If you're an Aussie investor with an eye on the booming healthcare sector, chances are you've heard the buzz around Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU) and Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX). Both companies have delivered innovative breakthroughs—one in neurological disorders, the other in targeted cancer diagnostics and therapy—and have captured strong market interest in recent years. But with some striking differences in their fundamentals, income appeal, and share price momentum, which healthcare stock is the better buy right now?

The case for Neuren Pharmaceuticals

Neuren Pharmaceuticals is a biotechnology company specialising in developing novel treatments for rare neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly those that affect children. Its flagship drug, DAYBUE (trofinetide), was approved by the US FDA in March 2023 as the first ever treatment for Rett syndrome, and is licensed in the US through Acadia Pharmaceuticals. According to its recent company profile, DAYBUE remains the only approved therapy for this indication. Neuren is also progressing trials of new candidates targeting additional syndromes, signalling a vibrant pipeline.

A few key fundamentals stand out:

• Neuren's market cap sits at $2.60 billion, making it a sizeable but nimble biotech.
• It has begun generating earnings (EPS 0.154), but its P/E ratio is a lofty 131.95—which is very high even for biotechs, reflecting both growth optimism and risk.
• Uniquely among many peers, Neuren actually pays a dividend: its current yield is 0.74%, with full (100%) franking reported on its latest interim payout of $0.15 per share.

That rare combination of cutting-edge drug development, early earnings, and a dividend (albeit modest) gives Neuren a distinctive profile for income-hunting investors interested in the healthcare sector.

The case for Telix Pharmaceuticals

Telix Pharmaceuticals is another home-grown biotech success story, but with a different therapeutic focus. Telix develops and commercialises theranostic (diagnostic and therapeutic) products using targeted radiation, with emphasis on treating and imaging cancers such as prostate, kidney, and brain tumours. The company's prostate cancer imaging agent, Illuccix, already has approvals in Australia, the US, and Canada, with the UK and Europe also on its radar. Telix boasts a substantial pipeline, with over 20 clinical trials underway across multiple countries and therapeutic areas.

Key Telix fundamentals from the dataset:

• Telix's market cap is $5.93 billion—more than double Neuren's—marking it as one of the sector's heavyweights on the ASX.
• It's also generating positive earnings (EPS 0.099), and its P/E ratio is 121.97 – Like Neuren, this figure is very high compared to the broader market.
• However, Telix does not offer a dividend at present—its yield is 0%—which is fairly standard for a rapidly reinvesting biotech but removes any immediate income appeal.

Telix's size and global reach, plus its diverse late-stage pipeline, make it an intriguing candidate for growth investors focused on healthcare innovation.

Valuation comparison

Since both companies are ASX-listed healthcare innovators of comparable maturity, the core valuation metrics stack up as follows:

Note: Both companies' P/E ratios are extremely high relative to the general market, which is typical for biotech stocks where earnings are newly positive and future growth is heavily priced in. Also, while both have positive EPS, the relationship between reported EPS and the stated P/E may be based on different earnings definitions (trailing, underlying, or forecast), so the exact calculation might not match.

Recent share price performance

Looking at the past month: 19 August to 17 September 2026.

• Neuren Pharmaceuticals shares rose from $22.85 to $20.54 over this period—so, a decline, with notable volatility (including a single-day drop of 10.6%).
• Telix Pharmaceuticals, in contrast, jumped from $16.84 to $17.45, including several days of strong upward moves (up as much as 8.6% in a day).
• Year to date, Neuren is up 10.2%, while Telix leads with a 50.6% return.
• Only Neuren has paid a recent dividend (ex-date 15 Sep 2026, $0.15 per share, fully franked).

Which is the better buy?

While both Neuren Pharmaceuticals and Telix Pharmaceuticals are stellar examples of Aussie healthcare innovation, I'd lean toward Telix Pharmaceuticals as the better buy right now. The verdict comes down to sheer momentum and growth potential—Telix's YTD return of 50.6% absolutely crushes Neuren's 10.2%, and the recent price charts show Telix enjoying much stronger investor confidence. Both sport very high P/E ratios, but Telix's rapid expansion into global cancer markets and its larger scale tip the balance for me, even without a dividend.

Neuren deserves credit for delivering both earnings and a small (but fully franked) dividend at such an early growth stage, which will appeal to income collectors who value some extra yield from their healthcare allocations. But if I had to pick between the two for exposure to biotech upside, Telix's global opportunity, ongoing clinical advancements, and share price trajectory look more compelling.

Of course, biotech investing always carries risk, and these companies' high valuations reflect market excitement about a promising—but not guaranteed—future. But based on the available data, my pick would be Telix Pharmaceuticals for investors seeking strong recent growth and commercial momentum in healthcare.

The post Neuren Pharmaceuticals vs Telix Pharmaceuticals: Which healthcare stock is best? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

ASX shares going ex-dividend next week

Check out which ASX shares go ex-dividend today.

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

The S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) reached a 9-year low on 3 June following a 39% 12-month pummelling.

