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.

Both companies released their H1 FY26 results yesterday, prompting buy recommendations from the broker. 

Here is what both ASX 300 companies reported. 

Imdex  

Imdex is an Australian mining equipment and technology company operating globally.

Its share price has been on a steady increase over the last 12 months, rising 30.7% in that span. 

This continued yesterday as its share price rose 2.5% on the back of its 1H FY26 results.

For the half year ending 31 December 2025, this ASX 300 company reported: 

• Revenue of $247 million, up 16% on prior corresponding period (pcp)
• EBITDA normalised $78 million, up 22% on pcp
• Interim dividend of 1.7 cps

Speaking on the results, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Paul House, said:

I am delighted with the record 1H26 result, two things stand out to me. The first being our commitment to invest continually through the exploration cycle that continues to build on a portfolio of leading technology. The second being our unrivalled global network and team of IMDEX personnel around the world working relentlessly to deliver value for our customers. This combination has enabled IMDEX to once again outperform the market.

McMillan Shakespeare

It was a different reaction from the market after this ASX 300 company released its half-year results yesterday. 

Its share price fell more than 5% as investors were seemingly discouraged by the results. 

This ASX 300 company specialises in employee benefits. 

Its services include salary packaging, novated leasing, disability plan management and support coordination, asset management, and related financial products and services.

For the six months ending 31st December 2025, it reported: 

• Statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) up 9.7% to $49.6 million
• Underlying net profit after tax and amortisation (UNPATA) up 1.4% to $50.3 million
• Group revenue up 11.2% to $297.4 million
• Half-year fully-franked dividend of 62 cents

Bell Potter upgrades both ASX 300 companies

Bell Potter previously had a hold recommendation on both stocks, but has now upgraded both to a buy. 

Responding to the results from Imdex, Bell Potter said it was highly encouraged by the CY26 global gold and copper Major and Intermediate budgets announced to date, implying a significant uplift in exploration spend compared with CY25. 

Together, with greater Junior exploration activity, as a record wave of recently raised equity is deployed, we believe IMD will see robust demand growth for its products and services and operating leverage.

The broker has upgraded its share price target to $4.60 (previously $3.60). 

From yesterday's closing price of $4, this indicates an upside of 15%. 

Meanwhile, for McMillan Shakespeare shares, the broker was optimistic about future growth thanks to the company's disciplined cost control. 

We view the result as being classified by disciplined cost control. MMS could see as much as +8% benefit at EBITDA line from non-recurring costs and productivity alone. We upgrade to Buy on the depressed multiple and upgrade our EPS +2%/+0%/+0%.

The broker has an updated price target of $18.50 (previously $19.70). 

From yesterday's closing price, this indicates an upside of approximately 11.4%. 

The post Bell Potter just upgraded these ASX 300 shares to a buy after earnings results appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Today's decline means the employee benefits provider's shares are now 3.15% lower for the year to date, but still 19.23% above where they traded this time last year.

Why the ASX 300 stock is falling on results day

Here's what McMillian Shakespeare posted for the six months ending 31st December 2025:

• Statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) up 9.7% to $49.6 million
• Underlying net profit after tax and amortisation (UNPATA) up 1.4% to $50.3 million
• Group revenue up 11.2% to $297.4 million
• Half-year fully-franked dividend of 62 cents

What happened in H1 FY26?

McMillan Shakespeare reported a statutory NPAT from continuing operations of $49.6 million. This was up 9.7% from the first half of FY25.

The company also reported a 1.4% increase in its UNPATA to $50.3 million, although this was 7% below market expectations.

Group revenue reached $297.4 million for the six-month period, up 11.2% on the prior corresponding period (pcp), driven by growth across all segments.

McMillan Shakespeare's novated leases segment was up 7% on the pcp. The increase was supported by new customer growth, improved retention, and increased penetration into the salary packaging client base.

The Oly segment grew its client base by 233% on the pcp, accounting for 5.2% of all group novated lease sales during the period.

Meanwhile, the onboard Finance receivables segment grew strongly, up 31% to $539 million.

The board announced a half-year fully-franked dividend of 62 cents. It said this reflects the midpoint of its stated dividend payout policy of 70% to 100% of UNPATA. The board added that McMillan Shakespeare will undertake an on-market buyback of shares up to a value of $10 million over the next 12 months. The interim dividend announcement was a miss versus market expectations.

McMillan Shakespeare's CEO and Managing Director, Rob De Luca, said: "The Group delivered growth in financial performance in the half underpinned by an increase in revenue across all segments and an uplift in productivity to offset inflation."

"MMS continues to pay dividends within our stated policy range of 70%-100% of UNPATA, balancing investments for future growth and returning capital to investors. This half we will pay an ordinary fully franked dividend of ~85% of UNPATA and undertake an on-market buyback of up to $10 million over the next 12 months, reflecting total announced capital returns of up to $53.2m, up 7.6% on 1HFY25 ($49.4m)."

What's the outlook for the H2 of FY26?

The company said it expects its UNPATA to benefit from customer growth across all segments. It also expects increased Onboard Finance receivables and efficiencies from prior year strategic investments in the second half of FY26.

