The market was closed on Monday as Australians celebrated Easter.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) ripped 4.41% to 8,960.6 points over the four trading days.

The remarkable recovery followed news of a two-week ceasefire deal between the US and Iran.

ASX investors hope this will pave the way toward an end to the war in Iran.

Investors continued to buy the dip last week following the steep sell-off over the first three weeks of March.

ASX 200 shares fell 9.1% between 2 March and 23 March before a rebound began, with the index now up 7.1% since then.

James Gerrish from Shaw and Partners says "war fear" in the market is fading but "we're not out of the woods yet".

Businesses across multiple sectors are still assessing the impact of the oil shock, which is likely to reverberate for months to come.

Let's recap the week.

Financial shares led the ASX sectors last week

The ASX 200 financial sector incorporates bank shares, insurers, fund managers, financial services providers, and more.

Let's take a look at how some of these ASX financial stocks performed last week.

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) share price rose 5.98% to close at $183.38 on Friday.

ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) shares lifted 6.31% to $38.84.

Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) shares ascended 6.87% to $42.77.

The National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) share price spiked 9.06% to $45.36.

The Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) share price soared 9.3% to finish the week at $225.

Among the ASX 200 investment companies and fund managers, GQG Partners Inc (ASX: GQG) shares fell 0.28% to $1.78.

Magellan Financial Group Ltd (ASX: MFG) shares fell 0.84% to $9.45 amid a shareholder vote on the Barrenjoey merger on Friday.

Magellan announced it had received more than 90% approval from shareholders.

Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL) shares lifted 3.92% to $42.98.

Among the financial services providers, AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) shares lifted 6.06% to $1.37.

The Challenger Ltd (ASX: CGF) share price lost 2.6% to close at $8.07 on Friday.

ASX 200 buy now, pay later share Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) ripped 16.5% to $1.85.

Among the insurers, Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) shares fell 1.03% to $7.21.

Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL) shares lifted 1.92% to $4.52.

The QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) share price ascended 4.13% to $22.46.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the four trading days:

Looking for inspiration after the March sell-off?

Check out these 7 ASX 200 shares just upgraded to strong buy consensus ratings after last month's turmoil.

The post ASX 200 shares rip with financials leading a remarkable recovery last week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) insurance giant closed yesterday trading for $21.92. In late morning trade on Wednesday, shares are swapping hands for $22.18 apiece, up 1.2%.

For some context, the ASX 200 is up 2.7% at this same time amid renewed hopes of a deescalation in the Iran war.

Taking a step back, QBE has strongly outperformed the benchmark index in 2026.

Since market close on 31 December, QBE shares are up 11.5% compared to the 2.7% year to date gain posted by the ASX 200.

QBE also trades on a partly franked trailing dividend yield of 4.9%.

And looking ahead, Investor Pulse's Mark Elzayed expects more outperformance from the Aussie insurer (courtesy of The Bull).

Here's why.

Should you buy QBE shares today?

"Elevated premium rates and higher interest yields combine to drive earnings momentum," said Elzayed, citing the first reason he's bullish on the stock.

He noted:

Improvement was clear in its full year 2025 results released in February. Net profit after tax of US$2.157 billion was up from US$1.779 billion in the prior corresponding period. Premium growth remained solid, with gross written premiums increasing 7% to $US23.9 billion, driven by rate increases across North America and international markets.

As for the second reason you might want to buy QBE shares today, Elzayed said, "At the same time, catastrophe costs were well below expectations."

Which leads to the third reason, namely the company's growing passive income appeal.

"This combination of underwriting strength and cost control supported a 25% increase in the full year dividend to $1.09 a share," Elzayed said.

QBE's passive income payouts in 2025 represented a full year dividend payout ratio of 50%.

"Improved quality of earnings and reduced volatility adds to QBE's appeal," Elzayed concluded.

What's the latest from the ASX 200 insurer?