Healthcare shares tanked due to many industry headwinds, including the FX rate for companies reporting in US dollars; cost of living pressures; higher shipping and labour costs; and US regulatory uncertainty for biotech businesses. 

Value investors have since swooped in, and reassuring FY26 results and guidance during earnings season last month propelled the rebound further.

Healthcare shares are now 42% higher since 3 June versus a 2% rise for the broader ASX 200 Index.

During the August earnings season, ASX 200 healthcare shares jumped 19% while the ASX 200 moved up 1.1%.

Here are 3 ASX 200 healthcare shares with buy recommendations and promising 12-month price targets from Bell Potter.

Mesoblast Ltd (ASX: MSB)

The Mesoblast share price is $2.21, down 0.9% today and steady over 12 months. 

Since 3 June, this ASX 200 healthcare share has risen 9.4%.

Bell Potter has a buy recommendation on Mesoblast shares with a $4.45 target.

This implies the Mesoblast share price could double over the next 12 months.

Analyst John Hester said: 

(All US$m) Revenues $120.2m and loss at the EBIT line -$49.9m were in line with our forecast. Ryoncil sales of $115m were at the mid-point of the guidance range.

Operating expenses $153m were dominated by R&D expense ($97m), driven by the investment in label expansion for Ryoncil and the ongoing Phase 3 trial for Rexlemestrocel in chronic lower back (CLBP).

Loss at NPAT $57.4m with net cash burn for the year -$43.8m inclusive of just -$13m in 2H26.

MSB has a long pipeline and label expansions for Ryoncil alone which we expect will come to market on a 3 to 5 year time horizon.

Pivotal moments in the short term include the interim readout on adult GvHD and the pending submission of the BLA for Rexlemestrocel in HF.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

The Neuren Pharmaceuticals share price is steady at $20.46 on Tuesday, and down 2% over 12 months.

Since 3 June, this ASX 200 healthcare share has streaked 51% higher.

Bell Potter has a buy rating on Neuren Pharmaceuticals shares with a $25.50 target.

This implies a potential 25% gain over the next 12 months.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals has also just started paying investors dividends.

Analyst Thomas Wakim said:

NEU remains very well capitalised with $286.5m in cash at 30-June. Considering the (1) strong cash position, (2) recent Daybu guidance upgrade, and (3) imminent Daybu launch in Europe, NEU have commenced a dividend program, starting with an interim dividend of $0.15/share (fully franked).

The dividend provides a moderate yield for shareholders, however capital growth will dominate future shareholder returns and is the reason to own the stock in our view, particularly as the binary Phase 3 readout in PMS draws closer (estimated in ~1H CY28), the result of which will largely determine whether NEU is a one-trick pony or whether they repeat the glory a second time round with NNZ-2591.

Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL)

The Sonic Healthcare share price is $19.44, down 0.7% today and down 15% over 12 months. 

Since 3 June, this ASX 200 healthcare share has risen 3%.

Bell Potter says buy with a $27.50 target, suggesting a possible 41% upside ahead.

Analyst Martyn Jacobs commented:

SHL reported EBITDA of c.$1.92b (cc) which was within the guidance range of c.$1.87b – c.$1.95b.

On a reported basis, EBITDA of c.$1.93 was in line with consensus, but c.1.5% below BPe.

The result was impacted by a range of nonrecurring items that more than offset the one-off gain from the Brisbane lab sale &
leaseback transaction.

While the headline EBITDA margin was c.10bp lower than pcp, margins in the 2H showed meaningful improvement at c.19% v
c.16.7%.

The post 3 ASX healthcare shares to buy with 25% to 100% upside as sector rebound races higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

By the time the markets closed, the ASX 200 had dropped a nasty 0.98%. That leaves the index at 9,038.2 points.

This tough Thursday for Australian investors came after a milder night on the US markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) couldn't hold water, falling 0.21%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared better, only losing 0.081% of its value.

But let us return to the local markets now for a closer look at how the different ASX sectors traversed this Thursday's tough trading conditions.

Winners and losers

It was a bleak landscape out on the boards today, with only two sectors managing to escape intact.

Firstly, though, it was consumer discretionary stocks that copped the worst of it today. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) was slammed, crashing 3.18% lower.

Tech shares suffered too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) plunging 2.38%.

Gold stocks didn't hold their value either. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) tanked 1.54% this session.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) were in a similar boat, as you can tell by the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)'s 1.45% dive.

Consumer staples shares were no safe haven. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) cratered 1.43% today.

Nor were mining stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) copping a 1.18% beating.

Communications shares had a day to forget, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) saw its value erode 1.06%.

Utilities stocks also suffered, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)'s 0.99% tumble.

Financial shares weren't popular either. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) slid 0.68% lower this Thursday.

Our last losers were energy shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) slipping down 0.19%.

Turning to the two green sectors now, the best place to hide out today was in healthcare stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) was spared, lifting a comfortable 0.23%.

Finally, our other winners were industrial shares, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ)'s 0.03% bounce.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Our chart-topper this Thursday was healthcare stock Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC). Ramsay shares surged 13.72% higher this session to hit $50.06 by close. This came after the company reported its latest earnings this morning.