It notes that the Federal Government's review of the Electric Car Discount is underway. The NDIS annual pricing review outcomes are also expected in the next six months. 

The company said it will "continue to take a disciplined approach to investing in and executing on our strategic priorities – excelling in customer experience, driving simplicity and technology-enablement, and delivering valued solutions". 

The post This ASX 300 stock has shed over 5% following half-year results appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I've run the ruler over a few companies on the ASX, and come up with three investment ideas which might fit the bill if a decent dividend yield is what you're after.

Poised for broad-based growth

The first of these is McMillan Shakespeare Ltd (ASX: MMS), which, according to the ASX, is paying a trailing dividend yield of 8.7%, fully franked.

The company's products include salary packaging, novated leasing, fleet management, and National Disability Insurance Scheme plans, with more than 500,000 customers on its books.

The company has been growing its earnings year on year for the past three years, while revenue for FY25 was up 3% to $541.6 million.

The company has a policy of paying out 70% to 100% of underlying net profit, and its guidance for the current financial year is for "customer growth across all segments''.

McMillan Shakespeare paid a 77-cent dividend in September, following a 71-cent payout in March.

Taking flight

Second cab off the rank is travel company Helloworld Travel Ltd (ASX: HLO), which is paying a trailing dividend yield of 7.67% fully franked.

The company has paid a consistent 6 cents per share final dividend over the past three years, while in March it paid an outsized interim dividend of 8 cents per share.

Managing Director Andrew Burnes told the company's annual general meeting in October that the company increased its net profit by 4.1% to $33.2 million, despite an 8.7% decline in revenue to $192.8 million.

On the outlook, Mr Burnes said the company's balance sheet was strong, with cash of $79.4 million and no external bank debt.

He added the company was "well-positioned for sustainable growth and long-term resilience", while EBITDA was expected to grow from $60.6 million in FY25 to $64-$72 million this year.

Helloworld is also aiming to buy out fellow listed travel company Webjet Group Ltd (ASX: WJL) with a non-binding bid of 90 cents per share currently in the market.

Road to riches

Our third decent dividend player is toll road operator Atlas Arteria Ltd (ASX: ALX), which is paying a trailing, unfranked dividend yield of 8.24%.

In releasing its first-half results in August, the company said it was not only reaffirming its 40 cents per share dividend, but also said "Atlas Arteria is targeting future distributions of at least 40 cents per share, supported by growing free cash flow''.

Chief Executive Hugh Webby said while releasing the results that, "by staying disciplined on managing capital and costs efficiently and being relentless about performance, we're setting ourselves up to keep delivering long-term value for our securityholders''.

The post Three under-the-radar dividend plays for your portfolio appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The team at Macquarie said they expected new vehicle demand to continue improving after growing 0.7% year over year in October, with a forecast that volumes will grow by the low to mid-single digits in the second half of calendar 2025.

Car sellers in the spotlight

Macquarie has an outperform rating on dealers Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE) and Autosports Group Ltd (ASX: ASG), but said on balance they prefer Eagers.

As they said in their note to clients:

Eagers is our preference given the scale of its organic and inorganic growth opportunities. Its acquisition of CanadaOne provides a platform for further North American inorganic growth, in what is a highly fragmented market.  

The Macquarie team expect Eagers' organic growth to be bolstered by the strength of electric vehicle BYD sales in Australia, as well as from an agreement struck as part of the CanadaOne deal to collaborate with Japan's Mitsubishi Corporation.

Eagers recently announced it would buy a 65% stake in CanadaOne for $1.04 billion.

Macquarie has a price target of $29.98 on Eagers stock and $3.63 for Autosports Group.

Aftermarket sales strong

In the 4X4 accessories market, the Macquarie team has an outperform rating on Amotiv Ltd (ASX: AOV) and ARB Corporation Ltd (ASX: ARB), saying Amotiv's valuation is attractive and its FY26 guidance is "achievable".  

They added:

We remain positive on ARB's offshore growth opportunities, with export segment sales growth of 16.4% in FY25 increasing to 17.6% in its recent first quarter AGM update.

They have a price target of $44.90 on ARB shares and $11.66 on Amotiv shares.

In the automotive financing sector, the Macquarie team likes three companies, in descending order of preference: Fleetpartners Group Ltd (ASX: FPR), SmartGroup Corporation Ltd (ASX: SIQ), and McMillan Shakespeare Ltd (ASX: MMS).

Their price targets for the companies are $3.68, $8.99, and $19.69, respectively.

In other automotive news, used car digital platform company Carma Ltd (ASX: CMA) listed on the ASX this week after raising $100 million at $2.70 per share.

The shares have traded lower since their Wednesday listing and are now changing hands for $2.45.

Carma is differentiated from its peers in the sector by offering a testing and reconditioning service for cars sold on the platform, ensuring customers can buy with confidence.

As well as selling cars to retail customers, the platform also conducts wholesale auctions.

The post Macquarie has singled out the automotive stocks they say are worth a look appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With the August reporting season done and dusted, scores of companies have ex-dividend dates next week.

