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

James Hardie Industries plc (ASX: JHX)

The James Hardie share price is down 2.5% to $47.22. This may have been driven by a broker note out of Citi this morning. Ahead of the company's investor day event, the broker has reaffirmed its neutral rating and $53.40 price target. It appears to believe that trading conditions in the United States aren't particularly favourable for the company at present. This may have spooked investors and caused fears that tomorrow's event will contain some bad news.

Mader Group Ltd (ASX: MAD)

The Mader Group share price is down over 5% to $6.16. This has been driven by news that its founder and executive chair has sold down his stake. Luke Mader sold 9.75 million shares via a buyer-led share crossing at a discount of $6.15 per share. Mader Group advised that the buyer was a tier one global financial services company with over US$2 trillion in assets under management. Mr Mader remains the majority shareholder in the company, retaining 103,697,095 shares. This represents ~52% of Mader's issued capital. In other news, Mader Group has reaffirmed its FY 2024 guidance for revenue of at least $770 million and net profit after tax of at least $50 million.

MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM)

The MMA Offshore share price is down 2% to $2.64. This morning, this marine and subsea services provider revealed that its suitor, Cyan, has increased its takeover offer by 10 cents per share to a total of $2.70 cash per share. This was just one cent ahead of where its shares were trading yesterday. This appears to indicate that investors were expecting an even greater offer from Cyan. However, this is where it stops. Cyan has declared the improved proposal as its best and final offer, in the absence of a competing proposal. Its offer continues to have the support of MMA Offshore's directors.

WA1 Resources Ltd (ASX: WA1)

The WA1 Resources share price is down 8% to $18.96. This is likely to have been driven by profit taking following a whopping 27% gain on Wednesday. This was driven by news that its initial metallurgical testwork program on niobium mineralisation at the Luni deposit delivered strong results. Bell Potter was very pleased with the news and described it as a major de-risking event. It commented: "WA1 have passed a significant de-risking hurdle in confirming that niobium minerals from its Luni project can be concentrated via a two-stage floatation circuit with recoveries and concentrate grades in-line with dominant global producers." The broker responded by reiterating its speculative buy rating and lifting its price target to $28.00.

The post Why James Hardie, Mader Group, MMA Offshore, and WA1 shares are dropping today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

One is rocketing on the news.

The other is sinking.

Which ASX shares are we talking about?

Read on!

ASX share dips on takeover update

The first ASX share with a takeover update today is marine-related services provider MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM).

Investors first learned of the potential takeover of the company on 25 March. That's when the company reported it had entered into a binding scheme implementation deed with Cyan MMA Holdings to acquire all of its MMA Offshore's shares.

Cyan is owned by Seraya Partners, an infrastructure fund focused on energy transition and digital infrastructure. The original offer was for $2.60 cash per share, valuing the company at just over $1.0 billion.

The board unanimously recommended a shareholder vote in favour of the offer.

MMA Offshore chairman Ian Macliver said, "We have been in discussions with Cyan since October 2023, and the board has now reached the required level of confidence to enter into the scheme implementation deed."

The MMA Offshore share price closed up 10.6% on the day of that announcement.

Today, the ASX share is down 1.8% at $2.64 apiece after exiting a two-day trading halt.

This comes despite the company reporting that Cyan has increased its offer by 10 cents to $2.70 a share.

In the absence of a competing proposal, Cyan said this was its best and final offer. Perhaps some punters were hoping for more and are now exiting the stock.

Soaring higher on takeover update

This brings us to the ASX share, which is flying higher after the company updated the market on its own takeover proposal.

Shares in Bigtincan Holdings Ltd (ASX: BTH), which provides AI-powered sales enablement automation platforms, are up a whopping 17.4% at 11.5 cents apiece.

The tech company first announced its potential acquisition on 11 June.

At the time, Bigtincan reported:

Bigtincan has received a confidential, non-binding, incomplete and indicative offer from Vector Capital Management, L.P. at an indicative offer price of $0.25 per share.

The Independent Board Committee will, with the assistance of its financial and legal advisers, continue to carefully consider any proposals that maximise shareholder value and continue to ensure it remains in compliance with its confidentiality and continuous disclosure obligations.

The very next day, the company reported that Vector had formally withdrawn the offer, but "requested ongoing engagement with the company with a view to a new offer that could be submitted based on those engagements".

This followed a dilutive capital raise announced by Bigtincan on the day.

Today, the ASX share reported it had received a new offer from Vector at an indicative offer price of 19 cents per share.

While that's 65% above the current price, the board said it views the offer price as "insufficient to engage with Vector any further".

The board has now formally rejected the revised offer.

The post 2 ASX shares with big takeover updates today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ratings on CommSec are based on the consensus view of analysts covering the stock.

Let's take a look at a few who were elevated to a strong buy call.

7 ASX All Ords upgraded to a strong buy rating in March

South32 Limited (ASX: S32)

South32 shares were upgraded to strong buy on 8 March.

Today the South32 share price is $3.05, up 1.5%.

Morgans has an add rating and a 12-month share price target of $4.10 on the ASX All Ords mining share. This implies a potential upside of 34% for investors.

Morgans says:

S32 has transformed its portfolio by divesting South African thermal coal and acquiring an interest in Chile copper, substantially boosting group earnings quality, as well as S32's risk and ESG profile.

Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN)

The consensus analyst rating on Qantas shares changed to a strong buy on 7 March.

The ASX All Ords travel share is currently trading at $5.49, up 0.79%.

Goldman Sachs reckons it can go a lot higher than this. The broker has a 12-month share price target of $8.05 on Qantas. This implies a potential upside of 46%.

In a note, the broker said the company's 1H FY24 earnings provided "another proof point on reset earnings capacity".

Johns Lyng Group Limited (ASX: JLG)

Johns Lyng shares were upgraded to a strong buy on 5 March.

The Johns Lyng share price is currently $6.19, down 3.5%. My colleague Tristan has been buying the stock after seeing the company's FY24 first-half results.

According to CommSec, Johns Lyng is delivering superior earnings growth:

Over the last 3 years, earnings growth has averaged 24.84% annually at JLG. This is better than the industry average growth of 2.15%. For fiscal years 2024 and 2025, analysts are estimating that average annualized growth will be weaker than during the last 3 years.

Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limited (ASX: CUV)

The consensus analyst rating on Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals shares changed to strong buy on 15 March.

