 million.

And then a 6% yielding portfolio could generate $100,000 in passive income from a sound $1.6 million.

Give me some ideas of 4% to 5% yielding ASX shares that I can invest my superannuation in

There are many ASX dividend shares available for superannuation investment, and many of them yield around 4% to 5%.

But here are some of my top picks.

I'd consider defensive shares such as Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS), Transurban Group (ASX: TCL), or Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING). 

Otherwise, insurance shares are generally resilient to market volatility. QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE), Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL), and Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) are all good options in this sector, and they generate a yield of around the 4% to 5% level at the time of writing.

Elsewhere, ASX energy shares are also able to generate reliable dividends for investors. Such as Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG), Contact Energy Ltd (ASX: CEN), or Mercury NZ Ltd (ASX: MCY).

The post How much superannuation do I need to generate $100,000 per year in passive income? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The traditionally defensive sectors found favour during tough trading as investors braced for an interest rate hike on Tuesday.

The benchmark index fell 0.76% over the week to close at 8,665 points, after hitting a 15-week intraday low on Friday.

Traders are pricing in a 95% chance of the Reserve Bank (RBA) raising the cash rate to 4.6% this week.

Many experts expect another rate hike in November, which would be the fifth this calendar year.

Inflation remains above the RBA's 2% to 3% target, and last week the Governor, Michele Bullock, spoke of "materialising" upside risks.

On Friday, Trading Economics analysts said:

Markets are pricing a 95% chance of a 25-bp hike to 4.60% in September and a possible peak around 5.10%.

Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounding US-Iran negotiations kept oil prices elevated, fueling inflation concerns and a renewed selloff in global bond markets, while strong US business activity has increased bets for another Fed hike, boosting the greenback.

The US Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the first time in three years this month.

Consumer staples shares led the ASX sectors last week

While consumer staples and healthcare did best last week, both sectors moved only slightly higher.

ASX 200 consumer staples shares rose 0.78% and healthcare edged just 0.09% higher.

Let's take a look at some specifics.

The Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) share price rose 0.63% to $38.47 per share.

The Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) share price edged 0.3% higher to $23.19.

Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV) shares increased 3.1% to $2.99.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING) shares ripped 10.99% to $2.12 after PSP Investments took a 5.62% stake.

ASX 200 wine share Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE) lifted 5.24% to $5.42.

The Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA) share price rose 1.33% to $6.08.

ASX 200 agricultural share Graincorp Ltd (ASX: GNC) rose 0.15% to $6.57.

The Elders Ltd (ASX: ELD) share price lifted 0.31% to $6.38.

The A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M) share price descended 5.5% to $6.65.

Almond food producer Select Harvests Ltd (ASX: SHV) fell 2.93% to $4.31 per share.

Australian Agricultural Company Ltd (ASX: AAC) shares lost 0.77% to close at $1.29.

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:

Check out the 15 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

The post Investors get defensive as ASX 200 drifts to a 15-week low appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

We're helping you monitor ex-dividend dates with an article every Friday.

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

To be eligible for the dividend, you must own the ASX share before its ex-dividend date.

ASX shares going ex-dividend next week

Check out which ASX shares go ex-dividend today.

The post 33 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After reviewing companies' results, brokers have reduced their ratings on numerous ASX shares.

Let's see a sample.

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

The PLS Group share price is $5.23, down 1.2% today and up 123% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX 200 lithium share has ripped 23% higher.

Morgans downgraded PLS shares from hold to trim after the miner's FY26 results.

The broker commented:

PLS delivered an in-line FY26 Underlying EBITDA result and surprised with a maiden 5cps fully franked final dividend (22% FCF payout).

We view PLS as fairly valued at current levels, with its premium to peers already reflecting the company's best-in-class execution, balance sheet and growth optionality.

Depleted lithium inventories leave scope for short-term upside, though we see the medium-term outlook as more volatile given uncertainty around supply and demand drivers.

The broker retained its 12-month price target of $4.60, which implies a 12% downside ahead.

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN)

The Paladin Energy share price is $12.31, down 2.1% today and up 64% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX 200 energy share has jumped 29%.

Morgans downgraded Paladin Energy shares from buy to accumulate due to recent share price strength.

Following the uranium miner's FY26 report, the broker increased its target price to $14.10.

This suggests a potential 15% upside ahead.

Morgans said:

Cash is starting to flow — PDN delivered positive operating cash flow for the first full year since the restart, generating US$38m in FY26 and marking the transition from ramp-up story to steady-state and cash-generating producer.

Guidance beaten across the board — Langer Heinrich Mine (LHM) exceeded FY26 production, sales and cost guidance, providing further evidence that the operation can sustainably deliver and continues to build momentum as it enters more steady state operations.

Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) 

The Lovisa share price is $27.14, down 1.7% today and down 34% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX retail share has soared 27%.

Morgans downgraded Lovisa shares, on valuation grounds, from buy to accumulate after the retailer's FY26 report.

The broker reduced its 12-month price target to $31.

This implies a potential 14% upside ahead.

Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX: ORA)

The Ora Banda share price is $1.59, down 1.9% today and up 84% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX 200 gold share has ripped 42% higher.

MA Financial Group downgraded Ora Banda shares to a hold rating after the miner's FY26 report.

The broker raised its 12-month price target from $1.40 to $1.60.

This implies a potential 1% upside ahead.

Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR)

The Sandfire Resources share price is $23.47, down 2.8% today and up 85% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX 200 copper share has leapt 22%.

The Sandfire Resources share price struck a new record of $25 on the back of its FY26 report yesterday.

Morgans downgraded Sandfire Resources shares from accumulate to hold with a $23 target.

This indicates the stock is fully valued now.

The broker commented:

SFR resumed dividends with a 35cps final dividend (+86% vs expectations) and we see scope for this to build further as its cash balance continues to grow with no drawn debt, supported by a favourable base metals price environment.

SFR's asset quality, management quality and balance sheet strength, alongside emerging growth optionality, underpin its case as a core copper exposure for long-term investors, though the stock appears fully valued at current prices.

Scentre Group (ASX: SCG)

The Scentre share price is $3.57, down 1.4% today and down 12% over 12 months. 

Over the past month, this ASX 200 real estate investment trust (REIT) has fallen 8%.

Jarden downgraded Scentre shares to a hold rating after reviewing the property group's 1H FY26 results.

The broker has a $4.05 target, which suggests a potential 13% upside ahead.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

The Inghams share price is $2.05, up 2.3% today and down 26% over 12 months.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 consumer staples share has fallen 9%.

Jarden downgraded Inghams shares to a hold rating after the company's FY26 results.

The broker's target is $2.50, which implies a potential 22% upside ahead.

The post 7 ASX 200 shares downgraded by brokers this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING), which supplies poultry products, notably to major Australian supermarkets Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) and Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), and quick-service restaurants including McDonald's and KFC, saw its share price sink 7% on Friday. 

On the positive side, fast/casual franchise Guzman y Gomez Ltd (ASX: GYG) shares soared over 11% following its full-year announcement. 

Full results can be found here: 

• Inghams full-year results
• GYG full-year results

Following these results, the team at Bell Potter released updated guidance on both Inghams and GYG shares. 

Here is what the broker had to say. 

Inghams results in line with guidance 

Bell Potter said the company reported a FY26 underlying EBITDAL broadly in line with expectations and guidance at $186.4 million. 

However, Bell Potter sees pressure from wholesale and grain, with FY27 guidance of $190 to $220 million EBITDAL coming in below its $213.5 million estimate, and broadly in line with consensus. 

The outlook assumes 2.5% to 4% volume growth, 4% to 5% general cost inflation excluding feed, and a further $40 to $50 million increase in feed costs, highlighting ongoing cost pressures that are expected to constrain earnings growth in FY27.

Looking ahead, the broker sees little upside for Inghams shares over the next 12 months. 

The broker has a hold recommendation and a $2.10 price target. 

Inghams shares closed last week trading at $2.06. 

GYG shares fairly priced

Bell Potter saw GYG's FY26 result as broadly in line with expectations, with comparable sales growth of 5.3% and Australian underlying EBITDA of $85 million, up 28.7% year over year and consistent with prior guidance. 

The key positive surprise was a much higher 48 cents per share dividend, including a 14.4 cents per share special dividend, supported by the exit from loss-making US operations, a lower share count following the buyback, and a higher earnings base. 

GYG added 35 net stores during the year, in line with Australian guidance. 

For FY27, management expects comparable sales growth to remain in the mid-single digits and EBITDA margins to improve from 6.2% to 6.7%-6.9%, driven largely by the full-year contribution from recently opened restaurants. 

Looking ahead, Bell Potter sees GYG shares as fairly priced after Friday's 11% gain. 

The broker has a hold recommendation and a $27.30 price target on GYG shares. 

While we think GYG is a clear leader in the QSR space after displaying strong comp sales growth, margin expansion, and further network growth opportunities, we see near-term cost headwinds and a consumer slow-down as a risk to FY27 guidance and view the current multiple as fairly valued. While we increase our PT ~11%, it is only a modest premium to the share price, so we downgrade to HOLD.

The post Are Inghams and GYG shares a buy, hold or sell following earnings results appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Inghams Group report?

