Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Monday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to edge lower

The Australian share market looks set for a soft start to the week following a poor session on Wall Street on Friday. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 1 point lower. In the United States, the Dow Jones was down 0.5%, the S&P 500 dropped 0.4%, and the Nasdaq fell 0.3%.

Oil prices rise

It could be a positive start to the week for ASX 200 energy shares Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) after oil prices rose on Friday night. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price was up 0.2% to US$91.48 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price was up 0.8% to US$96.28 a barrel. Oil prices charged higher last week amid an escalation in US-Iran tensions.

Buy Seek shares

Seek Ltd (ASX: SEK) shares could be in the buy zone according to Gray Perry Wealth Advisers. This morning, according to The Bull, its team has named job listings giant Seek as a buy this week. It said: "Despite softer job-ad volumes, fiscal year 2026 net revenue rose 10 per cent and EBITDA increased 15 per cent, demonstrating pricing power and operational resilience. We're forecasting earnings to grow about 9.5 per cent annually in the next two years. An improving return on equity and a healthy dividend further support the investment case." 

Gold price tumbles

It could be a poor start to the week for ASX 200 gold shares Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) after the gold price tumbled on Friday night. According to CNBC, the gold futures price was down 1.4% to US$4,476.6 an ounce. Traders were selling gold after strong US jobs data boosted rate hike bets.

ASX 200 shares going ex-dividend

Another group of ASX 200 shares are going ex-dividend this morning and could trade lower. Among them are healthcare technology company Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME), gold miners Alkane Resources Ltd (ASX: ALK) and Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU), investment platform provider Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB), and retail conglomerate Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL). The latter will be paying shareholders a fully franked 33 cents per share final dividend on 29 September.

The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The dividend payout ratio is the percentage of a miner's earnings paid out to shareholders as dividends. 

Most miners target a percentage range, or a minimum or maximum payout ratio, as part of their standing dividend policy.

For example, the market's largest miner, BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), pays a minimum 50% of underlying attributable profit as dividends at each reporting period.

This earnings season, BHP declared a final dividend of 99 US cents for FY26, which equated to a 72% payout ratio.

Many ASX mining shares are paying boosted dividends this season because of higher earnings due to stronger commodity prices.

The final BHP dividend for FY26 was 65% higher than the final dividend for FY25, and the largest final dividend in four years.

BHP shares went ex-dividend last week, along with Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) and Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) shares.

This week, nine ASX mining shares go ex-dividend. Among them is Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR), which benefited from an 18% increase in the copper price in FY26.

The higher copper price helped enable the miner to declare its first dividend since 2022.

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) benefitted from a 278% surge in the lithium spodumene price and a 7% lift in the iron ore price.

The miner resumed dividends this season after a two-year break.

Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) and other ASX gold miners benefitted from an 18% rise in the gold price.

Genesis Minerals is paying its maiden dividend this season.

ASX mining shares going ex-dividend this week

Remember, in order to receive a dividend, you must buy (or already own) the ASX mining share before its ex-dividend date.

These ASX mining shares are among 40 stocks going ex-dividend this week.

The post 9 ASX mining shares going ex-dividend this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With reporting season now over, brokers have downgraded a series of ASX stocks after reviewing their financial results.

Let's take a look at some of them.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

The Wisetech share price is $37.65, up 2.4% today.

Over the past month, this ASX tech share has fallen 1%.

Jefferies downgraded WiseTech shares to a hold rating following its FY26 results.

The broker reduced its 12-month price target from $60 to $45.

This still implies a potential 20% upside ahead.

Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN)

The Harvey Norman share price is $4.31, up 2.1% today.

Over the past month, this ASX retail share has descended 13%.

Jarden downgraded Harvey Norman shares to a hold rating following its FY26 results.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $4.50.

This implies a potential 4% upside ahead.

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD)

Ampol shares are $41.20, down 0.5% today after going ex-dividend.

Over the past month, this ASX energy share has risen 6%.

Jefferies downgraded Ampol shares to a hold rating following its FY26 results.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $45.

This implies a potential 9% upside ahead.

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN)

The Paladin Energy share price is $11.49, up 2% on Friday.

JP Morgan downgraded this ASX uranium share to a sell call after Paladin's FY26 results.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $9.10.

This suggests a 20% downside from here.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)

The South32 share price is $5.18, down 0.6% today.

Morgans downgraded South32 shares from accumulate to hold after reviewing its FY26 numbers.

The broker raised its price target from $4.70 to $4.90.

This implies a potential 6% downside over the next year.

Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU)

The Perseus Mining share price is $6.73, up 1.3% today.

Over the past month, this ASX gold share has ripped 37%.

JP Morgan downgraded Perseus Mining shares to a hold rating following its FY26 results.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $6.30.

This implies a potential 6% downside ahead.

Perseus Mining is among 40 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week.

Objective Corporation Ltd (ASX: OCL)

The Objective Corporation share price is $6.60, up 3.6% on Friday.

Over the past month, this ASX technology share has fallen 8%.

Morgan Stanley downgraded Objective Corporation shares to a hold call after its FY26 report.

