At the time of writing, Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL) shares are up 3.69% to $1.545.

While positive momentum is taking charge today, the stock still remains down about 40% over the past 12 months.

Here's what just came through.

CEO role locked in after global search

Nuix announced it has appointed John Ruthven as its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director on a permanent basis, effective immediately.

Ruthven had been serving as interim CEO since November last year. The board ran a global search before settling on him as the preferred candidate.

According to the company, the decision came after reviewing his performance, skill set, and understanding of the business.

Chair Robert McLister said the board had been impressed with Ruthven's approach during the interim period, pointing to his engagement with staff and customers.

Ruthven also backed the direction of the business, saying his time in the role strengthened his confidence in Nuix's technology and people.

What this means from here

Nuix has been through a difficult stretch over recent years, including volatility in earnings and ongoing efforts to rebuild trust with investors.

Locking in a permanent CEO at least gives the market a clearer idea of who is actually running the business and where things are headed.

It also suggests the board is comfortable with the direction so far, rather than feeling the need to bring someone in to change course.

This could help steady things and allow the business to focus on getting back on track.

Pay and incentives

Alongside the announcement, the company advised that Ruthven will receive fixed annual compensation of $900,000, excluding superannuation.

He is also eligible for short-term incentives from July, with a target set at 60% of fixed pay, rising to 1.25 times for outperformance.

Long-term incentives are set at 100% of fixed pay and will be delivered as performance rights.

Furthermore, there is scope for a discretionary bonus linked to his time as interim CEO.

Foolish Takeaway

Ruthven has already been running the business for several months, so I would expect things to continue along the same path.

Removing the uncertainty around leadership appears to be helping short-term sentiment, especially after a long stretch of share price weakness since October last year.

From here, I would be watching how the business performs, particularly around growth and achieving consistent results.

The post Why this beaten-down ASX tech stock is bouncing today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Brainchip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN)

The Brainchip share price is up 6.5% to 16.5 cents. This follows news that the struggling semiconductor company has signed an IP distribution license agreement. Brainchip has signed the deal with South Korean-based semiconductor solutions provider ASICLAND. The agreement sees BrainChip grant ASICLAND a non-exclusive, worldwide license to its Akida neuromorphic AI IP portfolio. However, the company advised that it "is unable to quantify the financial impact of the agreement at this time." ASICLAND reported revenue of approximately A$68.5 million for 2025, with a loss of A$25 million.

Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6)

The Minerals 260 share price is up 12% to 80.7 cents. This has been driven by the release of drilling results from the gold developer's Bullabulling Gold Project. Management notes that drilling continues to support strong potential for a resource upgrade at Bullabulling. Minerals 260's managing director, Luke McFadyen, said: "Drilling results since the December 2025 MRE continue to demonstrate the consistency and quality of the mineralisation at Bullabulling, with infill programs at Bacchus and Phoenix delivering strong results in line with, and in places exceeding, the current resource model."

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price is up 4% to $1.55. This morning, this investigative and analytics software provider announced the appointment of a permanent CEO. Nuix revealed that its interim CEO, John Ruthven, has been selected after impressing during his tenure. Nuix's chair, Robert Mactier, said: "The Board has been impressed with the strategic, diligent and considered way John has embraced the role of Interim CEO and how he has resonated with our people and customers. The Board is unanimous in selecting John as our Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, and we look forward to supporting him in driving the next phase of growth at Nuix."

Weebit Nano Ltd (ASX: WBT)

The Weebit Nano share price is up 8% to $4.48. This has been driven by the release of an announcement from the semiconductor company today. Weebit Nano advised that two product customers have successfully taped-out chip designs intended for eventual mass production which integrate its ReRAM module. One customer has a prototype already manufactured and functional. It notes that tape-out by product customers is an important milestone on the path to mass production. Weebit Nano's CEO, Coby Hanoch, said: "A first commercial product incorporating our ReRAM, and passing initial functional tests, is a significant achievement for Weebit Nano, marking an important step towards mass production. In addition, the tape-out by Overlord shows the great coordination between Overlord, DB HiTek and Weebit."

The post Why Brainchip, Minerals 260, Nuix, and Weebit Nano shares are racing higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM)

The Newmont share price is up 1.5% to $156.84. This follows the release of the gold miner's first-quarter update. The company achieved production of 1.5 million ounces of gold during the quarter, which was broadly in line with expectations. Newmont reported an average realised gold price of around US$2,944 per ounce, which underpinned net income of US$3.2 billion and adjusted EBITDA of US$5.2 billion. Looking ahead, for FY 2026, Newmont is still targeting 5.6 million ounces of gold with costs of US$1,650 per ounce on an all-in sustaining basis.

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price is up 12% to $1.49. This has been driven by news that the Federal Court has dismissed the ASIC disclosure case against the investigative analytics and intelligence software provider. The company's chair, Robert Mactier, said: "We are pleased that the Federal Court has resolved the allegations concerning Nuix's early 2021 market disclosure and that the cases against both Nuix and the then directors of the company have been dismissed. We are committed to driving shareholder value, supporting our people and customers and using our products and services as a force for good."

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

The PLS share price is up almost 4% to $5.90. Investors have been buying this lithium miner's shares following the release of a strong third-quarter update. The company posted a 12% quarter-on-quarter increase in spodumene concentrate production to 232.4kt. But the big positive was a 61% increase in its realised price to US$1,867 per tonne. This underpinned a 52% jump in revenue to A$567 million. And with costs reducing to A$520 per tonne, its cash margin from operations came in at A$461 million. This is up 178% quarter-on-quarter. PLS has reaffirmed its guidance for FY 2026. It expects production of 820kt to 870kt with unit operating costs of A$560 per tonne to A$600 per tonne.