Here's how the other top stocks landed their planes:

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Among the 11 market sectors of the ASX 200, healthcare is the only one in the green, up 0.3%.

As earnings season continues, brokers are busy updating their ratings.

Let's check out some new recommendations.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

This ASX healthcare share is $20.60 apiece, up 2.2% today and up 8% over 12 months.

Bell Potter reiterated its buy rating on Neuren Pharmaceuticals shares after the company's 1H FY26 report.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals announced a maiden fully-franked interim dividend of 15 cents per share.

The broker kept its 12-month share price target at $25.50. 

This implies potential capital gains of almost 25% ahead.

Analyst Thomas Wakim said:

The dividend provides a moderate yield for shareholders, however capital growth will dominate future shareholder returns and is the reason to own the stock in our view, particularly as the binary Phase 3 readout in PMS draws closer (estimated in ~1H CY28), the result of which will largely determine whether NEU is a one-trick pony or whether they repeat the glory a second time round with NNZ-2591.

Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC)

The Whitehaven Coal share price is $8.10, up 0.4% today and up 19% over 12 months.

Morgans downgraded its recommendation from buy to hold due to recent share price strength.

After reviewing the miner's FY26 results, the broker reduced its 12-month target from $8.50 to $8.05.

This implies the ASX 200 energy share is already fully valued.

Morgans commented:

WHC delivered a mixed result, with EBITDA broadly in line with consensus expectations, although underlying NPAT missed slightly.

A 6c dividend was declared, consistent with consensus.

The effects of poor coal prices in the 1H provided a significant headwind for the full-year result.

FY27 guidance was softer than expected, with production growth appearing limited given the unchanged upper end of group guidance, while both costs and capital expenditure expectations have moved higher.

Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV)

The Endeavour share price is $3.05, down 0.5% today and down 23% over 12 months.

Morgans maintained a trim call on the ASX 200 consumer staples share after Endeavour's FY26 report.

The broker cut its target price from $3.20 to $2.95, suggesting a 3% downside ahead.

Morgans said:

There were no major surprises in EDV's FY26 result after the company pre-announced its key numbers (sales, underlying EBIT and underlying NPAT) in early August.

However, the outlook for costs was greater than anticipated as EDV increases investment to execute its new strategy.

Management noted that competition remains intense in the Retail segment, particularly in the online channel, while Hotels sales growth softened in early 1H27 across all key categories (food & beverage, gaming and accommodation).

We expect FY27 to be a disruptive year as EDV implements its transformation initiatives.

Liquor demand also remains under pressure from elevated interest rates, ongoing cost-of-living pressures and a subdued consumer environment.

Given these headwinds and the execution risk associated with the transformation program, we believe the balance of risks remains skewed to the downside.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Whitehaven, Endeavour, Neuren Pharmaceuticals shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Neuren Pharmaceuticals report?

• Revenue rose 8% to $42.7 million (H1 2025: $39.7 million)
• Net profit after tax dropped 68% to $4.9 million (H1 2025: $15.0 million)
• Basic earnings per share was 3.83 cents (H1 2025: 11.88 cents)
• Fully franked interim dividend of 15 cents per share declared
• Royalty income from DAYBUE (trofinetide) up 29% in US dollars to US$23.3 million
• Research and development costs increased to $27.4 million, up $12.5 million

What else do investors need to know?

Neuren's royalty income is primarily from DAYBUE sales by Acadia Pharmaceuticals, which posted US$226 million net sales in H1 2026, up 25% on last year. Growth was buoyed by the launch of DAYBUE STIX, a new powder formulation, in the US.

The company's research spend climbed as it advanced its Phase 3 study of NNZ-2591 in Phelan-McDermid syndrome. Neuren also implemented an on-market share buy-back, repurchasing $3.9 million in shares.

Importantly for shareholders, Neuren's new dividend policy has resulted in a fully franked interim dividend, to be paid in October. This marks the company's first ever payout and reflects its confidence in ongoing royalty streams.

What did Neuren Pharmaceuticals management say?

Neuren's CEO, Jonathan Pilcher, commented:

Neuren's substantial income from trofinetide means that we are in the enviable position of being able to fund all development programs for NNZ-2591 aiming for significant capital appreciation, as well as optimise total shareholder return through ongoing fully franked dividends.

What's next for Neuren Pharmaceuticals?

Looking ahead, Neuren expects continued growth in global DAYBUE sales, with Acadia guiding for 2026 net sales of US$480–510 million. The first commercial launch in Europe is targeted for Q4 2026, following a positive opinion from the European Medicines Agency.

Neuren will also focus on progressing its NNZ-2591 clinical programs, with key FDA meetings scheduled and trial sites ramping up for rare neurodevelopmental disorders. Management aims to leverage these investments into further royalty income and milestone payments.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals share price snapshot

The Neuren Pharmaceuticals share price has outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the past 12 months with a gain of over 25%.

View Original Announcement

The post Neuren Pharmaceuticals reports lower profit but launches first dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Neuren report?