If you're keen to buy any of these ASX shares while they are still trading cum dividend, time is running out!

To receive a stock's next dividend, you must buy or already own it before the ex-dividend day.

We provide a sample of the ASX shares going ex-dividend next week below.

35 ASX shares about to go ex-dividend

The post 35 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This amounts to about 15.3% of all Australian superannuation funds.

The number of self-managed funds noticeably declined in FY23 after five consecutive years of more than 540,000 SMSFs in operation.

In FY23, we saw a net decrease of 26,759 self-managed superannuation funds, or almost 5%.

ASX shares are a popular investment among SMSF investors.

More than 220,000 SMSFs — or 43% of those in operation — reported franked dividend income in FY23, down 4.8% on FY22.

More than 164,000 SMSFs — or 32% — reported unfranked dividend income from shares, down 4.5% on the previous year.

About 141,000 SMSFs — or just over one in four — reported rental income from an investment property, down 7% on FY22.

In terms of income, about 155,000 SMSFs reported a loss or no taxable income in FY23.

That was the most common scenario for SMSFs, suggesting aggressive growth investment strategies (or poor management!).

Aggressive growth strategies tend to return little to no income as the investor pursues long-term capital growth over annual yield.

The second biggest taxable income category was $10,000 to $49,999 per annum, with 150,000 SMSFs falling into this bracket.

Just over 1,400 SMSFs reported a taxable income of $1 million or more in FY23.

Which ASX shares are popular with SMSFs?

Today, ASX shares and international shares remain a popular investment vehicle for SMSF investors.

Data from wholesale trading platform provider AUSIEX provides some insight into which ASX shares SMSFs are currently favouring.

The data pertains to high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) with more than $3 million in assets in their superannuation funds.

HNWI is a globally recognised term that refers to people who have investable assets worth US$1 million or more.

AUSIEX has split the data between retail and advised clients.

Advised clients have sought professional advice to make investment decisions, and may also have their SMSFs monitored by experts.

This data split provides extra insight into how professional advice may be influencing SMSFs' decision-making on which ASX shares to buy.

Most popular ASX shares among SMSF investors

These were the top 10 ASX shares purchased by SMSF investors with more than $3 million in their funds last month.

Retail HNWI SMSF accounts above $3M

Source: AUSIEX

Advised HNWI SMSF accounts above $3M

Source: AUSIEX

The post 10 most popular ASX shares being bought by self-managed superannuation investors in FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It means tracking and imitating the investment moves of people thought to have superior market insight or information.

This might include institutional investors like pension funds, professional traders, company insiders, and investment managers.

They also include high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), generally defined as having investable assets worth US$1 million or more.

Experienced and skilled investors, HNWIs can afford professional advice and often have access to better research on ASX shares.

So, it can be interesting to see what HNWIs are investing in, as it may provide clues to good opportunities in the market.

Here, we look at the 10 most bought ASX shares in July by HNWI investors with self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) above $3 million.

The data, provided by leading wholesale trading platform provider AUSIEX, is split into retail and advised SMSF investors.

This provides further insight into how professional investment advice has influenced HNWIs' decisions on which ASX shares to buy.

Top 10 ASX shares bought in July

Retail HNWI SMSF accounts above $3M

Source: AUSIEX

Advised HNWI SMSF accounts above $3M

Source: AUSIEX

Which shares are HNWIs selling?

AUSIEX has also provided some examples of the most commonly sold ASX shares among HNWIs with SMSFs above $3 million.

In July, the ASX shares that retail HNWI SMSF investors sold most were Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd (ASX: ANZ), Westpac Banking Corporation (ASX: WBC), Acorn Capital Investment Fund Ltd (ASX: ACQ), Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield CDI (ASX: URW), National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN), and Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS).

Advised SMSF investors sold Commonwealth Bank of Australia Ltd (ASX: CBA), ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD), Westpac Banking Corporation (ASX: WBC), Future Generation Australia Ltd (ASX: FGX), Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS), Scentre Group (ASX: SCG), Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), and Australian Strategic Materials Ltd (ASX: ASM).

The post Which ASX shares are wealthy investors buying in FY26? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

On 14 May, Macquarie reported its Top 10 grossed-up dividend stocks for the upcoming financial year. That is, the estimated grossed-up yield investors will receive for the next financial year if they buy the stock today (including franking credits).

Based on Macquarie's analysis, several stocks offer grossed-up yields above 10%. With a mix of small caps and large caps, there is something for everyone. 

So, what are they?

McMillan Shakespeare Ltd (ASX: MMS)

McMillan Shakespeare provides salary packaging, novated leasing, disability plan management, support coordination, asset management, and complementary financial services in Australia and New Zealand. With a market capitalisation of $1.13 billion, it is outside the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and may go under investors' radar. However, according to Macquarie, investors who buy it today will receive a forward dividend yield of 8.79%. This amounts to a grossed-up yield of 12.55%, which is compelling for those after passive income.