QBE released its full calendar year 2025 results on 20 February.

Atop the strong growth metrics Elzayed mentioned up top, the company also achieved a 17% year-on-year increase in its funds under management to US$35.8 billion.

And the company's total investment income of $1.63 billion equated to a return of 4.9%.

"QBE delivered strong performance in 2025, exceeding our financial plan for the year," QBE CEO Andrew Horton said. "Profitability remains attractive across the majority of lines and the year ahead appears constructive for further growth, and a continuation of solid returns."

QBE shares closed up 7.1% on the day of the results release.

The post 3 compelling reasons to buy QBE shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Well, if you are, let's see what analysts are saying about the popular shares in this article, courtesy of The Bull.

Are they buys, holds, or sells? Let's find out:

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

This biotechnology giant's shares have fallen heavily over the past 12 months, but Morgans isn't in a rush to buy them.

This week, the broker has put a hold rating on CSL shares. It appears to be waiting for its performance to improve before recommending it as a buy. It said:

This biotechnology giant has a strong research and development pipeline and a successful track record in launching new products. Its first half result in fiscal year 2026 was softer than expected, with net profit after tax and amortisation declining 7 per cent.

However, the company's outlook appears supported through a combination of cost-outs, marketing initiatives and diminishing headwinds, which are all reinforced by the board's urgency around operational delivery. This provides long term appeal for investors already holding the stock.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

The team at Fairmont Equities has named this health imaging technology provider's shares as a sell this week.

It believes that the rotation out of technology has not finished, which could mean further declines are on the cards. It said:

The company provides medical imaging software and services to hospitals and healthcare groups across the world. We remain negative on the technology sector as higher interest rates, continuing market volatility and increasing uncertainty leaves investors questioning the high multiples that companies, such as Pro Medicus, trade on. As we saw in the early 2000s, technology stocks can lose a significant amount of value before they become attractive again.

This rotation out of technology stocks often sees investors flocking to hard assets, such as mining company shares. This is what we're seeing in sharemarkets at the moment, and this dynamic has further to go, in my view. PME shares have fallen from $330.48 on July 17, 2025 to trade at $120.17 on April 2, 2026.

QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE)

Over at Investor Pulse, it has named this insurance giant's shares as a buy this week.

It has been pleased with QBE's strong premium rates and higher interest yields. Looking ahead, it appears to believe the positive form can continue. It said:

Elevated premium rates and higher interest yields combine to drive earnings momentum. Improvement was clear in its full year 2025 results released in February. Net profit after tax of $US2.157 billion was up from $US1.779 billion in the prior corresponding period. Premium growth remained solid, with gross written premiums increasing 7 per cent to $US23.9 billion, driven by rate increases across North America and international markets.

At the same time, catastrophe costs were well below expectations. This combination of underwriting strength and cost control supported a 25 per cent increase in the full year dividend to $A1.09 a share. Improved quality of earnings and reduced volatility adds to QBE's appeal.

The post Buy, hold, sell: CSL, QBE, and Pro Medicus shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

To narrow things down, let's see what analysts are saying about three popular shares, courtesy of The Bull. Here's what they are recommending:

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

The team at Medallion is siding with the majority of brokers by declaring CBA shares as sell.

While acknowledging that CBA is the highest-quality Australian bank, it feels that its valuation is stretched.

Medallion also highlights that its shares are trading at a significant premium to peers despite having similar earnings growth outlook. It said:

CBA remains the highest quality franchise among Australia's major banks, but the valuation now looks stretched. The stock trades on a price-to-earnings multiple well above its peers despite similar earnings growth prospects. The recent annual dividend yield around 3 per cent is modest compared with other income opportunities.

With credit growth slowing and net interest margins stabilising, we believe earnings momentum is unlikely to justify such a premium valuation. After a strong share price run, investors may want to consider taking profits and reallocating capital to more attractively valued opportunities.

QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE)

Over at DP Wealth Advisory, its analysts have named this insurance giant as a hold this week.

It acknowledges that QBE is a well-managed company, but has concerns over challenging trading conditions. It explains:

QBE is a well managed global business with a strong return on equity and improving profit margins. Adjusted return on equity was 19.8 per cent in full year 2025 compared to 18.2 per cent in the prior corresponding period. Gross written premiums grew 7 per cent. Insurance companies rely on investment returns, which is challenging in a volatile global market. We retain a hold recommendation given QBE is trading near a 12 month consensus valuation.

Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN)

Finally, due to the prospect of jet fuel prices steering higher for longer, the team at DP Advisory is staying clear of Qantas shares for the time being.

As a result, it has named the Flying Kangaroo as a sell this week and believes there are better options out there for investors. It said:

Qantas is a well managed domestic and international airline, holding a 70 per cent market share in Australia. The shares were trading at $10.65 on February 25, a day prior to the company posting its first half year result in fiscal year 2026. The stock was trading at $8.46 on March 19. Qantas announced on March 13, 2026 that it had settled a class action for $105 million regarding flight credits during COVID-19. The company has hedged jet fuel supply prices in the shorter term, but I'm concerned about the impact of possibly higher crude oil prices over the longer term.

I'm also mindful of the expense involved in Qantas upgrading its airline fleet after years of under investment by previous management as well as COVID-19. Qantas has a high fixed cost base. In my view, it's a cyclical stock due to its reliance on consumer and business sentiment. Other stocks appeal more at this point.

The post Buy, hold, sell: CBA, QBE, and Qantas shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The RBA announced an increase of the cash rate target by 0.25%, bringing Australia's official interest rate to 4.10%.

The decision was largely due to rising inflation according to the board. 

Australia's benchmark index, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) crawled roughly 0.3% higher in Tuesday's trade following the news. 

How does the cash rate impact ASX shares?

The RBA Cash Rate plays a central role in shaping the performance of ASX-listed shares. 

When the cash rate rises, borrowing becomes more expensive for businesses and consumers, which can slow economic activity and reduce company profits, often putting downward pressure on share prices. 

Higher rates also make fixed-income investments like bonds more attractive relative to equities, leading some investors to shift money out of shares. 

Conversely, when the cash rate falls, borrowing is cheaper, encouraging spending and investment, which can boost corporate earnings and generally support higher share prices. 

In this way, changes in the cash rate influence both company fundamentals and investor behavior across the ASX.

For the everyday consumer, changes in the cash rate affect how much they pay on mortgages, loans, and credit cards, influencing their spending power and overall cost of living.

While past performance does not guarantee future returns, here are ASX shares that may benefit from a higher rate environment. 

Insurance companies

Insurers can benefit from interest rate rises because they invest premiums and earn more when yields rise. 

This could be ideal for ASX shares like: 

• QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE)
• Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN)
• Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG)

All three saw share price rises yesterday on the back of the RBA announcement. 

In simple terms, higher interest rates = higher investment returns on premiums, which directly lifts insurers' earnings.

QBE and IAG have also attracted positive analysis from brokers recently, indicating it could outperform markets in the short-term. 

Financial and cash-sensitive businesses

Two other ASX shares that could outperform due to rising interest rates are: 

• Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG)
• Computershare Ltd (ASX: CPU)

These companies directly earn more income from cash balances or client funds. 

For example, Computershare's profits can rise significantly as interest earned on client balances increases.

Meanwhile, Macquarie Group can benefit from higher interest rates because it earns more income on its large pools of client funds and investments, while also profiting from increased margins in its lending and financial services businesses.

The company also has a long track record of generating strong profits across market cycles.

The post 5 ASX shares that could benefit from rising interest rates appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This sees shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) insurance giant up 3.9% in 2026, outpacing the 1.8% year to date loss posted by the benchmark index.