• The European Commission has granted marketing authorisation for DAYBU (trofinetide) for Rett syndrome.
• DAYBU is the first and only approved treatment for Rett syndrome in the European Union.
• Neuren to receive US$35 million from the first European commercial sale, with milestone payments up to US$170 million.
• Tiered royalties from mid-teens to low 20s percent of net sales are also expected under the partnership.
• Commercial launch in Germany is targeted for early Q4 2026.

What else do investors need to know?

The European approval means DAYBU can be marketed across all 27 EU member states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. This milestone further extends the reach of trofinetide, which is already approved in the United States, Canada, and Israel.

Neuren's other clinical program, NNZ-2591, is progressing with a Phase 3 clinical trial for Phelan-McDermid syndrome and open-label extension studies. Each of Neuren's drug development programs has been granted "orphan drug" status in both the US and EU.

What did Neuren management say?

Neuren CEO Jon Pilcher said:

We are delighted for the Rett syndrome community in Europe, who, until now, have had no approved treatment for this devastating condition. The European Commission's approval of DAYBU is particularly rewarding for Neuren given our long-standing commitment to developing therapies for serious neurological disorders with profound unmet need. We look forward to seeing our partner Acadia make DAYBU available for Rett patients and families in Europe.

What's next for Neuren?

With European marketing authorisation, Acadia plans to launch DAYBU in Germany in early Q4 2026, which will trigger Neuren's first commercial milestone payment. Ongoing development of NNZ-2591, now in late-stage trials for several neurodevelopmental disorders, remains a key priority for future growth.

Neuren continues to target serious neurological conditions where few approved treatments exist, aiming to advance both its existing partnerships and its internal drug pipeline.

Neuren share price snapshot

The Neuren Pharmaceuticals share price has outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the past 12 months with a gain of approximately 27%.

View Original Announcement

The post Neuren share price in focus after DAYBU wins EU approval for Rett syndrome appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The index opened sharply lower this morning, but recovered throughout the day to post a loss of just 0.086% for the session. That leaves the ASX 200 at 9,263.6 points as we head into the weekend.

This cooler end to the Australian trading week today comes after a red session up on Wall Street last night.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) had a rough time of it, losing a hefty 0.85%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared much better, though, dropping by just 0.057%.

But let's return to the local market now and check out how the different ASX sectors traversed today's tepid trading conditions.

Winners and losers

Despite the market's retreat, we still saw plenty of sectors record a rise today.

But first, it was financial shares that led the selling. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) was hit hard this Friday, slumping 0.95%.

Healthcare stocks weren't popular either, with the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) tanking 0.92%.

Industrial shares were on the nose too. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) took a 0.62% dive this session.

We could say the same for consumer discretionary stocks, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ)'s 0.62% dip.

Utilities shares weren't much better. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) sank 0.43% by the end of the day.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) didn't hold water, with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) drifting down 0.09%.

Our last losers this Friday were communications stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) slipped 0.04% lower.

Let's get to the green sectors now. Leading the pack were again gold shares, as you can see from the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD)'s 3.45% jump.

Broader mining stocks didn't miss out either. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) soared 1.32% by the closing bell.

Tech shares also ran hot, with the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) shooting up 0.77%.

Energy stocks were on the winning team today, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) advanced 0.58%.

Finally, consumer staples shares proved to be a safe haven, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)'s 0.11% rise.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Lithium stock Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) took out our top index spot this Friday. Liontown shares enjoyed a significant 9.26% surge to $1.18 today.

That came despite no news or announcements from the company.

Here's the rest of today's best: 

Enjoy the weekend!

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here's what's been piquing investor interest this week.

Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX)

At time of writing Westgold shares are changing hands for $5.59 apiece, putting this ASX 200 stock up 18.2% for the week.

The Aussie gold miner got a big boost on Wednesday, after announcing it was increasing the processing capacity at its Western Australian Cue processing hub from 1.4 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) to 1.7 Mtpa by FY 2028, representing a 21% boost.

The miner expects this will enable it to increase gold production by some 15,000 ounces per year.

"Bigger mines need bigger mills," Westgold CEO Wayne Bramwell said.

He added:

This simple upgrade and modest capital investment at the Cue hub reflects a deliberate shift towards processing hub optimisation and expansion, with lower operating costs and higher cashflow the objective.

Pinnacle Investment Management Group Ltd (ASX: PNI)

The second ASX 200 stock storming higher on big news this week is financial services company Pinnacle Investment.

Pinnacle shares are currently trading for $18.74 each, up 17.3% since last Friday's close.

Investors bid up the Pinnacle share price following on the company's full year FY 2026 results release on Tuesday.

Highlights included a 28% year on year increase in aggregate funds under management (FUM) to $229.4 billion. That was supported by record net inflows of $33.4 billion, including retail and international inflows.

On the bottom line, Pinnacle shares got caught tailwinds with the company reporting FY 2026 underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) of $138.0 million, up 21%.

Commenting on the results, Pinnacle CEO Ian Macoun said:

We continue to build Pinnacle to deliver sustained high rates of growth for many years into the future. Our distinct business model and Three Horizons growth strategy have built a highly diversified platform across asset classes, geographies and product formats.

