The two investments I'll tell you about are impressive players at what they do, and their outlook for growth looks promising.

While earnings growth is not certain, I believe the two ASX stocks listed below are likely to experience pleasing progress in the years ahead.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

One of the most undeniable tailwinds of the world is the increasing digital nature of activities in our lives, whether that's online banking, e-commerce, communication, working, connecting with government services (including taxation forms), learning, and so on.

All of those activities require a safe internet connection with protection against cybercriminals.

The HACK ETF gives investors the ability to invest in the global cybersecurity sector, with exposure to both global leaders and emerging players.

There are a number of recognisable businesses in the portfolio, including Broadcom, CrowdStrike, Cisco Systems, Infosys, Palo Alto Networks, Leidos, and Fortinet.

I'm expecting the underlying earnings of these businesses to continue rising for the foreseeable future as governments, businesses, and households strive for full protection from cybercriminals.

The more the world is connected to the internet, the more integral the companies in this ASX ETF become.

According to BetaShares, the HACK ETF has returned an average of 18.6% per year since its inception in August 2016. Past performance is not a guarantee of future returns, of course, but I think the future bodes well.

L1 Group Ltd (ASX: L1G)

L1 is a funds management business which recently became noticeably bigger (and a listed ASX stock) after acquiring the fund manager Platinum.

Many of the company's key investment strategies have performed strongly compared to their benchmarks over the years, which helps drive funds under management (FUM) higher and encourages clients to allocate more FUM to L1.

L1 Capital has delivered average organic FUM growth of 30% per annum, without using its balance sheet. Funds management is a capital-light sector. I'm expecting the company's FUM to continue rising, though not necessarily at 30% per year. However, it is expanding its distribution into North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa regions.

On the cost side of things, the business is looking to deliver cost reductions of between $30 million to $35 million within 18 months of the merger between L1 Group and Platinum. This could help improve the profit margins of the business.

The ASX stock has also highlighted that there are opportunities to put capital into very compelling, value-adding ideas, though it will be "selective in pursuing opportunities".

At the time of writing, the L1 Group share price is valued at 20.1x FY27's estimated earnings. While it's not cheap, I think there is plenty of growth potential ahead.

The post 2 ASX stocks I'm very bullish about for the next decade appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It's a fairly new name to the ASX because it recently merged with/acquired Platinum.

While the L1 Group share price has already jumped around 40% since the merger, I think there's plenty more to come.

Integration benefits

When two businesses merge, it's expected that they will be stronger together than apart. In this case, it's not just being larger that L1 is aiming to benefit from – the funds management business expects significant synergies.

L1 announced that its cost reduction target range is between $30 million to $35 million within 18 months after the transaction, of which at least 50% will be achieved by October 2026.

Cost reductions should largely add to the bottom line, so this is a profit-boosting endeavour by the ASX share.

Good business model

There are a number of reasons to like how a funds management business operates.

Firstly, it can provide capital-light growth. It doesn't necessarily take 10% more staff or 10% more office space to manage an extra 10% more funds under management (FUM). This means that higher management fees can largely flow to its profit line.

L1 says that it has significant growth capacity across all funds.

Funds management companies usually trade on a fairly low price-earnings (P/E) ratio, which means they look cheap for their growth potential, and they can provide investors with a pleasing dividend yield. The capital-light model also means it can have a high dividend payout ratio without necessarily lowering its earnings growth potential.

Strong FUM growth potential

L1 has a goal to build the best listed investment management business in the Australian market, and I think there are signs it could achieve that.

The ASX share has reportedly been "inundated" with enquiries from leading domestic and offshore fund managers looking to join or partner with L1. It also points to valuable seed capital allocation opportunities.

L1 also says that there are opportunities to deploy capital into very compelling value-adding "situations". The fund manager said it will be selective in pursuing opportunities.

The company also states that a pipeline of exciting new fund launches is underway, with strong client interest in the global long short strategy. It also points to expansion into North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Ultimately, many of L1's funds have delivered strong investment returns, enabling good growth of FUM and attracting clients to invest more. Between 2014 and October 2025, L1 delivered organic FUM growth of an average of 30% per year.

I think this ASX share is one to watch over the next few years.

The post Why this is one of my favourite ASX shares to buy right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It's a very new name to the ASX following the merger/acquisition of Platinum Asset Management.

Aside from the Platinum funds, L1 also has a number of its own funds including the listed investment company (LIC) L1 Long Short Fund Ltd (ASX: LSF), L1 Capital Catalyst Fund, L1 Capital International, L1 Capital Global Opportunities Fund, L1 Capital UK Residential Property Fund and L1 Capital Gold Fund.

There are a few reasons why I think this ASX small-cap stock looks like an excellent investment for the long-term.

Merger benefits

Following the merger between L1 and Platinum, management are expecting to reap substantial benefits.

The company is expecting efficiency benefits of (pro-forma) $20 million of pre-tax net synergy and cost savings.

This is expected to be materially-boosting for earnings per share (EPS), with a double-digit rise in EPS in the 12 months after the deal and add more than 30% to EPS in FY27.