The ASX All Ords share is currently changing hands for $15.21, up 5.9%. Morgans has an add rating and a $22 share price target on the stock.

The company itself reckons it's going for cheap, too, and announced a share buyback in mid-March. Clinuvel is aiming to buy back up to 1.5 million shares over the next 12 months.

Management said the recent share price decline had taken the stock to a market valuation that was "no longer commensurate with the performance and expected outlook for the company".

MMA Offshore Limited (ASX: MRM)

The consensus analyst rating on MMA Offshore shares changed to a strong buy on 28 March.

The share price of the ASX All Ords marine services provider is currently steady at $2.61.

MMA reported one of the biggest profit jumps of the last earnings season with a 339% rise in underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) to $39.5 million in 1H FY24.

Last week the ASX All Ords share rocketed 10% on a $985 million cash bid from Cyan MMA Holdings.

Janison Education Group Limited (ASX: JAN)

The consensus analyst rating on Janison Education shares changed to a strong buy on 15 March.

Shares in the ASX All Ords education technology provider are currently trading at 29 cents, down 3.33%.

According to CommSec, Janison's earnings growth is well ahead:

Over the last 3 years, earnings growth has averaged 55.13% annually at JAN. This is better than the industry average growth of -1.26%. For fiscal years 2024 and 2025, analysts are estimating that average annualized growth will be weaker than during the last 3 years.

Ventia Services Group Limited (ASX: VNT)

The consensus analyst rating on Ventia shares changed to a strong buy on 5 March.

Shares in the ASX All Ords infrastructure maintenance services provider are currently $3.88, up 0.78%.

Ventia delivered a strong set of FY23 results, including a 12.5% increase in net profit after tax and amortisation (NPATA) to $202 million. It's now guiding 7% to 10% growth in NPATA for FY24.

According to CommSec, the company's earnings growth is notable:

Over the last 3 years, earnings growth has averaged 30.50% annually at VNT. This is better than the industry average growth of 2.15%. For fiscal years 2024 and 2025, analysts are estimating that average annualized growth will be weaker than during the last 3 years.

The post 7 ASX All Ords shares elevated to 'strong buy' status in March appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

However, a few highly successful public market debuts in the United States in recent weeks might signal a renewed spark. Social networking company Reddit Inc (NYSE: RDDT) made a major splash last week, jumping 48% upon its listed launch. Similarly, Donald Trump's Truth Social rose after becoming a public entity.

At the same time, businesses are being taken over by the boatload.

Vessel demand could lure new ASX IPO

On Monday, a company named MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM) entered a binding scheme implementation deed with Cyan MMA Holdings (a subsidiary of Cyan Renewables).

The deal values the marine services provider at $1.03 billion.

MMA Offshore owns 20 vessels operating across six global locations. These gigantic, water-traversing platforms enable a range of offshore solutions, including servicing other vessels, subsea surveying, and specialist engineering.

For the 12 months ended 31 December 2023, MMA Offshore generated $352.6 million in revenue and $108.6 million in net profits after tax (NPAT).

Given the current industry dynamics, some are labelling the takeover as 'opportunistic'. For instance, Lewis Edgley, Pendal portfolio manager, has said there is a demand-supply imbalance in the offshore servicing sector.

Companies like MMA Offshore were already popular with oil and gas clients. However, the growth in renewables, such as offshore wind power, has given rise to another need for service vessels — maintaining the increasing pool of offshore renewable assets.

Edgley describes it as a growth phase for offshore vessel operators. For most, it's an unsuspected beneficiary of the renewable shift. However, the interest from private equity could ignite greater investor appetite for similar companies.

Rumours are surfacing about a possible ASX IPO by an MMA offshore look-a-like — Bhagwan Marine.

It is believed the 24-year-old vessel operator is getting a read on investor interest with a roadshow in February. According to The Australian, the 150-vessel-strong company is rumoured to seek a $100 million IPO before the end of this financial year.

IPOs on the horizon

The next expected IPO on the ASX is BlinkLab, a company using artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver early diagnosis of autism and ADHD in children.

Based on the ASX website, BlinkLab is slated to hit the public market on 4 April, a week from today.

The company's executive chair is Brian Leedman, the person behind the formerly listed ResApp Health.

Those participating in the IPO hope Leedman will have the same success with BlinkLab as with ResApp, which left the Aussie boards after being acquired by Pfizer for $179 million.

The post Could this rumoured ASX IPO become a billion-dollar takeover target? 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:

Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG)

The Fortescue share price is up 3% to $25.40. This may have been driven by news that the mining giant's recently deployed electric excavator has now moved one million tonnes of material since going into action. Importantly, management advised that at times the electric excavator was performing better than its diesel equivalent.

Gold Hydrogen Ltd (ASX: GHY)

The Gold Hydrogen share price is up 14% to $1.47. This morning, this natural hydrogen and helium exploration and development company announced strong results from its Ramsay 1 and Ramsay 2 well testing. According to the release, the test confirmed up to 17.5% purity for helium, which ranks amongst the highest purity levels globally.

MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM)

The MMA Offshore share price is up 11% to $2.61. This follows news that the marine service provider has received and accepted a takeover offer. According to the release, the company has entered into a binding scheme implementation deed with Cyan MMA Holdings for the proposed acquisition of all its shares via a scheme of arrangement. The board unanimously recommends shareholders vote in favour of the $2.60 cash per share offer at the scheme meeting. Though, with its shares now trading above the offer price, it's possible that some investors believe a competing bid will materialise.

Sims Ltd (ASX: SGM)

The Sims share price is up almost 3% to $12.22. This morning, analysts at UBS upgraded the scrap metal company's shares to a buy rating with an improved price target of $14.50. The broker believes that its outlook is improving and highlights the discount its shares trade at compared to book value.

The post Why Fortescue, Gold Hydrogen, MMA Offshore, and Sims shares are pushing higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing on Monday morning, the ASX 300 is up a healthy 0.7%, while shares in this marine-related services provider are up 10.0%, trading for $2.585 apiece.

Any guesses?

If you said MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM) give yourself a virtual gold star.

Here's why investors are sending MMA Offshore shares soaring.

ASX 300 stock rockets on takeover offer

ASX investors are snapping up MMA Offshore shares after the company announced it has entered into a binding scheme implementation deed with Cyan MMA Holdings for the proposed acquisition of all the ASX 300 stock's shares via a scheme of arrangement.

Cyan is owned by Seraya Partners, an infrastructure fund focused on energy transition and digital infrastructure.