Which brings us to…

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

Neuren shares are currently trading at $22.39, which sees this ASX 200 stock up an impressive 24.2% for the week.

Shares in the ASX 200 biopharmaceutical company closed up 16.3% on Wednesday following the release of Neuren's second quarter (Q2 2026) update.

Investors were piling into the stock, with Neuren reporting a 24% quarter-on-quarter increase in net sales from its patented prescription drug DAYBUE to US$125 million.

This saw full calendar year 2026 DAYBUE net sales guidance increased to the range of US$480 to US$510 million.

"We are pleased to see an exceptional quarter for DAYBUE, with very strong sales volume growth reflecting the early success of [DAYBUE] STIX in the US," Neuren CEO Jon Pilcher said.

The post 3 ASX 200 stocks storming higher this week on big news appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because listed below are five ASX 200 broker buy ratings from this week.

Here's what is being recommended by brokers:

Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC)

UBS is positive on this copper miner's shares. It was pleased with the company's solid quarterly performance, which revealed production and costs largely in line with expectations.

According to the note, UBS has retained its buy rating with a reduced price target of $17.50. Based on its current share price of $15.19, this implies potential upside of 15% for investors.

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

The team at Morgans is bullish on this debt collector's shares. Following the release of its record FY 2026 results, the broker retained its buy rating with a trimmed price target of $18.25. This implies potential upside of over 35% for investors from current levels.

Morgans notes that "at ~7.7x FY27F PE, the valuation continues to appear undemanding."

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Macquarie is recommending Netwealth as an ASX 200 stock to buy ahead of its results release this month.

The broker believes the investment platform provider will deliver a result in line with the market's expectations. It also feels confident about its FY 2027 guidance.

As a result, Macquarie has retained its outperform rating on Netwealth's shares with a slightly improved price target of $32.60. Based on its current share price of $24.91, this implies potential upside of 31% over the next 12 months.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

The team at Bell Potter is recommending this biotechnology company's shares to investors this week.

In response to an "impressive" quarterly sales update, the broker has retained its buy rating on Neuren Pharmaceuticals shares with an improved price target of $25.50. 

Based on its current share price of $21.56, this implies potential upside of 18% for investors.

Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW)

Bell Potter remains bullish on this gaming technology company. In response to its second quarter update, the broker has retained its buy rating on the ASX 200 stock with a trimmed price target of $183.00. Based on its current share price of $118.08, this implies potential upside of 55% for investors over the next 12 months.

The broker highlights that its analysts "see a resumption in top line growth occurring in 4Q26. We believe LNW offers compelling value at 10x EV/EBIT(A) given growth metrics."

The post 5 ASX 200 broker buy ratings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For those unfamiliar, it is a biopharmaceutical company. It specialises in developing new therapies for neurodevelopmental disorders that emerge in early childhood and are characterised by impaired connections and signalling between brain cells.

Why did Neuren Pharmaceuticals shares rise?

As reported by The Motley Fool yesterday, the company reported record Q2 DAYBUE net sales of US$125 million. This was up 30% on last year, with Q2 royalty income jumping 34% to US$12.9 million.

Speaking on the results. Neuren CEO Jon Pilcher said:

We are pleased to see an exceptional quarter for DAYBUE, with very strong sales volume growth reflecting the early success of STIX in the US, as well as achievement of the positive CHMP opinion – both important steps toward bringing trofinetide to more patients with Rett syndrome globally. Subject to approval being confirmed, we now look forward to Acadia's anticipated European launch later this year.

Since the 26 of June this year, Neuren Pharmaceuticals shares are up an impressive 77%. 

After such a quick rise, investors may be wondering if they have missed the boat. 

The team at Bell Potter have issued a report following the gain. The broker believes there is still plenty of room for growth. 

Here's what the broker had to say. 

Strong update

According to the report, it was a strong update for Daybue, reporting Q2 sales of US$125 million, up 30% year-on-year and well above expectations. 

Bell Potter said the growth was driven by strong uptake of the new STIX powder formulation, which is now used by around 60% of US patients and has also encouraged some former patients to restart treatment. 

European approval is expected by the end of Q3 2026, with sales likely to begin in Q4, triggering a US$35 million milestone payment to Neuren.

Acadia also raised its 2026 sales guidance to US$480-510 million, highlighting continued confidence in Daybue's growth. 

For Neuren Pharmaceuticals, this means higher expected royalty income and milestone payments over the next few years, with Bell Potter forecasting around A$78 million in royalties plus a A$48 million milestone in 2026, rising to approximately A$100 million in royalties and a A$71 million sales milestone in 2027. 

Price target increase

Based on this guidance, Bell Potter retained its buy recommendation for Neuren Pharmaceuticals. 

It also raised its price target to $25.50 (previously $23.50). 

From current levels, this indicates an upside potential of almost 18%. 

The post Are Neuren Pharmaceuticals shares a buy, hold or sell after rocketing 16%? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After some mid-morning jitters, investors regained their confidence in afternoon trading and pushed the index up decisively to a new record high. Yep, the ASX 200 clocked a new record of 9,230 points this afternoon before closing at 9,227.8 points, up 0.9% for the day, by market close.