Following completion of the deal, the L1 leadership are expected to hold significant chunks of L1 Group shares. L1 Capital co-founders Mark Landau and Raphael Lamm will together own around 66% of the business, as well as another 8% combined by the L1 Capital chief operating officer and former L1 Capital portfolio manager.

Strong fund performance

One of the most important aspects of a fund manager is the fund performance they deliver for investors.

The ASX small-cap stock has an excellent track record of strong returns with some of its funds and this is a very powerful force for growing funds under management (FUM).

For example, the L1 Capital Global Opportunities Fund delivered an average return per year of 27.4% over the 10 years to 31 August 2025 and has delivered positive returns every calendar year since inception in 2015.

The L1 Capital Long Short Fund has delivered an average return per year of 18.7% since the strategy's inception in September 2014. This strategy is a significant part of the company's FUM.

If L1 can continue growing FUM at a pleasing pace, it could be a very underrated buy because fund managers typically trade on a relatively low price/earnings (P/E) ratio.

Compelling offerings

L1 is not like a typical Australian equity manager that's focused on ASX shares. I like the different strategies that it can provide clients which are very different to the low-cost exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

A gold fund, a UK property fund, a high-performance international fund – it's a diversified array of funds.

In this time where investors can gain exposure to shares very easily for a very cheap price, it's important for fund managers to offer investments that are strong-performing and/or very different to what's available on the market. I think L1 Group is very capable of doing that, making this ASX small-cap stock a compelling buy.

The post Why I think this ASX small-cap stock is a bargain at 69 cents appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that have failed to follow the market higher today are listed below. Here's why they are falling:

Myer Holdings Ltd (ASX: MYR)

The Myer Holdings share price is down 27% to 47 cents. Investors have been selling this retailer's shares following the release of its FY 2025 results. The company reported a 0.5% increase in sales and a 13.8% decline in EBIT for FY 2025. This was despite Myer benefitting from a six-month contribution from the Apparel Brands business. Management notes that its profit decline reflects the inclusion of Apparel Brands being more than "offset by challenged retail conditions which impacted profitability and increased costs of doing business which affected both businesses." In light of its poor performance, the Myer board decided against paying a final dividend in FY 2025.

Nickel Industries Ltd (ASX: NIC)

The Nickel Industries share price is down 2% to 71 cents. This morning, the nickel producer revealed plans to issue new senior unsecured notes. It also intends to concurrently tender for its existing 11.25% senior unsecured notes maturing in October 2028. This is part of management's aim to extend the company's debt maturity profile.

Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM)

The Platinum Asset Management share price is down 2% to 71.5 cents. This appears to have been driven by a broker note out of Bell Potter this morning. According to the note, the broker has downgraded its shares to a hold rating (from buy) with an improved price target of 70 cents (from 60 cents). This follows news that its merger with L1 has been approved by shareholders. Bell Potter said: "We continue to believe this is a good deal for PTM shareholders, who now have a revised operating model, and a route to growth. Much still depends upon the continued growth in the L1 funds and outflow or retention of PTM funds, which could provide upside or downside."

Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU)

The Vault Minerals share price is down almost 6% to 65 cents. This may have been caused by a broker note out of UBS. According to the note, the broker has downgraded the gold miner's shares to a neutral rating with a trimmed price target of 72 cents. It made the move after its medium term production guidance fell short of the broker's expectations.

The post Why Myer, Nickel Industries, Platinum, and Vault Minerals shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In afternoon trade, the fund manager's shares are up 13% to 56 cents.

Why are Platinum shares rocketing?

Investors have been scrambling to buy the company's shares today after it was the subject of a bullish broker note out of Bell Potter.

According to the note, the broker is feeling a lot more positive on Platinum and its shares after it agreed terms on a merger with L1 Capital.

Commenting on the proposed merger, Bell Potter said:

L1 brings a strong performing stable of growing funds (5 key funds). The combined entity will have greater scale, stronger investment performance, better distribution, a wider range of strategies and clients, and a stronger balance sheet. It will be a broader diversified global asset manager with $16.5bn of FUM and combined proforma revenue of $231m (including $44m of performance fees from L1).

There is scope for streamlining costs and management aim to achieve $20m of combined synergies. This is in addition to the $10-15m of cost savings PTM is targeting for FY26. This gives a cost save target of $30-35m or around 25-30% of the combined cost base of $134m. PTM shareholders will own 26% of the combined group, with L1 owning 74%.

'A very good deal'

Bell Potter thinks this is a very good deal for Platinum. In fact, instead of expecting a negative growth rate for the company over the long term, it expects the merger to underpin positive growth. The broker explains:

Overall, we believe this is a very good deal for PTM. Firstly, the momentum in the L1 business means the combined business should be growing, particularly as we had previously assumed that PTM would continue to fade. We assume the long-term growth rate should rise, from -9% to +2.5%, although successful execution could achieve stronger growth and much higher valuations are possible.

Secondly, we adjust our model to incorporate L1 and agree with the company estimate that this should be earnings enhancing (although from a low base).

As a result, Bell Potter has upgraded Platinum shares to a buy rating (from hold) with an improved price target of 60 cents (from 49 cents). This still implies potential upside of 7% for investors despite today's strong gains.