Under the proposed acquisition, shareholders will receive $2.60 cash per MMA Offshore share. That's 10.6% above Friday's closing price of $2.35 a share. And it values the ASX 300 stock on a fully diluted basis at approximately $1.03 billion.

Cyan said it plans to keep MMA Offshore's workforce and to expand further into offshore wind support services. Cyan also intends to continue offering marine and subsea services to existing clients in the offshore energy and broader maritime industries.

Commenting on the takeover offer sending the ASX 300 stock rocketing today, MMA Offshore chairman Ian Macliver said, "We have been in discussions with Cyan since October 2023 and the board has now reached the required level of confidence to enter into the scheme implementation deed."

Macliver added:

We believe Cyan's offer provides compelling value for MMA today, representing a 31% premium to the 90- day volume weighted average share price, a 91% premium to the company's net tangible asset value and a 7.7x earnings multiple based on annualised first half FY24 EBITDA.

The MMA Offshore board unanimously recommends shareholders vote in favour of the scheme at the scheme meeting, barring a superior proposal.

MMA Offshore share price snapshot

It's been a great year for MMA Offshore shareholders, with the ASX 300 stock now up 137% over 12 months.

The post Guess which ASX 300 stock is rocketing 10% on a $985 million cash bid! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shaw and Partners portfolio manager James Gerrish said in his newsletter that his team is "bullish equities through 2024/5".

"The ASX is stronger than many probably give it credit for. 

"If/when the resources sector enjoys a bid, the ASX 200 will be knocking on the 8000 door. e.g. The index's largest stock, BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), is still trading over 13% below its 2024 high."

So in this upbeat environment, which Australian shares are best set to elevate to the next level?

Here are four to consider:

When mining rises, so does this stock

Mader Group Ltd (ASX: MAD) is a maintenance contractor for clients in the mining industry.

Like Gerrish mentioned, the resources sector is in a low part of its cycle at the moment, so Mader shares are also down about 19% since September.

The stock even plunged after quarterly results that didn't look that bad in January.

But that gives it a low base off which to jump in 2024.

This theory will apply especially if western economies start recovering as a result of interest rate relief, and China begins stimulus to fight deflation.

All five experts surveyed on broking platform CMC Invest reckon Mader Group is a buy.

Shrug off the short sellers

A short seller attack on Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU) has seen its share price plummet almost 21% so far this year.

Analysts at Elvest Fund, which holds the stock, explained it best in a memo to clients.

"A short report targeting Neuren's US partner, Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ: ACAD), combined with unexpected holiday-period seasonality in sales for its flagship drug, Daybue, shook investor confidence."

But investors with years to invest need not worry.

"Our thesis for Neuren Pharmaceuticals is unchanged. New CY24 Daybue sales guidance of US$370 to US$420 million (+120%) underpins another solid year of royalty and milestone revenue for NEU. 

"This will aid commercialisation of its exciting pipeline drug, NNZ-2591, which has the potential to grow Neuren's addressable market five-fold in the coming years."

These Aussie shares have been unstoppable

The resurgence of MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM) shares has been simply stunning.

Check out these figures: up 76% over the past 12 months, up 477% since the start of 2022, up 754% since September 2020.

It seems the marine services provider is supplying its clients with indispensable offerings, if the latest reporting season is anything to go by.

"The marine services provider reported a massive 339% jump in underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) to $39.5 million in 1H FY24," reported The Motley Fool's Bronwyn Allen.

"The company said there was stronger demand for its vessels and services."

Tellingly, all five professional investors surveyed on CMC Invest rate the stock as a strong buy.

'Double or triple the existing footprint'

Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) is already on fire this year, enjoying a 24% increase in its stock price.

Elvest analysts loved the half-year report.

"EBIT [was] up 16% to $82 million, in part driven by a near record gross profit margin of 80.7%. Recent like-for-like sales turned positive, which bodes well for second half earnings."

But I think it can reach even higher, with the business expanding rapidly around the world.

The Elvest team agrees with this thesis.

"Looking beyond FY24, we remain excited about the company's aggressive global store roll[out] program, which could ultimately double or triple the existing footprint of 860 stores across over 40 markets."

The post 4 Australian shares set to soar in 2024 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In some cases, these mega profit gains led to significantly increased dividends for ASX investors, too.

Which ASX shares delivered the biggest profit increases?

Here is a selection of companies that delivered significant profit surges.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

The ASX biotech revealed a $157 million profit after tax in FY23, up from just $184,000 in FY22. Last year was a huge year for Neuren, which licenced its first drug, Daybue, to US partner Acadia Pharmaceuticals following FDA approval. The company does not pay dividends.

Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG)

Origin Energy reported an underlying profit of $747 million in 1H FY24, up by almost 1,600% on the $44 million reported for 1H FY23. Earnings in the electricity and natural gas segments increased due to the recovery of higher wholesale costs from previous periods, plus lower fuel costs. Origin shares will pay ASX investors a fully franked interim dividend of 27.5 cents per share, up 66% on 1H FY23.

Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)

Flight Centre reported a 565% lift in its underlying profit before tax to $106 million in 1H FY24. Revenge travel and historically low cost margins of just under 10% contributed to the profit surge. Flight Centre announced its first interim dividend since 2019. It will pay 10 cents per share, fully franked.

AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL)

Australia's largest electricity generator reported $399 million in underlying profit after tax, up 358.6% for 1H FY24. AGL said a more stable market and higher wholesale electricity pricing from prior periods flowed through to the bottom line. The ASX utilities share will pay an interim dividend of 26 cents, up 225%.

MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM)

The marine services provider reported a massive 339% jump in underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) to $39.5 million in 1H FY24. The company said there was stronger demand for its vessels and services. No dividend will be paid.

Inghams Group Ltd (ASX: ING)

Poultry producer Inghams reported a 107.5% increase in underlying net profit to $69.3 million in 1H FY24, driven largely by net selling price growth and operational performance improvements. Inghams shares will pay a fully franked interim dividend of 12 cents per share, up 167%.

Corporate Travel Management Ltd (ASX: CTD)

The corporate travel manager reported an underlying NPAT of $57.9 million, up 162% in 1H FY24 due to new customer accounts, improved efficiency, and better cost controls. The ASX travel share will pay an interim unfranked dividend of 17 cents per share, up 183% on 1H FY23.