Vulcan Energy Resources Ltd (ASX: VUL)

The Vulcan Energy share price is up 3% to $3.66. This follows news that the lithium developer has officially broken ground at its Lionheart lithium chemicals facility in Germany. The company notes that this marks the start of major construction at the site. Vulcan's CEO, Cris Moreno, commented: "We are delighted to move beyond preparatory works and start full scale construction at our commercial lithium chemical plant. This groundbreaking event follows a similar ceremony held at our upstream lithium extraction plant in Landau late last year and highlights the progress towards our construction schedule and our 2028 commercial start of production target."

The post Why Newmont, Nuix, PLS, and Vulcan Energy shares are rising today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This morning, the ASX tech stock has returned from a trading halt and has rocketed higher.

At the time of writing, the investigative analytics and intelligence software provider's shares are up 22% to $1.63.

Why is this ASX tech stock rocketing?

Investors have been fighting to get hold of Nuix shares on Friday after the company won its court battle with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

The corporate regulator took legal action against Nuix, alleging that it was engaged in misleading or deceptive conduct by making announcements to the Australian share market or by failing to disclose particular information to the ASX in connection with its financial performance.

With respect to its FY 2021 first-half annual contract value (ACV), ASIC said:

(1) Nuix's ACV was $161.9 million; (2) Nuix's ACV was $17.1 million, or approximately 9.6 per cent, less than the ACV Nuix expected in order to achieve the Prospectus ACV Forecast; and (3) the primary reason Nuix missed its forecast for ACV at the end of 1HFY21 was that Subscription ACV at the end of 1HFY21 was $17.7 million less than the forecast figure for Subscription ACV.

ASIC alleges that the non-disclosure of the 1HFY21 ACV Result was conduct engaged in by Nuix that was misleading or deceptive because there existed a reasonable expectation of disclosure of the 1HFY21 ACV Result in circumstances where during the period 18 January to 25 February 2021: (1)    the Prospectus ACV Forecast caused, or contributed to, market expectations of: (i) year on year growth in ACV of approximately 20 per cent during FY21; (ii) an ACV at the end of 1HFY21 significantly higher than $162 million; (2) Nuix was aware of such market expectations; and (3)    Nuix was aware of the 1HFY21 ACV Result, which reflected year on year growth in ACV of 3 per cent (compared to the ACV of $157 million at the end of 1HFY20), and a decline in ACV since the end of FY20.

The good news for Nuix shareholders is that the Federal Court has sided with Nuix and has ordered ASIC to pay all legal costs. However, the regulator does have a period of time to consider whether it will appeal the decision.

Nuix response

The ASX tech stock's chair, Robert Mactier, was pleased with the court outcome. He said:

We are pleased that the Federal Court has resolved the allegations concerning Nuix's early 2021 market disclosure and that the cases against both Nuix and the then directors of the company have been dismissed. We are committed to driving shareholder value, supporting our people and customers and using our products and services as a force for good.

The post Guess which ASX tech stock is rocketing 22% on big news appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Artrya Ltd (ASX: AYA)

The Artrya share price is up over 11% to $4.65. This appears to have been driven by a bullish broker note out of Bell Potter this morning. According to the note, the broker has initiated coverage on the medical technology company's shares with a buy rating and $6.10 price target. It said: "AYA's unique offering creates an opportunity to achieve rapid growth and a material share of c.4.4m annual CCTA scans in the US market, growing at a CAGR of c.6.2%. AYA has three foundation customers in the US that should deliver c.15k scans annually by FY27. Through the SAPPHIRE study group, AYA has created a warm pipeline of six potential customers and c.400k annual scans that could generate c.10% market share and c.A$450m in annual revenue over the next decade. We expect AYA to reach EBITDA breakeven in FY28."

Cleanaway Waste Management Ltd (ASX: CWY)

The Cleanaway share price is up 3% to $2.39. This follows the release of the waste management company's investor day update. Cleanaway unveiled its new Blueprint 2030 2.0 strategy, which is built around three pillars. These are delivering customer value, optimising its branch network, and leveraging advanced ways of working through digital and data capabilities. This includes a major upgrade to sales processes, with a centralised One Sales Engine model that is designed to lift customer retention and cross-sell rates.

DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

The DroneShield share price is up almost 8% to $3.89. Investors may have been buying the counter-drone technology company's shares due to concerns that the US and Iran could fail to sign a peace deal before the ceasefire agreement ends. If tensions flare up again in the Middle East, it could lead to increased demand for DroneShield's suite of products.

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price is up 4.5% to $1.32. This follows news that the investigative analytics and intelligence software provider has completed the $27 million acquisition of Linkurious SAS following Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) approval in France. Linkurious provides technology that allows customers to visually explore and investigate graph data, to detect patterns of interest and investigate alerts. Incorporating Annualised Contract Value (ACV) associated with Linkurious, Nuix advises that it now expects full year ACV to be in the range $252 million to $272 million.

The post Why Artrya, Cleanaway, DroneShield, and Nuix shares are pushing higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Technology was the strongest of the 11 ASX 200 market sectors following a commanding lead from Wall Street.

The NASDAQ Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) has been on a tear in April and hit a new record high last week.

As of Friday's market close (Australian time), the NASDAQ had recorded 12 consecutive days of gains — its best run since 2009.

ASX 200 tech shares have followed suit, but not in a straight line. The sector has lifted 18.47% since the rebound began on 31 March.

It appears investors may have overcome their fears about artificial intelligence (AI).

Investors have fretted over large AI spending and the potential for AI tools like Claude to wipe out software-as-a-service (SaaS) providers.

These fears drove a near halving in the value of the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) in just seven months.

You read that right — the tech index experienced an extraordinary 48% sell-off between 29 August and 30 March.

No other sector recorded significant gains last week amid the ongoing war in Iran and a major fire at one of Australia's two oil refineries.

Only five ASX 200 sectors finished the week in the green.