Coronado Global Resources Inc (ASX: CRN)

Coronado Global Resources produces, markets, and exports metallurgical coal internationally. It owns 100% interest in the Curragh mining property in the Bowen Basin of Queensland. With a market capitalisation of $347 million, it is a small-capitalisation company. According to Macquarie, those who buy Coronado Global Resources today will gain a forward yield of 8.20%, which amounts to a grossed-up yield of 11.71%.

Fortescue Metals Group (ASX: FMG)

Fortescue engages in the exploration, development, production, processing, and sale of iron ore internationally and in exploring for other minerals. It is an ASX 200 stock with a market capitalisation of $51.8 billion, so it is well known amongst ASX investors. However, sometimes the best opportunities are hidden in plain sight. Macquarie projects its forward yield to be 8.05%, amounting to a grossed-up yield of 11.5%. Those wanting to bank this dividend in the coming financial year might consider buying Fortescue today.

Resimac Group Ltd (ASX: RMC)

Resimac Group provides residential mortgage and asset finance lending products in Australia and New Zealand. With a market capitalisation of $344 million, it is another small-cap stock. Macquarie projects its forward dividend yield to be 7.91%, which is 11.3% grossed up. It could be another good option for passive income-focused investors who prefer small caps.

New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC)

New Hope is an Australian thermal coal-mining company. Its operations include New Acland Mine, Bengalla Mine, and Queensland Bulk Handling. With a market capitalisation of $3.2 billion, it sits in the ASX 200. Macquarie is forecasting a forward dividend yield of 7.65% (10.93% grossed up) for those who buy it today. 

Pepper Money Ltd (ASX: PPM)

Pepper Money is a non-bank lender. It operates in the mortgage and asset finance markets in Australia and New Zealand. With a market capitalisation of $734 million, it is at the smaller end of the town on the ASX. It's also only been listed since 2021. However, for investors who buy it at today's price, Macquarie projects a dividend yield of 7.12% (10.17% grossed up).

Foolish Takeaway

Investors seeking passive income are in luck – Macquarie recently listed 6 ASX stocks that, if purchased today, they expect to deliver above 10% yields next financial year. However, their analysis does not consider total return, that is, the likelihood of capital growth. Passive income-oriented investors who also wish to preserve capital should use this list as a starting point before digging into further analysis.

The post Turbocharge passive income: Macquarie lists 6 ASX stocks with grossed-up dividend yields above 10% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It's handy to know when the ASX shares you already own are due to go ex-dividend.

If you feel like increasing your holdings, you may want to make those purchases before the ex-dividend dates to pick up the next dividend payments.

Same goes for investors researching companies for new investments. If you're ready to buy a new stock at today's share price, you might as well try to buy before the ex-dividend date.

Awareness of ex-dividend dates also means you won't be surprised when the share prices of your ASX stocks drop on the day.

Share prices usually fall on ex-dividend dates simply because the companies look less appealing (in the short term, at least) without the upcoming dividends attached.

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

25 ASX shares about to go ex-dividend

The post Looking for last-minute dividends? 25 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In morning trade, the ASX 300 stock is up 13% to $15.90.

This has been driven by the release of the salary packaging company's half year results.

ASX 300 jumps 13% on half year results

• Revenue up 2.4% to $267.4 million
• Normalised EBITDA down 7.1% to $80.8 million
• Underlying profit after tax before amortisation (UNPATA) up 3.3% to $45.4 million
• Normalised UNPATA down 6.7% to $49.6 million
• Statutory profit after tax up 3.4% to $45.2 million
• Interim dividend of 71 cents per share

What happened during the half?

For six months ended 31 December, McMillan Shakespeare reported a 2.4% increase in revenue to $267.4 million. This was driven by growth across all three segments.

Group Remuneration Services (GRS) normalised revenue was up 0.7% to $143.7 million with novated lease sales up 6.8%, supported by faster order-to-sale conversion. Whereas Plan and Support Services (PSS) revenue was up 6% and Asset Management Services (AMS) revenue was up 2.4%.

Management notes that recurring revenue now represents 52% of statutory revenue.

On the bottom line, underlying UNPATA was up 3.3% to $45.4 million but normalised UNPATA was down 6.7% to $49.6 million.

This led to the ASX 300 stock declaring a 71 cents per share fully franked interim dividend, which is down slightly from 76 cents per share a year earlier.

While not great on paper, it appears to have been better than the market was fearing.

Management commentary

Commenting on the result, the ASX 300 stock's CEO and managing director, Robert De Luca, said:

The Group delivered revenue growth across all three segments while strategically investing in customer growth and ongoing efficiencies. Despite ongoing cost-of-living pressures, demand for novated leasing and salary packaging remains strong as Australians seek to maximise their disposable income.

Recognising this opportunity, we successfully expanded our market presence through our innovative novated leasing brand, Oly. Its uptake was supported by increased customer interest, improved automotive supply and strategic partnerships with key manufacturers and dealerships.

Outlook

Management advised that it expects its second half normalised UNPATA to be higher than the first half.

This is expected to be driven from growth in novated sales reflecting order momentum, Oly, net new client wins, Simply Stronger efficiencies, and a reduction in non-recurring costs.