Boral Ltd (ASX: BLD)

The building materials company reported an underlying NPAT surge of 143% to $138.6 million for 1H FY24. This was driven largely by strong price realisation, higher revenue and rigorous cost management. The board decided not to pay a dividend because of the company's low franking credit balance.

QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE)

The insurance company reported a 105% rise in adjusted cash NPAT to US$1,362 million for FY23.
This was underpinned by strong premium growth and targeted new business growth. QBE will pay its ASX shareholders a final dividend of 48 cents per share, up 60%.

RPM Automotive Group Ltd (ASX: RPM) 

RPM Global reported a record half NPAT, up 74% to $2.2 million. The company said the change from perpetual to subscription licensing continued to provide both operating and financial leverage to the business. No dividend will be paid.

Macquarie Technology Group Ltd (ASX: MAQ)

The company reported an NPAT of $14.8 million, up 74% on 1H FY23. Macquarie Technology attributed the profit bump to increased earnings, lower interest costs, and lower depreciation and amortisation. No dividend will be paid by this ASX tech share.

Australian Ethical Investment Ltd (ASX: AEF)

The ethical funds manager reported an underlying NPAT of $8.5 million, up 71% in 1H FY24 due to increased customer numbers and net inflows. Funds under management rose 15% to $9.67 billion. Australian Ethical shares will pay an interim dividend of 3 cents per share, up 50%.

The post Which ASX shares delivered the biggest profit jumps of the earnings season? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here's what is getting investors excited today:

Hipages Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: HPG)

The Hipages share price is up 11% to $1.02. This morning, this online tradie marketplace operator reported a 15% increase in both revenue and recurring revenue to $37.4 million and $35.2 million, respectively, and a 45% jump in EBITDA to $8.4 million.

This was driven by increases in connection volumes, subscription tradies, and average revenue per user.

Hipages CEO and co-founder Roby Sharon-Zipser said:

Our marketplace has benefitted from ongoing momentum arising from the current uncertain macroeconomic environment, where we have seen a clear increase in demand from tradies using the hipages platform to connect to jobs posted by consumers.

Consumers are benefiting from increased engagement and competition for those jobs.

MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM)

The MMA Offshore share price is up over 6% to $2.10. Investors have been buying the marine service provider's shares after it reported a 28% lift in revenue to $204.3 million and a massive 339% jump in underlying net profit after tax to $39.5 million.

MMA Offshore managing director David Ross commented:

Market conditions continue to be positive with strong demand for our vessels and services and ongoing rate improvements driving a 97% increase in EBITDA as compared to the first half of FY2023.

The medium-term outlook for offshore activity remains strong with over US$500 billion in greenfield oil and gas projects forecast to be sanctioned globally over the next five years including over US$180 billion in our key operating regions.

Superloop Ltd (ASX: SLC)

The Superloop share price is up 7% to 81 cents after investors responded positively to the telecommunications company's half-year results. Superloop posted a 32.7% increase in revenue to $197.6 million and a profit after tax (before amortisation) of $1.2 million. The latter compares favourably to a loss of $8.3 million a year earlier.

Superloop CEO and managing director Paul Tyler said

We are very pleased to report another period of strong financial performance, delivering record organic revenue and net new customer growth over the period. Importantly, all three segments contributed to this growth.

The post 3 under-the-radar ASX shares going gangbusters on results appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Historically, regional properties have been a cheaper option for investors, delivering superior rental returns but less capital growth than the cities. And it was harder to find a good long-term tenant.

What's the equivalent in shares?

Are ASX small-cap shares seen as the inferior choice to ASX 200 blue-chip shares?

Depends on your point of view. Small-caps are riskier investments but the good ones can deliver more share price growth than the large-caps over the long term. But they typically don't pay dividends, so there's no yield for their investors, and they can struggle to perform in poor economic conditions.

But are times changing? Are regional properties and ASX small-caps looking more attractive these days?

Over the past three years, regional properties have actually grown at a faster rate than city properties.

They've still delivered superior rental returns, and it's become much easier to find a tenant with the average regional vacancy rate currently as low as the cities at 0.8%, according to Domain data.

And what about ASX small-cap shares?

Some experts are saying they're looking more attractive, given they were sold off as interest rates rose, and now that rates are expected to fall, their prospects for share price gains look better.

Let's investigate further.

Buying investment property in regional areas

A key reason why capital cities have historically delivered better capital gains is population density and growth.

Migration is the primary driver of our population growth, and we don't build enough new homes. That means housing demand goes up at a rapid rate every year, with all those new arrivals needing homes immediately. Natural increase (births minus deaths) raises housing demand much more slowly.

On top of that, Australia only has eight capital cities, and almost 70% of us choose to live in one of them.

But Australia has just undergone a dramatic population shift.

During the pandemic, working from home enabled thousands of city dwellers to relocate to the regions for more affordable housing and arguably a better lifestyle.

In 2020, interstate migration reached its highest level since the Australian Bureau of Statistics began keeping records in 2001.

This trend continued for a while, leading to massive property price growth. So much so that the 10-year rate of capital growth is now higher in the regions, as this chart shows.

This has changed the game when it comes to buying investment property.

While that COVID surge in interstate migration has tapered back, remote work is a permanent change.

This means future generations will have far more choices as to where to live. This may create permanent changes in our population movement, especially given the housing affordability challenges in our cities.

The Regional Australia Institute (RAI) estimates that 3.5 million Australians are interested in relocating to regional areas today.

Difficulty finding employment was previously a deterrent to regional living. Now, people can take their jobs with them, or find one pretty easily locally.

The Federal Government's newly released State of Australia's Regions 2024 report says three years of record agricultural production and expanded tourism have contributed to strong regional economic growth and a more than doubling of regional job ads over the four years to October 2023.

Put all that together, and regional property markets seem to have stronger economic fundamentals to support better capital gains in the future.

Plus, most of them are still cheaper than city markets and still deliver better rental yields.

Will this see more people buying investment property in regional areas?

It seems so, with research by MCG Quantity Surveyors revealing the average distance between landlords' primary residences and their property investments soared to 1,502km in the year to November 2023.

It was just 293km before COVID.

For the record, regional South Australia delivered the best capital gains of the regions in 2023 at 9.4%.

Buying ASX small-caps for investment

ASX small-cap shares are those with a market capitalisation of between a few hundred thousand and $2 billion.

They are typically young and growing companies that have yet to establish strong, consistent earnings. They often don't do well when interest rates are rising because they're carrying debt to enable expansion.

