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.

According to Arian Neiron, CEO & Managing Director of Asia Pacific, VanEck, the ASX 200 is seen by investors as the home of Australian equities, by super funds as a source of liquidity, and by regulators as a familiar benchmark. 

All these perspectives create the illusion that the largest companies receive the largest allocations with conviction. But this is not the case.

Australia's largest companies have not become safer because everyone owns them. They have simply become harder not to own. Reporting season is now exposing the potential opportunity cost of this investing reality, with the strongest expected earnings growth emerging among small and mid-sized companies.

Changing conditions 

According to the report, for the first seven months of 2026, a bias towards large companies appeared to be a viable strategy.

Through late July, the S&P/ASX Small Ordinaries Index had fallen approximately 13%, while the S&P/ASX 100 had gained almost 5%. 

Smaller companies faced legitimate headwinds from rising interest rates, soaring energy prices and lacklustre consumer and business confidence.

But as the environment has changed, that conclusion has become harder to defend.

Consensus estimates suggest Australian small companies could deliver earnings per share growth of approximately 28% over the next year and 25% the year after. 

Mid-sized companies are expected to produce growth of around 13% and 8%, respectively. By contrast, the largest companies have earnings growth estimates of closer to 4% and 2%, respectively.

Opportunity not evenly spread

August offered the first evidence that ASX large-caps may already be lagging. 

Recently, higher rates have exposed the difference between growth funded by a business and growth funded by its shareholders. 

Markets now expect less additional RBA tightening than they did a few months ago. Since small companies have historically been sensitive to changing rate expectations, that repricing can ease some pressure on valuations.

However, the opportunity is not evenly spread. 

August reporting season showed why selectivity matters. Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH) increased earnings per share by 25%, generated more free cash flow and reduced net debt. Superloop Ltd (ASX: SLC) completed its first profitable financial year and increased free cash flow by 50%.

Both companies were rewarded after reporting. Neither was rewarded simply because it was small. What mattered was the improving financial evidence.

How to gain exposure to ASX mid-caps and ASX small-caps?

While recent economic conditions don't guarantee sector-wide wins, investors can gain exposure to ASX small-caps and ASX mid-caps through ASX exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

One option for ASX mid-cap exposure is the VanEck S&P/ASX Mid- Cap ETF (ASX: MVE). 

It tracks 50 mid-sized companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange.

For ASX small-caps, VanEck Small Companies Masters ETF (ASX: MVS) tracks a diversified portfolio of small-cap Australian companies listed on the ASX. 

The post Why investors should be targeting ASX mid-caps and ASX small-caps after earnings season: Expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Macmahon report?

• Awarded a 42‑month contract extension at Telfer Gold Mine, valued at $485 million
• Macmahon has provided mining services at Telfer since 2015
• Extension covers increased mining volumes and full mining services – drill and blast, load and haul, and more
• Strengthens Macmahon's track record and ongoing partnership with Greatland Resources.

What else do investors need to know?

The Telfer extension will see Macmahon expand operations at West Dome Stage 7, offering a broader range of services at higher mining volumes. This supports the company's strategy of deepening relationships with major mining clients and diversifying revenue streams within Australia's gold sector.

The contract builds on over a decade of Macmahon's work at Telfer and highlights the trust Greatland has in the team's track record. Investors may see this as a positive development for future project pipelines.

What did Macmahon management say?

Managing Director and CEO Michael Finnegan said:

This extension represents an important milestone in our partnership with Greatland and reinforces the strategic importance of Telfer to our business and reflects our proven track record of operational performance on site for over a decade. We are proud of the contribution our people have made over this period and look forward to supporting Greatland as it advances Telfer's next phase of growth and value creation. We remain focused on delivering safe, reliable and productive outcomes while strengthening our collaboration with Greatland.

What's next for Macmahon?

Macmahon aims to maintain its strong operational performance at Telfer, focusing on safe, productive outcomes as it supports Greatland's growth. The company remains committed to strengthening key client relationships, building a resilient contract portfolio, and pursuing future opportunities in mining and civil sectors.

The Telfer extension adds long-term visibility to Macmahon's order book and positions it for further strategic wins in Australia and beyond.

Macmahon share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Macmahon shares have risen 145%, significantly outperforming the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO).

View Original Announcement

The post Macmahon Holdings awarded $485m Telfer contract extension appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Macmahon report?

• Sale of up to 50% interest in the Homeground accommodation village, starting with 20% to Allcap
• Transaction values Homeground at $52 million
• Co-operation agreement with Allcap for future civil contracting and infrastructure opportunities
• Macmahon retains at least 80% interest in Homeground after the initial sale
• Allcap can acquire a further 30% stake by December 2029

What else do investors need to know?

Macmahon's new partnership with Allcap gives the company a chance to unlock value from a non-core asset while keeping meaningful exposure to Homeground's future income. The Co-operation Agreement may see Macmahon pursue additional contracting work across Gladstone and Central Queensland linked to Allcap's development pipeline.