This exuberant hump day on our local markets comes after an equally excited night on the American bourse.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) had another breakout session, gaining 1.71%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was even giddier, rising a massive 2.59%.

But let's return to ASX shares now and examine how today's jubilation on the markets cascaded down into the different ASX sectors.

Winners and losers

Despite today's new records, there were still some sectors that weren't invited to the party.

The most conspicuous of those were energy shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) was left out in the cold today, crashing 2.22% lower.

Utilities stocks weren't popular either, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) plunging 1.62%.

Communications shares missed out as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) took a 0.59% dive this session.

Financial stocks missed out too, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)'s 0.44% slide.

Our last losers this Wednesday were consumer staples shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) ended up slipping 0.31%.

Let's turn to the winners now. Gold stocks shone the brightest, with the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) exploding 6.42% higher.

Broader mining shares weren't forgotten. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) soared up 3.56% today.

Tech stocks had a day to remember as well, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ)'s 2.51% spike.

Healthcare shares showed off their vitality, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) surged up 1.7%.

Industrial stocks didn't miss out either, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) leaping 1.01%.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) got an invite to the ASX party. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) galloped 0.79% higher this hump day.

Finally, consumer discretionary shares found plenty of buyers, as you can tell from the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ)'s 0.74% lift.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Healthcare stock Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU) was our best performer out of a long line of hefty winners this Wednesday. Neuren shares rocketed a whopping 16.28% higher today to finish at $21.64 each.

This came after the company released some pleasing quarterly numbers.

Here's how the other top stocks tied up at the dock: 

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Neuren Pharmaceuticals report?

• Q2 2026 DAYBUE net sales reached US$125 million, up 30% year-on-year and 24% quarter-on-quarter
• Q2 royalty income for Neuren was US$12.9 million, up 34% year-on-year
• Acadia raised full-year 2026 DAYBUE net sales guidance to US$480–510 million
• Expected full-year 2026 royalty income for Neuren upgraded to US$53–56 million
• Strong volume-driven sales growth, with DAYBUE STIX uptake exceeding expectations

What else do investors need to know?

DAYBUE STIX, the new powder formulation, saw rapid uptake in the US, with 40% of DAYBUE patients using STIX by the end of Q2. Around 45% of the STIX demand came from new or returning patients, showing strong product adoption.

A positive opinion from the European Medicines Agency's CHMP in June brings Neuren closer to a European launch. Approval by the European Commission could see commercial launch in Germany in early Q4 2026, unlocking additional milestone and royalty payments for Neuren.

In Japan, the pivotal trofinetide trial remains on schedule, with results expected between September and November 2026 and a regulatory submission targeted for 2027.

What did Neuren Pharmaceuticals management say?

Neuren CEO Jon Pilcher said:

We are pleased to see an exceptional quarter for DAYBUE, with very strong sales volume growth reflecting the early success of STIX in the US, as well as achievement of the positive CHMP opinion – both important steps toward bringing trofinetide to more patients with Rett syndrome globally. Subject to approval being confirmed, we now look forward to Acadia's anticipated European launch later this year.

What's next for Neuren Pharmaceuticals?

Looking ahead, Neuren expects to benefit from further international expansion, with potential new revenue streams from Europe and Japan. The company is also advancing its pipeline, including a Phase 3 trial for NNZ-2591 targeting multiple rare neurodevelopmental disorders, with additional data due over the coming year.

Guidance upgrades from partner Acadia and accelerating patient uptake signal momentum for DAYBUE® net sales through 2026 and beyond.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals share price snapshot

The Neuren Pharmaceuticals share price is now up around 25% over the past 12 months, comfortably outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO).

View Original Announcement

The post Neuren Pharmaceuticals share price rockets: record Q2 DAYBUE sales and royalty upgrade appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After confident gains throughout the early trading week that pushed the markets to a four-month high, investors got a reality check today, with the ASX 200 opening lower and remaining in red territory all session.

The index ended up finishing with a 0.78% loss by the time trading wrapped up, leaving it at 8,967.7 points.

This miserable Thursday for Australian investors came after an even tougher night over on Wall Street last night.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was smashed, dropping a nasty 2.19%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) wasn't quite as bad, but still fell a significant 1.74%.

Let's return to the local markets now and examine how the different ASX sectors fared amid today's rough trading conditions.

Winners and losers

There were only a couple of sectors that weren't sold off this session.

But first, it was gold stocks that were hit hardest. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) saw its value plunge 3.65% this Thursday.

Mining shares were hit hard too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) tanking 1.59%.

Consumer discretionary stocks were also on the nose. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) cratered 1.39% today.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) weren't much better, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)'s 0.99% dive.

Utilities shares were in that ballpark as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) saw its value shrink 0.85% this session.

Industrial stocks were close behind, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) sinking 0.83%.

Consumer staples shares were no safe haven. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) gave up 0.64%.

Nor were communications stocks, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 0.57% dip.

Healthcare shares had more sellers than buyers, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) tumbled 0.41%.