• Revenue rose 2.4% to $3,227.4 million
• Underlying EBITDA pre AASB 16 was $186.4 million, down 21.2% on the prior year
• Net profit after tax (NPAT) dropped 61.5% to $34.6 million
• Core poultry volumes grew 1.9%
• Final fully franked dividend of 6.1 cents per share declared
• Net debt reduced by $27.1 million to $403.3 million

What else do investors need to know?

Inghams delivered $82.3 million in cost savings during the year, hitting the upper end of its target, despite facing $13.2 million in additional costs linked to ongoing Middle East conflict. The company continued to diversify its customer base, particularly in Australia, where retail volumes excluding Woolworths rose 17.2%.

Production inefficiencies earlier in the year and cost pressures from ingredients, freight, and labour weighed on full-year profitability. However, the second half saw operational improvements with inventories and supply chains returning to normal levels.

What did Inghams Group management say?

CEO and Managing Director Ed Alexander said:

We made significant progress strengthening the underlying business during FY26. Encouragingly, our earnings in the second half were materially above the first half, reflecting the improved underlying operating metrics… While the operating environment remains challenging, we enter FY27 with a more balanced network, a stronger and more diversified customer portfolio, a refreshed senior management team, and clear visibility of the opportunities still to unlock.

What's next for Inghams Group?

Looking ahead, Inghams expects its primary earnings measure to shift to underlying EBIT, with FY27 guidance set at $155–180 million. The company forecasts further core poultry volume growth of 2.5–4.0% but anticipates continued cost pressures—including higher transport, packaging, and feed costs—due to both inflation and ongoing geopolitical disruptions.

Management is focused on ongoing cost control, leveraging procurement and continuous improvement initiatives to offset rising expenses. Capital expenditure for FY27 is expected around $80 million, as the group aims to strengthen its network and support future growth.

Inghams Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, the Inghams Group share price has been among the worst performers on the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) with a decline of around 37%.

View Original Announcement

The post Inghams Group FY26 earnings: volume growth, headwinds, and FY27 outlook appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

During the first hour of trade, it managed to claw back some losses. At $1.98 per share just before midday, Inghams shares were down 5.6%, while the ASX 300 edged 0.1% higher.

Why are Inghams shares sinking?

Investors appear worried about what bird flu could mean for Australia's poultry industry and the ASX 300 food stock in particular.

Before the market opened, Inghams announced it had moved to a state of high biosecurity vigilance following the detection of H5N1 avian influenza in wild birds in Western Australia.

Importantly, the virus has not been detected in poultry and Inghams has not reported any infections within its operations.

That wasn't enough to calm investors.

Bird flu outbreaks have caused significant disruption to poultry industries overseas. They can lead to flock culls, production interruptions, higher costs, and supply chain disruptions. With those risks now on investors' minds, many headed for the exits.

What is Inghams doing?

Inghams has moved quickly to strengthen protections across its operations.

The company is implementing enhanced biosecurity measures and working closely with government authorities and industry groups.

Its focus is on reducing the risk of infection entering its farming network and protecting its poultry assets.

For now, the response is precautionary. But investors appear concerned about what could happen if the virus spreads beyond wild bird populations.

A stock already under pressure

Monday's sell-off comes on top of an already difficult year for shareholders.

Inghams shares have lost around 20% of their value in 2026.

The company has faced pressure from weaker earnings growth, operational challenges, and concerns over margins. Earlier this year, management cut guidance after reporting softer-than-expected profitability, disappointing investors and weighing on sentiment.

As a result, the stock entered Monday's session with little room for further bad news.

What's next?

The next phase will depend on whether the virus remains confined to wild birds.

At present, there is no evidence that commercial poultry operations have been affected. That's an important distinction.

However, markets tend to look ahead rather than focus on current conditions. Investors are now assessing the potential risks to production, costs, and earnings should the situation escalate.

For Inghams, the latest update doesn't change operations today. But it has introduced a fresh uncertainty at a time when investors were already questioning the company's growth outlook.

That helps explain why the ASX 300 food stock suffered such a sharp reaction on Monday.

The post Guess which ASX 300 food stock is falling on bird flu fears? 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:

Catapult Sports Ltd (ASX: CAT)

The Catapult Sports share price is down 6.5% to $3.69. This is despite there being no news out of the sports technology company today. However, it is worth highlighting that Catapult's shares have been in fine form since the release of its results last month. This could have led to some investors taking a bit of profit off the table today.

Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN)

The Harvey Norman share price is down 4% to $4.31. This may have been driven by the release of a broker note out of Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) on Wednesday. According to the note, the broker has downgraded Harvey Norman's shares to a neutral rating (from outperform) with a heavily reduced price target of $4.50 (from $6.60). Macquarie made the move on concerns that retailers could struggle in the current economic environment.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

The Inghams share price is down 5% to $1.96. Investors have been selling this poultry producer's shares after it was also downgraded by analysts at Macquarie. According to the note, the broker has downgraded its shares to an underperform rating (from neutral) with a $1.80 price target. Once again, this was due to concerns around consumer spending in the tough economic environment.

Opthea Ltd (ASX: OPT)

The Opthea share price is down 97% to 1.8 cents. This biotechnology company's shares have been smashed after returning from a suspension that lasted over a year. Opthea is shifting its focus from retinal diseases due to a clinical trial failure and is relaunching with a new strategy focused on OPT-302 as a potential treatment for lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM). LAM is a rare, chronic lung disease that primarily affects women. The company believes OPT-302 could have a role because the disease is associated with elevated VEGF-C and VEGF-D signalling, which OPT-302 is designed to inhibit. Opthea's executive chair, Dr Jeremy Levin, said: "Opthea is relaunching with a focused strategy centered on OPT-302 and a clear objective: to evaluate a differentiated, mechanism-driven therapeutic opportunity in LAM while leveraging the Company's substantial existing development, manufacturing and clinical infrastructure."

The post Why Catapult Sports, Harvey Norman, Inghams, and Opthea shares are sinking today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Brokers have indicated new confidence in several ASX shares this week.

Let's take a look.

Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA)

The Codan share price is $40.48, up 0.7% today.

This ASX 200 tech share is knocking it out of the park.

The Codan share price has lifted 40% in 2026 and 138% over 12 months.

Macquarie upgraded Codan shares from a neutral to outperform rating on Thursday.

The broker raised its target from $42 to $44.20, suggesting another 9% upside ahead.

Brambles Ltd (ASX: BXB)

The Brambles share price is $21.95, up 0.6% today.

This ASX 200 industrial share has weakened 3.7% in 2026 so far.

Jarden upgraded Brambles shares to a buy rating this week.

The broker shaved its 12-month price target from $25.60 to $25.15.

This implies a potential 15% upside ahead.

Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE)

The Treasury Wine Estates share price is $4.20, up 0.7% today.

Over the past six months, this ASX 200 wine share has fallen 21%.

Morgans upgraded Treasury Wine Estates shares to a buy rating yesterday.

The broker explained the rating change:

We see TWE's Investor Day on 4 June as a key share price catalyst. At this event, the company intends to share its detailed plans and targets for its portfolio and operating model to support a future state TWE.

TWE's recent trading update was positive with strong depletion growth, highlighting the strength of its brands. It also has the support of its banks with new debt commitments secured. 2H26 EBITS is on track to be higher than the 1H26.

Following material share price weakness, given its low trading multiples and our belief that new management can deliver more acceptable returns overtime, we upgrade to a BUY recommendation.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

The Inghams share price is $1.97, up 2.3% today.

This S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) consumer staples share has fallen 22% in the calendar year to date.

Jarden upgraded ING shares to a buy rating this week.

The broker raised its 12-month price target from $2.50 to $2.70.

This implies a healthy potential 37% upside ahead.

Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS)

The Metcash share price is $2.97, up 1.9% today.

This ASX 200 supermarket share has fallen 22% over six months.

Jefferies upgraded Metcash shares to a buy rating this week.

The broker lifted its target slightly from $3.45 to $3.50.

This indicates a potential 18% upside ahead.

The post 5 ASX shares with upgraded ratings this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With that in mind, let's look at a number of ASX 200 shares that have been upgraded this week. Here's what's happening:

Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA)

The team at Macquarie has upgraded this metal detector manufacturer's shares to an outperform rating with an increased price target of $44.20. Based on its current share price of $39.67, this implies potential upside of approximately 11.5% for investors.

Macquarie is feeling bullish on the company's exposure to the booming unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) market.

News Corp (ASX: NWS)

Macquarie has also become positive on media giant News Corp. This week the broker has upgraded News Corp shares to an outperform rating with an improved price target of $46.25. Based on its current share price of $42.16, this implies potential upside of almost 10% over the next 12 months.

The broker believes the media conglomerate is successfully reinforcing the proprietary nature of its data. It highlights that News Corp's earnings are benefiting as the company executes on content license deals with artificial intelligence (AI) companies.

In addition, Macquarie points out that the ASX 200 share is leaning into AI as a way to generate internal efficiencies.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

The team at Macquarie has been at it again, upgrading this poultry producer's shares this week.

On Tuesday, Inghams released a trading update which revealed that sales volumes were up 1.1% for the first nine months of FY 2026.

As a result, management has been able to reaffirm its FY 2026 guidance for underlying EBITDA of $180 million to $200 million.