Let's recap.

ASX 200 tech shares led the market last week

The ASX 200's largest tech company, WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), skyrocketed 22.72% to finish the week at $46.18 per share.

The Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) share price leapt 14.72% to $81.98, while TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE) jumped 11.34% to $30.83.

NextDC Limited (ASX: NXT) shares rose 10.14% to $14.12 and Life360 Inc (ASX: 360) increased 9.6% to $21.35.

The Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1) share price screamed 26.53% to $8.49.

Hansen Technologies Ltd (ASX: HSN) shares soared 9.37% to $5.02.

ASX 200 hotel booking platform provider, Siteminder Ltd (ASX: SDR), ripped 13.27% to $3.33 per share.

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL) shares stormed 10.96% higher to $1.26 apiece, while Appen Ltd (ASX: APX) rose 12.77% to $1.59.

The Weebit Nano Ltd (ASX: WBT) share price lifted 7.41% to $4.06.

Objective Corporation Ltd (ASX: OCL) shares lifted 6.97% to $11.82.

The Dicker Data Ltd (ASX: DDR) share price ascended 4.19% to $8.95.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 tech shares rocket 13% as long-awaited sector rebound accelerates appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the close, 291 of the 500 ASX All Ords shares had fallen throughout the day, with several hitting new 52-week lows.

Are these stocks a buying opportunity?

Let's defer to the experts.

Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV)

The Endeavour share price fell to a 52-week low of $3.36 on Thursday.

Endeavour shares have tumbled 12% over the past 12 months.

After reviewing Endeavour's 1H FY26 report, Morgans maintained a hold rating on this ASX consumer staples share.

However, the broker reduced its 12-month price target slightly from $3.70 to $3.65.

Morgans said:

While EDV continues to work on its refreshed strategy with further details to be provided at an investor day on 27 May, management confirmed that the combined Retail and Hotels portfolio will be retained.

Management also noted that they will continue investing in Dan Murphy's to restore its price leadership, while accelerating hotel renewals and electronic gaming machine (EGM) replacements.

Objective Corporation Ltd (ASX: OCL)

The Objective Corporation share price fell to a 52-week low of $11.67 today.

The ASX tech share is down 22% over the past year.

Morgans recently changed its rating from accumulate to buy but lowered its 12-month target from $20 to $16.70.

The broker commented:

We see tailwinds remaining supportive of OCL's long-term growth momentum.

Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE)

This ASX wine share fell to a multi-year low of $3.34 on Thursday.

Treasury Wine Estates has lost two-thirds of its market capitalisation over the past year.

This week, Jefferies retained its hold rating on Treasury Wine shares and lowered its target from $5 to $4.

Dexus Industria REIT (ASX: DXI)

This real estate investment trust (REIT) fell to a 52-week low of $2.32 on Thursday.

The Dexus Industria REIT share price has declined 14% over the past year.

Bell Potter has a buy rating on Dexus Industria stock with a share price target of $3.

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price fell to a 52-week low of $1.24 today.

This ASX tech share has crumbled 62% over the past 12 months.

Morgan Stanley has a buy rating on Nuix shares with a 12-month target of $3.75.

DigiCo Infrastructure REIT (ASX: DGT)

DigiCo shares fell to a 52-week low of $1.67 on Thursday.

The DigiCo Infrastructure REIT share price has halved over 12 months.

This week, Morgans reiterated its buy rating but slashed its price target from $4.15 to $2.70.

The post 6 ASX shares at 52-week lows: Buy, hold, or sell? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This sees shares in the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) artificial intelligence (AI) stock down about 43% over the past 12 months.

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL) shares have had an even tougher year.

Shares in the ASX 300 investigative analytics and intelligence software provider are down 1% at the time of writing, changing hands for $1.53 each. This puts the Nuix share price down 53.5% over 12 months.

For some context, the ASX 300 has gained 9.9% since this time last year.

And if Peak Asset Management's Niv Dagan has it right, Nuix and Brainchip shares could have further to fall (courtesy of The Bull).

Time to sell Brainchip shares?

"Brainchip is a commercial producer of neuromorphic artificial intelligence (AI)," said Dagan, who has a sell recommendation on Brainchip shares.

If you're not familiar with what that means, the company's neuromorphic processor, Akida, is intended to mimic the human brain and keep machine learning local to the chip, independent of the cloud.

"The company operates across Australia, the US and Europe and had a market capitalisation of about $349.17 million during trading on March 12," Dagan said.

Explaining his sell recommendation, Dagan said:

The broader AI hardware landscape is increasingly dominated by big players, such as Nvidia. The AI sector is intensively competitive. The company substantially lifted revenue in full year 2025 but reported a loss from continuing operations after tax.

Full-year revenue of US$1.9 million was up 374% from 2024. The loss from continuing operations came in at US$20.4 million.

"Brainchip shares have fallen from 24.5 cents on October 9, 2025, to trade at 14 cents on March 12. Other stocks appeal more at this stage of the cycle," Dagan concluded.

Also on the selling block

Apart from Brainchip shares, Dagan also recommends selling Nuix.

"Nuix is an investigative analytics software provider," he said. "It enables customers to process and search large data sets of unstructured information, including emails, documents and communications records."

Despite the sizeable one-year losses, Nuix shares are up 12.1% since the company reported its half-year results on 23 February.

Which could make today a good day to think about taking some profits, according to Dagan. He noted:

The company earns most of its revenue from licence and maintenance fees. Revenue of $121.2 million in the first half of fiscal year 2026 was up 15.2% on the prior corresponding period. Annualised contract value of $234.4 million was up 8.4%.

Investors may want to consider taking a profit as we believe gains are priced in following the half year result. We see limited scope for upside amid increasing competition.