Their share prices are volatile, and their trading liquidity is often constrained.

However, for investors with medium to high risk tolerance, ASX small caps can be more attractive. This is mainly because their prospects for long-term capital growth can be better.

Andy Gracey, portfolio manager of the Emerging Companies and the Australian Shares Fund at Australian Ethical Investment, says ASX small-cap shares may do better this year.

In an interview with my colleague Bernd last month, Gracey said:

Small companies and particularly microcap companies have underperformed their Australia blue-chip peers over the last few years, so there certainly is rationale to anticipate some form of catchup for these emerging companies.

Gracey has some tips for investors interested in buying ASX small-cap stocks this year.

Morgans analysts also think ASX small-cap shares may be in for a good year, commenting:

Small-caps have historically bounced hardest upon confirmation of a flattening-out in the rates cycle. Several ingredients remain in place supporting a rebound in this space (rates, trading/fundamentals, sentiment/positioning). We think the tide is turning for small-caps, and now is an opportune time to build exposure to forgotten small-caps.

Morgans says their favourite seven forgotten small-caps include ASX biotech Clinuvel Pharmaceuticals Limited (ASX: CUV) and debt collector Credit Corp Group Limited (ASX: CCP).

Broker Bell Potter says luxury retailer Cettire Ltd (ASX: CTT) and electrical infrastructure products group IPD Group Ltd (ASX: IPG) are small-caps worth buying.

LSN Emerging Companies Fund likes financial services provider EQT Holdings Ltd (ASX: EQT) and MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM).

Joe Wright of Airlie Funds Management says ASX small-cap stock selection is crucial. He recommends avoiding 'concept' companies and those with excessive gearing.

The post Is buying investment property in regional areas like buying ASX small-cap shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Already some green shoots have popped up.

The analysts at LSN Emerging Companies Fund have invested in a couple of those, and have explained why they are bullish:

'Higher barriers to entry and attractive long term cash flows'

Financial services provider EQT Holdings Ltd (ASX: EQT) enjoyed an 8% rise in share price in January, all while delivering a 3.5% fully franked dividend yield. 

The LSN analysts are looking forward to more of the same.

"Strong growth in funds under management, tailwinds from rising equity markets and the benefits from its AET acquisition will see earnings compound 17% over the next 3 years," read their memo to clients.

Both Ord Minnett and Wilsons agree with the LSN team, rating EQT shares a strong buy, according to CMC Invest.

The LSN memo noted that the company is led by "a capable management team".

"We think the company is well positioned to deliver substantial returns for shareholders over the years ahead with recent M&A in the sector further highlighting the higher barriers to entry and attractive long term cash flows these businesses produce."

The small cap that's been the exception to the rule

MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM) has defied the small-cap malaise for a while now, doubling its share price over the past 12 months.

It's an incredible 350% rise if you go back two years.

After the stock added another 11.2% last month, the LSN team admitted they took some profits — but it still holds MMA Offshore for the long run.

"MMA Offshore has enjoyed a meteoric share price rise over the past two years as the marine and subsea service sector benefits from strong demand and limited supply of vessels."

The turnaround in the business has been remarkable.

"MMA has transformed from a loss-making company saddled with onerous debt obligations to now generating around $50 million profit and balance sheet with net cash.

"The outlook remains favourable given increasing customer capex, particularly in offshore wind and rig decommissioning projects."

It's no wonder all five analysts surveyed on CMC Invest insist MMA Offshore is still a strong buy.

The post 'Substantial returns over years ahead': 2 ASX small caps starting 2024 with a bang appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

However, there is no doubt proper research can reduce the risk — or probability — of underperformance or even losses.

I think there are three ASX stocks that are stable businesses with reasonably certain demand for their products and services.

Plus the majority of professional investors seem to be bullish from this point on.

They are as close to "no brainer" buys right now before they soar in a bull market:

Old favourite could become a new favourite

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares made many Australians wealthy for decades, but the last few years have been disappointing.

The stock price is still 12.8% lower than its pre-COVID peak in February 2020.

And throughout that time experts have predicted a resurgence, as more Americans return as plasma donors with pandemic fears wearing off.

After two years of disappointment, the long-awaited share price revival could finally be happening.

CSL shares have rocketed more than 27% since 30 October.

Professional investors are now slobbering over the biotechnology giant, with 13 out of 15 analysts currently surveyed on CMC Invest rating CSL as a buy.

The ASX stock cashing in on the energy crisis 

In contrast, the MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM) share price has more than doubled over the past 12 months.

Despite this, Canaccord, Euroz Hartleys, Moelis Australia, PAC Partners, and Shaw & Partners all currently recommend the ASX stock as a strong buy, a CMC Invest survey shows.

The situation is that much of the world is scrambling for energy security after wars broke out in Ukraine and the Middle East.

This has shot up demand for energy producers in other jurisdictions, meaning more work on offshore oil and gas rigs.

And those companies are the clients that MMA Offshore provides marine services to.

With renewable energy infrastructure not ready to dominate for years yet, MMA is expected to see its work increase even further in the coming years.

The mining flavoured investment that isn't cyclical

Commodity prices and mining activity often reflects the state of the economy.

And with western economies deliberately slowed to fight inflation and China combating deflation, it is not outrageous to suggest the world is at the low part of the cycle.

That's why adding a mining technology provider RPMGlobal Holdings Ltd (ASX: RUL) might not be a bad move before a bull market begins.

As economies get going again, demand for resources will head up, and so will commodity prices and mining.

Unlike its cyclical clients, RPMGlobal is a growth stock. The past five years has delivered an impressive 215% return for investors.

According to CMC Invest, both Moelis Australia and Veritas Securities rate the ASX stock as a strong buy.

The post 3 no-brainer ASX stocks I'd buy before a bull run appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Even if that amount is as little as $10,000, you can have a decent go at setting up a nice stream of passive income for yourself.

The places you could end up using the power of ASX shares and compounding could surprise you.

Let me throw up a hypothetical using one particular stock:

A market darling tipped to go even further

MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM) is a stock that many experts are particularly fond of at the moment.

The business provides marine services to clients with sea-borne infrastructure such as oil and gas rigs.

With the world experiencing energy anxiety over the past couple of years since Russia invaded Ukraine, MMA Offshore has been going gangbusters.

Just since November alone, the stock has gained more than 54%.

Over the longer term, the MMA Offshore share price has rocketed 107% over the past five years.