The company's CEO and managing director, Ed Alexander, commented: "We are seeing improved operational performance and positive momentum from initiatives already delivered, while reaffirming our FY26 guidance in a challenging environment."

In response to the update, Macquarie upgraded the ASX 200 share to a neutral rating (from underperform) with a $1.80 price target. This compares to the current Inghams share price of $1.90.

It also expects a dividend yield of approximately 5.2% over the next 12 months.

Macquarie believes that the company is positioned for growth thanks to better cost of production and improvements across its supply chain.

Elsewhere, Jarden has upgraded Inghams to an overweight rating with a $2.70 price target. Jarden also upgraded Brambles Ltd (ASX: BXB) shares to an overweight rating with a $25.15 price target.

The post 4 ASX 200 shares upgraded by brokers this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Inghams is a leading vertically integrated poultry producer (from stock feed to end products) with a market leading position in Australia and the number two participant in New Zealand.

It supplies poultry products, notably to major Australian supermarkets Woolworths and Coles, and quick-service restaurants including McDonalds and KFC.

Share price snapshot

Inghams shares were in a free fall up until last week. 

From the start of January until close of trade last Friday, the poultry producer's shares had fallen 32%. 

However on Monday, Inghams shares jumped almost 7%, followed by a further 8% rise yesterday. 

Investors reacted positively to an update from the company that included: 

• Reaffirmed FY26 guidance for Underlying EBITDA (pre AASB 16) of $180 million to $200 million
• For the first nine months of FY26, group core poultry volumes rose 1.1% versus prior comparable period (PCP)
• Group core poultry net selling prices increased 1.1% versus PCP
• Annualised cost savings initiatives expected to deliver $60–80 million
• Revised capital expenditure guidance of approximately $80 million for FY26. 

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director said Ed Alexander said:

We are seeing improved operational performance and positive momentum from initiatives already delivered, while reaffirming our FY26 guidance in a challenging environment.

What is Bell Potter's view?

Following this impressive 15% rise, investors may be wondering if the tide has officially turned after a rough few months. 

The team at Bell Potter have subsequently raised their EBITDAL (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortisation and Leases) forecasts by +4% in FY26e, +6% in FY27e and +9% in FY28e. 

Upgrades are reflective of higher baseline EBITDAL in the Australian business through 3Q26e and incorporation of targeted initiatives in FY27-28e. Our target price is now $2.10ps (prev. $2.00ps).

Modest upside for Inghams shares

Based on this updated price target of $2.10, this indicates an upside potential of just over 7% from current levels. 

The underlying 3Q26 exit rate in Australia looked strong, and for the most part this mitigates the estimated 4Q26 impact of rising fuel costs. Looking into FY27e, cost out initiatives are likely to blunt some of the impact of inflationary costs pressures in area such as labour, fuel, packing and feed, with the key area of risk being any material rotation in channel to market or supply growth.

The post Are Inghams shares a buy, hold or sell after jumping 15% this week? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are not letting that hold them back are listed below. Here's why they are rising:

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

The BHP share price is up 2.5% to $59.87. Investors have been buying this mining giant's shares following another rise in the copper price overnight. According to CNBC, the spot copper price is now up over 8% since this time last month and has reached a record high. This bodes well for BHP, which has been increasing its exposure to copper in recent years.

GQG Partners Inc (ASX: GQG)

The GQG Partners share price is up 1.5% to $1.59. This morning, the fund manager released its latest funds under management (FUM) update. GQG Partners revealed that its FUM reached US$166.9 billion at the end of April. This is up from US$162.5 billion at the end of March. This reflects a strong investment performance, which added US$5.7 billion to its FUM and offset net outflows of US$1.4 billion. In addition, GQG Partners announced its latest quarterly dividend. It plans to pay the equivalent of 4.878 cents per share. This dividend alone equates to a dividend yield of 3% based on its current share price. It will be paid to eligible shareholders on 26 June.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

The Inghams share price is up a further 6% to $1.93. Investors have been buying the poultry producer's shares this week following the release of a trading update. Inghams revealed that sales volumes were up 1.1% for the first nine months of FY 2026. As a result, management has reaffirmed its guidance for underlying EBITDA of $180 million to $200 million. The company's CEO and managing director, Ed Alexander, commented: "We are seeing improved operational performance and positive momentum from initiatives already delivered, while reaffirming our FY26 guidance in a challenging environment."

Symal Group Ltd (ASX: SYL)

The Symal Group share price is up 6% to $2.52. This follows the release of a guidance update from the diversified services provider this morning. Symal advised that it expects normalised EBITDA of $120 million to $126 million in FY 2026. This compares to its previous guidance range of $117 million to $127 million. Management advised that this reflects the company's focus on disciplined operating performance and project execution.