Longer-term, QBE shares are down 0.8% over 12 months. Though that's doesn't include the two partly franked dividends totalling $1.048 a share that the insurer paid (or shortly will pay) eligible stockholders over this time. QBE trades on a partly franked trailing dividend yield of 5.1%.

And looking ahead, Baker Young's Toby Grimm believes QBE represents appealing value today (courtesy of The Bull).

Here's why.

Should you buy QBE shares today?

"QBE offers attractive value at this stage of the cycle," Grimm said.

The first reason he's bullish on QBE shares is the company's expectation beating results in calendar year 2025.

"In February, the global insurer reported better-than-forecast earnings growth of 23% in full year 2025, driven by a solid 7% increase in policy sales and relatively low claims rates," he said.

As for the second reason he has a buy rating on the ASX 200 insurer, Grimm said, "With favourable operating conditions likely to persist into full year 2026, we see compelling financial sector value at around 11.5 times projected earnings and a dividend yield of 5%."

Then there's the diversified exposure that QBE shares offer.

According to Grimm:

Insurance is inherently risky and industry feedback suggests competition is increasing, which may limit further premium increases in coming years. However, QBE offers unparalleled geographical diversification among Australian insurers, which helps reduce earnings volatility.

Grimm concluded, "We're comfortable accumulating the stock at current levels as an attractively valued, well diversified financial exposure."

What's the latest from the ASX 200 insurance stock?

QBE released its full year 2025 results on 20 February.

Atop the 23% year-on-year earnings growth that Grimm mentioned above, QBE achieved a 21% increase in statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) to US$2.16 billion.

That saw management boost the final dividend by 23.8% from the 2024 final payout to 78 cents a share.

"QBE delivered strong performance in 2025, exceeding our financial plan for the year," QBE CEO Andrew Horton said on the day.

Looking ahead, Horton added, "Profitability remains attractive across the majority of lines and the year ahead appears constructive for further growth, and a continuation of solid returns."

As for that increasing competition that Grimm mentioned, Horton said, "While competition has increased in some classes, QBE remains committed to our long-term strategy, underwriting discipline, and sustaining strong performance."

QBE shares closed up 7.1% on the day of the 2025 results release.

The post 3 reasons to buy QBE shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

To narrow things down, let's see what analysts are saying about three popular shares, courtesy of The Bull. Here's what they are recommending:

Life360 Inc. (ASX: 360)

Despite recent share price weakness, the team at Baker Young only rates Life360 shares as a hold.

Commenting on the family safety technology company, the broker said:

Life360 is a leading family safety and location sharing platform operating across the US, UK and Australia. The company delivered better-than-expected full year results in 2025, highlighted by subscription revenue increasing 33 per cent. Hardware remains an important long term growth option, as it helps lock users into paid subscriptions.

We believe the magnitude of the recent share price decline has been excessive given the strength across most of Life360's core subscription business. Accordingly, we remain comfortable holding this high quality, fast growing and profitable company at current levels.

Magellan Financial Group Ltd (ASX: MFG)

Another ASX share that Baker Young has given its verdict on is fund manager Magellan.

It highlights that Magellan's shares have rallied strongly since announcing plans to merge with Barrenjoey.

The broker feels this has led to an excessive valuation and has named the company as a sell this week. It explains:

Shares in this funds management firm have rallied following news it will merge with boutique investment bank Barrenjoey Capital Partners. While we recognise the strategic rationale of diversifying away from the increasingly challenging funds management industry, and view Barrenjoey as an attractive and growing participant in Australian capital markets, we question the valuation implied by the transaction. The deal effectively values the business around 15 times underlying earnings.

Also, the transaction involves issuing MFG shares at $8.45 each to partially fund the acquisition, creating meaningful dilution for existing shareholders. Given the strong share price reaction to the announcement, we would consider taking advantage of the rally to exit positions.

QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE)

One ASX share that Baker Young is positive on is QBE Insurance. It has named the insurance giant as a buy this week.