De Luca adds:

Our Simply Stronger program is on track with investment largely complete. The program is focused on delivering superior digital experience, technology-enabled productivity and broadening our solutions and relationships. We remain well positioned as a trusted partner with an unparalleled business model, committed to delivering strong returns to shareholders, reflected in our ROCE of 61.7%.

The post Guess which ASX 300 stock is jumping 13% on results day appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are falling more than most on Friday are listed below. Here's why they are ending the week in the red:

Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT)

The Beach Energy share price is down almost 5% to $1.37. This appears to have been caused by weakness in the energy sector and a bearish broker note out of Citi. In respect to the latter, the broker has reaffirmed its sell rating and cut its price target to $1.15 (from $1.30). This implies potential downside of 16% from where its shares currently trade. Looking at its balance sheet, Citi suspects that Beach Energy will need to raise funds if it wants to grow through M&A.

McMillan Shakespeare Ltd (ASX: MMS)

The McMillan Shakespeare share price is down almost 9% to $14.09. Investors have been selling this salary packaging company's shares after it was downgraded by analysts at Bell Potter. According to the note, the broker has downgraded McMillan Shakespeare's shares to a neutral rating (from buy) and slashed the price target on them to $15.80 (from $21.00). It said: "Downgrade from Buy to Hold. MMS is cycling a difficult comp with fading support from carry over revenue. We see emerging risks to the downside, predicated on 1) negative volume momentum, segment exposure and a reversion in EV sales back to long-term trend (FY23/24 presented material growth); and 2) margin disappointment. Balancing this is the multiple de-rating and uplift in BEV and PHEV sales."

News Corporation (ASX: NWS)

The News Corporation share price is down 3.5% to $54.29. This may have been driven by profit taking from investors after some strong gains this week and over the last 12 months. In respect to the latter, the media giant's shares are still up almost 40% since this time last year despite today's pullback. A strong result on Thursday helped driven News Corp's shares to a record high.

Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS)

The Pilbara Minerals share price is down almost 4% to $2.24. This is despite there being no news out of the lithium miner today. However, it is worth noting that a number of ASX lithium stocks are under pressure on Friday. Pilbara Minerals' shares are now down almost 40% since this time last year.

The post Why Beach Energy, McMillan Shakespeare, News Corp, and Pilbara Minerals shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The $1 billion ASX 300 stock is down 10% to $13.88 in morning trade.

Why is this ASX 300 stock crashing?

Today's decline appears to have been driven by the release of a broker note out of Bell Potter this morning.

According to the note, the broker has downgraded the salary packaging company's shares and taken an axe to its valuation.

Bell Potter advised that it has become cautious on the stock amid risks around vehicle order growth. It explains:

We review our investment thesis and cyclical drivers, forming a neutral view that MMS should demonstrate sales growth YOY at the upcoming interim result (showing vehicle supply improvements) before future revenue is dependent on orders. We see greater risk around the prospects of order growth given increased competition in the private segment, where sales have fallen to a low, and static EV penetration.

Our analysis of order growth shows MMS building EV volumes as a replacement for ICE, which could pose downside in 2H25e. We expect contract specific sales churn, and strong demand for PHEVs should face headwinds when FBT exemption rolls off Mar'25.

Downgraded to neutral

The note reveals that Bell Potter has downgraded the ASX 300 stock to a neutral rating (from buy) and slashed the price target on its shares to $15.80 (from $21.00).

This was only marginally ahead of where its shares closed yesterday's session. Whereas its previous recommendation implied potential upside of 36% for investors. Quite a difference!

Commenting on the downgrade, the broker said:

Downgrade from Buy to Hold. MMS is cycling a difficult comp with fading support from carry over revenue. We see emerging risks to the downside, predicated on 1) negative volume momentum, segment exposure and a reversion in EV sales back to long-term trend (FY23/24 presented material growth); and 2) margin disappointment. Balancing this is the multiple de-rating and uplift in BEV and PHEV sales.

Our revised earnings see MMS trading at ~12x FY25e P/E, in-line with historical levels and below the Pacific Equity Partners' Dec'24 acquisition of SG Fleet for $1,227m. Implied price to earnings was b/w 12.9x and 13.9x FY25e NPATA guidance or 8.3x FY24 EBITDA. Our price target falls to $15.80 p/s on lower earnings and the multiple we apply in our sum of the parts approach, reflecting order growth vs traded peers at this point in the cycle.

The ASX 300 stock is now down 21% since this time last year.

The post Why did this $1 billion ASX 300 stock just crash 10%? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With earnings season now over, we reveal nine ASX shares that delivered some of the best profit boosts.

You can review all our articles covering the earning reports of hundreds of ASX companies here.

9 ASX shares that revealed major profit increases

Here is a selection of ASX companies that reported some of the biggest profit growth of the season.

NIB Holdings Limited (ASX: NHF)

In its FY24 report, the health insurer revealed a net profit after tax (NPAT) of $181.6 million, up 67.4%. This failed to impress investors, with the NIB share price diving 17.74% on the day the report was released.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

The poultry producer revealed an NPAT of $101.5 million, up 68% in its FY24 results. This also received a rough reception from investors, with the ASX consumer staples share tumbling 20.16% on the day.