The post Why BHP, GQG, Inghams, and Symal shares are pushing higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are not letting that hold them back are listed below. Here's why they are rising:

Dyno Nobel Ltd (ASX: DNL)

The Dyno Nobel share price is up 10% to $3.66. Investors have been buying the explosives manufacturer's shares following the release of a strong half-year result. The company revealed that net profit after tax excluding individually material items increased 83.3% to $160.9 million. This allowed the Dyno Nobel board to increase its interim dividend by 91.7% to 4.6 cents per share. Commenting on the result, the company's CEO, Mauro Neves, said: "1H26 marks the beginning of a new era for Dyno Nobel as we concluded our separation from the Fertilisers business and move forward as a pureplay global explosives leader."

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

The Inghams share price is up 5% to $1.78. This follows the release of a trading update from the poultry producer which revealed that volumes were up 1.1% for the first nine months of FY 2026. As a result, management has reaffirmed its guidance for underlying EBITDA of $180 million to $200 million. Inghams' CEO and managing director, Ed Alexander, said: "We are seeing improved operational performance and positive momentum from initiatives already delivered, while reaffirming our FY26 guidance in a challenging environment."

Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS)

The Metcash share price is up 6% to $2.90. This is in response to the release of a trading update from the wholesale distributor this morning. Metcash revealed that it expects to report revenue growth of 0.7% for FY 2026 with underlying net profit after tax in the region of $268 million to $270 million. Looking ahead, management advised that its ongoing cost initiatives are targeting at least ~$25 million in annualised savings in FY 2027. Metcash's CEO, Doug Jones, said: "We have delivered a solid result supported by the resilience of our Food and Liquor businesses, our diversified portfolio and disciplined execution."

Strike Energy Ltd (ASX: STX)

The Strike Energy share price is up 4.5% to 11.5 cents. This morning, the energy company announced the exit of its CEO, Peter Stokes. He will be replaced by Shelley Robertson, effective 1 June. The release notes that Ms Robertson is a highly respected and influential leader in the Australian resource and energy sector. She was previously the chief operating officer at Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG).

The post Why Dyno Nobel, Inghams, Metcash, and Strike Energy shares are charging higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Despite today's rally, the ASX 300 stock remains heavily down over longer periods. Inghams shares have fallen 28% year to date and are down 53% over the past 12 months. By comparison, the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) has gained around 5% over the same period.

So, what exactly did the ASX 300 stock report?

Poultry volumes and prices rise

The ASX 300 food stock reaffirmed FY26 underlying EBITDA guidance of between $180 million and $200 million before AASB 16 adjustments, giving investors confidence that trading conditions have stabilised despite ongoing cost pressures.

Inghams also revealed that group core poultry volumes rose 1.1% during the first nine months of FY26 compared with the prior corresponding period. At the same time, core poultry net selling prices also increased 1.1%.

Investors appeared particularly encouraged by the ASX 300 stock's operational progress and cost-saving measures. Inghams said its annualised cost-saving initiatives are expected to deliver between $60 million and $80 million in benefits.

Inghams additionally revised FY26 capital expenditure guidance to approximately $80 million.

Commenting on the result, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Ed Alexander said:

We are seeing improved operational performance and positive momentum from initiatives already delivered, while reaffirming our FY26 guidance in a challenging environment.

Reduced frozen inventory

The ASX 300 food stock highlighted stronger operational execution across several areas, including yield improvements, labour productivity, and inventory management. Inghams also reduced frozen inventory by $25 million, helping improve system balance and strengthen cash flow generation.

However, the food producer still faces meaningful challenges. Management warned that cost pressures remain elevated across feed, diesel fuel, and packaging. Inghams expects higher fuel costs alone to create a net $7 million to $10 million impact during FY26, although pricing actions and operational efficiencies are expected to partially offset the pressure.

Inghams noted that feed costs are currently well covered for FY26, but higher costs are expected to emerge in FY27.

What next for Inghams?

Even so, Inghams said it remains focused on stabilising operations, improving asset utilisation and increasing value per bird. Management believes ongoing operational improvements and tighter cost controls should continue supporting earnings growth despite uncertain input costs.

The ASX 300 food stock is also pursuing growth opportunities beyond its traditional poultry operations. Inghams is expanding its ingredients and higher-value product divisions while leveraging recent investments and scaling new initiatives, including the launch of the Bostocks brand in Australia.

For investors, today's strong rally suggests the market was relieved to see the consumer staples share maintain guidance and demonstrate improving execution after a difficult 12 months.

The post Why is this ASX 300 food stock racing higher today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Inghams Group report?