According to CMC Invest, all five analysts that cover it reckon MMA Offshore is a strong buy.

Just four years to produce passive income

Past performance, of course, is never an indicator of the future. But we can use this track record to demonstrate how you could grow your $10,000 into a passive income generator.

The last half-decade of returns from MMA shares equate to 15.7% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).

Even if we round that down to 15%, a $10,000 investment could take you to $2,500 of yearly passive income very swiftly.

The "trick" is to keep saving money and add $100 to the nest egg each month.

At that rate, after four years, the MMA shares will amount to $23,482.

From then on, selling off the 12% gain each year would reap you $3,522.

That's $3,500 of cash for no work.

Right now $10,000 will buy you 5,181 MMA Offshore shares.

So what are you waiting for?

The post $10,000 in excess savings? I'd buy 5,181 shares of this ASX stock to aim for $3,500 in passive income appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

If anything, that shows how crazy real estate is in Australia's largest metropolis, and says nothing about how valuable a million bucks is.

Seven figures can provide financial freedom, so potentially you never have to work again.

One of the best ways of reaching the magic mill is to invest in ASX shares.

Of course, there are no guarantees in life. But you're never going to have a chance if you don't at least try.

Let me show a couple of shares that experts are loving at the moment to demonstrate how you could reach the promised land:

Uranium is so hot right now

Deep Yellow Limited (ASX: DYL) is a uranium producer operating projects in Western Australia and Namibia.

The global uranium spot price has doubled in the past year as nations start to look to nuclear power to meet their energy needs in a market that's now missing a major supplier in Russia.

Nuclear power is also in favour for many jurisdictions as a method of producing huge amounts of power in return for little carbon emissions.

The Deep Yellow share price has climbed a stunning 97% over the past 12 months. But experts in the know believe there is more where that came from.

Last weekend's shock announcement from the world's largest uranium producer, National Atomic Company Kazatomprom Joint Stock Company (FRA: 0ZQ), that its production forecasts have been downgraded caused a frenzy in financial markets.

Uranium and uranium stocks rocketed out of fears that tight global supply would force many customers to turn to the spot market and pay market — rather than fixed — prices.

The situation showed just how sensitive the nuclear fuel market is at the moment.

All up, Deep Yellow shares have gained 232% over the past half-decade. All five analysts that cover the stock believe it is a strong buy at the moment, according to CMC Invest.

The ASX shares the experts love at the moment

Related to the energy crisis is MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM).

It's a marine services provider that lends out necessities like ships to clients with offshore facilities such as oil and gas rigs.

The MMA Offshore share price has literally doubled in the past year as demand for its services has gone through the roof.

Similar to Deep Yellow, this run-up hasn't put off professional investors.

CMC Invest currently shows all five analysts rate the stock as a strong buy.

After the ups and downs over the past five years, MRM Offshore shares are now trading 109% higher.

How to reach $1 million 

If you are skilled and lucky enough to buy a couple of shares like these, you are in with a real shot at a million.

Over the past five years, Deep Yellow shares have returned a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.1%, while MRM Offshore has managed 15.9%.

Let's say you start with a $50,000 portfolio.

The average CAGR for our two sample stocks is 21.5%. If your portfolio can grow at that rate and you keep adding $400 each month, you will reach seven figures in just 14 years.

That's an early retirement for many people.

If you start at age 30, then that's a million bucks at just 44. Even if you begin investing at 40 years old, you reach your target at 54, which is much earlier than Australia's legislated retirement age.

The post I'd invest in these 2 ASX shares for a real shot at $1 million appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Many investors would avoid it, thinking that it's had its run.

But the reality is that shares have no memory. 

That stock doesn't care that it has grown 140%. All that matters is whether the business performance justifies further stock price rises.

There is one ASX stock out there in this exact situation, which multiple experts are still recommending as buys.

Let's see what they have to say:

'Industry is expected to remain undersupplied'

MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM) shares have indeed risen 142% since 9 December 2022.

And the analysts at Celeste Funds pointed out that just last month the marine services provider enjoyed an 18% boost in its valuation.

In a memo to clients, they said the company was basking in "favourable conditions" for its offerings.

"In a recent trading update, MMA Offshore guided to 1h24 EBITDA to be in the range of $55 million to $60 million, representing a 55.4% upgrade to consensus expectations."

"The company pointed to the vessels, subsea and project logistics divisions all delivering higher than expected earnings for the first four months of the year."

But that's not the end of the fun.

The Celeste team reckons the backlog of demand for the marine sector will keep the shares pumping along.

"As the offshore service vessel industry is expected to remain undersupplied, we are of the view MMA Offshore will continue to benefit from higher vessel [utilisation] and output prices over the medium term."

Unanimous love for this ASX stock

It seems everyone's a fan.

According to CMC Invest, all five analysts that cover MMA Offshore agree with the Celeste team, rating the stock as a strong buy.

The analysts at LSN are also bullish, revealing in their memo to clients that they have held onto MMA Offshore shares rather than cashing in the winnings.

"With net cash on their balance sheets and compelling valuations at the time of investment, these share prices enjoyed significant gains from both earnings upgrades and multiple expansion."

The post Up 140% in 13 months, experts are still backing this ASX stock for the long run appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

If we're not mistaken, there just might be a sparkle of optimism in the air. Let's hope 2024 comes through with lots of positive energy that will help us achieve our Motley mission to make the world smarter, happier, and richer.

To that end, we asked our Foolish writers to let us know which top ASX shares they reckon are worth adding to your must-have list for 2024. Here is what the team came up with:

6 best ASX shares for January 2024 (smallest to largest)

• MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM), $700.12 million
• Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1), $1.09 billion
• Life360 Inc (ASX: 360), $1.53 billion
• Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE), $1.63 billion
• Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV), $2.68 billion
• Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), $64.69 billion

(Market capitalisations as of market close 29 December 2023).

Why our Foolish writers love these ASX stocks

MMA Offshore Ltd

What it does: MMA Offshore provides marine services to clients with infrastructure in the sea, such as providing boats to get personnel out to oil rigs or wind turbines.

By Tony Yoo: The energy insecurity caused by wars in Europe and the Middle East has seen MMA Offshore's clients boom. This in turn is benefitting investors in the seafaring services provider, with the stock price almost doubling last year. If you go back to the start of 2022, the stock has rocketed more than 400%.