The post Sell alert! Why this expert is calling time on Nuix and Brainchip shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But what are they saying about them? Let's find out if analysts are bullish or bearish, courtesy of The Bull. Here's what you need to know:

Downer EDI Ltd (ASX: DOW)

Baker Young reckons that investors should be selling this integrated services provider's shares this week.

The broker highlights that its current valuation leaves little margin for error and poses meaningful downside risk should trading conditions soften. It said:

Downer provides integrated services that maintains infrastructure across Australia and New Zealand. It's benefited from highly supportive macroeconomic conditions and favourable government infrastructure spending during the past two years. The company's first half result in fiscal year 2026 highlighted statutory net profit after tax of $98 million, up 29.8 per cent on the prior corresponding period.

Management expects further margin expansion through fiscal years 2026 and 2027. However, the share price increase has far outpaced underlying earnings growth. At current valuation levels, we see limited margin for error and little valuation support should conditions soften. Consequently, we believe it's prudent to take profits.

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

Another ASX share that has been named as a sell is investigative and analytics software provider Nuix.

Peak Asset Management thinks that its shares are fully valued now and that investors should be taking profit. Talking about the tech stock, it said:

Nuix is an investigative analytics software provider. It enables customers to process and search large data sets of unstructured information, including emails, documents and communications records. The company earns most of its revenue from licence and maintenance fees. Revenue of $121.2 million in the first half of fiscal year 2026 was up 15.2 per cent on the prior corresponding period.

Annualised contract value of $234.4 million was up 8.4 per cent. Investors may want to consider taking a profit as we believe gains are priced in following the half year result. We see limited scope for upside amid increasing competition.

ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD)

Over at Securities Vault, its analysts think this sleep disorder treatment company's shares are a hold.

It is a big fan of ResMed but feels its shares are fully valued at current levels and recommends waiting for a better entry point. It said:

ResMed remains a global leader in sleep apnoea devices and digital health monitoring. Structural demand drivers, including ageing populations, increasing diagnosis rates and broader awareness of sleep health, continue to support long term growth. However, a strong share price recovery following concerns about the impact of weight loss drugs on sleep apnoea treatment appears to leave much of the near-term optimism priced into the stock.

While the company's fundamentals remain robust, the valuation reflects its market leadership and growth outlook. Investors may prefer to retain existing positions, while awaiting further earnings expansion, or more attractive entry points.

The post What are analysts saying about ResMed, Downer, and Nuix shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The fast-rising stock in question is Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL).

Shares in the investigative analytics and intelligence software provider closed up a blistering 41.2% last week, finishing on Friday trading for $1.92 apiece.

Amid some broader market weakness today, shares are giving back some of those gains on Monday, with Nuix shares down 4.4% in afternoon trade at $1.83 each.

Which could make today an opportune time to buy shares in the resurgent ASX 300 stock, according to the analysts at Moelis Australia.

Why did the ASX 300 stock rocket last week?

Nuix shares kicked off last week with a bang following the release of the company's half-year earnings results (H1 FY 2026).

Among the highlights, the company achieved a 15.2% year-on-year increase in revenue for the six months to $121.2 million. And statutory earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $26.5 million were up by 72.7%.

On the bottom line, the ASX 300 stock swung back into profit, reporting a statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) of $11.1 million, compared to a net loss of $10.4 million reported in H1 FY 2025.

"The first half results demonstrate further momentum in our business transformation, with ACV growth of 8.4% and particularly impressive Nuix Neo growth of 148%," Nuix CEO John Ruthven said on the day.

Why Moelis is bullish on Nuix shares

Commenting on Nuix's half year results, Moelis said:

New customer growth was a highlight of the 1H26 result. The release of new product features (including cloud and SaaS delivery) supports Nuix Neo's competitive position. 1H26 Annualised Contract Value ('ACV') enters 2H26 at levels close to the (lower end of) management's FY26e range. However, ACV growth from existing customers was anaemic.

Among the reasons Moelis believes the ASX 300 stock remains materially undervalued is the longer-term share price decline.

Despite last week's surge, Nuix shares remain down 48.8% since this time last year.

According to Moelis:

Nuix's share price has retraced significantly. Elevated investor uncertainty is associated with management changes and the threats from AI-enabled competition. Management outlined strategies and progress aimed at enhancing NXL's competitive position (investing in product) as well as expanding its sales capabilities.

The 1H26 result demonstrated Nuix can win new business. Management highlighted the progress underway on its product roadmap. However, Nuix must arrest the declining contract values from existing and renewing customers

Connecting the dots, the broker has a buy rating and a $3.10 price target on the ASX 300 stock.

That's more than 69% above the current Nuix share price.

The post Up 41% last week, why this buy rated ASX 300 stock is tipped to leap another 69% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Clarity Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: CU6)

The Clarity Pharmaceuticals share price is up 12% to $3.92. This morning, the company announced another patient in its SECuRE Phase II trial achieved undetectable disease following treatment with its 67Cu-SAR-bisPSMA therapy. Clarity's executive chair, Dr Alan Taylor, said: "The momentum of data we are generating with our lead SAR-bisPSMA product in both theranostic and diagnostic trials is strong, with excellent results to date on all fronts. We are beyond excited to see yet another patient achieve undetectable disease following their 67Cu-SAR-bisPSMA treatments."

Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS)

The EOS share price is up 17% to $8.57. This follows the release of the defence company's FY 2025 results. EOS reported revenue from continuing operations of $128.5 million, which is down 27% year on year. However, looking ahead, management revealed that its unconditional order book stood at $459 million on 31 December 2025. This is up 238% from $136 million a year earlier. Importantly, EOS aims to realise 40% to 50% of the current order book during 2026.