• Reaffirmed FY26 guidance for Underlying EBITDA (pre AASB 16) of $180 million to $200 million
• For the first nine months of FY26, group core poultry volumes rose 1.1% versus prior comparable period (PCP)
• Group core poultry net selling prices increased 1.1% versus PCP
• Annualised cost savings initiatives expected to deliver $60–80 million
• Revised capital expenditure guidance of approximately $80 million for FY26

What else do investors need to know?

Inghams continues to make operational improvements, with stronger performance reported in areas such as yield, labour, and inventory management. The company reduced its frozen inventory by $25 million, which has helped restore system balance and improve cash flows.

Cost pressures remain a focus, particularly feed, diesel fuel, and packaging. The company noted a net $7–10 million impact expected from higher fuel costs in FY26, partially offset by pricing actions and efficiency gains. Feed costs are presently well covered for the year, though higher costs are expected in FY27.

What did Inghams Group management say?

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director said Ed Alexander said:

We are seeing improved operational performance and positive momentum from initiatives already delivered, while reaffirming our FY26 guidance in a challenging environment.

What's next for Inghams Group?

Inghams says it will maintain its focus on stabilising the business, optimising assets, and growing value per bird. The company's ongoing operational improvements and cost controls are expected to support further earnings and return growth, even as it navigates uncertainties in input costs.

Growth priorities include expanding ingredients and higher value product segments, leveraging recent investments, and scaling new business initiatives like launching the Bostocks brand in Australia.

Inghams Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Inghams Group shares have declined 55%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Inghams Group boosts FY26 guidance as poultry volumes and prices rise appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The US and Iran launched missile strikes against each other in the Strait of Hormuz overnight as the US tried to restore shipping.

Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) raised interest rates for a third consecutive time to 4.35% today due to rising inflation.

In a statement, the RBA said:

Inflation picked up materially in the second half of 2025, and information since the beginning of this year confirms that some of this increase reflected greater capacity pressures.

In addition, the conflict in the Middle East has resulted in sharply higher fuel and related commodity prices, which are already adding to inflation.

There are early signs that many firms experiencing cost pressures are looking to increase prices of their goods and services.

The Brent crude oil price hit a four-year high earlier today as the market becomes increasingly pessimistic that the war will end soon.

Economists are warning that oil shocks have a long-tail economic impact, and the RBA appears acutely aware of the upside risk to CPI.

Today, four of the 11 market sectors finished in the red, with energy in the lead, up 0.89%, while financials lagged, down 0.5%.

Scores of ASX 200 shares hit fresh 52-week lows today.

They included former market darling CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) and retail stalwart Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) shares.

Let's take a look.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

The CSL share price hit a 9-year low of $122.48 today.

The ASX 200 healthcare giant has lost half its value over the past 12 months.

Company issues have compounded the impact of a broader ASX 200 healthcare sector rout due to many global headwinds.

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

The Wesfarmers share price reached a 52-week low of $71.31 today.

The market's largest ASX 200 consumer discretionary share is down 9% over 12 months.

Consumer sentiment is crumbling in Australia today.

Last month, the consumer sentiment index recorded its biggest fall since the beginning of the pandemic five years ago.

Amcor Ltd (ASX: AMC)

The Amcor share price hit a 12-year low of $51.42 today, and is down 28% over 12 months.

Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV)

The Endeavour share price fell to a record low of $3.13 today, and is down 22% over 12 months.

Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN)

The Harvey Norman share price hit a 52-week low of $4.39 today.

Stock in the ASX 200 furniture retailer has tumbled 15% over 12 months.

Ansell Ltd (ASX: ANN)

The Ansell share price dropped to a 2-year low of $25.35 today, and is down 18% over 12 months.

Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL)

The Super Retail share price hit a 3-year low of $11.47 on Tuesday, and is down 12% over 12 months.

Austal Ltd (ASX: ASB)

Austal shares fell to a 52-week low of $4.01 today.

The ASX 200 industrial share has fallen 21% over 12 months.

ARB Corporation Ltd (ASX: ARB)

The ARB Corporation share price hit a 52-week low of $17.89 today, and is down 43% over 12 months.

Nick Scali Ltd (ASX: NCK)

The Nick Scali share price hit a 52-week low of $14.03, and has cooled 18% over 12 months.

Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW)

The Temple & Webster share price hit a 2-and-a-half-year low of $5.29 today.

This ASX 200 retail share has lost 69% of its market capitalisation in 12 months.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

The Inghams share price descended to a 52-week low of $1.71 today.

The ASX 200 consumer staples share has fallen 51% over 12 months.

Centuria Office REIT (ASX: COF)

Centuria shares dipped to a 52-week low of 92 cents today.

The ASX 200 real estate investment trust (REIT) has decreased 26% over 12 months.

Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1)

Accent shares hit a 13-year low of 51 cents, and are down 72% over 12 months.

Adairs Ltd (ASX: ADH)

The Adairs share price hit a 52-week low of $1.25, and is down 51% over 12 months.

The post CSL and Wesfarmers among scores of ASX shares hitting fresh 52-week lows 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:

EQ Resources Ltd (ASX: EQR)

The EQ Resources share price is down 5.5% to 25.5 cents. This follows news that the tungsten producer announced that it will not go ahead with the proposed acquisition of Tungsten Metals Group. EQR Resources' managing director, Craig Bradshaw, said: "Following thorough engagement with TMG Group throughout 2025 and a careful review of our strategic priorities during the second and third quarters of FY2026, the Board has determined that proceeding with the acquisition is not in the best interests of shareholders at this time."

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

The Inghams share price is down 4% to $1.81. This may have been driven by a broker note out of Bell Potter. According to the note, the broker has downgraded the poultry producer's shares to a hold rating (from buy) with a reduced price target of $2.00 (from $2.75). It said: "We downgrade our rating from Buy to Hold. Recent commentary from other ASX listed entities would imply a softening in foodservice and out-of-home channels as consumer confidence has weakened over March-April."

ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD)

The ResMed share price is down 4% to $28.53. Investors have been selling the sleep disorder treatment company's shares following the release of its third-quarter update. ResMed reported an 11% (8% in constant currency) increase in revenue to US$1.4 billion. However, higher expenses meant that net income increased at a slower rate of 9% to US$398.7 million. ResMed's CEO, Mick Farrell, said: Our third quarter results reflect the continued strength of our global business, driven by ongoing demand for our market-leading products and disciplined execution of our strategy."

Skycity Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SKC)

The Skycity share price is down over 3% to 52.2 cents. This morning, the casino and resorts operator downgraded its earnings guidance. It now expects underlying EBITDA to be $180 million to $190 million. This is down from its previous guidance of $190 million to $210 million. The company blamed the negative impact that rising fuel prices are having on consumers.

The post Why EQ Resources, Inghams, ResMed, and Skycity shares are tumbling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Iran war drags on

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

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

Lucinda Jerogin, Associate Economist at CBA, said:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Consumer staple shares led the ASX sectors last week

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

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

Here are five ASX stable dividend shares I think are a great opportunity for passive-income-seeking investors, all paying yields between 6% and 10%.

APA Group (ASX: APA)

APA is one of the most stable income stocks listed on the ASX. The energy infrastructure business is well-known for paying strong, consistent dividends, with revenue derived from long-term contracted infrastructure assets. The company paid an interim dividend of 27.5 cents in the first half of FY26 and is guiding a full-year dividend of 58 cents per share. Its current dividend yield is 6.23%, partially franked.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

Food producer Inghams is a reasonably stable income stock. As a customer staple company with steady demand, its dividends are linked directly to food prices. And as everyone needs to eat, it's a business that is relatively defensive. In the first half of FY26, Inghams paid a fully-franked interim dividend of 4 cents per share, down from 11 cents previously. Its yield is pretty high, though, at 9.36%.

Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG)

The miner's stock is historically volatile because it closely tracks changes in iron ore prices. The material's price is expected to remain relatively stable through 2026, but gradually decline through to 2030 as supply increases. But Fortescue is a low-cost producer, which means it can remain profitable even when prices fall, though its dividends may fluctuate. The ASX dividend stock paid investors 62 cents per share for the first half of FY26. Broker UBS predicts that Fortescue could pay an annual dividend per share of $1.22.  Fortescue's current dividend yield is 6.23%, fully franked.

New Hope Corporation (ASX: NHC)

The thermal coal miner's shares have climbed over 21% in the past 12 months as improving coal prices and strong production figures boosted investor confidence. New Hope paid 15 cents per share in October. At current levels, the miner is offering a dividend yield of roughly 6.75%, fully franked. 

Nine Entertainment Co. Holdings Ltd (ASX: NEC)

The media giant underwent a strategic reshape of its business during the first half of FY26. It acquired QMS Media, sold Nine Radio, restructured its NBN and Darwin TV operations, and sold its controlling stake in property platform Domain. The deal allowed Nine to reduce debt, boost its balance sheet, and return roughly $777 million to investors. Nine is due to pay investors an interim dividend of 4.5 cents per share, unfranked, next month. The company is expected to pay 9 cents per share for the full year. Its current dividend yield is 7.54%.

The post 5 high-yield ASX dividend shares paying 6% to 10% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For you to be entitled to a stock's next dividend, you must own it before its ex-dividend date.

Here are some of the ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week

The post 32 ASX shares about to go ex-dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.