The broker sees value in QBE's shares at current levels and highlights its attractive forecast dividend yield. It said:

QBE offers attractive value at this stage of the cycle. In February, the global insurer reported better-than-forecast earnings growth of 23 per cent in full year 2025, driven by a solid 7 per cent increase in policy sales and relatively low claims rates. With favourable operating conditions likely to persist into full year 2026, we see compelling financial sector value at around 11.5 times projected earnings and a dividend yield of 5 per cent.

Insurance is inherently risky and industry feedback suggests competition is increasing, which may limit further premium increases in coming years. However, QBE offers unparalleled geographical diversification among Australian insurers, which helps reduce earnings volatility. We're comfortable accumulating the stock at current levels as an attractively valued, well diversified financial exposure.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Life360, Magellan, and QBE shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Here is a sample of the large number of ASX All Ords shares with ex-dividend dates next week.

ASX All Ords shares about to go ex-dividend

Which companies will we hear from today?

The big one today is the half-yearly report from supermarket network Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL).

Woolworths shares ripped this week after the ASX All Ords consumer staples giant reported a 16% profit lift to $859 million for 1H FY26.

We'll also hear from TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPG), Michael Hill International Ltd (ASX: MHJ), and Pexa Group Ltd (ASX: PXA).

The latest report from The Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SGR) will also be interesting, as investors seek further news on the turnaround plan for the beleaguered casino operator.

Yesterday, Star Entertainment shares bounced on news of a debt refinancing deal, including extra liquidity to fund the turnaround plan.

The post 35 ASX All Ords shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

PWR Holdings Ltd (ASX: PWH)

The PWR share price is up 12% to $9.85. This follows the release of the advanced cooling technology company's half-year results. PWR reported a 27.8% increase in revenue to $80.4 million and a 38.6% lift in net profit after tax to $5.7 million. Management advised that this was driven by higher volumes across the Motorsports and Aerospace and Defence (A&D) market sectors. PWR's acting CEO, Matthew Bryson, said: "This result reflects strong revenue performance across Motorsports and Aerospace & Defence, together with the early operating leverage from our new, purpose-built Stapylton facility. The move to a significantly larger and more advanced manufacturing platform is a structural step-change for the business, positioning PWR to capture further growth in these key market sectors while strengthening our position in technically complex, niche advanced cooling markets."

QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE)

The QBE share price is up 8% to $21.71. This morning, QBE released its full-year results and reported gross written premium growth of 7% to US$23.96 billion and a 21% jump in net profit after tax to US$2.158 billion. QBE's CEO, Andrew Horton, said: "QBE delivered strong performance in 2025, exceeding our financial plan for the year. Profitability remains attractive across the majority of lines and the year ahead appears constructive for further growth, and a continuation of solid returns."

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX)

The Telix share price is up 9% to $9.94. Investors have been buying the radiopharmaceuticals company's shares following the release of its full-year results. Telix posted a 56% increase in revenue to US$803.8 million, which was in line with its upgraded guidance. And while Telix's adjusted EBITDA was down 41% to US$39.5 million, this is reflective of increased operating expenditure driven by strategic acquisitions, investment in commercial infrastructure, and research and development. Looking ahead, the company is guiding to revenue of US$950 million to US$970 million.

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

The Zip share price is up 2% to $1.89. This has been driven by news that the buy now pay later provider is launching a $50 million on-market share buyback. Zip's CEO and managing director, Cynthia Scott, said: "Today's announcement reflects Zip's disciplined and balanced approach to capital management. The Buy-Back program is consistent with our capital management framework and objective to maximise shareholder value. It demonstrates confidence in the strength of our balance sheet, and long-term strategy. We remain focused on investing in growth and driving sustainable profitability, while also returning surplus capital to shareholders where appropriate."