IPG's proposed Project Velocity, an estimated $20 billion infrastructure program, could drive significant demand for workforce accommodation and civil contracting services in the region. As development ramps up, Homeground's 1,392-room capacity puts it in a unique position to serve upcoming construction and operational projects.

What did Macmahon management say?

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Michael Finnegan said:

This strategic partnership with Allcap Securities provides Macmahon with an opportunity to progressively realise value from Homeground, which we have consistently regarded as a non-core asset, while retaining meaningful exposure to its future performance.

Importantly, the Co-operation Agreement also positions Macmahon to pursue civil infrastructure contracting opportunities associated with one of Australia's largest regional infrastructure development projects, while simultaneously increasing utilisation of Homeground.

We see this as a win-win – creating new opportunities for Macmahon and our shareholders while supporting significant investment, employment and economic activity in Gladstone and Central Queensland.

What's next for Macmahon?

Looking ahead, Macmahon remains well placed to benefit from ongoing infrastructure development in Central Queensland, particularly via its strengthened relationship with Allcap and exposure to Project Velocity. The company aims to capture new civil contracting opportunities while further monetising Homeground's accommodation services as major projects progress in the region.

Macmahon share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Macmahon shares have risen 169%, outperforming the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which has risen 1% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Macmahon unveils strategic Homeground partnership and sale appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX 300 slightly underperformed the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) last financial year.

The ASX 200 increased by 2.77% and provided a total return of 7%, according to S&P Global data.

Nine ASX 300 shares delivered triple-or-more share price growth last financial year.

That means they went up by 200% or more.

Let's check them out.

Nine triple treats of FY26

1. Sunrise Energy Metals Ltd (ASX: SRL)

This ASX 300 mining share stunned investors with a 2,040% gain in FY26 to finish the year at $17.23.

Sunrise Energy Metals is developing scandium and nickel-cobalt projects in central-west NSW.

2. 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX)

This ASX 300 healthcare share skyrocketed 1,786% to close out the year at $4.53.

The respiratory imaging technology company received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for CT:VQ in FY26.

CT:VQ is a post‑processing technology that transforms routine chest CTs into far more detailed images and graphics.

3. Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6)

This ASX 300 gold share soared 508% to end FY26 at 73 cents per share. 

This mineral explorer is building the Bullabulling Gold Project in Western Australia.

4. Weebit Nano Ltd (ASX: WBT)

The Weebit Nano share price catapulted 414% higher over the year to $8.35 by 30 June.

Weebit develops advanced semiconductor memory technology.

5. Elevra Lithium Ltd (ASX: ELV)

This ASX 300 lithium share rocketed 327% higher to finish at $9.60 on 30 June.

Elevra was formed through the merger of Piedmont Lithium and Sayona Mining companies.

6. Elsight Ltd (ASX: ELS) 

The Elsight share price soared 300% to finish FY26 at $7.10. 

Elsight's Halo product provides Beyond the Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) connectivity for drones, UAVs, and other defence systems.

7. PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

Formerly known as Pilbara Minerals, this ASX 300 lithium share soared 275% to $5.02 apiece.

The company's flagship is the Pilgangoora Operation, the world's largest independent hard-rock lithium mine. 

8. Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS)

The Electro Optic Systems share price increased 261% to close FY26 at $10.30.

Electro Optic designs defence technology, advanced weapon systems, and counter-drone solutions.

9. Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH) 

This ASX 300 materials share ripped 213% to finish the year at 96 cents apiece.

Macmahon is a contract mining and civil infrastructure company that provides services in Australia and Southeast Asia.

The post 9 ASX 300 shares that tripled in FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The All Ords underperformed the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which rose 2.77% and delivered total returns of 7%.

Fifteen ASX All Ords shares delivered between 200% and 400% growth last financial year.

Here, we take a look at five of them. 

1. Weebit Nano Ltd (ASX: WBT)

The Weebit Nano share price skyrocketed 414% in FY26 to close out the year at $8.35.

Weebit was one of few ASX All Ords tech shares that had a great year amid a broader tech sector rout. 

Weebit develops advanced semiconductor memory technology.

The company's Resistive Random Access Memory (ReRAM) is a high-performance, low-cost type of Non-Volatile Memory (NVM) technology used in complementary metal oxide semiconductors (CMOS), which are the building blocks of digital integrated circuits. 

2. Elsight Ltd (ASX: ELS) 

The Elsight share price ripped 300% to finish FY26 at $7.10. 

Elsight's flagship product, Halo, provides Beyond the Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) connectivity for drones, UAVs, and other unmanned systems in the air and on land.

Halo was launched in 2020, and today, more than 100 drone and UAV manufacturers and operators are using it for connectivity. 

Elsight's market cap growth elevated it into the top 10 stocks within the ASX 200 tech sector last year. 

3. PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

The market's largest ASX 200 lithium share soared 275% to close out FY26 at $5.02. 

Formerly known as Pilbara Minerals, PLS Group is the largest lithium miner on the ASX by market cap.

The company's flagship is the Pilgangoora Operation, the world's largest independent hard-rock lithium mine. 

Like all ASX lithium miners, PLS Group benefitted from skyrocketing lithium commodity prices last year. 

4. Wildcat Resources Ltd (ASX: WC8)

The Wildcat Resources share price ascended 225% in FY26 to close out the year at 52 cents.

The mineral explorer is building the Tabba Tabba Lithium-Tantalum project and the Bolt Cutter project in the Pilbara.

Bell Potter analyst James Williamson says Tabba Tabba is the only large-scale near-term Australian lithium development positioned to commence production during the current lithium price cycle.

Wildcat has completed its pre-feasibility study at Tabba Tabba and is working towards a definitive feasibility study.

5. Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH) 

This ASX All Ords materials share increased 213% to finish the year at 96 cents on 30 June. 

Macmahon is a contract mining and civil infrastructure company providing operational services to gold, copper, and coal mines in Australia and Southeast Asia.

For 1H FY26, Macmahon reported a 61% increase in reported net profit after tax (NPAT) to $48.2 million.

The post 5 ASX All Ords shares that ripped 200% to 400% in FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

Next week, two of them go ex-dividend.

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

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

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

The ASX gold share goes ex-dividend on Monday.

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

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

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

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

ASX shares about to go ex-dividend

The post 26 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

However, history shows that a select few of these penny stocks will grow into the mid-cap or even large-cap stocks in the future. 

Identifying them early is the challenging part. 

One small-cap stock to keep an eye on is Macmahon Holdings Limited (ASX: MAH). 

It has already risen by more than 67% in 2025, and the team at Bell Potter has just bumped up its share price target on the back of a key contract win for the company. 

Macmahon Holdings is an Australian company providing mining services across Australia and Southeast Asia. Its services cover surface and underground mining, civil construction, and resources engineering.

At the time of writing, shares are trading for approximately $0.59; however, Bell Potter has just raised its price target, indicating potential for more growth ahead. 

Here is the latest guidance from the broker. 

Key contract win

In a report released by Bell Potter on Monday, the broker stated that the company has secured an underground contract win in Indonesia. 

The contract is for a term of 34 months, with a contract value of $36m in the first year. 

This follows a contract win in Indonesia announced in August 2025, for an underground mine in North Sulawesi, with PT Tambang Tondano Nusajaya. 

This contract is valued at $33m over a 32-month period.

Bell Potter said these two contracts will partly replace the revenue lost from a previous agreement with Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU). 

However, the broker believes this will increase exposure to underground mining, in line with the company's strategy, which is expected to be less capital-intensive. 

The company has delivered strong growth, and the shares have performed well in 2025, but continue to trade on just 10.5x prospective earnings.

The company is guiding to EBIT(A) of $180m-$195m in FY26, which at the mid-point would be 9% ahead of FY25.

Buy recommendation for this small-cap stock

Based on this guidance, Bell Potter has increased its target price on this ASX small-cap stock to $0.65 (previously $0.50). 

Based on yesterday's closing price of $0.59, this indicates an upside of 10.17%. 

This optimism is based on a combination of factors, including: 

• Strong revenue base: FY25 secured revenue of $2.1bn, and an order book of $5.4bn provides visibility and stability.
• Underground mining growth: Expected 50% growth over the next 2–3 years.
• International expansion: Targeting 15% of group turnover from international work, supported by new contracts in Indonesia.
• Competitive advantage in Indonesia: Strong existing relationships and expertise in hard-rock underground mining.

The post Already up 67% YTD Bell Potter thinks this small cap stock can keep soaring appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But you can't invest in any small cap ASX share, you only want the best.

That said, which are the best small caps to buy? Well, Bell Potter has just named three that it thinks could be among the best to buy now. Here's what it is recommending to clients:

Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH)

Bell Potter thinks that this mining services company could be a small cap ASX share to buy now.

It believes that the company is well-placed to deliver steady growth in the coming years thanks to its significant order book and its acquisition of Decmil. The latter boosts its exposure to the civil and renewable infrastructure sectors. It explains:

Macmahon's (MAH) long-term client relationships are likely to deliver steady growth, underpinned by a $5.4 billion order book and $2.1 billion in secured revenue. The company is positioned for multi-pronged growth with the underground mining division projected to expand by 50% over the next two years, while its international footprint is set to accelerate, leveraging a distinct competitive advantage in Indonesia. The strategic acquisition of Decmil has enhanced its exposure to the high-demand civil and renewable infrastructure sectors, a move already validated by $333 million in new work won.