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price is up 16% to $1.58. Investors have been buying this investigative analytics and intelligence software provider's shares after it released its half-year results. Nuix reported an 8.4% increase in annualised contract value (ACV) to $234.4 million. A key driver of this has been the Nuix Neo offering, which reported ACV growth of 148% year on year to $46.8 million. It now represents 20% of the company's total ACV. Commenting on the AI threat, Nuix's interim CEO, John Ruthven, said: "The rapidly evolving AI landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for enterprise software companies. Nuix is well positioned to capitalise on these dynamics through our BYO AI framework, which allows customers to integrate their preferred AI models whilst Nuix Neo provides the critical enterprise infrastructure required by regulated industries."

Reece Ltd (ASX: REH)

The Reece share price is up 16% to $16.15. This follows the release of the plumbing parts company's half-year results. Reece reported a 6% increase in revenue to $4,648 million but a 20% decline in net profit after tax to $144 million. The latter is better than Morgans was expecting. It was forecasting a 22.9% decline in net profit to $139.5 million.

The post Why Clarity Pharmaceuticals, EOS, Nuix, and Reece shares are racing higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shares in the investigative analytics and intelligence software provider closed on Friday trading for $1.36. In early trade on Monday, shares leapt to $1.73, up 27.2%. After some likely profit-taking, in later morning trade, shares are changing hands for $1.65 apiece, up 21.3%.

For some context, the ASX 300 is down 0.3% at this same time.

Here's what's grabbing investor interest today.

Nuix shares leap on return to profitability

Investors are bidding up Nuix shares following the release of the company's half-year results covering the six months to 31 December (H1 FY 2026).

Highlights include an 8.4% year-on-year increase in annualised contract value (ACV) to $234.4 million. Management highlighted that ACV has increased by 2.6% since June.

And Nuix Neo demonstrated tremendous growth, with ACV up 148% year on year (and up 67% since June) to $46.8 million. This now represents 20% of the company's total ACV.

According to the ASX 300 tech stock, Nuix Neo's AI strategy centres on a "Bring Your Own AI" framework, which allows customers to integrate any AI model they wish, helping to safeguard AI tools when working with sensitive data.

First-half revenue, meanwhile, was up 15.2% to $121.2 million. While statutory earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $26.5 million increased by 72.7% from H1 FY 2025.

Underlying cash flow also surged over the six months, rising 307.3% year on year to $28.4 million.

And Nuix shares look to be getting a big lift with the company reporting a statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) of $11.1 million, up from a net loss of $10.4 million in H1 FY 2025.

As at 31 December, the ASX 300 tech stock had a cash balance of $57.8 million, up 88.4% from a year earlier.

Looking ahead, the company reaffirmed its full-year FY 2026 ACV guidance range of $240 million to $260 million. ACV is expected to be weighted to the second half, in line with previous years.

What did management say?

Commenting on the results sending Nuix shares surging today, interim CEO John Ruthven said, "The first half results demonstrate further momentum in our business transformation, with ACV growth of 8.4% and particularly impressive Nuix Neo growth of 148%."

As for potential impact of the ongoing AI revolution, Ruthven added:

The rapidly evolving AI landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for enterprise software companies. Nuix is well positioned to capitalise on these dynamics through our BYO AI framework, which allows customers to integrate their preferred AI models whilst Nuix Neo provides the critical enterprise infrastructure required by regulated industries.

This approach creates competitive advantages through robust enterprise controls whilst enabling flexible integration with emerging AI technologies, creating a strong structural advantage as the AI ecosystem continues to evolve.

The post Why are ASX 300 tech stock Nuix shares jumping 27% in Monday's falling market? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The All Ords outperformed the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which rose 6.8% and gave a total return of 10.32%.

The All Ords' superior performance can be attributed to strongly rising small caps, as we discussed earlier in the week.

Looking ahead, here are three ASX All Ords shares that the experts are backing for growth in the new year.

3 ASX All Ords shares buy-rated for 2026

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

This ASX All Ords tech share was the worst performer out of the 500 companies making up the index in 2025.

The Nuix share price crumbled 72% to finish 2025 at $1.80.

Moelis Australia is confident that the investigative analytics and intelligence software provider can bounce back in the new year.

Moelis said the current Nuix share price "undervalues the company" after the stock was oversold due to an underwhelming report.

The broker commented:

Nuix's share price has retraced significantly as recent operating performance fell below market expectations.

On our estimates the current price undervalues the company.

On Friday, Nuix shares are $1.86 apiece, down 1.5%.

The broker has a buy rating on Nuix shares with a 12-month price target of $3.37.

This implies a potential upside of 81% in the new year.

Myer Holdings Ltd (ASX: MYR)

ASX All Ords retail share Myer had a rough year in 2025.

The Myer share price fell 61% over the 12 months as consumer discretionary spending dropped, leading to a weaker profit.

Myer reported an underlying net profit of $37 million for FY25, down 30% on FY24, and a statutory net loss of $211 million due to a goodwill write-down for its new division, Apparel Brands.

Myer completed its purchase of Apparel Brands from Premier Investments Ltd (ASX: PMV) in January 2025.

Apparel Brands includes clothing labels Just Jeans, Jay Jays, Portmans, Dotti, and Jacqui E.

Myer bought the brands in exchange for 890.5 million new Myer shares, which were distributed to Premier Investments shareholders.

Morgan Stanley equity analyst Julia de Sterke thinks the Apparel Brands' integration and other factors will see Myer rebound this year.

On Friday, Myer shares are steady at 48 cents apiece.

The broker has a buy rating on Myer with a 12-month share price target of 69 cents.

This suggests a potential upside of 44% in 2026.

Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB)

This investment and superannuation platform provider had one of the best share price gains of the financials sector in 2025.

The Hub24 share price lifted 38% to finish the year at $96.25 per share.

Today, the Hub24 share price is $95.50, down 0.07%.

Bell Potter has a buy rating on Hub24 shares with a price target of $125.

This suggests a potential gain of 31% this year.