The broker slashed its 12-month price target by more than half, from $16 to $7.25.

This still implies a potential 10% upside ahead.

Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP)

The Domino's Pizza share price is $20.34, up 1% today.

Over the past month, this ASX consumer discretionary share has lifted 2%.

Jarden downgraded Domino's Pizza shares to a sell rating following its FY26 results.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $14, suggesting a 31% downside ahead.

Regis Healthcare Ltd (ASX: REG)

The Regis Healthcare share price is $4.41, up 2.6% today.

Over the past month, this ASX healthcare share has tumbled 29%.

RBC Capital downgraded Regis Healthcare shares to a hold call following its FY26 results.

The broker reduced its 12-month price target from $7.50 to $5.

This implies a potential 13% upside ahead.

The post 9 ASX shares downgraded by experts post-results this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Hundreds of S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO) companies announced their next dividends during the EOFY reporting season.

We're helping you keep track of ex-dividend dates with an article every Friday.

Here is a sample of the ASX shares due to trade ex-dividend next week.

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

ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week

Check out which ASX shares begin trading ex-dividend today.

The post 40 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That may have been a result of today's inflation figures. Either way, the index ended up closing 0.4% lower at 9,127.8 points.

This tantalising hump day for the ASX followed a more robust night of trading over on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) continued to push higher, gaining another 0.3%.

Over on the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC), the mood was even more upbeat, with the index rising 0.66%.

But let us return to the local markets now and dive a little deeper into what was happening amongst the various ASX sectors this Wednesday.

Winners and losers

Despite the market's choke today, we still had a few sectors that pushed higher.

But first, the standout losers this hump day were tech stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) was hit hard, crashing 3.47%.

Energy shares had a day to forget as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) plunging 1.52%.

Communications stocks were also on the nose. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) took a 1.38% dive today.

As were healthcare shares, evident from the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)'s 1.21% tanking.

Industrial stocks fared a little better. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) still lost 0.6%, though.

Financial shares were right behind that, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) dipping 0.57%.

Our final losers today were mining stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) slid 0.01% lower.

Let's get to the winners now. Leading the pack were consumer staples shares, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)'s 1.83% surge.

Gold stocks were also a safe haven. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) had lifted 0.83% by the closing bell.

Utilities shares didn't miss out, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) jumping 0.53%.

We can say the same for real estate investment trusts (REITs). The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) jumped up 0.35% this session.

Finally, consumer discretionary shares managed to stick a landing, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ)'s 0.07% crawl higher.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Today's top stock was retailer Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV). Lovisa shares were hot property today, rocketing up 12.73% to close at $27.62.

This big leap came after the company reported its latest earnings, which seemed to have exceeded expectations.

Here's how the other winners pulled up at the kerb:

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.

In my view, there is no litmus test of a company's financial health quite like a dividend. Companies that are in financial strife simply cannot afford to increase their payouts consistently over time. And that can be fudged by accounting tricks. Today, let's go over three ASX dividend shares that aren't in that boat, and have just revealed pay rises for their investors.

3 ASX 200 dividend shares that just boosted shareholder income

First up, we have Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW). Woolworths is a blue-chip ASX 200 dividend share that has always been given a look from the typical ASX income investor. The view this year was a good one. Woolworths announced this morning that its shareholders can look forward to a final dividend of 52 cents per share, fully franked.

This new dividend is worth a 15.56% increase over the final dividend of 45 cents per share that investors banked in 2025. Woolworths is currently (at the time of writing) trading on a trailing dividend yield of 2.23%.

Next, let's talk about gold miner Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU). Perseus' earnings were exceptionally well-received this morning. The company posted big rises in revenues, profits, and cash flow, thanks to the marked increase in gold prices over FY 2026. That filtered down into this ASX 200 dividend share's next payout.

Perseus revealed a final dividend of 9 cents per share for 2026, unfranked. That's a whopping 80% increase over the final dividend of 5 cents per share from 2025. At current pricing, Perseus Mining stock has a dividend yield of 1.04%.

Finally, we can't not mention WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC). WiseTech shares are in freefall today after the ASX 200 tech share reported its own earnings. You can read more about that here. Despite this, there were plenty of green numbers in the company's report. Those included a 79% rise in revenues and a 56% surge in underlying earnings.

That helped Wisetech declare a final, fully-franked dividend worth 88 US cents per share. That's up a healthy 14.29% from the 77 US cents per share investors bagged in 2025. Right now, the Wisetech share price has a dividend yield of 0.51%.

The post 3 ASX 200 dividend shares that just hiked their payouts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Perseus Mining report?

• Revenue of $1.484 billion, up 19% year on year
• Net profit after tax of $480.5 million, up 14%
• EBITDA of $860.5 million, up 16%
• Operating cash flow of $666.4 million, up 24%
• Final dividend of 9 cents per share, full-year dividend of 14 cents, up 87%
• Cash and bullion holdings of $1.03 billion

What else do investors need to know?

Perseus Mining completed $126 million of its $150 million FY26 share buyback, and renewed its buyback program with approval to invest up to $350 million more over the next year. The company's strong balance sheet is supported by an undrawn US$400 million debt facility.