And despite this positive outlook, it highlights that its shares are trading on low earnings multiples and offer an attractive dividend yield. Bell Potter adds:

Despite these strong fundamentals, Macmahon trades at a discount at just 6.7x FY26 EPS, 1.3x net tangible asset value (of 29cps at FY26), while offering a 4.9% yield. This creates an attractive entry point for investors to capture a re-rating as growth catalysts materialise.

Praemium Ltd (ASX: PPS)

Another small cap ASX share that has been named as a best buy is investment platform provider Praemium.

Bell Potter believes the company is well-placed to grow at a strong rate in the coming years. So, with its shares trading at a deep discount to peers, it thinks now could be the time to buy. It said:

We add Praemium Ltd (PPS) to the small cap panel, seeing a strong runway for the company to scale platform revenue, and grow market share from where it currently sits in the low single digits.

While Praemium has demonstrated commercial momentum, strong growth capacity, and a leading technology offering, its valuation continues to lag key peers. This stock looks very attractive at a 12MF PE of ~18x, and we expect the market to catch on as the company executes on further market share gains and FUA growth.

Universal Store Holdings Ltd (ASX: UNI)

Finally, Bell Potter continues to believe that youth fashion retailer Universal Store could be a small cap ASX share to buy.

It likes the company due to its positive growth outlook, supported by its growing store network, and its attractive valuation. The broker explains:

Universal Store Holdings is a leading youth focused apparel, footwear and accessories retailer in Australia. UNI will continue to increase store numbers over the next few years, supporting earnings growth of 10% p.a.. Valuation looks attractive, trading on a forward P/E of ~16x. UNI is a quality small cap (ROE ~26%) that is executing on its rollout strategy.

The post 3 of the best small cap ASX shares to buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because Bell Potter has picked out its favourite through its Australian equities panel. Here are two dividend shares that it is bullish on:

Centuria Capital Group (ASX: CNI)

The first ASX dividend share that could be a best buy in October is Centuria Capital. It is an investment manager with a focus on real estate.

Bell Potter believes the company is well-placed to benefit from tailwinds in the real estate sector. And as these have yet to be fully priced in, the broker thinks that now is the time to buy. It said:

Centuria Capital Group (CNI) is an investment manager with c.$21b of predominantly real-estate-focused assets under management. CNI manages funds spanning listed, unlisted wholesale and unlisted retail syndicates across all major asset classes. As per their listed funds, CNI's assets under management is primarily in the Office and Industrial markets, however it also operates in Daily Needs & Large Format Retail, as well as alternative subsectors such as Healthcare, Real Estate Credit, and Agriculture. CNI is well positioned to benefit from tailwinds in the Real Estate sector, and we see cyclical upside yet to be priced in.

Bell Potter expects a dividend yield of approximately 4.8% over the next 12 months.

Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH)

Another ASX dividend share that gets a big thumbs up from Bell Potter is Macmahon. It is an Australian contractor that operates two core segments: contract mining and civil infrastructure.

Bell Potter believes it can continue its positive form in the coming years, especially given the recent acquisition of Decmil and its expansion into renewables and public infrastructure. It said:

Contract Mining division operates surface and underground mines across Australia and SE Asia, exposed primarily to Gold (53%), Met Coal (19%), and Lithium (9%). Contracts are long-term with cost escalation pass-through, ensuring revenue stability. While capital-intensive, this segment generates EBITDA margins of 15-20%. The Civil Infrastructure division, strengthened by the Decmil acquisition, executes EPC projects, expanding from mine support into renewables and public infrastructure. Margins are lower (7% EBITDA), but the division is less capital-intensive, offering higher returns on capital and greater scalability. Despite contracts suggesting mid-to-high single-digit growth, MAH has achieved a 12.2% compound annual growth rate over five years (19.9% in Australia) through strong execution and acquisitions.

The broker is expecting a dividend yield of 4.3% from its shares over the next 12 months.

The post Bell Potter names the best ASX dividend shares to buy in October appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

23 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week

How to make ex-div dates work for you

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

That compares to a 9.47% lift for the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO).

The gold price has soared over the past 18 months due to its safe-haven appeal amid geopolitical tensions and global trade uncertainties.

The gold price hit a record US$3,500.05 per ounce on 22 April.

On Friday, the gold price is $US3,329 per ounce, down 0.12% today and down 0.15% over the past week.

After such strong gains for 4 ASX gold shares, you may be thinking there's little room for growth left.

Think again.

4 ASX gold shares with major upside ahead: experts

Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU)

The Vault Minerals share price is 39 cents on Friday, down 1.27%.

Macquarie has an outperform rating on this ASX gold share with a 12-month price target of 63 cents.

That suggests a potential upside of 61.5% in FY26.

Macquarie noted that Vault Minerals' fourth-quarter sales were weaker than it had expected.

Macquarie lowered its full-year FY25 revenue forecast by 2% and its estimated FY25 earnings per share (EPS) by 10%.

Looking ahead, the broker said:

Timely delivery of the expansions at KOTH as well as increasing mining volumes remain important longer-term.