But there could be more gains to come. The broker concludes:

We increase our price target price to $0.60/sh (from $0.49/sh), and upgrade to BUY, noting that successful execution could lead to considerably greater upside, with the sensitivity to the LT growth assumption.

The post Why are Platinum shares rocketing 13% today? 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:

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

The Evolution Mining share price is up 4% to $7.58. This follows a rebound in the gold sector on Thursday after a selloff yesterday. It isn't just Evolution Mining that is rising today. A number of ASX gold shares are climbing with it. This has led to the S&P/ASX All Ords Gold index rising 2.4% at the time of writing.

Orthocell Ltd (ASX: OCC)

The Orthocell share price is up 4% to $1.27. This morning, this regenerative medicine company announced the first sales of its Remplir product in the United States market. Remplir, which was recently approved by the US FDA, is a collagen wrap used in nerve repair surgery to improve regeneration of damaged nerves and patient outcomes. Orthocell's CEO and managing director, Paul Anderson, said: "Translating Remplir's regulatory clearance in the US to first sales revenue in a little over three months is a testament to the hard work we've done with our US roll out plan. This covers everything from our key internal hires in sales, marketing and medical affairs, appointing specialist distributors, Australian manufacturing ramp up and working with our on-the-ground US logistics partner."

Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM)

The Platinum share price is up over 12% to 55.75 cents. This appears to have been driven by a broker note out of Bell Potter this morning. According to the note, the broker has upgraded the fund manager's shares to a buy rating with a 60 cents price target. Following news that it plans to merge with L1 Capital, the broker said: "Overall, we believe this is a very good deal for PTM. Firstly, the momentum in the L1 business means the combined business should be growing, particularly as we had previously assumed that PTM would continue to fade."

Turaco Gold Ltd (ASX: TCG)

The Turaco Gold share price is up over 5% to 49 cents. This follows news that the gold explorer has found high-grade gold during recent drilling at the Afema project in the Cote d'Ivoire. Managing Director, Justin Tremain, commented: "These latest results are significant in that they clearly demonstrate additional gold bearing structures outside the 1.6Moz Woulo Woulo deposit and with potential for higher grades. Auger drilling has extended the scale at both Herman and Baffia and has generated well defined targets with drilling underway."

The post Why Evolution Mining, Orthocell, Platinum, and Turaco shares are charging higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

However, the reaction has been muted, with the company's shares down 3% to 48.5 cents at the time of writing.

Platinum shares lower on merger update

This morning, Platinum revealed that it has entered into a merger implementation deed with the shareholders of L1 Capital, which contains the binding terms of the proposed merger between the two parties.

According to the release, subject to the satisfaction of the conditions precedent, Platinum will acquire 100% of the issued share capital in L1 Capital, in exchange for the issue of new Platinum shares to existing L1 Capital shareholders.

It certainly will be a large number of shares being issued. Under the terms of the merger, existing L1 Capital shareholders are expected to hold 74% of the issued share capital in the merged group. Whereas existing Platinum shareholders will hold the remaining 26%.

Outside this, Platinum shareholders will receive in-perimeter performance fees related to the first 3.5% of absolute returns (gross performance net of management fees) generated by L1 Capital's Long Short funds and mandates.

Whereas existing L1 Capital shareholders will retain performance fees on L1 Capital's Long Short funds and mandates in excess of the first 3.5% of absolute returns.

Why are they merging?

Platinum believes that the combination of the two companies will create a market-leading provider of listed and alternative investment strategies with total funds under management of approximately $16.5 billion.

There are a number of expected benefits for Platinum shareholders that have also been highlighted. This include exposure to a scalable, growing, and well-diversified platform of alternative investment strategies.

In addition, it has earmarked $20 million of annual pre-tax cost synergies. This is expected to make the proposed transaction materially earnings per share accretive for Platinum shareholders over the near to medium term.

In fact, it estimates that it will be double digit earnings per share accretive in the next twelve months following completion, and over 30% accretive in FY 2027.

Commenting on the merger, Platinum's chair, Guy Strapp, said:

The Platinum Board is unanimous in its view that this transaction is in the best interests of shareholders. After careful consideration, we believe the combination with L1 Capital provides a catalyst to deliver strong outcomes for shareholders and investors, creating a high-quality manager with a strong heritage, world-class investment talent and scale.

The post Platinum shares drop despite L1 Capital merger agreement appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Total returns, including dividends, came in at 13.23% last financial year, according to S&P Global data.

The ASX All Ords slightly underperformed the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) for growth last year.

The ASX 200 rose by 9.97% and provided total returns of 13.81%.

As always, there were winners and losers among ASX All Ords shares in FY25.

In this article, we look at the worst performers in terms of share price growth.

These 5 ASX All Ords shares tumbled the most in FY25

1. IDP Education Ltd (ASX: IEL)

The IDP Education share price tumbled 76% to close at $3.67 on 30 June.

IDP Education arranges international student placements in Australia and conducts language tests for students.

In May, IDP Education informed investors that it expects a 28% to 30% fall in student placements in FY25.

On top of that, the company also anticipates an 18% to 20% fall in language tests for the financial year.