Perseus is also planning a further $100 million distribution to shareholders from the proceeds of the Meyas Sand Project sale in Sudan, pending final structure and approvals. A revised capital management policy sets a minimum dividend of 20% of post-NCI operating cash flow.

Project progress remains strong, with the Nyanzaga Gold Project in Tanzania now 67% complete and on track for first gold pour in January 2027.

What did Perseus Mining management say?

Perseus's Managing Director and CEO, Craig Jones, said:

Perseus has delivered a record financial result for FY26 delivering on production and cost guidance again, a reflection of the Company's ongoing commitment to delivering on its priorities. Strong gold prices supported our delivery of record net operating cash flow of $666 million, up 24% year on year, enabling a record year for shareholder returns. Today we announced a final dividend of 9 cents per share taking our full year dividend to 14 cents, up 87%, alongside A$126 million in on-market share buy-backs during the year.

FY26 was also a year of major project momentum with our Nyanzaga Gold Project in Tanzania on track for first gold pour in January 2027 and the achievement of first gold pour from the CMA underground in Côte d'Ivoire.

Our Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve update released today demonstrates Perseus's ongoing ability to grow its resources, with a 37% increase in Measured and Indicated Resources and a 40% increase in Proved & Probable Reserves compared to FY25.

What's next for Perseus Mining?

Looking ahead, Perseus expects gold production for FY27 between 420,000 and 480,000 ounces, with all-in site costs forecast between US$1,835 and US$2,070 per ounce. Development focus remains on bringing Nyanzaga online, with commercial production planned for Q4 FY27.

The company also aims to maintain a robust capital management strategy, with a focus on returning value to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks, while prioritising project execution and sustainability outcomes.

Perseus Mining share price snapshot

Perseus Mining's share price has outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the past 12 months with a 65% gain, reflecting strong earnings and record shareholder distributions.

View Original Announcement

The post Perseus Mining delivers record profit and higher dividends in FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Since then, the index has tumbled almost 30% as investors sold off their ASX gold shares.

Today, the gold price is US$4,049 per ounce, well off its record high of US$5,589 per ounce on 28 January.

Amid this uninspiring picture, analysts say these ASX 200 gold shares are still good buys today.

Here's why.

Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM)

Capricorn Metals shares are up 2.8% to $13.15 today, and up 45% over 12 months.

Bell Potter reaffirmed its buy rating after the company released its June quarter report.

The broker increased its 12-month target on the ASX 200 gold share from $16.70 to $17.80.

This suggests a potential 35% upside ahead.

Analyst David Coates said:

CMM is a sector leading gold producer, unhedged and debt free. It is fully funded to grow production from ~120kozpa to +400kozpa from two gold mines in WA.

CMM is run by a management team that has an excellent track record of delivery.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

The Northern Star Resources share price is $20.43, up 2.6% today and up 26% over 12 months. 

Morgans previously had a buy rating on the ASX 200 gold share but moved to an accumulate recommendation.

This followed the release of Northern Star's June quarter report.

The broker lowered its 12-month price target from $26 to $24.

This suggests a potential 17% upside ahead.

Morgans said:

Costs beat at all three production centres and FY26 volumes finished above revised guidance. We view the result as largely neutral.

FY27 guidance has been deferred to the 20 August FY26 result pending early KCGM Mill Expansion commissioning data.

Catalyst Metals Ltd (ASX: CYL)

The Catalyst Metals share price is $5.84, up 1.3% today and up 5.5% over 12 months.

Bell Potter reiterated its buy rating on the ASX 200 gold share after the miner's June quarter report.

The broker cut its 12-month price target from $14.60 to $13.25.

This implies a potential 126% upside ahead.

Analyst Todd Lewis said:

4QFY26 provided record production, costs below guidance and +A$54m cash.

FY27 production, cost guidance and strategy a significant near-term catalyst.

Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU)

Perseus Mining shares are $4.91, up 1.3% today and up 46% over 12 months.

Macquarie has an outperform rating on the ASX 200 gold share with a price target of $5.50.

This implies potential capital gains of 12% ahead.

Macquarie says Perseus Mining is cashed-up and should be able to deliver higher returns and growth at the same time.

In a new note following the miner's June quarter report, the broker said management was strengthening the balance sheet, providing flexibility to increase shareholder returns and invest in growth simultaneously.

Perseus Mining reported more than US$1 billion in net cash at 30 June.

The broker said:

We anticipate outsized returns, above the current buy-back program.

The post 4 ASX 200 gold shares to buy: Experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Two of the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) heavyweights are racing ahead of the 0.5% losses posted by the benchmark index during the Thursday lunch hour, while one is trailing those returns.

Here's what's catching investor interest.

Domino's shares surge on turnaround success

Domino's shares are off to the races today following the release of the company's preliminary FY 2026 results.

And investors are responding enthusiastically.

At the time of writing, shares in the ASX 200 fast food pizza retailer are swapping hands for $20.34, up 13.3%.

Over the financial year, the company reviewed its assets and operational priorities to improve its profitability, strengthen its franchisee economics, and boost cash generation.