Potential M&A, noting recent reports of VAU in data rooms, could also be a catalyst.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

The Northern Star Resources share price is $16.37, down 1.59%.

In a new note, Morgans reduced its 12-month price target on Northern Resources shares from $25.32 per share to $21.78 per share.

However, this still suggests a potential 33% upside for investors in FY26.

Morgans reduced its price target on this ASX gold share after the miner released an operational update on Monday.

The broker commented:

Overall, the update disappointed and reflected in the share price action (–8.6%).

FY26 adjustments were poorly flagged, with the new AISC midpoint +12% above consensus along with additional growth CAPEX items.

We adjust our forecasts in line with updated guidance …

Looking ahead, operational execution and disciplined capital cost control will be key to unlocking further value.

Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH)

Macmahon is a contract mining and civil infrastructure company at gold, copper, and coal mines in Australia and Southeast Asia.

Its mining activities involve the contractual operation of underground and surface mines in Australia (92% of revenue) and Southeast Asia (8% of revenue). Macmahon's major exposure is gold (54% of revenue).

Bell Potter only recently commenced coverage of this ASX gold share.

It comments that Macmahon's main contract mining businesses have relatively long-term projects with EBITDA margins of about 17% (or about 7-8% after depreciation).

The civil infrastructure business has grown significantly, with a range of short and medium-term projects. The EBITDA margins are lower at about 7%.

The civil infrastructure business requires less capital than the mining division, but potentially has more competitors.

The broker said:

The company has a long-term aim of rebalancing the business to 1/3rd 1/3rd 1/3rd underground, surface and civil, with a stated aim to grow underground by 50% over the next 2 years.

Bell Potter has a buy rating and a 12-month price target of 40 cents on this ASX gold share.

The Macmahon share price is 30 cents, up 0.68%, on Friday. This implies a 33% potential upside over FY26.

The broker said Macmahon has limited US tariff risk and high cash generation.

Bell Potter added:

The low rating of the shares relative to other mining contractors suggests that investor expectations are low, giving scope for upside surprise.

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS)

Ramelius Resources shares are $2.38 on Friday, down 1.04%.

Macquarie has an outperform rating on this ASX gold mining share with a 12-month price target of $3.10.

Hence, the target price implies a potential upside of 30%.

Ramelius revealed strong preliminary full-year FY25 results this week.

Full-year gold production was 301,664 ounces, ahead of its guidance range of 290,000 ounces to 300,000 ounces.

Ramelius also expects its all-in sustaining costs (AISC) to be at the lower end of its guidance range of $1,550 to $1,650 per ounce.

Macquarie commented:

The 4QFY25 production result beat RMS' own expectations (which we were anchored to) and continued to demonstrate strong cash generation.

In the near term our valuation relies on completion of the [Spartan Resources Ltd (ASX: SPR)] deal and key study results.

The post Experts reveal 4 ASX gold shares with more than 30% upside potential in FY26 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 dropping:

Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF)

The Collins Foods share price is down 2.5% to $8.41. Investors have been selling this KFC restaurant operator's shares after it released its half year results. For the six months ended 13 October, Collins Foods reported a 1.2% increase in revenue from continuing operations to $703.5 million. This reflects modest growth in Australia being offset by softness in Europe. And on the bottom line, underlying net profit after tax from continuing operations was down 23.8% to $23.7 million. The company's margins were impacted by a combination of flat same-store sales and ongoing inflationary pressures.

Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH)

The Macmahon share price is down almost 3% to 36 cents. This follows the release of an investor presentation at the Canaccord Mining Services Series. At the event, the mining services company reaffirmed its FY 2025 guidance of revenue of $2.4 billion to $2.5 billion and underlying EBITA of $160 million to $175 million. It seems that some investors were expecting an improvement to this guidance.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

The Northern Star share price is down a further 3% to $16.09. Investors have been selling this gold miner's shares since it announced an agreement to acquire gold developer De Grey Mining Limited (ASX: DEG) in a deal valued at $5 billion. Northern Star's CEO, Stuart Tonkin, said: "De Grey's Hemi development project will deliver a low-cost, long-life and large-scale gold mine in the Tier-1 jurisdiction of Western Australia, enhancing the quality of Northern Star's asset portfolio to generate cash earnings." It looks like a good number of investors don't agree with this view and have been heading to the exits this week.

Predictive Discovery Ltd (ASX: PDI)

The Predictive Discovery share price is down 4% to 23.5 cents. This has been driven by weakness in the gold sector offsetting the release of drilling results from the 5.38M ounces Bankan Gold Project in Guinea, Africa. Managing director, Andrew Pardey, said: "Drilling results from 800W continue to be positive, confirming potential for a satellite deposit in the NEB area that can add ounces and provide mine planning flexibility with future upside potential. We are now completing resource modelling for 800W and a maiden Mineral Resource estimate is planned for early 2025."