Our last losers were financial stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) sliding down 0.37%.

Turning to the winners now, it was tech shares that stole the spotlight. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) shot up a healthy 0.91% this Thursday.

The other safe haven was energy stocks, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ)'s 0.32% jump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Fast food stock Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP) was our top stock this Thursday. Domino's shares roared 9.08% higher to close at $19.59 each today.

This came after the company posted an earnings update after market close yesterday. Investors clearly liked what they saw.

Here's how the other top stocks tied up at the dock: 

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After yesterday's lethargic showing, investors came back to the ASX boards with a little more pep in their steps, sending the ASX 200 0.37% higher. After staying in green territory all day, the index ended up closing at 8,841.1 points.

This confident mid-week session for the Australian markets follows a sunny session on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) had a lukewarm day, rising by just 0.018%.

However, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was far more bullish, gaining 0.9%.

Let's get back to the local markets now and dive a little deeper into what the various ASX sectors were up to today.

Winners and losers

We had more green sectors than red ones this session.

Leading the red sectors were communications shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) was shunned, tumbling 1.2%.

Gold stocks had a similar experience, with the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) diving 0.95%.

Energy shares found themselves on the nose, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) retreated 0.57% this hump day.

We could say the same for consumer staples stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) dipping 0.56%.

Healthcare stocks couldn't hold their own either, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)'s 0.38% slide.

Our last losers were consumer discretionary shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) slipped 0.22% lower by the close of trading.

Let's turn to the winners now. Leading the push higher were mining stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) surging 1.7%.

Utilities shares were far tamer, though. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) lifted 0.17% today.

Financial stocks were also in that ballpark, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)'s 0.15% advance.

Tech shares followed financials. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) jumped 0.13%.

Then we had real estate investment trusts (REITs), with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) also bouncing 0.13% higher.

Finally, industrial stocks rounded out the winners this Wednesday, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ)'s 0.07% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Our best performer this hump day was miner Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN). Kingsgate shares shot up 15.89% this session to finish at $4.23 each.

This came after the company reported some guidance and production updates, which clearly went down well with the market.

Here's how the other top stocks tied up at the dock: 

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

As a new financial year begins, brokers have indicated continuing confidence in several ASX 200 shares.

This week, they renewed their buy calls on the following stocks, with updated 12-month price targets for FY27. 

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

Over FY26, the market's largest ASX 200 mining share skyrocketed 62% to close out the year at $59.40. 

Morgan Stanley renewed its buy rating on BHP shares this week.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $67.50. 

This suggests more than 10% upside over FY27. 

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

The market's largest ASX 200 gold mining share rose just 2% to $18.95 over FY26.

UBS reiterated its buy rating on Northern Resources shares this week.

The broker reduced its price target from $24.35 to $23.75. 

This implies potential capital gains of 25% ahead.

ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ)

This ASX 200 bank share rose 21% to close out the financial year at $35.35. 

Citi reaffirmed its buy rating on ANZ shares with a price target of $39.25.

This implies potential capital gains of 11% in the new financial year. 

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

The stock price of this diversified ASX 200 miner rebounded 188% to $62.07 in FY26. 

UBS reaffirmed its buy rating on Mineral Resources shares this week.

The broker lowered its price target from $83 to $79.

This implies potential capital gains of 27% ahead in FY27. 

JB Hi Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH) 

Over FY26, this ASX 200 retail share tumbled 27% to $80.48.

Bell Potter reiterated its buy rating on JB Hi-Fi shares with a price target of $87.

This implies potential capital gains of 8% over FY27.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

This ASX 200 healthcare share rose 26% to $17.75 in FY26. 

Bell Potter reiterated its buy rating on Neuren Pharmaceuticals shares this week.

The broker boosted its 12-month share price target from $22 to $23.50. 

This implies potential capital gains of 32% ahead.

Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG)

Over FY26, this ASX 200 gold stock ripped 56% to 95 cents per share. 

Macquarie renewed its buy rating on Resolute Mining shares with a price target of $1.55.

This implies potential capital gains of 64% for FY27. 

BlueScope Steel Ltd (ASX: BSL)

The BlueScope Steel share price rose 38% over FY26 to close at $31.87. 

RBC Capital renewed its buy rating on the ASX 200 materials share this week. 

The broker raised its 12-month price target from $35.25 to $38.25.

This suggests a potential 20% upside ahead.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)

Over FY26, this ASX 200 mining share rose 34% to finish the year at $3.90. 

UBS reaffirmed its buy rating on South32 shares with a reduced price target of $5.

This implies potential capital gains of 28% ahead.

The post 9 ASX 200 shares with renewed buy ratings for FY27 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here's what's been catching ASX investor interest this week. 

Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD)

Genesis Minerals shares closed last Friday trading for $5.39. At the time of writing, shares are swapping hands for $6.18 apiece. That sees this ASX 200 stock up 14.7% for the week.

Most of those gains are being delivered today after the Aussie gold miner released a business update.

Investors reacted positively to the miner reporting that its FY 2026 gold production hit 285,400 ounces. That's towards the higher end of Genesis Minerals' full-year guidance of 260,000 ounces to 290,000 ounces.