This saw Domino's achieve $60 million to $70 million in annualised cost savings. The company said this was primarily through headcount reduction, along with savings in IT and supplier input costs.

In its preliminary and unaudited results, Domino's reported a 246% year-on-year increase in free cash flow to $164 million. And its franchisee profitability increased by 11.3% (in constant currency) over the 12 months to the end of Q3 FY 2026.

On the bottom line, Domino's shares look to be getting support with the company achieving profit guidance, reporting net profit after tax (NPAT) in the range of $118 million to $122 million.

PLS shares jump on revenue boost

Joining Domino's shares in the headlines, and also outperforming today on the heels of its June quarter update, is PLS, formerly known as Pilbara Minerals.

Shares in the ASX 200 lithium stock are up 3.1% at time of writing, trading for $4.23 apiece.

Highlights include a 17% year-on-year increase in full-year FY 2026 production to 879,500 tonnes of spodumene concentrate, marking a new record.

PLS sold 891,600 tonnes of spodumene concentrate during the year, also up 17%.

And PLS shares look to be getting some added support, with the lithium miner reporting a 13% increase in the average realised price it received in the June quarter to US$2,107 per tonne.

That helped lift the June quarter revenue to $743 million, up 31% quarter on quarter.

Turning to the balance sheet, as at 30 June, PLS reported cash of $2.29 billion, up 57% for the quarter.

Which brings us to…

Perseus Mining shares dip despite gold production lift

Joining PLS and Domino's shares in grabbing headlines today is Perseus Mining.

Shares in the ASX 200 gold stock are down 1% at the time of writing, changing hands for $4.90 each. That comes despite the miner releasing a strong June quarter update.

Highlights for the three months to 30 June included a 2% quarter-on-quarter increase in gold production to 109,013 ounces. The miner produced that gold at an all-in site cost (AISC) of US$1,941 per ounce.

And Perseus closed out the financial year with a boosted cash and bullion balance of US$1.03 billion, surpassing the US$1 billion mark for the first time.

Perseus Mining CEO Craig Jones noted:

That balance sheet strength gives us the flexibility to keep investing in our growth pipeline while continuing returns to shareholders as reflected in the board's decision to upsize our buyback to $150 million this quarter.

The post Why PLS, Perseus Mining and Domino's shares are making waves on Thursday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Perseus Mining report?

• Q4 FY26 gold production reached 109,013 ounces, up 2% from the prior quarter
• All-In Site Cost (AISC) for the quarter was US$1,941 per ounce
• Average cash margin for the quarter was US$2,145 per ounce, delivering US$216 million in operating cashflow
• Full-year (FY26) gold production totalled 404,998 ounces at a group AISC of US$1,750/oz
• Cash and bullion balance climbed to US$1.03 billion, plus US$233 million in listed securities
• Share buyback expanded to A$150 million

What else do investors need to know?

Perseus achieved notable safety performance, with a group TRIFR of 0.87 and eight million LTI-free worked hours at the Nyanzaga Gold Project. The company is ramping up its growth pipeline, with the CMA Underground at Yaouré producing its first stoping ore during the quarter and Nyanzaga project development reaching 67% progress, targeting first gold in early 2027.

Capital management remains a focus. During the quarter, Perseus increased its on-market buyback, now totalling A$150 million, and reported zero debt at period-end. Further, the group has continued its gold price hedging activities covering 7% of forecast three-year production and announced board and executive changes.

What did Perseus Mining management say?

Perseus Mining's CEO, Craig Jones, commented:

This was a quarter of significant milestones for Perseus — first stoping ore from CMA Underground, a first for both Perseus and Côte d'Ivoire, an outstanding safety achievement at Nyanzaga, and cash and bullion passing US$1 billion for the first time. That balance sheet strength gives us the flexibility to keep investing in our growth pipeline while continuing returns to shareholders as reflected in the Board's decision to upsize our buyback to $150m this quarter.

I want to thank our employees and contractors across all our operations and projects for their dedication and hard work over the past year — the milestones we've delivered are a direct reflection of their commitment. Looking ahead, FY27 will be a transformational year for Perseus as we bring two major growth projects — CMA Underground and Nyanzaga — through to commercial production alongside our existing operations.

What's next for Perseus Mining?

Perseus Mining has set FY27 guidance of 420,000–480,000 ounces of gold at an AISC of US$1,835–2,070 per ounce. The company expects a step-change in production as the Yaouré CMA Underground and Nyanzaga projects come online. Management reiterated a commitment to shareholder returns, growth investment, and maintaining a robust balance sheet.

Ongoing exploration in Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Tanzania and Guinea continues to generate new targets and resource upgrades. Sustainability initiatives also remain a core focus, with safety and local community engagement key priorities.

Perseus Mining share price snapshot

Thanks to a strong gold price, the Perseus Mining share price has outperformed over the past 12 months with a gain of almost 50%. This compares favourably to a 3.2% gain by the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO).

View Original Announcement

The post Perseus Mining share price: Record cashflow and growth in June 2026 quarter appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Perseus Mining report?