The post Why Collins Foods, Macmahon, Northern Star, and Predictive Discovery shares are dropping 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:

Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF)

The Collins Foods share price is up 1.5% to $8.73. This has been driven by a broker note out of Goldman Sachs this morning. According to the note, the broker has initiated coverage on the KFC restaurant operator's shares with a buy rating and $10.00 price target. It said: "We consider the outlook to be incrementally more positive with our Buy thesis centered on 1) a moderation of cost growth with wages, poultry, electricity and rent growth moderating, while oils and grains have returned to pre-covid levels; 2) improved discretionary spending in Collins' key states (Qld & WA) and potential for increased Digital sales penetration; and 3) Netherlands KFC presence reaching scale and improved KFC Europe margins long-term."

Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH)

The Macmahon share price is up 1.5% to 32 cents. This morning, this mining and civil infrastructure services provider announced that its subsidiary, Decmil, has been awarded the $61 million Marble Bar Road Upgrade Project in Western Australia from HanRoy. This will see it undertake approximately 23km of road construction upgrade works to Main Roads Western Australia standards on Marble Bar Road. Management has also reaffirmed its FY 2025 revenue guidance of $2.4 billion to $2.5 billion. CEO Michael Finnegan said: "I am pleased to see Decmil continue their great start of securing new, strategically aligned work. We look forward to delivering the Marble Bar Road upgrade project and continuing to build our relationship with HanRoy."

Mirvac Group (ASX: MGR)

The Mirvac share price is up 2% to $2.20. This may have been driven by a broker note out of Morgan Stanley this morning. Although the broker has held firm with its equal-weight rating, it has lifted its price target on the property developer's shares to $2.45 (from $2.15). This implies further potential upside of 11% for investors over the next 12 months.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

The Sigma share price is up a further 5% to $2.00. This is the third-straight day of strong gains for the pharmacy chain operator and wholesaler's shares. Investors have been buying its shares following an update on its proposed acquisition of Chemist Warehouse. Sigma revealed that it has offered to make court-enforceable undertakings to help satisfy competition concerns. In response to the news, ACCC Chair, Gina Cass-Gottlieb, said: "We are now seeking feedback from stakeholders on whether the draft undertaking offered by Sigma may be capable of addressing the competition concerns arising from its proposed acquisition of Chemist Warehouse." It seems that the market believes this could be enough to get the deal approved.

The post Why Collins Foods, MacMahon, Mirvac, and Sigma shares are pushing higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Guzman Y Gomez Ltd (ASX: GYG)

The Guzman Y Gomez share price is down 8% to $25.20. This may have been driven by concerns over the quick service restaurant operator's lofty valuation. Shortly after listing, the Mexican food chain had a $3 billion valuation. This meant that its shares were trading on a crazy multiple of 500x estimated FY 2025 earnings. This latest decline means that Guzman Y Gomez's shares are now down almost 20% from their high. And with short sellers loading up on its shares, there could be further declines to come.

Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH)

The Macmahon share price is down almost 9% to 26.5 cents. This morning, this mining services company revealed that it had significant exposure to the collapse of gold miner Calidus Resources Ltd (ASX: CAI). It said: "Macmahon provides mining and drill and blast services to Calidus at their Warrawoona mine. Macmahon's preliminary assessment of net current exposure under the contract is circa $33.9 million. Macmahon also holds an equity interest in Calidus listed shares with a value of $5.7 million at the close of trading on 28 June 2024." Calidus called in administrators on Friday.

Strike Energy Ltd (ASX: STX)

The Strike Energy share price is down 13.5% to 24.2 cents. Investors have been hitting the sell button after the energy company released an update on the status of the gas supply agreement for West Erregulla with Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES). Due to delays receiving environmental approvals, the firm gas supply agreement has reverted to back to an original agreement. This means that the fixed gas price that had been agreed under the firm gas supply agreement will revert to the option price as calculated under a gas sales option agreement.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

The WiseTech Global share price is down 5% to $95.18. While the logistics solutions company announced more insider sales on Friday evening, this is generally seen as a positive by the market. That's because the sales indicate that the company is (at least) performing in line with its guidance for FY 2024. The decline may have been driven by a broker note out of Goldman Sachs. It has slapped a neutral rating and $91.00 price target on its shares.

The post Why Guzman Y Gomez, MacMahon, Strike Energy, and WiseTech shares are sinking appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This morning, the gold miner dropped a bombshell announcement that revealed that receivers have been called in despite the sky-high gold price.

Which ASX gold stock is going bust?

This morning, it was revealed that Calidus Resources Ltd (ASX: CAI) is on the brink and has called in administrators.

In a very brief statement from the administrators, it says:

Notice is hereby given that Hayden White and Daniel Woodhouse of FTI Consulting (Administrators) were appointed as joint and several voluntary administrators. […] It should be further noted that Richard Tucker and John Bumbak of KordaMentha were appointed as Receivers and Managers by the senior secured creditor Macquarie Bank to Calidus Resources, Keras (Pilbara) and Calidus Blue on 28 June 2024.