Despite this spectacular rise, many experts are tipping further rises for the shares. Glenmore portfolio manager Robert Gregory noted recently how the business has "a high fixed cost base" while it welcomes more work, making for a "likely" upside to future earnings.

Motley Fool contributor Tony Yoo does not own shares of MMA Offshore Ltd.

Accent Group Ltd

What it does: Accent is a footwear and apparel retail powerhouse across Australia and New Zealand. The company distributes through popular brands such as Timberland, The Athlete's Foot, Skechers, and Vans across an 821-strong store footprint.

By Mitchell Lawler: The retail industry can be ruthless and unforgiving. It can be all too easy to end up trying to compete on price – a race to the bottom that has led to many retailers collapsing throughout history. 

Fortunately, I consider Accent Group a company that wields a competitive advantage unrelated to product price… distribution. Walk into any major shopping centre, and you'll often find Accent's brands dominating in footwear, unbeknownst to most shoppers. 

It's the illusion of choice. Whether a 'sneakerhead' decides to buy some fresh kicks from Platypus or Glue Store, the sale is going into Accent's back pocket either way. The historical revenue growth is evidence of the success. 

Motley Fool contributor Mitchell Lawler does not own shares of Accent Group Ltd.

Life360 Inc

What it does: Life360 operates in the digital consumer subscription services market with a focus on products and services for digitally native families. Its core offering is the Life360 app, which offers features such as communications, driver safety, and location sharing.

By James Mickleboro: I think Life360 is one of the best tech stocks on the Australian share market and doesn't get anywhere near as much attention as it deserves.

In November 2023, the company released its third quarter update and reported global monthly active users (MAU) of 58.4 million, an increase of 24% from the same period a year earlier. This gives it a significant user base to monetise in the future.

It is partly because of this latent monetisation opportunity that Goldman Sachs is so bullish on the company. In fact, Goldman is forecasting Life360 to grow its revenue from US$228.3 million in FY 2022 to US$444.7 million in FY 2025.

The broker currently has a buy rating and a $10.50 price target on its shares.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro owns shares of Life360 Inc.

Boss Energy Ltd

What it does: Boss Energy is a uranium company primarily focused on its Honeymoon Uranium Project in South Australia. 

By Bernd Struben: The Boss Energy share price surged 89% in 2023. This saw the stock added to the ASX 200 as part of the December quarterly rebalance. And I think there's more outperformance to come.

Global uranium demand is booming amid renewed interest in nuclear power. With demand growth outpacing supply, uranium prices soared more than 50% in 2023. And with 22 nations at Cop28 having pledged to triple their nuclear power capacity, strong uranium prices are likely to continue.

Boss commenced its first mining activities at Honeymoon in October last year. And the company is set to become a multi-mine uranium producer in H1 2024 after acquiring 30% of the Alta Mesa In Situ Recovery Project in the US in December.

As at 30 September 2023, Boss had no debt, cash on hand of $63 million and a uranium stockpile worth $144 million.

Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben does not own shares of Boss Energy Ltd.

Lovisa Holdings Ltd

What it does: Lovisa sells affordable jewellery to younger shoppers from a network of stores in numerous countries such as Australia, New Zealand, the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany. 

By Tristan Harrison: The company has done an excellent job of growing its store count up until now. It has only just recently entered into a number of countries, including Canada, Mexico and Poland. It's about to enter other appealing markets like China and Vietnam, which have huge populations.

I think Lovisa can open stores in a lot more countries around the world, and existing markets (like the US) offer lots of room for more stores without cannibalising sales.

As its store network grows, scale can help increase the net profit before tax (margin), which could come with stronger cash flow, a stronger dividend and ultimately, a rising Lovisa share price. I'm excited by the five-year outlook for this company, which is why I recently invested.

Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison owns shares of Lovisa Holdings Ltd.

Wesfarmers Ltd

What it does: Wesfarmers is a rather strange company in that, despite being one of the largest shares on the ASX, is not a household name. However, most Australians would have heard of Kmart, Officeworks, Target and, of course, Bunnings – just a few of this conglomerate's bevy of brands. 

By Sebastian Bowen: I love buying quality ASX shares with diversification built in. And Wesfarmers certainly ticks both of those boxes. This company has proven to be one of the most astute managers of capital on the ASX over many decades. Some of its biggest moves, like buying Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) in 2007, are legendary amongst the investing community. 

Today, Wesfarmers offers investors exposure to industries as diverse as energy, lithium, clothing and chemical manufacturing. As well as its retail crown jewels. I think Wesfarmers has what it takes to deliver meaningful capital growth over 2024 and beyond. Plus, you get a nice, fully-franked dividend over 3% as well.

Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen owns shares of Wesfarmers Ltd.

The post Top ASX shares to buy in January 2024 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This could be the case with MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM).

Although not mentioned much in the financial press, this ASX stock is going gangbusters. And experts like Glenmore Asset Management portfolio manager Robert Gregory are bullish on it.

Let's examine what's going on:

'A very positive trading update'

MMA Offshore provides marine transport and logistics services to clients with oceanic infrastructure like oil rigs and subsea cables.

With the energy sector enjoying a boom since Russia stampeded into Ukraine almost two years ago, MMA Offshore has seen its revenue and net profit head north.

The market has appreciated it, sending its share price rocketing 338% since the start of last year.

Gregory, in a memo to clients, noted the MMA share price soared 25% last month alone.

"MMA Offshore issued a very positive trading update, stating that EBITDA for 1H24 is expected to be in the range of $55 to $60 million, which was 40% to 45% ahead of market expectations."

Looking good for earnings upgrades 

The business is currently firing on all cylinders.

"Pleasingly, MMA Offshore said all divisions of the group — vessels, subsea and project logistics — are performing strongly in FY24 to date."

The outstanding aspect of the MMA Offshore operations is that its expenses are reasonably stable even when the volume of work scales up.

This makes for plenty of future potential, according to Gregory.

"Given MMA Offshore has a high fixed cost base, we believe further earnings upside is likely, given the tight demand/supply conditions for the vessels that MRM charters to the oil and gas and offshore wind sectors."

Gregory's peers unanimously agree with his affection for this ASX stock.

CMC Invest currently shows all five analysts that cover MMA Offshore rate its shares as a strong buy.

The post 'Earnings upside likely': The hot ASX stock that no one's talking about appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is now 2.6% up for December, and over in the US the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) is flying 1.7% higher.

Experts say the share market is always looking a half-year ahead, and it seems investors are convinced interest rate cuts are not far away.