• CMA underground successfully transitioned into production, ramping up towards steady-state operations
• The Yaouré open pit delivered over 24% more gold than modelled from September 2025 to March 2026
• Extension drilling at CMA underground and other areas identified potential to grow Mineral Resources
• Perseus committed $34 million in FY27 for resource drilling to expand the Mineral Resource base
• The five-year outlook for Yaouré is being reviewed as drilling continues to define new targets

What else do investors need to know?

Perseus reports that since the initial 1.52 million-ounce Ore Reserve in 2020, the Yaouré Gold Mine has replaced 76% of mined ounces, maintaining a 1.44 million-ounce reserve while extending mine life from 9 to 15 years.

Production ramp-up at the CMA underground mine included development milestones and initial stoping, with ore recovery outperforming expectations. Exploration drilling also highlighted new prospects at adjacent deposits like CMA Southwest and ROZA, expanding the scope for future production and mine life extension.

An updated Ore Reserve statement, incorporating recent drilling, is expected in August 2026. This will help clarify the impact of positive grade reconciliation trends and newly defined resources.

What did Perseus Mining management say?

Managing Director & CEO Craig Jones said:

Yaouré continues to demonstrate why it is a cornerstone asset in our portfolio. The successful transition of CMA Underground into stoping operations reflects the strength of our in-house team and their ability to execute complex underground developments safely and to schedule. Equally pleasing is the performance of the Yaouré open pit, which has now delivered more than 20% additional gold relative to our Reserve model year to date, while our drilling continues to define new mineralisation domains both at depth and along strike. Extension drilling at CMA Underground has produced encouraging results pointing to mineralisation beyond the currently defined Mineral Resource, and our exploration success beyond the boundary fence reinforces our confidence that Yaouré's mine life can be extended well beyond current estimates. Our optimistic outlook provides confidence to invest in $34M exploration and in-fill drilling studies at Yaouré in FY27 and underscores our disciplined approach to organic growth — investing in the drill bit to convert Inferred Resources and extend the life of an asset we know intimately. This is precisely the model that has consistently created value for our shareholders, and we look forward to updating the market as these programs progress.

What's next for Perseus Mining?

Perseus Mining is targeting further resource conversion and near-mine exploration at Yaouré, with a focus on potentially extending the mine's operating life and increasing gold output. The $34 million investment in FY27 will fund around 123km of drilling and related studies on site.

Management's strategy remains focused on low-risk organic growth, leveraging in-house technical teams to extract more value from existing assets. Additional drilling and resource model updates are planned for the coming year, underpinning the company's positive production outlook and reinforcing Yaouré as a key contributor to the group's performance.

Perseus Mining share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Perseus shares have risen 31%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 2% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Perseus Mining: Yaouré growth drilling pays off 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.

It was a spectacular end to the trading week for ASX investors this Friday, with the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) throwing off the indecisiveness that we saw earlier this week to close on a decidedly euphoric note. After opening in the green this morning, the ASX 200 spent most of the day climbing in value, and ended up finishing a happy 1.37% higher. That leaves the index at 8,844.4 points as we head into the weekend. 

This jubilant end to the trading week for ASX investors came after a more nuanced night on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in fine form, gaining a rosy 1.14% 

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) went the other way, though, dropping 0.8%.

But let's get back to our markets now and take a closer look at how the various ASX sectors benefited from today's accommodating trading conditions.  

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

The team at Macquarie has had a look at the sector and singled out four companies they believe could deliver outsized share price gains. 

They are also speculating that the conditions are right for elevated returns of capital and potentially M&A to extend the operating life of some of the assets. 

Let's see which companies they like. 

Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU)

The Macquarie team said they see earnings for Perseus "hockeysticking beyond FY27", while cash would build to about US$1 billion in FY26. 

They added, "Perseus may become more active in developing/ acquiring ounces to sustain Sissingué beyond 2030'', given its large cash haul.

Macquarie is expecting Perseus' production to grow a compound 5% per year over the next three years, "driven by Nyanzaga entering production in 1QCY27 offsetting declining production at existing operations''.

They said the company has brownfield and greenfield expansion options, "which would seek to extend the mine-lives of Yaouré, Sissingue and Edikan, adding upside risk to our longer-term outlook''. 

They added:

Additionally, given PRU's balance sheet strength, and recent appetite for M&A targeted growth, we would not rule out a hub-and-spoke style model within Cote d'Ivoire, which would aim to maintain throughput across its existing mill infrastructure.

Macquarie has a price target of $6 on Perseus shares compared to $4.90 currently.

Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG)

Macquarie said Resolute has some issues to contend with, including instability in Mali, which had already affected the delivery of equipment and consumables. 

While the company lowered its second-quarter production outlook, it reiterated CY26 guidance of 195,000 to 210,000 ounces of gold for the calendar year.

Macquarie added:

With the development of Doropo (first production 2HCY28), RSG's reliance on Syama from an earnings perspective decreases, which should help to provide stability to production and earnings going forward.

Macquarie has a price target of $1.55 on Resolute shares compared to 95 cents currently.

West African Resources Ltd (ASX: WAF)

Macquarie said West African Resources shares were trading "materially below its 5-year historical multiple of 3.9x" EBITDA.