Arthur Garipoli of Seneca Financial Solutions says government policy uncertainty about international students has hurt the stock.

This is reflected in the substantial fall in value for the ASX All Ords consumer discretionary share in FY25.

He said: "While the share price has fallen to reflect the downgrade, we see better opportunities elsewhere."

2. Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SGR)

Star Entertainment shares fell 72% in FY25 as the beleaguered casino operator desperately sought a funding injection.

The ASX All Ords consumer discretionary share closed at 13.5 cents on Monday.

Star Entertainment investors voted overwhelmingly for the proposed takeover by US casino giant Bally's Corporation last month.

About 99% of investors supported the takeover motions put forward at the shareholders' meeting.

Bally's will invest $200 million into the casino operator, supported by another $100 million from Star's biggest single shareholder.

3. Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

The Mineral Resources share price tanked in FY25, falling 60% to a closing value of $21.56 on 30 June.

This ASX All Ords mining share had the year from hell in FY25.

Weak iron ore and lithium prices, along with governance concerns brought about by its CEO's financial dealings, plagued the stock.

Founder Chris Ellison quit as CEO but remains the managing director for now.

The Mineral Resources board ordered Ellison to pay $8.8 million in penalties and forfeit up to $9.6 million in remuneration.

4. Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS)

The Pilbara Minerals share price fell 57% in FY25, closing at $1.335 on 30 June.

Like all ASX All Ords lithium shares, Pilbara Minerals has been hit by falling lithium prices amid a global oversupply.

5. Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM)

The Platinum Asset Management share price fell 56% in FY25 and finished the session on Monday at 46 cents per share.

The struggling fund manager is entertaining the possibility of a merger with L1 Capital, owner of the L1 Long Short Fund Ltd (ASX: LSF).

Platinum issued an update on the potential merger on 18 June.

There has been no price-sensitive news for this ASX All Ords financial share since then.

In its latest monthly funds under management update, Platinum said it had $8,339 million under its control as of 31 May.

There was a net outflow of approximately $1.6 billion in May, including an institutional mandate termination worth about $958 million.

The post These 5 ASX All Ords shares were the biggest fallers of FY25 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In morning trade, the ASX 300 stock is up 7% to 53.5 cents.

This compares favourably to the performance of the ASX 300 index, which is down 0.1% at the time of writing.

Why is this ASX 300 stock jumping?

Investors have been buying the struggling fund manager's shares after it released an update on its potential merger with L1 Capital, which operates the L1 Long Short Fund Ltd (ASX: LSF).

According to the release, the ASX 300 stock has "constructively progressed" discussions with L1 Capital, and both parties have now substantially completed the due diligence phase of their proposed merger.

In light of this mutual due diligence and related discussions, Platinum notes that an adjustment to the indicative commercial terms previously disclosed has been proposed.

It is now contemplated that immediately following completion of the potential merger, L1 Capital shareholders will own 74% of the shares in Platinum and existing Platinum shareholders will own 26% of the shares in Platinum. This compares to 75% and 25%, respectively, previously.

In addition, the release notes that the combined entity would receive participation in performance fees relating to the first 3% of absolute returns (gross performance net of management fees) generated by the L1 Long Short funds with any excess performance fees on returns above 3% in LSF distributed to existing L1 Capital shareholders.

What's next?

Momentum is building for the merger and the two parties are now seeking to finalise negotiations of the Merger Implementation Deed (MID). This will set out the full terms of the potential merger.

The ASX 300 stock continues to believe that the merger would be a good move for its shareholders. It said:

Platinum remains of the view that the combination with L1 Capital would deliver value for Platinum shareholders. Any transaction remains subject to final Platinum Board approval and an assessment of the best interests of Platinum shareholders. If binding transaction documents are entered into, the Potential Merger will also be subject to the approval of Platinum's shareholders and relevant regulatory approvals.

Though, it warns that there is no guarantee that any transaction will eventuate from discussions between the parties.

Despite today's jump, the Platinum share price is down approximately 50% since this time last year and 85% over the past five years. Clearly a change is needed and shareholders will no doubt be hoping that this will be it.

The post Guess which ASX 300 stock is jumping 7% on merger news appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that have failed to follow the market's lead today are listed below. Here's why they are falling:

Austal Ltd (ASX: ASB)

The Austal share price is down 2.5% to $6.03. This may have been driven by profit taking from some investors following a strong gain on Tuesday. Investors were buying the shipbuilder's shares for a couple of reasons. One was news that it will be added to the benchmark ASX 200 index at June's quarterly rebalance. The other was Austal revealing that South Korean shipbuilder and substantial shareholder, Hanwha Group, has received approval from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to increase its shareholding in Austal by up to 100%. Hanwha currently holds a 9.9% stake in the company and a further 9.9% economic interest through a cash settled total return swap. It is now seeking approval from Australian regulators to boost its equity position in Austal to 19.9%.

Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT)

The Beach Energy share price is down over 6% to $1.25. Investors have been selling this energy producer's shares after it was the subject of a broker note out of UBS. According to the note, the broker has downgraded Beach Energy's shares to a neutral rating with a trimmed price target of $1.35. UBS made the move due to weaker domestic gas price forecasts and limited near-term catalysts.

Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU)

The Perseus Mining share price is down 6% to $3.62. This follows the release of the gold miner's five-year outlook this morning. Perseus revealed that it expects to produce a total of between 2.6 million and 2.7 million ounces of gold over the next five financial years. This equates to an average of 515,000 to 535,000 ounces annually. However, its production is expected to dip in FY 2026 and FY 2027 before rebounding. In addition, management advised that it expects an all-in sustaining cost that is higher than what it has recorded in FY 2025.

Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM)

The Platinum Asset Management share price is down a further 1.5% to 51.7 cents. Investors have been selling this fund manager's shares this week following the release of its funds under administration (FUM) update for the month of May. Platinum reported FUM of $8,339 million at the end of the period. This was down a sizeable 13.5% from the end of April.

The post Why Austal, Beach Energy, Perseus, and Platinum shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that have failed to follow the market higher today are listed below. Here's why they are falling:

Coronado Global Resources Inc (ASX: CRN)

The Coronado Global share price is down 12% to 16.25 cents. This morning, this coal miner announced that it has concluded an agreement that will see Stanwell Corporation provide up to US$150 million of near-term liquidity. This is in exchange for thermal coal supply of up to 800,000tpa over a five-year period commencing in 2027. This transaction, together with its US$150 million ABL refinancing, provides up to US$300 million in additional liquidity to Coronado.

Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD)

The Genesis Minerals share price is down 3% to $4.42. This appears to have been driven by broad weakness in the gold industry today. Investors have possibly been selling gold miners in response to news that the US and China are meeting to discuss a trade deal in London. This has led to the S&P/ASX All Ords Gold index falling 2.5% this afternoon.

Monash IVF Group Ltd (ASX: MVF)

The Monash IVF share price is down 24% to 56.5 cents. Investors have been rushing to the exits again after the fertility treatment company announced another incident at one of its clinics. It said: "[Monash IVF] advises that an incident at the Clayton laboratory (Incident) occurred on Thursday 5 June where a patient's own embryo was incorrectly transferred to that patient, contrary to the treatment plan which designated the transfer of an embryo of the patient's partner."

Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM)

The Platinum Asset Management share price is down almost 6% to 53.2 cents. This follows the release of the fund manager's latest funds under administration (FUM) update. Platinum reported FUM of $8,339 million at the end of May. This was down 13.5% since the end of April. The struggling company said:  "In May 2025, Platinum experienced net outflows of approximately $1.6 billion. This figure includes the previously announced (6 May 2025) institutional mandate termination of approximately $958 million, an additional institutional redemption of $360 million and net outflows from the Platinum Trust Funds2 of approximately $293 million."

The post Why Coronado Global, Genesis Minerals, Monash IVF, and Platinum shares are sinking today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that have failed to follow the market higher today are listed below. Here's why they are falling:

Aurizon Holdings Ltd (ASX: AZJ)

The Aurizon share price is down 1% to $2.97. Investors have been selling the rail freight operator's shares following the release of an update after the market close on Tuesday. That update revealed that the company plans to slash as many as 200 jobs. And while it still expects its group EBITDA for FY 2025 to be at the lower end of its $1.66 billion to $1.74 billion guidance range, this will depend upon its provision for impairment of receivables.

JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH)

The JB Hi-Fi share price is down 3.5% to $100.04. This follows the release of a sales update from the retail giant this morning. Although the company revealed solid third quarter sales growth, it was a marked slowdown on the growth rates it achieved during the first half. CEO Terry Smart said: "In a challenging and competitive retail market, we are pleased to see sales momentum continue in Q3 FY25. As we approach the important end of financial year trading period, we remain focused on delivering consistently high levels of customer service and exceptional value for our customers."

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price is down 16% to $1.99. The catalyst for this has been news that the investigative analytics and intelligence software provider has withdrawn its guidance for FY 2025. Nuix Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Rubinsztein explained: "This is a question of timing of deal closures, not the quality of Nuix's pipeline, which remains strong. The recent rise in uncertainty in the geopolitical landscape has made predicting the timing of contract executions, including some large individual transactions, more difficult, broadening the range of potential outcomes for this financial year."

Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM)

The Platinum Asset Management share price is down 8% to 57.5 cents. Investors have been selling this fund manager's shares this week after it released its latest funds under management update (FUM). Platinum reported FUM of $9,647 million for April, down 6.1% from $10,276 million at the end of March. In addition, the company advised that it has since received notice of the termination of an institutional mandate of approximately $958 million.

The post Why Aurizon, JB Hi-FI, Nuix, and Platinum shares are tumbling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

HMC Capital Ltd (ASX: HMC)

The HMC Capital share price is down almost 7% to $4.82. This follows the release of a trading update from the alternative asset manager this morning. HMC Capital revealed that annualised FY 2025 operating pre-tax earnings per share is currently tracking at 66 cents. This is down from its previous guidance of 70 cents at the beginning of April. Management advised that this is attributable to the fair value movement of carrying positions in HMCCP and financial assets during April. Its FY 2025 dividend guidance of 12 cents per share has been reaffirmed. The company notes that this is consistent with its strategy to maintain the dividend at this level and re-invest retained earnings into value accretive growth opportunities.

Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM)

The Platinum share price is down 5% to 63.5 cents. This morning, the fund manager released its latest funds under management update (FUM) and revealed a sizeable decline in FUM. Platinum reported FUM of $9,647 million for April, down 6.1% from $10,276 million at the end of March. In addition, Platinum advised that last night it received notice of the termination of an institutional mandate of approximately $958 million. This will take effect on 9 May 2025. However, management is optimistic that the impact to its profit will be offset by an acceleration of planned cost savings to be delivered in FY 2026.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

The Sigma Healthcare share price is down 5% to $2.99. Investors have been selling the pharmacy chain operator's shares following the release of a trading update. It said: "For the nine months to 31 March 2025, Normalised EBIT (unaudited) growth for the Group compared to the prior corresponding period (pcp) for CWG1 is broadly consistent with the 36% growth achieved by CWG [Chemist Warehouse Group] for 1H FY25 compared to 1H FY24."

Skycity Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SKC)

The Skycity Entertainment share price is down almost 5% to 99.5 cents. This has been driven by the release of an update on the casino and resorts operator's guidance this morning. Skycity revealed that it has downgraded its FY 2025 earnings guidance to around 4% below the bottom of its prior NZ$225 million to NZ$245 million range. This includes ~NZ$18 million of costs related to the Adelaide B3 transformation programme for FY 2025.

The post Why HMC Capital, Platinum, Sigma, and Skycity shares are dropping today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Having spurred investor interest, these companies have gained anywhere from 10% to more than 20% since last Thursday's closing bell. (Markets were shuttered on Friday for the Anzac Day Holiday.)

And it's a nicely diversified mix of strong performers this week as well.

So, without further ado, here are five stocks charging higher into May.

ASX All Ords stocks racing higher this week

The first outperforming ASX All Ords stock on my list for the week is logistics software solutions company WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC).

At the time of writing, WiseTech shares are trading for $95.17 apiece, up 9.9% for the week.

The WiseTech share price has been charging higher amid media speculations, confirmed by the company today, that it's been engaged in discussions to acquire e2open (NYSE: ETWO). The estimated cost to acquire the United States-based supply chain platform provider was reported to be around $3.5 billion.

Management stressed that there is currently no certainty of a successful transaction.

Which brings us to the second ASX All Ords stock racing higher this week, network-as-a-service solutions provider Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1).

Megaport shares are currently changing hands for $11.75 each, up 12.1% for the week. With no fresh news out from the company, the momentum from Megaport's strong recovery from its recent 7 April lows of $7.66 a share looks to have legs.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) shares are also enjoying a strong week despite no news. The health imaging company's shares are up 12.8% since last Thursday's close, trading for $237.77.

Moving on to the fourth ASX All Ords stock leaping higher this week, we have lithium miner and diversified resources producer Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN).

Mineral Resources shares are up 16.5% for the week, currently trading for $21.24 each.

Most of those gains came on Tuesday, following Mineral Resources' third quarter update.

Investors reacted positively to management's announcement that the company isn't planning a capital raise, which would dilute the value of existing shares. Management said Mineral Resources has $1.25 billion in liquidity, which includes $450 million in cash and an undrawn $800 million credit facility, and that the miner has "a number of other levers" at its disposal to access capital.

Leading this pack

The best performing ASX All Ords stock on my list for the week is Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM).

Shares in the investment manager are up 20.5% since last Thursday's close, changing hands for 68 cents apiece at the time of writing.

Platinum Asset shares are up 7.1% today after gaining 11.4% yesterday.

Investors have been piling into the stock after the company announced on Thursday that it's been discussing a merger with global private investment firm L1 Capital.

Commenting on the potential merger, Platinum Asset Management CEO Jeff Peters said:

L1 Capital is a first-class manager with a strong investment track record. The potential merger provides an attractive opportunity to combine expertise and resources, and we will continue to explore if it's in the best interests of Platinum shareholders.

The post 5 ASX All Ords stocks rocketing higher this week 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 storming higher:

Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE)

The Boss Energy share price is up 6% to $3.60. Investors have been buying this uranium producer's shares this week following the release of its quarterly update. That update revealed that it has generated its first free cash flow from the Honeymoon Project in South Australia. Boss Energy's managing director, Duncan Craib, said: "This was a pivotal quarter for Boss as we started generating free cashflow at Honeymoon. This milestone is the result of the highly successful ramp up, which saw production and costs meet or exceed our guidance. Importantly, we generated robust margins at current prices, demonstrating the strength of Honeymoon in the current market and the project's immense upside on the back of future increases in the uranium price as the market tightens."

Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC)

The Capstone Copper Corp share price is up 4% to $7.95. This follows the release of the copper miner's first quarter update. The company reported total copper production of 53,796 tonnes with a C1 cash costs of $2.59 per pound. This led to Capstone delivering record adjusted EBITDA of $179.9 million. This is more than double the $80.1 million it achieved for the first quarter of FY 2024. Capstone CEO, John MacKenzie, commented: "Our operations got off to a solid start in the first quarter, marked by record sulphide copper production from both Mantoverde and Mantos Blancos, as we achieved record revenues and EBITDA."