The post 3 ASX All Ords shares tipped to rise 30% to 80% in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The All Ords outperformed the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which rose 6.8% and produced a total return of 10.32%.

As always, there were losers in the pack, and here we reveal the five worst ASX All Ords shares for price growth.

It's interesting to note that some brokers see four of these stocks potentially turning around in the new year.

We include their assessments here.

5 ASX All Ords shares that fell off a cliff in 2025

All five of these ASX All Ords shares lost more than half their value last year.

1. Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

This ASX All Ords tech share tumbled 72% to close out 2025 at $1.80.

Nuix is an investigative analytics and intelligence software provider.

For FY25, Nuix reported an 8% increase in annualised contract value (ACV) to $228.4 million but a loss after tax of $9.2 million.

That was largely due to a significant increase in the expensed proportion of research and development (R&D) spending, plus elevated net non-operational legal costs and restructuring costs.

In a trading update in November, Nuix issued FY26 ACV guidance in the range of $240 million to $260 million.

Moelis Australia has a buy rating on Nuix shares with a 12-month price target of $3.37.

In a note, Moelis said Nuix stock "seems oversold", commenting:

Nuix's share price has retraced significantly as recent operating performance fell below market expectations.

On our estimates the current price undervalues the company.

2. Myer Holdings Ltd (ASX: MYR)

This ASX All Ords retail share fell 61% to 48 cents on 31 December.

FY25 was a shocker for the company, which booked an underlying net profit of $37 million, down 30% on FY24.

The retailer also reported a statutory net loss of $211 million due to the write-down of goodwill for the new division, Myer Apparel Brands.

Myer shares did not pay a final dividend.

Morgan Stanley equity analyst Julia de Sterke sees a turnaround opportunity from the Apparel Brands' integration and other factors.

The broker has a buy rating on Myer shares with a target of 69 cents.

3. HMC Capital Ltd (ASX: HMC)

HMC Capital shares tanked in 2025, falling 60% to $3.96 apiece.

This was despite the diversified investment company reporting strong profit growth in FY25.

FY25 pre-tax operating earnings was $224.6 million, up 74%, and pre-tax operating earnings per share (EPS) was 56 cents, up 51%.

HMC Managing Director and CEO, David Di Pilla, described FY25 as "a landmark year" and said:

This growth highlights the scalability of our business model and the strength of our diversified platform spanning real estate, private equity, private credit, digital infrastructure and energy transition.

Each of these verticals is now generating meaningful earnings while also providing strong optionality for future expansion.

Morgans has a buy rating and $4.85 price target on HMC Capital shares.

In a note, the broker said: 

The current price essentially implies that HMC is ex-growth with a questionable NTA – a view we do not share.

So, whilst re-rating of the stock remains contingent on these elements coming to fruition, we believe it to be highly achievable over the next 12 months.

4. Accent Group Ltd (ASX: AX1)

Like Myer, ASX All Ords shoe retailer Accent experienced a big share price fall in 2025.

Accent shares dropped 60% to close the year at 95 cents.

Accent owns several brands, including The Athlete's Foot, Hoka, HypeDC, Platypus, Vans, and Skechers.

For FY25, Accent reported a net profit after tax (NPAT) of $57.7 million, down 3% on FY24.

The final dividend was 1.5 cents per share, down 67% on the previous year's final dividend.

However, a positive trading update in November has brokers seeing a buying opportunity for 2026.

Goldman Sachs reiterated its buy rating on Accent shares but cut its 12-month target from $1.70 to $1.20.

5. Coronado Global Resources Inc (ASX: CRN)

This ASX All Ords coal share fell 58% over the year to finish at 32 cents on 31 December.

A persistently low metallurgical coal price was a headwind for Coronado last year.

The miner reported a realised price of US$145.10 per tonne in the third quarter of 2025, down 30% year over year.

However, the miner said its 3Q saleable production was 21% higher than for the previous quarter at 4.5 million tonnes, which was the best result since 2021.

Managing director Douglas Thompson expects an even better 4Q result due to project expansion and cost reductions.

The third quarter was the second in a row in which unit production costs came in below guidance.

In the month of September, the unit cost was US$80 per tonne.

Brokers are yet to be convinced, with many giving this ASX All Ords mining share a hold or sell rating.

Last month, UBS reiterated its sell rating but lifted its 12-month target from 19 cents to 25 cents.

The post 5 worst ASX All Ords shares of 2025, and why brokers rate 4 of them a buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX All Ords is up 6% in the year to date (YTD).

The market peaked at 9,414.6 points in October and has since fallen 4.8%.

Let's take a look at two ASX All Ords shares that the experts tip to rip in the new year.

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price closed at $1.82, up 2.54% on Friday and down 70% in the YTD.

Nuix is an investigative analytics and intelligence software provider.

This ASX All Ords tech share has a market capitalisation of $594 million.

Moelis Australia has a buy rating on Nuix shares with a 12-month price target of $3.37.

This implies a potential upside of 85% in the new year.

Last week, Nuix revealed its acquisition of Linkurious, a French-based artificial intelligence graph data platform.

In a note, Moelis said Nuix "seems oversold", commenting:

Nuix's share price has retraced significantly as recent operating performance fell below market expectations.

On our estimates the current price undervalues the company.

The acquisition of Linkurious highlights that Nuix has strategic options to support its Neo-led growth strategy. 

We have made revisions based on conservative estimates of success upselling/bundling Linkurious.

Symal Group Ltd (ASX: SYL)

The Symal Group share price closed at $3.11, up 2.3% yesterday and up 83% in the YTD.

Symal Group is a diversified services provider operating in critical Australian industry segments like transport, defence, and ports.

This ASX All Ords share has a market cap of $727 million.

Morgans issued a note after Symal revealed two new acquisitions.

Symal announced a $28 million deal to acquire the assets of Queensland-based civil contracting and haulage businesses Timms Group and L&D Contracting via an upfront cash purchase.