The analyst team added:

Despite production and costs that beat consensus expectations in the 1QCY26 result, we believe the market is hesitant given the recent developments in Burkina Faso. We anticipate this to dominate sentiment in the near-term. In 1QCY26, WAF released a 10-year production outlook, which highlighted a +500kozpa from ~CY27 onwards.

Macquarie has a $4 price target on West African shares compared to $2.69 currently.

Turaco Gold Ltd (ASX: TCG)

Turaco recently released a prefeasibility study for its Afema project in southeast Côte d'Ivoire, setting out the case for a mine producing more than 200,000 ounces of gold per year. 

In terms of the mine's revenue generation, the company published figures for a range of gold prices, but at US$4,000 per ounce – close to the current spot price of US$3971.22 – the mine would generate gross revenue of US$8.095 billion over its life of 10.3 years. 

The project would also have a payback period of 10 months, or 17 months if the gold price were US$3,000 per ounce.

Macquarie said the study detailed a larger throughput than they had modelled.

They added:

We anticipate as the business progresses through definitive feasibility study and additional permitting, ramp-up and steady-state production, its valuation will expand in line with peers like Perseus, which trades on a current multiple of A$802/oz.

Macquarie has a price target on Turaco shares of $1 per share compared to 45 cents currently.

The post 4 Africa-focused ASX gold stocks Macquarie says could outperform appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Perseus Mining report?

• On-market buy-back increased by A$50 million to a new total of A$150 million
• Over A$100 million of shares already repurchased under the latest buy-back
• 45,076,176 shares bought back since August 2024 at an average price of A$4.07 per share
• Buy-backs now comprise around 3.3% of shares on issue at maiden buy-back announcement
• Board cites market-leading free cash flow as key to funding both buy-backs and growth

What else do investors need to know?

The expanded share buy-back signals the Board's confidence in Perseus' financial position and outlook. The company has indicated that the timing and pricing of further share repurchases will depend on market conditions, and retains the option to suspend or end the programme at any time.

Perseus says the decision fits within its Capital Allocation Framework and aims to balance shareholder returns with the funding needs of its organic growth pipeline. The repurchases are being made in accordance with ASX Listing Rules and the Corporations Act.

What did Perseus Mining management say?

Managing Director & CEO Craig Jones said:

The decision to expand our on-market buyback to A$150 million emphasizes our clear focus on total shareholder return and capital allocation discipline. Our operations continue to produce solid and sustained cash flows. Given the current market conditions continue to undervalue our high-margin production profile and organic upside, buying back our own shares represents a highly accretive use of capital. This expansion allows us to efficiently return value to our shareholders while preserving our strong balance sheet to execute our corporate growth initiatives.

What's next for Perseus Mining?

Looking ahead, Perseus plans to continue balancing capital returns with growth investments. Management remains focused on leveraging strong free cash flow to return value to shareholders, while maintaining financial flexibility for further growth initiatives.

Investors can expect ongoing updates on the buy-back's progress and any developments impacting the company's growth pipeline or capital management strategy.

Perseus Mining share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Perseus Mining shares have risen 29%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 3% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Perseus Mining expands share buy-back to $150 million: June 2026 update appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Gold is a safe haven that is usually defensive in times of geopolitical upheaval. Yet the gold price has fallen as the war has continued.

In 2025, the gold price surged 65%, and that followed a 24% increase in 2024.

Contrast that with this year, during which the gold price has risen just 4% higher over five months.

Why?

Gold price was elevated before war began

James Gruber, an Equity Market Strategist at CommSec, says the gold price began surging in 2022, mostly due to central bank buying.

Central banks began diversifying their reserves after the US and allies froze about US$300 billion of Russia's foreign exchange reserves as punishment for invading Ukraine.

In an article, Gruber explained:

This hamstrung Russia's central bank, but it also sent a signal to other countries that their reserves could be frozen at any time.

In other words, their holdings in the likes of US Treasuries were not as safe as previously assumed.

That spurred many central banks to buy large amounts of gold, which was deemed by them to be a safe alternative to holding US-denominated assets.

Demand from central banks was the biggest catalyst pushing the gold price higher.

Once the trend became clear, retail investors joined in.

They bought ASX gold shares, gold ETFs and bullion, and many cashed in their gold jewellery.

Gruber recalled:

You might recall the large lines outside of gold bullion stores in Australia, especially in September and October last year.

That propelled gold prices to reach an intraday record of US$5,589 an ounce in late January.

Since then, and especially after the war began, prices have fallen sharply, albeit there has been a small recovery recently.

Rising demand for gold between 2022 and 2025 also occurred alongside a weakening US dollar, which made gold that much more attractive.

Gruber explains:

In recent years, doubts about the future of the US dollar have arisen with the US running a trade deficit of 6% of GDP and having government debt to GDP of close to 100%, near the highs reached during World War Two.

The current US President, Donald Trump, has further increased the deficit through a combination of tax cuts and higher spending.

What changed after the Iran war began?

Although the gold price has fallen 17% since the war began, the war was not the trigger that disrupted its three-year bull run.