Dimerix Ltd (ASX: DXB)

The Dimerix share price is up a further 10% to 75 cents. Investors have been scrambling to buy this clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company's shares this week following some big news. Dimerix has entered into an exclusive U.S. licensing agreement with Amicus Therapeutics (NASDAQ: FOLD) for the commercialisation of its Phase 3 drug candidate DMX-200. The deal will see the company earn up to US$410 million (A$653 million) in commercial milestone payments, as well as a number of royalties and other milestone payments.

Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM)

The Platinum Asset Management share price is up a further 7% to 68 cents. This fund manager's shares have been racing higher this week after it confirmed that it is in early-stage merger talks with L1 Capital. It is a global investment firm. Platinum's CEO, Jeff Peters, said: "L1 Capital is a first-class manager with a strong investment track record. The Potential Merger provides an attractive opportunity to combine expertise and resources, and we will continue to explore if it's in the best interests of Platinum shareholders."

The post Why Boss Energy, Capstone, Dimerix, and Platinum shares are storming higher today 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:

Cedar Woods Properties Ltd (ASX: CWP)

The Cedar Woods share price is up almost 5% to $5.87. This property developer's shares have been racing higher this week following the release of its quarterly update. Cedar Woods had a stronger than expected quarter, which has led to management upgrading its guidance for FY 2025. It has now lifted its net profit after tax guidance to 15% from a minimum of 10%. Looking further ahead, management advised that "further strong profit growth is anticipated in FY26, with the company having secured significant presales of the product expected to settle in that financial year." Bell Potter was impressed and responded by retaining its buy rating and increasing its price target to $7.30.

Healius Ltd (ASX: HLS)

The Healius share price is up 5% to $1.53. Investors have been buying this healthcare company's shares after it announced the completion of the sale of its Lumus Imaging business to Affinity Equity Partners. Healius has received cash proceeds of $822 million, which represents $965 million enterprise value adjusted for repayment of equipment leases and closing adjustments. In light of this sale, Healius intends to pay a fully franked special dividend of approximately $300 million or 41.3 cents per share. CEO Paul Anderson said: "The sale of Lumus resets Healius' balance sheet and allows the business to focus on executing our pathology strategy by providing better services for our patients and referrers. With the simplification of our operations, we will also be in a position to streamline the corporate cost base."

Nextdc Ltd (ASX: NXT)

The Nextdc share price is up 5% to $12.43. A number of data centre shares are rising strongly today. This is possibly due to the release of the quarterly update of US data centre giant Equinix (NASDAQ: EQIX). As well as releasing a strong set of numbers, it raised its guidance due to growing demand for AI-related services.

Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM)

The Platinum Asset Management share price is up 12% to 64 cents. Investors have been buying the fund manager's shares after it confirmed that it is in early-stage merger talks with L1 Capital. It is a private investment firm with global reach. The company's CEO, Jeff Peters, said: "L1 Capital is a first-class manager with a strong investment track record. The Potential Merger provides an attractive opportunity to combine expertise and resources, and we will continue to explore if it's in the best interests of Platinum shareholders."

The post Why Cedar Woods, Healius, NextDC, and Platinum shares are charging higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In morning trade, the ASX 300 asset management stock was up almost 16% to 66 cents.

Why is this ASX 300 stock jumping?

Investors have been fighting to get hold of the company's shares today after it confirmed that it is in early-stage merger talks with L1 Capital. It is a private investment firm with global reach.

If successful, the release notes that the deal would create an investment powerhouse with approximately $18 billion in funds under management.

According to the release, the two parties are in non-binding discussions regarding a potential merger that would see Platinum acquire L1 in exchange for issuing new Platinum shares.

Under the indicative terms, L1 Capital shareholders would end up owning around 75% of the merged group, with existing Platinum shareholders retaining around 25%.

Management highlights that the merger aims to combine two complementary investment managers, offering greater scale, a broader suite of investment strategies, and potential cost efficiencies. It believes the deal could deliver meaningful earnings and value accretion to shareholders.

However, it was quick to stress that discussions are still preliminary, and a deal remains subject to due diligence, binding documentation, board approvals, shareholder approval, and regulatory sign-off.

The ASX 300 stock's CEO, Jeff Peters, said:

L1 Capital is a first-class manager with a strong investment track record. The Potential Merger provides an attractive opportunity to combine expertise and resources, and we will continue to explore if it's in the best interests of Platinum shareholders.

It is also worth noting that L1 Capital has acquired a 9.6% stake in Platinum from co-founder Kerr Neilson, who has also granted L1 a call option over part of his remaining shares. If exercised under specific conditions, this would take L1 Capital's stake to 19.9%.

In response to the news, Platinum said:

Platinum welcomes L1 Capital to the register and looks forward to working with L1 Capital as a major shareholder in Platinum irrespective of the outcome of the Potential Merger discussions referred to above.

What's next?

Investors appear positive on a deal that could reshape the ASX 300 stock's future and boost its earnings outlook.

However, there's still a lot of hoops to jump through until that happens. Platinum has promised to keep the market informed in line with its disclosure obligations. Until then, all eyes will be on how the discussions progress — and whether this is the beginning of a major shake-up in the Australian funds management space.