This will no doubt come as a big surprise to shareholders. Particularly given how the ASX gold stock only recently raised $22.5 million from investors and restructured its operations.

Commenting at the time, Calidus' managing director, Dave Reeves said:

This financial restructure will deliver a host of substantial benefits to Calidus, headlined by increased production and cashflow this year. This will in turn help us achieve our target of producing 120,000oz per annum within three years.

What's going on?

It remains unclear what has triggered the voluntary administration. However, it is worth noting that the company owes Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH) a sizeable amount.

In fact, Macmahon shares are sinking on the news. It responded to the receivership bombshell, commenting:

Macmahon understands that the appointment of the Receivers and Managers had been made in response to the decision by Calidus' Board of Directors to appoint Voluntary Administrators on 28 June 2024 as outlined in the ASX announcement by KordaMentha dated 1 July 2024.

Macmahon provides mining and drill and blast services to Calidus at their Warrawoona mine. Macmahon's preliminary assessment of net current exposure under the contract is circa $33.9 million. Macmahon also holds an equity interest in Calidus listed shares with a value of $5.7 million at the close of trading on 28 June 2024.

One positive for the ASX gold stock is that receivers want to keep its mine operating during the process. It said:

Macmahon has received confirmation from the Receivers and Managers that Macmahon's ongoing services are required. These ongoing services during the receivership will be governed by purchase orders and payment from the Receivers and Managers, thereby minimising any increase in net current exposure. Macmahon will continue to monitor developments and update the market as necessary.

Here's hoping the gold stock finds a way out of this mess.

The post ASX gold stock goes bust despite soaring precious metal price 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:

Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP)

The Domino's Pizza share price is down 5% to $36.53. This pizza chain operator's shares have been under pressure this month after the market responded very poorly to its strategy update. Goldman Sachs wasn't impressed with the update. It said: "We do not believe the company dissected the core issues of the problem regions such as France and Japan sufficiently and hence there remains a lack of transparency and conviction on how they will fix these issues. We remain unconvinced post this Strategy Day that there is a path to clear recovery other than further discounting and pausing of store roll-out in Japan/France to restore profitability."

Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH)

The Macmahon share price is down 8% to 22.5 cents. Investors don't appear keen on the company's plan to acquire Decmil Group Limited (ASX: DCG). This morning, the two companies announced that they have agreed to a deal that will see Macmahon acquire Decmil for 30 cents per share. This represents a sizeable 76% premium to where Decmil's shares ended yesterday's session. Management advised that it believes the deal is "consistent with Macmahon's strategic focus of achieving continued earnings growth while diversifying earnings into the less capital intensive civil infrastructure business."

Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SGR)

The Star Entertainment share price is down a further 12% to 42.5 cents. Investors have been selling off this casino and resorts operator's shares this week after the Bell Two Inquiry commenced. Investors appear nervous that the company could be found to be unsuitable to retain its NSW licence. In addition, a poor trading update last week also had investors rushing to the exits.

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

The Zip Co share price is down 11% to $1.18. This follows the release of the buy now pay later provider's third-quarter results. While the initial reaction was positive and Zip's shares raced higher, investors soon turned sour on the results. They may be concerned by the performance of the company's Zip AU business. While Zip AU revenue was up 9.3% over the prior corresponding period, it reported a 20%+ reduction in both transaction volume and transactions.

The post Why Domino's, Macmahon, Star, and Zip shares are sinking today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are avoiding the market selloff today are listed below. Here's why they are rising:

Decmil Group Limited (ASX: DCG)

The Decmil Group share price is up 66% to 28.2 cents. Investors have been buying the mining services company's shares after it received and accepted a takeover offer from Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH). The two parties have agreed to a deal for 30 cents per share, which represents a 76% premium to where Decmil's shares ended yesterday's session. The Decmil board is recommending that shareholders vote in favour of the deal. This is in the absence of a superior proposal and subject to the independent expert's report.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE)

The Southern Cross Electrical Engineer (SCEE) share price is up 6% to $1.20. This morning, this electrical, instrumentation, communication and maintenance services provider announced a major new contract win. SCEE's Heyday subsidiary has been awarded extensions at two data centres in New South Wales and a range of buildings projects in the ACT, totalling ~$50 million. Managing director, Graeme Dunn, commented: "Only last month we announced our fourth award at NEXTDC's Artamon Data Centre and this new award at that location further demonstrates the track record for delivery that Heyday has in this fast-growing sector."

Spartan Resources Ltd (ASX: SPR)

The Spartan Resources share price is up 9% to 62.7 cents. This follows the announcement of a major new gold discovery at the Dalgaranga Gold Project in Western Australia. Spartan Resources, which was formerly known as Gascoyne Resources, revealed that it has discovered a new high-grade gold lode immediately south of the 952koz Never Never Gold Deposit at the 100%-owned project in the Murchison region. The gold explorer's CEO, Simon Lawson, believes the discovery is another game-changer.