A major sell-off occurred at the very end of January after the gold price ripped nearly 30% in the first month of 2026.

Gruber said central banks may have taken profits after the gold price reached a historical closing high of $5,589 per ounce on 28 January.

Many retail investors also sold their ASX gold shares, ETFs, and bullion during and after that dramatic sell-off.

Then the war began on 28 February.

Sprott Managing Partner, Paul Wong, said the war sparked a rush to liquidity and forced deleveraging for investors.

He argues this does not diminish gold's new role as a strategic asset in the long term.

Gruber notes that the weakened US dollar gained a bit of ground after the war began. This further dampened demand for gold.

Gold is globally quoted in US dollars so when the dollar strengthens, gold becomes more expensive in other currencies, which can result in demand softening, and prices to fall.

This hints at another potential reason for gold's recent plunge. That is, rising real yields.

When real yields (bond yields minus inflation) rise, it makes no yielding assets like gold less attractive.

Rising bond yields

James Gerrish and Shawn Hickman from Market Matters discussed how rising bond yields were weighing on gold in a recent webinar.

Hickman said:

If you can get 5% in the bank with no risk, gold's got to outperform that.

And gold is moving directly with or against bonds. So, as bond [prices] fall, gold's falling.

When US bond yields go up, it weighs on gold.

Bond yields rise when bond prices fall because the interest those bonds pay becomes a larger percentage of their market price.

For example, if a bond that costs $1,000 pays $50 a year in interest, the yield is 5%.

If the bond price falls to $900, that $50 annual interest payment now equals a yield of 5.56%.

The analysts noted that the crowded trade in ASX gold shares had unwound somewhat this year, given the stalled gold price.

Hickman said:

… because we've had so many people overweight the sector. People are holding gold. They haven't got out.

In a lot of cases, you're seeing a bit of a exaggeration move in that regard.

Other factors weighing on demand for gold

As we recently reported, higher interest rates in Australia have pushed everyday savings account rates to 5.5% or higher.

Given that gold is a non-yielding asset, higher interest rates tend to be a headwind for the yellow metal.

The ongoing oil shock is creating resurgent inflation in many nations, including Australia, which means interest rates may rise further.

This may further dampen investor appetite for gold in the short to medium term.

Meanwhile, the US and Iran are reportedly close to a deal that would end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

The Strait, through which about 20% of the world's oil and gas supply is shipped, has been effectively at a standstill since early March.

Wong points out that Gulf Cooperation Council nations are some of the world's largest accumulators of reserves.

Their gold purchases are funded mainly by oil exports, which have been stalled due to the effective closure of the Strait.

That means many Middle Eastern nations have not had the revenue to continue buying gold.

Wong said the gold price "does not require outright selling to fall; the loss of incremental buying pressure is sufficient".

He also pointed out that the war led to an aggressive investment capital rotation out of metals and into energy.

This has drawn investment flows away from gold and other metals.

ASX gold shares in 2026

Here is a snapshot of how ASX gold shares have performed in 2026 compared to their rise in 2025.

The post Why has the gold price fallen 17% since the Iran war began? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Over the month just past, the ASX 200 gained 0.8%.

Evolution Mining shares outpaced those gains, closing at $12.14 apiece on 29 May, up 2% for the month.

Newmont shares just trailed the benchmark index, gaining 0.6% in May to close the month trading for $151.27 each.

Northern Star shares were the laggards of the pack. Northern Star shares slumped 10.4% in May, finishing the month at $18.81.

All of the ASX 200 gold stocks faced some modest headwinds, with the gold price declining 1.6% from US$4,614 per ounce on 1 May to US$4,540 on 29 May, the last trading day of the month.

Still, at the close of the month, the gold price remained up more than 32% year on year.

Why did Northern Star shares underperform in May?

Northern Star shares have been under pressure since notching an all-time high of $31.73 in early March.

Among other issues, investors have been concerned over recent production downgrades along with rising cost forecasts.

The ASX 200 gold stock dropped another 2.1% on 21 May. That came after the miner announced that its managing director, Stuart Tonkin, will step down from his position in Q1 FY 2027, after 13 years with the company.

Turning our attention to today, you might have noticed that Northern Star shares are surging 10.7% to $20.49 apiece.

That big leg-up comes amid news (courtesy of The Australian Financial Review) that US hedge fund juggernaut Elliott Management is calling for a major overhaul at the beleaguered Aussie gold giant.

Elliot Management said it now holds more than $1 billion worth of Northern Star shares.

Elliot Management stated:

The market views Northern Star as a poor operator with a pattern of operational missteps and repeated failures to execute capital projects on time and on budget…

Northern Star owes it to its shareholders to promptly explore all strategic alternatives, including a sale of the company. We believe there would be significant strategic interest in Northern Star.

Stay tuned!

How did these other top ASX 200 gold stocks perform in May?