On the cost front, the gold mine also reported its full-year all-in sustaining cost (AISC) came within its FY 2026 guidance range of $2,500 to $2,700 per ounce.

And the balance sheet is growing, with Genesis Minerals reporting underlying cash and equivalents of $258 million, up from $253 million in March. 

Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT)

The second ASX 200 stock shooting the lights out this week is financial services company Perpetual.

Perpetual shares closed last Friday at $15.19 and are currently trading at $19.12. This sees the Perpetual share price up 25.9% over the week.

Perpetual shares leapt 16.8% on Wednesday after the company announced that it had received, and rejected, an unsolicited, non-binding takeover proposal from Windflower. According to the release, Windflower is indirectly controlled by EQT AB. 

Under the terms of the indicative proposal, Perpetual shareholders would have received $21.64 per share in cash, or almost 40% above Tuesday's closing price.

In explaining its rejection, the Perpetual board noted:

The indicative proposal was highly conditional and did not adequately represent fair value for Perpetual shareholders in the context of a change of control transaction and the board determined that it was not in the best interests of Perpetual shareholders.

Which brings us to…

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

The top-performing ASX 200 stock on my list today is Neuren Pharmaceuticals.

Shares in the biopharmaceutical company closed last Friday trading for $12.20. At the time of writing, shares are changing hands for $16.71 each. This sees the Neuren share price up 37% for the week.

Neuren shares closed up a whopping 36.1% on Monday after announcing a crucial regulatory win in the European Union (EU) for its lead drug, DAYBUE.  

DAYBUE is intended to treat neurobehavioral symptoms of Rett syndrome.

Commenting on the positive decision from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP), Neuren CEO Jon Pilcher said, "I am so delighted for all stakeholders to see this positive outcome from the CHMP re-examination process recommending marketing authorisation for DAYBU in the EU."

The post 3 ASX 200 stocks storming higher this week on big announcements appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The  S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) endured a rough Tuesday session today, giving up much of the rise we saw yesterday that kicked off the trading week to finish lower.

After an initially optimistic morning of trading, investors lost confidence throughout the session, with the ASX 200 ending the day down 0.51%. That leaves the index at 8,778.7 points. 

This rough session for the local markets follows a much more upbeat beginning to the American trading week on Wall Street last night.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in fine form indeed, gaining a solid 0.59%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) did even better, rising a confident 2.07%.

But let's return to ASX shares now and take stock of what the different ASX sectors were up to today.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Despite the strong bounce, Neuren shares remain down approximately 15% year to date. Over the past 12 months, however, the stock has still delivered a solid gain of about 17%. 

So what's driving renewed investor interest – and is the rally justified? 

Here are three reasons investors may be warming back to Neuren Pharmaceuticals. 

Two drug assets, one already delivering royalties

Neuren isn't a one-product story. The ASX biotech stock has two novel therapies targeting rare neurological disorders, giving it both near-term cash flow and long-term upside potential. 

Its most advanced asset is DAYBUE (trofinetide), which has been out-licensed to Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc (NASDAQ: ACAD) for commercialisation in major markets. 

DAYBUE is already generating meaningful royalty income for Neuren, forming the backbone of its current earnings base. 

At its FY25 results, Neuren reported around $65 million in royalty income, with further growth expected as global sales expand. 

According to Acadia's guidance, DAYBUE net sales are projected to reach US$460 million to US$490 million this year, pointing to another strong period of royalty growth for Neuren shareholders.

A second pipeline the market may be ignoring

Beyond DAYBUE, Neuren also has a second key program: NNZ-2591.

This investigational drug is being developed across multiple rare neurological conditions, with its most advanced focus on Phelan-McDermid syndrome. 

The company is currently running a Phase 3 trial in that indication and has already completed Phase 2 studies in several other rare disorders. 

Broker research from Bell Potter suggests the market may be significantly undervaluing this asset of the ASX biotech stock. 

In fact, Bell Potter believes investors are currently ascribing little to no value to NNZ-2591. This potentially could create a compelling long-term opportunity if clinical progress continues. 

European approval could unlock fresh growth

Sentiment around Neuren received a major boost following a key regulatory milestone on Monday.

The Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) adopted a positive opinion recommending marketing authorisation for DAYBUE following a re-examination process.

The decision now moves to the European Commission, which is expected to make a final ruling in the coming months.

If approved, DAYBUE would become the first treatment for neurobehavioral symptoms of Rett syndrome across all 27 EU member states, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. 

That approval would also trigger a US$35 million milestone payment to Neuren and open the door to ongoing royalties from European sales.

What are analysts saying?

Broker sentiment remains broadly positive on the ASX biotech stock. TradingView data shows that all analysts covering Neuren rate the share as a buy or strong buy. 

The average price target sits at around $22.54, implying potential upside of roughly 35% from current levels.

Meanwhile, Bell Potter recently upgraded its valuation target from $22 to $23.50. This points to a potential upside of approximately 40% from the current share price of $16.68. 

The post 3 reasons to buy this recovering ASX biotech stock appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.