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX)

The Telix Pharmaceuticals share price is up 1% to $13.05. This morning, Telix announced that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Fast Track designation to its investigational glioma imaging product, TLX101- CDx. The granted Fast Track designation is for the characterisation of progressive or recurrent glioma using positron emission tomography (PET). It provides Telix with an expedited review and closer consultation with the FDA during the review process.

The post Why Decmil, SCEE, Spartan Resources, and Telix shares are pushing higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In morning trade, the ASX mining services stock is up 65% to a 52-week high of 28 cents.

Why is this ASX mining stock rocketing?

Investors have been scrambling to get hold of the company's shares this morning after it received and accepted a takeover offer from Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH).

According to the release, the two parties have entered into a scheme implementation deed under which Macmahon will acquire 100% of the issued share capital of Decmil Group by way of inter-dependent schemes of arrangement for a cash price of $0.30 per share.

This represents a 76% premium to where the ASX mining stock last traded.

The transaction will be subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions. This includes the independent expert's report, approval by Decmil shareholders, and by the court.

In addition, Macmahon intends to acquire all Decmil redeemable convertible preference shares on issue for the aggregate of 34.3 cents per share via a separate, inter-conditional, contemporaneous scheme of arrangement.

Decmil board recommends the deal

The Board of Decmil has unanimously recommended that its shareholders vote in favour of the schemes. This is in the absence of a superior proposal and subject to the independent expert's report.

Furthermore, Decmil's major shareholders Thorney Group and Horley, have also indicated their support for the transaction. They have confirmed that they intend to vote in favour of the schemes, subject to the same qualifications.

Thorney Group and Horley together hold 26.7% of the ordinary shares and 38% of the preference shares outstanding.

Macmahon shares tumble

The news doesn't appear to have gone down well with Macmahon shareholders. Its shares are down a sizeable 8% in morning trade.

However, management believes the deal makes a lot of sense. It highlights that it is "consistent with Macmahon's strategic focus of achieving continued earnings growth while diversifying earnings into the less capital intensive civil infrastructure business."

It also feels that the transaction "offers a strategic fit, enhances and accelerates earnings diversification, with financial metrics that are compelling for Macmahon shareholders."

Whereas over at Decmil, its board believe the offer is too good to turn down. The ASX mining stock's chairman, Andrew Barclay, stated:

While the Decmil turnaround is starting to gather pace, Macmahon's all-cash offer at a strong premium to Decmil's current share and redeemable convertible preference share prices provides our securityholders with both certainty and accelerated value today that Decmil's position as a standalone company cannot be guaranteed to provide.

The post This ASX mining services stock is exploding 65% on takeover news appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

As with most things in life, markets tend to ebb and flow in a seasonal stream. The Santa rally, tax time selling, and other timely phenomena are clear examples of how share prices fluctuate depending on the time of the year.

However, it should be noted that the market also has a habit of being unpredictable. If past patterns mirrored the future, we'd all be rich. So, taking these patterns with a grain of salt is important — they are always susceptible to change.

What does history show?

Although it is far from certain, the past 10 years of data suggest this month could produce a fall in the All Ords index. Ironically, the Aussie benchmark of the 500 top ASX shares is up 1.9% as of Friday afternoon. Still, 21 days are left in March, so we best not count our chickens before they hatch.

So, what do the last 10 years say about March and whether it is primetime for buying cheap ASX shares?

Well, the average return of the All Ords in March between 2014 and 2024 is a 1.2% decline. The only month to have performed worse is September, diving 2.4% on average over the past decade. Based on this, history would suggest this is one of the best times (second to September) of the year to be a buyer of shares.

If we inspect the data further, I find the following interesting information:

Best March return in the past 10 years: 6.4% increase in March 2022

Worst March return in the past 10 years: 21.5% fall in March 2020

The catastrophic crash in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic drastically impacted the average March return. If we remove this outlier, the average for this month jumps to a 1% gain.

Which ASX shares could be cheap?

History aside, if March pans out to be a good month to buy shares, what companies are currently cheaply valued?

It's almost a loaded question because a reduced share price doesn't always present value. Sometimes the 'cheap ASX shares' are the ones with share prices soaring ahead as the rest of the market trembles.

Even so, a low forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio can sometimes be a decent starting point.

Some of the most cheaply rated companies inside the ASX All Ords right now include:

• Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH) — 4.7 times forward P/E
• AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL) — 7.7 times forward P/E
• Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) — 9.2 times forward P/E

It always pays to delve deeper, beyond the P/E ratio, to understand better whether an ASX share is truly cheap.

The post If history repeats itself, March could be one of the BEST times to buy cheap ASX shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.