The broker said the acquisitions largely reflect Symal's intention to continue expanding both its geographic and sector diversification through organic growth and acquisitions.

Morgans said:

The further expansion into South East Queensland is seen as a positive, as the business expands its wider East Coast presence and looks to take advantage of South East Queensland infrastructure projects.

SYL's mix of organic and acquisition-led growth, combined with a healthy balance sheet and an undemanding earnings multiple (vs peers), sees us reiterate our Buy recommendation …

The broker raised its target price to $3.75 due to higher anticipated earnings and a progressively lower peer multiple discount.

This implies a potential upside of 20% in 2026.

The post 2 ASX All Ords shares tipped to rip 20% to 85% in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's according to the analysts at Moelis Australia, who have a buy rating and bullish outlook on Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL) shares.

Shares in the investigative analytics and intelligence software provider have come under heavy selling pressure since notching multi-year highs in early November 2024.

As we head into the Tuesday lunch hour, shares are flat today, changing hands for $1.845 each. That sees the Nuix share price down 70% year to date.

Now, here's why the year ahead could be much more profitable for shareholders.

Nuix announces M&A expansion

Last Thursday, 4 December, Nuix reported that it had inked an agreement to acquire Linkurious, a France-based, graph-powered AI decision platform.

The ASX 300 tech stock said it would pay a maximum of 20 million euros (AU$35.4 million) for the acquisition.

Commenting on the agreement, Nuix interim CEO John Ruthven said:

The acquisition of Linkurious is an exciting accelerator for our strategic vision to enable our customers with insights from complex data at unparallelled speed and scale. This injection of graph-native expertise, proven link analysis technology and quality customers will allow us to bring immediate value to our customers.

The company expects the acquisition to be completed within the next four months.

Should you buy the ASX 300 tech stock today?

The team at Moelis are also optimistic on the potential growth presented by Nuix's acquisition of Linkurious.

"We believe the agreed acquisition of Linkurious provides Nuix with an attractive growth opportunity and is strategically sound," the broker said, citing the first reason you might want to buy the ASX 300 tech stock today.

The second reason is that Nuix has an existing relationship and familiarity with Linkurious.

According to Moelis:

Nuix already integrates with Linkurious, it understands how the technology performs. It has observed how customers value it. We believe this reduces the risks associated with the acquisition and is analogous to the successful acquisition of Rampiva (completed in July 2023).

And the third reason that Nuix shares look appealing today is because of the past year's sharp sell-down.

Moelis noted:

Nuix's share price has retraced significantly as recent operating performance fell below market expectations. On our estimates the current price undervalues the company. The acquisition of Linkurious highlights that Nuix has strategic options to support its Neo-led growth strategy.

Connecting the dots, the broker has a 12-month target price of $3.37 a share for the ASX 300 tech stock.

That represents a potential upside of 82.7% from the current Nuix share price.

The post 3 reasons this ASX 300 tech stock is forecast to leap 83% in 2026 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:

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Ltd (ASX: BEN)

The Bendigo and Adelaide Bank share price is up 2% to $10.35. Investors have been buying the regional bank's shares after analysts responded positively to its plan to acquire RACQ Bank's retail lending assets and deposits. The purchase price will be based on the book value of the transferring book at completion, which comprised $2.7 billion of retail loans and $2.5 billion of retail deposits at the end of June. In response, Ord Minnett upgraded its shares to an accumulate rating with an $11.00 price target.

Nextdc Ltd (ASX: NXT)

The Nextdc share price is up 4% to $13.98. This follows news that the data centre operator has agreed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with ChatGPT's owner OpenAI. The MOU will focus on developing a sovereign AI infrastructure partnership under the OpenAI for Australia program. This will see OpenAI and NextDC collaborate on the planning, development, and operation of a next generation hyperscale AI campus and large-scale GPU supercluster at NextDC's S7 site in Eastern Creek, Sydney. This will reportedly be the largest data centre in the southern hemisphere.

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price is up 3% to $1.87. This investigative analysis software provider's shares have been pushing higher this week after it announced an acquisition. Nuix advised that it has agreed to acquire graph-powered AI decision platform Linkurious for up to 20 million euros (~A$35.4 million). Nuix's interim CEO, John Ruthven, said: "The acquisition of Linkurious is an exciting accelerator for our strategic vision to enable our customers with insights from complex data at unparalleled speed and scale. This injection of graph-native expertise, proven link analysis technology and quality customers will allow us to bring immediate value to our customers."

Vulcan Energy Resources Ltd (ASX: VUL)

The Vulcan Energy share price is up 10% to $4.50. This lithium developer's shares are rebounding after a significant decline on Thursday. That decline was driven by the company's capital raising. Vulcan Energy's institutional offer raised 398 million euros (A$710 million) at $4.00 per new share. This represented a 34.7% discount to its share price at the time. Vulcan's managing director and CEO, Cris Moreno, said: "We would like to thank our existing shareholders for their continued support and welcome our new shareholders onto the register, including strategic investors. The Placement will enable Vulcan to transition from development phase into execution phase with project execution of Project Lionheart due to commence in the coming days."

The post Why Bendigo Bank, NextDC, Nuix, and Vulcan Energy shares are rising today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

The BHP share price is up over 3% to $44.42. This has been driven by a strong night of trade for the copper price, which is lifting a number of miners today. The copper price hit a new all-time high of US$11,400 per tonne on the London Metal Exchange. This means the base metal has now risen by more than 30% since the start of the year. Its increased use in the energy transition has been behind its strong rise.

DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

The DroneShield share price is up 3% to $1.89. This is despite there being no news out of the counter drone technology company. However, with its shares down heavily over the past month, it seems that some investors believe they have been oversold and are snapping them up. DroneShield shares remain down over 50% since this time last month. Bell Potter remains bullish and has a buy rating and lofty $5.30 price target on its shares.