Macquarie Technology Group Ltd (ASX: MAQ)

In its FY24 results, Macquarie Tech reported an NPAT of $33 million, up 86.5%. On the day of the release, the ASX technology share fell by 5.98%.

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL) 

In its FY24 results, the company reported a statutory net profit of $5 million, up more than 100% year over year. The Nuix share price rocketed 25.5% on the day of the news.

QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE)

In its half-year results, QBE reported an NPAT of US$802 million, which was 100% higher than last year. But investors were unenthused. The QBE share price fell 1.71% on the day of the report.

Latitude Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: LFS)

Latitude also reported half-year results last month. It revealed a cash NPAT of $27.4 million, up 140% on the prior corresponding period. The ASX financial share lost 1.71% in value on the day of the news.

McMillan Shakespeare Ltd (ASX: MMS) 

The company reported a statutory net profit spike of 158.5% to $83.5 million. But that wasn't enough to keep investors happy. The McMillan Shakespeare share price lost 3.77% in value on the day of the news.

RPM Automotive Group Ltd (ASX: RPM) 

In its FY24 results, the auto parts company revealed a 275% leap in net profit to $4.6 million, which was a record for them. Investors rewarded RPM Global with a 14.29% share price bump.

Bailador Technology Investments Ltd (ASX: BTI)

The technology-focused investment company reported an impressive 282% surge in NPAT in FY24 to $20.7 million. Enthusiastic investors pushed the Bailador Technology share price 2.56% higher on the day.

The post These 9 ASX shares revealed some of the biggest profit rises this earnings season appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At one point, Mcmillan Shakespeare shares had raced more than 7% into the green to fetch $19.64 apiece.

They have since pulled back from that mark and are currently fetching $17.92 apiece, which is nearly 3% lower on the day.

Let's see what the company posted.

ASX All Ords stock volatile despite strong full-year results

McMillan Shakespeare's FY24 performance highlights include:

• Revenues increased by 11.5% to $525.8 million
• Novated lease sales grew by 23.0%, with EVs making up 41.0% of all new sales
• Statutory net profit surged by 158.5% year over year to $83.5 million
• Normalised earnings per share (EPS) climbed 42.9% to 154.5 cents
• Declared a full-year fully franked dividend of $1.54 per share, up 24.2%

What else happened in FY24?

It was an interesting year for the ASX All Ords stock. Shares traded in a wide range, but the business saw substantial growth.

The company capitalised on Australia's transition to low-emission vehicles, with electric vehicles (EVs) accounting for 43% of new novated lease orders.

This is reportedly more than double the previous year's figures.

Meanwhile, nearly 12% of all new vehicle sales were EVs during the year, and 41% of new novated lease sales (note – sales, not leases as above) were EV, "almost four times the market".

McMillan Shakespeare also introduced a new brand, Oly, aimed at making novated leasing accessible to employees of small and medium-sized businesses. The soft launch of Oly is set to be followed by a broader rollout in FY25.

In the asset management services (AMS) segment, the easing of "vehicle supply constraints" led to a 16% increase in net financing and a 5% growth in assets.

Meanwhile, numbers were 10% higher in its plan and support services (PSS) segment, which serves participants of the national disability insurance scheme (NDIS).

It also declared a dividend of $1.54 per share, up 24% from last year. This could impact the ASX All Ords stock.

What did management say?

McMillan Shakespeare's CEO and Managing Director, Rob De Luca, expressed satisfaction with the company's achievements:

We're pleased to have achieved another strong year for MMS with organic growth across all segments. Not only have we delivered growth across our financial and operating metrics but, importantly, continued to deliver on our strategy and help more working Australians during a difficult year. As many Australians feel the cost-of-living pressures, we're proud to support our customers maximise their take home pay through our salary packaging and novated leasing offering.

What's next?

Looking ahead, McMillan Shakespeare plans to continue focusing on delivering sustainable growth in innovative leasing and salary packaging.

The new Oly brand will also have its launch in FY25.

CEO De Luca said the company was intent on helping customers make the transition over to EVs.

With cost-of-living pressures expected to continue in FY25 and as a wider range of brands and EV models enter our market in the months ahead, we're looking forward to helping more Australians make the switch to lower and zero emission vehicles including through our new Oly brand.

ASX All Ords stock snapshot

This ASX All Ords stock has been thrown around on Tuesday after its FY24 results.

In the last 12 months, it is up 7%.

The post ASX All Ords stock volatile despite 158% profit surge in FY24 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three ASX stocks that Bell Potter speaks highly of are listed below. Here's why they could be worth considering:

Gentrack Group Ltd (ASX: GTK)

This billing technology company could be an ASX stock to buy according to Bell Potter.

This is despite a very strong gain over the past 12 months which gives it a premium valuation. The broker feels this is justified by its strong long term growth potential. It said:

Although it appears expensive at c.40x FY24 and c.30x FY25 EV/EBITDA multiples, we believe the valuation is justified with a long and visible opportunity for revenue growth, as well as margin expansion following investment in headcount to deliver on its pipeline of deployments and integrations in addition to geographic expansion into Asia and EMEA.