Moving away from the biggest three, here's how these other leading ASX 200 gold stocks stacked up in May amid the 1.6% retrace in the gold price:

• Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares fell 4.2%
• Bellevue Gold Ltd (ASX: BGL) shares gained 2.0%
• Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) shares gained 0.9%
• Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU) shares fell 4.8%
• Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) shares fell 6.5%
• Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX) shares fell 4.1%
• Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX: OBM) shares gained 3.8%
• Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) shares gained 2.1%

The post Buying ASX 200 gold stocks? Here's how Evolution Mining, Newmont and Northern Star shares stacked up in May appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This happy Friday for the ASX comes after a more measured night of trading on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) had a nervous session, finishing with a tentative 0.049% rise.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was more decisive, though, rising a solid 0.91%.

But let's return to the local markets now and check out how today's terrific trading conditions spilled over into the different ASX sectors.

Winners and losers

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

In late morning trade on Thursday, Evolution Mining shares are up 3.8% at $12.79; Newmont shares are up 2.5% at $159.67, and Northern Star shares are up 2.2% at $21.25 apiece.

For some context, the ASX 200 is up 0.7%.

And, as witnessed by the 3.5% intraday gains posted by the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD), it's not just Evolution, Newmont, and Northern Star shares that have their shine back today.

Here's how these other top ASX 200 gold stocks are tracking at this same time:

• Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares are up 5.0% at $3.59
• Bellevue Gold Ltd (ASX: BGL) shares are up 2.7% at $1.60
• Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) shares are up 4.2% at $6.15
• Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU) shares are up 2.4% at $5.56
• Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) shares are up 5.1% at $4.68
• Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX) shares are up 5.0% at $5.72
• Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX: OBM) shares are up 4.1% at $1.33

So, why are the big Aussie gold miners back to outperforming today?

ASX 200 gold stocks jump on Iran peace talk hopes

While each company has its own unique strengths and challenges, the common thread lifting all the above ASX 200 gold stocks looks to be renewed hopes of a peace deal between the United States and Iran.

Overnight news reports indicate that Iran is currently reviewing the latest proposal from the US in an effort to end the conflict.

The gold price jumped more than 3.5% on that news to top US$4,700 per ounce. The yellow metal has retraced a touch since then, trading for US$4,694 per ounce at the time of writing, according to data from Bloomberg.

Despite its haven appeal, gold – and by connection ASX 200 gold stocks – came under heavy selling pressure following the outbreak of the Middle East conflict. Indeed, on 27 February, bullion was fetching US$5,279 per ounce.

One of the biggest headwinds facing gold following the outbreak of the war has been the global surge in energy prices.

Why is that of particular importance to the gold price?

Well, as the RBA reminded investors this week, rocketing energy costs are in turn stoking inflation and leading to rising interest rates. And gold, which pays no yield itself, tends to perform better in a low or falling rate environment.

The post How ASX 200 gold stocks like Newmont, Evolution Mining and Northern Star shares have their shine back today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) gold stock closed yesterday trading for $5.59. In early morning trade on Tuesday, shares are changing hands for $5.55 apiece, down 1.6%.

For some context, the ASX 200 is down 0.6% at this same time, while the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) is down a steeper 2.1%.

Here's what's happening.

Perseus Mining shares slip despite 'key milestone'

In a release labelled non-price sensitive to Perseus Mining shares, the company announced that it has successfully completed the first underground production blast at its CMA Underground project, located in Cote D'Ivoire.

Excavation of the first production ore commenced immediately after the blast.

The ASX 200 gold stock said that this "key milestone" for the project marks an important part of the mine's ongoing ramp-up toward steady-state production. That's targeted for the third quarter of FY 2027.

Perseus' CMA Underground mine is the first mechanised underground mine in Cote D'Ivoire.

What did management say?

Commenting on the progress that should help support Perseus Mining shares longer term, managing director and CEO Craig Jones said:

The first production blast is a defining moment for Perseus and Cote d'Ivoire, representing the culmination of many months of intensive underground development, drilling and infrastructure installation.

This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our site team and contractors, and we look forward to scaling up operations over the coming months with the higher-grade underground ore providing mill feed.

What else has been happening with Perseus Mining shares?

Perseus Mining released its March quarter (Q3 FY 2026) update last Thursday, 23 April.

Highlights for the three months included a 21% quarter-on-quarter increase in gold production to 107,144 ounces.

And, pleasingly, costs came down. The ASX 200 miner reported all-in site costs (AISC) of US$1,748 per ounce in Q3, down from US$1,800 the prior quarter.

Perseus achieved an average sales price for its gold of US$4,143 per ounce.

The miner reported third-quarter operating cash flow of US$252 million.

Turning to the balance sheet, as at 31 March, Perseus Mining held cash and bullion of US$817 million.

Looking at what could impact Perseus Mining shares in the months ahead, the miner reaffirmed its FY 2026 production guidance of 400,000 ounces to 440,000 ounces of gold. Management forecasts an AISC of US$1,600 to US$1,760 per ounce.

Atop aiming for commercial production from the CMA Underground mine in Q3 FY 2027, as mentioned above, Perseus is also targeting first gold from its Nyanzaga project, located in Tanzania, in January 2027.

Perseus Mining shares remain up 71.8% over 12 months, not including dividends.

The post Buying Perseus Mining shares? Here's the latest big news out of Africa appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.