Lotus Resources Ltd (ASX: LOT)

The Lotus Resources share price is up over 6% to 17 cents. This morning, this uranium producer released an update on its Kayelekera Mine in Malawi. Management advised that the processing plant achieved pleasing throughput and recovery levels in November. As a result, it continues to expect steady state operational production in the first quarter of 2026. Lotus' managing director, Greg Bittar, said: "Production for the planned operating time in November has been very pleasing and provides us with the confidence that nameplate throughput levels and other key production parameters can be achieved."

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price is up almost 2% to $1.84. This follows news that the investigative analysis software provider is making an acquisition. Nuix has agreed to acquire Linkurious, which is a graph-powered AI decision platform, for up to 20 million euros (~A$35.4 million). Nuix's interim CEO, John Ruthven, said: The acquisition of Linkurious is an exciting accelerator for our strategic vision to enable our customers with insights from complex data at unparallelled speed and scale. This injection of graph-native expertise, proven link analysis technology and quality customers will allow us to bring immediate value to our customers.

The post Why BHP, DroneShield, Lotus Resources, and Nuix shares are pushing higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Two ASX stocks that are heading in very different directions are named below. Here's what is driving their share prices today:

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price is up 5% to $1.89. This follows the announcement of an agreement to acquire Linkurious, which is a graph-powered AI decision platform, for up to 20 million euros (~A$35.4 million).

The release notes that the Paris-founded business provides technology that allows customers to visually explore and investigate graph data, to detect patterns of interest and investigate alerts.

Management notes that the acquisition builds on Nuix's innovation roadmap through the incorporation of powerful and intuitive graph technology and data visualisation.

Linkurious had Annualised Contract Value (ACV) of ~ 7 million euros (~A$12 million) at the end of June and recorded positive EBITDA and operating cash flow for the full year to 31 December 2024.

Nuix's interim CEO, John Ruthven, said:

The acquisition of Linkurious is an exciting accelerator for our strategic vision to enable our customers with insights from complex data at unparallelled speed and scale. This injection of graph-native expertise, proven link analysis technology and quality customers will allow us to bring immediate value to our customers.

Step One Clothing Ltd (ASX: STP)

The Step One share price is crashing 31% to 33.5 cents. Investors have been selling the underwear retailer's shares after it released a disappointing trading update.

Management advised that based on year-to-date trading, including estimates for December, it expects half year revenue to be in the range of $30 million and $33 million. This represents a decline of between 31% to 37% on the $48.1 million recorded in the prior corresponding period.

Things will be worse for its earnings, with management expecting its EBITDA to be a loss of between $9 million and $11 million. This compares to a profit of $11.3 million a year ago. Though, this half will include a $10 million provision for inventory obsolescence. It commented:

The recent sales results were materially below expectations, and our efforts to clear older and slower-moving inventory were not successful. As a result, the Company has raised a $10 million obsolescence provision against this legacy stock. This inventory is now fully provisioned, and no further material provisions are anticipated at this stage.

In light of the above, the ASX stock has withdrawn its FY 2026 EBITDA guidance and advised that no updated guidance will be issued at this stage. It will update the market once greater visibility over trading and inventory outcomes is available.

The post Why these popular ASX stocks are making big moves on Thursday 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:

Nufarm Ltd (ASX: NUF)

The Nufarm share price is up 9% to $2.33. This follows the release of the agricultural chemicals company's FY 2025 results. Nufarm reported a 3% decline in underlying EBITDA (uEBITDA) to $302.5 million for the 12 months. But, excluding the impact of the emerging Omega-3 and Bioenergy platforms, the company's uEBITDA was up 10% on the prior corresponding period. Management is guiding to earnings growth and positive cash generation in FY 2026. Nufarm's outgoing CEO, Greg Hunt, said: "In FY26, we have good momentum in Crop Protection, clear direction and opportunity in Seed Technologies and are well placed to grow earnings, generate cash and reduce leverage."

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price is up 4% to $1.93. This has been driven by the release of a trading update ahead of its annual general meeting. The investigative & analytics software provider revealed that its annualised contract value (ACV) currently stands at $230 million. This represents a 12.1% increase on the prior corresponding period and a modest 0.7% lift since June 2025. Looking ahead, it expects its full year ACV to be in the range of $240 million to $260 million in FY 2026.

Silver Mines Ltd (ASX: SVL)

The Silver Mines share price is up almost 10% to 17 cents. This follows the release of strong diamond drilling results at the Bowdens silver deposit. Silver Mines' managing director, Jo Battershill, commented: "It's quite unbelievable that even after 36 years of exploration, resource, infill and extensional drilling at the Bowdens Silver Deposit, we have just drilled the largest ever silver mineralised intercept at this incredible deposit! These results are validation of the quality of the Bowdens Silver Deposit and of the hard work and targeting the technical team have undertaken to deliver this program."

Webjet Group Ltd (ASX: WJL)

The Webjet share price is up 17% to 88.5 cents. Investors have been buying this online travel agent's shares after it received a takeover approach from rival Helloworld Travel Ltd (ASX: HLO). Helloworld has made a proposal to acquire all Webjet's shares for a cash consideration of 90 cents per share. This represents a 19% premium to its last close price. Helloworld's CEO, Andrew Burnes AO, said: "Our proposal represents compelling value for Webjet shareholders. A combination of Webjet and Helloworld would create a powerful business proposition in the dynamic travel bookings industry. We are committed to working collaboratively with Webjet's Board and management team to progress this transaction expeditiously and with minimum disruption to the Company." The Webjet Board has agreed to provide Helloworld with an opportunity to conduct due diligence.

The post Why Nufarm, Nuix, Silver Mines, and Webjet shares are roaring higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.