Bell Potter has a buy rating and $10.90 price target on its shares.

McMillan Shakespeare Ltd (ASX: MMS)

This salary packaging and fleet management company could be another ASX stock to buy according to Bell Potter.

The broker is feeling very positive about the company's outlook for a number of reasons. It explains:

We see a strong FY24e earnings outlook, underpinned by our assumption for 17.6% novated lease volume growth YoY and passage of the Federal Government's Electric Car Discount Bill in November 2022, which exempts certain non-luxury zero and low emissions vehicles from Fringe Benefits Tax. MMS could additionally catalyse a reported $34.9m in unfulfilled vehicle orderbook revenue, provided that vehicle supply constraints reverse and derive operational efficiencies upon the release. EVs represented around 42% of new order volumes in 1H24 and annualised sales have grown strongly from 6.4% of the light duty vehicle segment to 8.9% in a rising market.

Bell Potter has a buy rating and $22.20 price target on its shares.

Regal Partners Ltd (ASX: RPL)

A final ASX stock that the broker is tipping as a buy is investment company Regal Partners.

The broker has been impressed with the company's performance and sees a lot of positives from a recent acquisition. It commented:

Regal Partners has continued to show value creation in CY24 with further inflows, new fund launches, and strong performance which is expected to translate into high performance fees, and recently another acquisition. […] This acquisition will add to FUM, is enhancing to EPS, but does not create an immediate overhang of stock. This latest acquisition further highlights the entrepreneurial culture, illustrated by the expansion through M&A (Attunga, Kilter, VGI Partners, Taurus, PM Capital and now Merricks) and is growing through the launch of new strategies. It is also highly profitable with earning high management and performance fees.

Bell Potter has a buy rating and $4.75 price target on its shares.

The post 3 fantastic ASX stocks to buy in August appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The new 2025 financial year has just started (for most businesses), and this could be a good time to consider which stocks may deliver the biggest payouts.

Of course, dividends are not guaranteed, and the highest yields of FY25 may not be sustainable in FY26, depending on their profitability.  

For a business to have a dividend yield of at least 10%, it's likely that the company has a relatively high dividend payout ratio and a fairly low price/earnings (P/E) ratio.

Big yields from these ASX dividend shares

Forecast dividends are not guaranteed to occur, but analysts expect the upcoming payouts from the below-selected stocks for FY25.

ASX coal share New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) is expected to pay a grossed-up dividend yield of 10.4%, according to Commsec.

ASX retail share Shaver Shop Group Ltd (ASX: SSG) is projected to pay a grossed-up dividend yield of 11.9%, according to Marketscreener.

Retailer Adairs Ltd (ASX: ADH) is forecast to pay a grossed-up dividend yield of 11.25%, according to Commsec.

Office property owner Centuria Office REIT (ASX: COF) could pay a distribution yield of 10.5%, according to Commsec.

Salary packaging and fleet management business McMillan Shakespeare Ltd (ASX: MMS) is projected to pay a grossed-up dividend yield of 11.75%, according to Commsec.

Shoe retailer Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1) is forecast to pay a grossed-up dividend yield of 10.5%, according to Commsec.

Would I buy these stocks?

I'd be attracted to buying shares of the retailers because they could be cyclical opportunities.

Discretionary spending isn't always going to be consistent – weaker economic conditions can lead to less household spending in the short term, which hurts retailers. But I believe that things could start improving in the medium term as wages keep rising and interest rates eventually come down. I think the lower share prices are opportunities with these retailers.

I don't know enough about McMillan or the salary packaging industry to feel confident about investing in the stock for dividends or whether the business will be able to achieve long-term earnings growth.

Energy is integral to our Western and emerging market economies, so New Hope could continue paying good dividends. However, many countries are talking about moving away from coal in the longer term, so there could be lower demand for coal in the foreseeable future. I'd be wary of investing with that apparent dynamic to play out in the coming decade or two.

The post Which ASX dividend shares are predicted to have the highest yields in FY25? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) is currently down 0.04% to 7,910.1 points.

But let's take a look at some results from three companies whose share prices are doing much better.

Bravura Solutions Ltd (ASX: BVS)

The Bravura Solutions share price rocketed 46% earlier to a new 52-week high of $1.40 on Tuesday. The ASX All Ords financial services management software provider has reported its 1H FY24 results. The company reported a return to profitability with a positive cash EBITDA of $300,000. EBITDA was $7.9 million, up $11.5 million on 1H FY23. Gross revenue came in at $127 million, up 7.4% on 1H FY23.

The ASX All Ord stock is currently trading for $1.23 per share, up 27.6%.

McMillan Shakespeare Ltd (ASX: MMS)

The 1H FY24 results of McMillan Shakespeare also has the market excited today. The ASX All Ords stock rose 15.2% to $20.10 in early trading after the employee benefits provider reported a 42.9% bump to normalised EBITDA at $86.9 million. The company declared an interim fully franked dividend of 76 cents per share, up 31% on last year's interim payment.