The post This ASX 300 stock is jumping on surprise merger news appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that have failed to follow the market higher today are listed below. Here's why they are falling:

AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP)

The AMP share price is down almost 5% to $1.095. This is despite there being no news out of the financial services company on Tuesday. This latest decline means that its shares are now down by 16% since this time last month.

Brickworks Ltd (ASX: BKW)

The Brickworks share price is down 0.5% to $23.30. The catalyst for this has been the building products company's shares going ex-dividend this morning for its latest payout. Last month, Brickworks released its half year results and declared a fully franked interim dividend of 25 cents per share. This was up 4.2% on the prior corresponding period. Eligible shareholders can look forward to receiving this dividend at the very start of next month on 1 May.

HMC Capital Ltd (ASX: HMC)

The HMC Capital share price has continued its slide and is down a further 4.5% to $4.73. This alternative investment company has been one of the hardest hit ASX 200 stocks during the recent market meltdown. For example, after today's decline, its shares are now down by over 40% since this time last month. Goldman Sachs is likely to see this as a buying opportunity. It recently put a buy rating and $10.90 price target on its shares. This is more than double its current share price.

Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM)

The Platinum Asset Management share price is down 2% to 55 cents. This morning, Goldman Sachs responded to the fund manager's latest funds under management (FUM) update by retaining its sell rating with a reduced price target of 56 cents. It said: "We retain our Sell rating on PTM with a revised 12-m PT of $0.56. PTM continues to experience persistent flow pressure and weak investment performance (somewhat improved). Markets remain uncertain with further weakening over early Apr-25. PTM's high CTI offers levered exposure to markets and it is unclear what additional cost out levers PTM has to offset income pressure. We also remind that PTM is pursuing growth; but still early days with further material capital management unlikely."

The post Why AMP, Brickworks, HMC Capital, and Platinum shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Appen Ltd (ASX: APX)

The Appen share price is down 29% to $2.05. Investors have been hitting the sell button today after the artificial intelligence data services company released its full year results. Appen reported a 14% decline in revenue to $234.3 million and a net loss of $20 million. Looking ahead, no guidance was given for FY 2025. However, management stated its ambition to "deliver profitable growth."

Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)

The Flight Centre share price is down 11% to $15.75. This has been driven by the release of the travel agent giant's half year results. Flight Centre reported flat revenue of $1.3 billion and a 7% lift in underlying profit before tax to $117 million. And while the company has reaffirmed its FY 2025 guidance of underlying profit before tax in the range of $365 million to $405 million, the market seems to be doubting Flight Centre's ability to deliver on this given its first half profits.

Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG)

The Fortescue share price is down 4% to $17.19. The catalyst for this has been the iron ore miner's shares going ex-dividend this morning for its interim dividend. Earlier this month, the company released its half year results and declared a fully franked interim dividend of 50 cents per share. This may be less than half what it paid a year earlier but it still represents a 2.8% dividend yield based on yesterday's close price. Eligible shareholders can now look forward to being paid this dividend next month on 27 March.

Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM)

The Platinum share price is down 20% to 60 cents. Investors have been selling this investment company's shares following the release of its half year results after the market close on Tuesday. Platinum posted a 23% decline in revenue to $76.6 million and a 55% decline in profit to $15.9 million. In other news, Platinum has announced that co-chief investment officers Andrew Clifford and Clay Smolinski are to step down from their roles. Clifford has worked at Platinum for 31 years and is a former chief executive of the struggling company.

The post Why Appen, Flight Centre, Fortescue, and Platinum shares are sinking today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

ASX 200 expected to fall again

The Australian share market is expected to fall on Tuesday after a poor start to the week in the United States. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is poised to open the day 22 points or 0.3% lower. In late trade on Wall Street, the Dow Jones is down 0.7%, the S&P 500 is down 0.8%, and the Nasdaq is down 0.8%.

Short session

Today is of course New Year's Eve, which means that the Australian share market will be closing early today. Investors will need to ensure they get their end of year trades in before the market closes at 2.10pm (AEDT) on Tuesday. It will then take a break on New Year's Day before reopening at 10am (AEDT) on Thursday morning.

Oil prices rise

It could be a decent session for ASX 200 energy shares Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) on Tuesday after oil prices pushed higher overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 0.7% to US$71.11 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 0.35% to US$74.43 a barrel. Natural gas prices surged as much as 20% on expectations of a colder than expected January in the United States.

Platinum payday

Today is a good day to own Platinum Asset Management Ltd (ASX: PTM) shares. That's because later today the struggling fund manager will be paying its special dividend to eligible shareholders. Earlier this month, the Platinum board reassessed its capital management policy and determined to pay a fully franked special dividend of 20 cents per share. It believes this leaves it with sufficient working capital to pursue its growth initiatives.

Gold price falls

ASX 200 gold miners including Bellevue Gold Ltd (ASX: BGL) and Regis Resources Limited (ASX: RRL) could have a subdued session on Tuesday after the gold price dropped overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is down 0.55% to US$2,617.8 an ounce. Traders appear unsure where the precious metal is heading next and are waiting for the next catalysts.

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