In this buoyant mood with Christmas just 11 days away, what are the three best deals on the ASX right now?

Doubled in the past year

The small-cap specialists over at LSN Emerging Companies Fund this week named MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM) as one that they continue to be bullish on, despite already having made plenty of money out of it.

Over the past 12 months, notwithstanding the dark economic clouds, the marine services provider has seen its share price more than double.

The recent news out of the annual general meeting kept impressing the LSN analysts.

"It indicated 1H24 EBITDA would be in the range of $55 million to $60 million, materially above expectations and 80-90% above 1H23, with all parts of the business… performing strongly."

It's a beneficiary of the global energy shortage, as that's the industry its clients are in.

"A combination of strong demand for offshore vessels and limited new supply of vessels in recent years is seeing day hire rates accelerate, driving strong profit growth."

Amazingly, all five analysts currently surveyed on CMC Invest rate MMA Offshore as a strong buy.

Almost doubled in 7 weeks

In the fintech world, Block Inc CDI (ASX: SQ2) shares have been breaking necks with their rapid rise.

Since the start of last month the stock price has rocketed an unbelievable 76%.

The team at QVG reckons Block Inc made an important pivot in recent months that's returned the business to the investors' good books.

"These products (e.g. the Square card reader terminal) have always promised lucrative economics at scale, but it hasn't been until recent history that the company has committed to a more [disciplined] investment in its cost base."

The fintech was also notorious for regularly issuing new stocks to staff, diluting existing shareholder value. But that's also stopped.

"They committed to a more cohesive organisational structure within Square, an absolute limit on headcount (below the current headcount) and, perhaps channelling Dr Evil, a $1 billion dollar buyback," read the QVG memo to clients.

"The 22% upgrade to CY24 EBITDA expectations didn't hurt either."

Much like MMA Offshore, all three analysts unanimously think Block Inc shares are a strong buy, according to CMC Invest.

One of the best deals for long-term investors

Resmed CDI (ASX: RMD) is apparently putting investor panic over GLP-1 weight loss drugs behind it, as the share price has popped more than 18% since 27 October.

Fairmont Equities managing director Michael Gable reckons this revival could catch fire because of the doubters having to cover their positions.

"We expect the shares to recover, fuelled by short covering," he told The Bull.

"ResMed revenue rose 16% in the first quarter of fiscal year 2024 compared to the prior corresponding period."

The professional community is still warm over the long-term prospects for the sleep apnoea device maker.

According to CMC Invest, 18 out of 24 analysts currently rate ResMed shares as a buy.

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

However, it seems multiple experts are tipping a turnaround in 2024.

The team at LSN Emerging Companies Fund is one of those groups that reckon the stage is set for a small-cap comeback.

"November showed the early signs of a recovery in global small caps, with Small Industrials (+8.6%) materially outperforming ASX Top 20 (+4.0%), as the underlying investment fundamentals on offer start to become the focus," it stated in a memo to clients. 

"This has continued into December with small caps stocks starting to unwind the significant underperformance relative to larger cap stocks over the last two years."

This potential is triggered by the prospect of an ease in interest rate pressures.

"With the recent downside surprise in both US and domestic inflation, markets are now pricing multiple interest rate cuts in 2024, which is a far more attractive backdrop."

The analysts named two small-cap ASX shares specifically they are bullish on:

'Strong demand' and 'limited new supply'

MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM) is not often discussed, but its share price has gained an incredible 69.5% this year.

The LSN team has done pretty well out of the company already but continues to have a bullish outlook.

"Offshore service vessel operator MMA Offshore has been a core holding in the portfolio since early 2022," read the memo.

"At its AGM in November, [it] provided a trading update, where it indicated 1H24 EBITDA would be in the range of $55 million to $60 million, materially above expectations and 80-90% above 1H23, with all parts of the business… performing strongly."

The company provides ships and services to clients that have offshore oil rigs and the like.

And because its customers are booming, so is MMA Offshore.

"A combination of strong demand for offshore vessels and limited new supply of vessels in recent years is seeing day hire rates accelerate, driving strong profit growth."

MMA Offshore currently sits among LSN's five biggest holdings.

Believe it or not, all five analysts surveyed on CMC Invest currently think MMA Offshores shares are a strong buy.

'Significant driver of growth'

Data centres and telecommunications provider Macquarie Technology Group Ltd (ASX: MAQ) has seen its shares rally almost 24% off a February trough.

New clients are climbing aboard as the appetite for cloud computing expands by the day.

The analysts at LSN like the look of one particular contract signed recently.

"Macquarie Technology Group has been given approval from the NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) for their data centre expansion (IC3 Super West), commenting that 'the development is in the public interest and should be approved, subject to conditions'.

"This project is the significant driver of growth for Macquarie Technology, given it will triple its current data centre capacity at [a] time of explosive demand for cloud services."

The post 'Explosive demand': 2 small-cap ASX shares in for a massive 2024 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

As reported in The Australian, here are 3 ASX All Ords shares that have just been re-rated by the pro traders.

Siteminder Ltd (ASX: SDR)

Siteminder is an ASX All Ords technology share, and it's having a ripper week. The Siteminder share price is up 8.4% since last Friday's close after the company revealed a 31% revenue bump in the September quarter. SiteMinder provides software for the hotel industry. Morgan Stanley has given the stock an overweight rating with a 12-month share price target of $4.75. At the time of writing, the SiteMinder share price is up 3.4% to $4.26. So, the price target implies a potential lift of 11.5% over the next year.

Infomedia Limited (ASX: IFM)

Infomedia is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) provider to the car parts and servicing industry. Bell Potter thinks this ASX All Ords tech stock has great potential for growth from here. The Infomedia share price is currently $1.48, up 1.7% for the day. The broker has slapped a buy rating on the stock with a share price target of $1.75. So, we're talking 18% potential upside over the next 12 months.

MMA Offshore Ltd (ASX: MRM)

MMA Offshore provides marine-related services. For example, it has a fleet of specialised offshore support vessels that provide services to oil and gas rigs, including subsea repairs of the rigs themselves. The stock is up an impressive 32% in the year to date amid the ASX All Ords losing 0.5%. The MMA share price is currently $1.25, up 2.6% on Thursday. PAC Partners has just commenced coverage with a buy rating and a price target of $1.65. So, the broker reckons the stock can rise another 30% within the year.

The post 3 ASX All Ords shares receiving broker upgrades (one with 30% upside) appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.