The ASX All Ord stock is currently trading for $20.06 per share, up 14.93%.

Perenti Ltd (ASX: PRN)

Record first-half results have this ASX All Ords mining services company surging on Tuesday. The Perenti share price hit a high of 94 cents this morning, up 10.6% after the company released its numbers. Perenti announced a record revenue of $1.6 billion and a record underlying EBITDA of $312.4 million. Statutory NPAT(A) in 1H FY24 was $69.8 million, up from $44 million in 1H FY23. Perenti said this was due in part to a gain on the "transformative, value accretive" DDH1 acquisition.

The ASX All Ord stock is currently trading for 93 cents per share, up 8.82%.

The post 3 ASX All Ords stocks surging 10% to 46% on earnings results appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In morning trade, the ASX 300 stock is up 8% to $9.00.

Why is this ASX 300 stock charging higher?

Investors have been bidding Smartgroup shares higher today after the fleet management and salary packaging company won a major government contract.

According to the release, following the completion of a competitive tender process, the South Australian Government has appointed Smartgroup as its exclusive administrator of salary packaging services and novated leasing services. The agreement is for an initial five years but could increase to 10 years including extensions.

The contract commences on 1 July 2024 and services will be made available to approximately 110,000 South Australian Government employees. In addition to salary packaging and novated leasing administration, the ASX 300 stock will exclusively manage a panel of third-party novated leasing providers or financiers.

Smartgroup's gain is a loss for McMillan Shakespeare Ltd (ASX: MMS). This morning, it confirmed that its current salary packaging and novated leasing agreement with the South Australian Government will not be renewed beyond its current term. Its shares were down on the news.

Smartgroup's CEO, Scott Wharton, said:

This was a highly competitive process and we are delighted to have been selected as the provider of these important services to the South Australian Government. This appointment reflects our compelling proposition for the South Australian Government and their employees, our longstanding commitment to South Australia, as well as our overall experience and capability in providing services to State and Federal Government employees across Australia.

Trading update

The ASX 300 stock also provided a trading update. It revealed that it expects 2023 net profit of approximately $63 million on revenue of approximately $249 million. This is largely driven by higher novated leasing volumes.

The post Guess which ASX 300 stock is jumping 8% on a major government contract win appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

On Wednesday, the latest monthly inflation figure came in much lower than what analysts were expecting. This has triggered much speculation that the Reserve Bank of Australia could be finished with interest rate hikes.

"This monthly CPI release, combined with weak consumer spending and rising numbers of unemployed people, means the RBA will almost certainly hold the cash rate steady at the December meeting," said CreditorWatch chief economist Anneke Thompson.

"This is good news for retailers and summer holiday makers, though consumers are likely to be wary of the fact that interest rates are likely to stay high until at least Q3 2024."

Once interest rates stabilise, it will have a buoyant effect on most ASX shares as consumers open their wallets again.

In this environment, perhaps these three ASX shares could be the best deals at the moment:

'Appealing capital returns'

When the economy picks up, energy consumption rises.

It's as simple as that.

No wonder then that Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) is currently rated a buy by 14 out of 16 analysts surveyed on CMC Invest.

The shares are at an attractive entry point currently too, having discounted 12.6% since 20 October.

Seneca Financial Solutions advisor Tony Langford is bullish on Santos due to the potential catalyst from a 2.6% sale of Papua New Guinea LNG to Kumul Petroleum Holdings.

"We believe the stock provides good value at these levels on top of appealing capital returns."

Santos shares pay out an unfranked dividend yield of 5.1%.

Cashing in on electric cars

Another dividend stock many experts are bullish on is McMillan Shakespeare Ltd (ASX: MMS).

Five out of six analysts currently surveyed on CMC Invest reckon it's not just a buy, but a strong buy.

Despite, or perhaps because of, an 18.8% surge in the share price since 23 October, Fairmont Equities managing director Michael Gable is bullish on the salary packaging and novated leasing services provider.

He explained how the business has benefited from government incentives for electric car adoption.

"In the 12 months since the introduction of the policy, the portion of McMillan Shakespeare's novated lease orders related to EVs has increased rapidly, to 36%."

McMillan Shakespeare hands out an outstanding 7% dividend yield, all franked.

'Outlook looks very strong'

After a rough few years, the experts are backing CSL Limited (ASX: CSL) to return to its glory years.

According to CMC Invest, 14 out of 17 analysts rate the biotechnology giant as a buy.

The share price has plunged more than 15% since mid-June, but DNR Capital chief investment officer Jamie Nicol dismissed the market's fears about the adverse impact of new GLP-1 weight loss drugs.

"CSL has a small kidney dialysis business that will potentially be affected a little, but it's not much," he said.

"So it's caught up in that bucket causing the stock to derate, yet its outlook looks very strong and defensive."

Seneca Financials' Langford likes one particular business unit within CSL.

"We believe this blood products group is undervalued at these levels given its brighter outlook."

The post The 3 best deals on the ASX today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.