The post Why PWR, QBE, Telix, and Zip shares are storming higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The share price surge comes after the insurance company reported a 21% profit increase for the full year 2025.

Solid jump in profit and premiums

QBE is Australia's second-largest international insurer. It offers a broad suite of products across personal, commercial, corporate and institutional markets, spanning underwriting and reinsurance.

The ASX financial company delivered a strong FY 2025 performance. It managed to lift statutory net profit after tax about 21% to US$2.16 billion from US$1.78 billion a year earlier, comfortably ahead of market expectations.

Gross written premiums climbed roughly 7% to nearly US$24 billion, reflecting solid rate momentum and broader portfolio growth. The combined operating ratio improved to 91.9%, indicating healthier underwriting margins and a better balance between premiums and claims costs.

Lower catastrophe claims

The combined operating ratio improvement reflects successful portfolio optimisation and lower catastrophe claims, with the net cost from catastrophes at just 4.1% of net insurance revenue, well below the group's allowance

QBE Group CEO, Andrew Horton said:

Driven by our purpose to enable a more resilient future, 2025 has been a year of meaningful progress for QBE. Underpinned by disciplined execution of our strategic priorities, our efforts to rebalance the portfolio and stabilise performance have delivered tangible improvements, and the business has built strong momentum.

Investment income remained resilient, supporting overall profitability alongside underwriting gains. QBE lifted its full-year dividend by about 25% to $1.09 per share, with a roughly 50% payout ratio, underscoring strong capital generation.

What next for QBE Insurance?

Looking ahead, management reaffirmed guidance for mid-single-digit premium growth and a combined operating ratio of around 92.5% for FY 2026. It's signalling confidence in continued disciplined execution.

The insurer is doubling down on underwriting discipline and portfolio optimisation, having largely exited its North American non-core book.

Mr Horton commented:

Our Portfolio Optimisation efforts have delivered meaningful change over the last few years. The exit of our North America non-core portfolio progressed well and broadly concluded this year, leaving us with a more focused business with substantially less property catastrophe exposure.

 It also plans to step up investment in digital, cloud and AI to lift efficiency and sharpen underwriting performance.

QBE shares snapshot

In the past year QBE shares have had many ups and downs, with the share price moving roughly between $18 and $24. Since the start of the year the ASX financial stock has found its way up again, gaining 9%.

Over the past 12 months QBE shares increased value with almost 6%. However, they're still trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 9% over the same period.

The post QBE shares race 7% higher on strong full-year result appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did QBE Insurance Group report?

• Gross written premium rose 7% to US$23,959 million (8% excluding exited portfolios)
• Statutory net profit after tax up 21% to US$2,157 million (FY24: US$1,779 million)
• Combined operating ratio improved to 91.9% versus 93.1% a year ago
• Investment income steady at US$1,633 million, a return of 4.9%
• Full year dividend increased 25% to 109 Australian cents per share (payout ratio: 50%)
• Adjusted return on equity up to 19.8% (FY24: 18.2%)

What else do investors need to know?

QBE saw its funds under management jump 17% to US$35.8 billion, driven by premium growth and robust investment returns. Debt to total capital increased to 24.1% as the group completed tier 2 capital raisings to replace previously issued notes.

The combined operating ratio improvement reflects successful portfolio optimisation and lower catastrophe claims, with the net cost from catastrophes at just 4.1% of net insurance revenue, well below the group's allowance. The APRA Prescribed Capital Amount (PCA) multiple edged higher to 1.87x, above the group target range.

What did QBE Insurance Group management say?

Group CEO Andrew Horton said:

QBE delivered strong performance in 2025, exceeding our financial plan for the year. Profitability remains attractive across the majority of lines and the year ahead appears constructive for further growth, and a continuation of solid returns.

What's next for QBE Insurance Group?

Looking ahead, QBE expects continued gross written premium growth in the mid-single digits (on a constant currency basis) for FY26, with an anticipated combined operating ratio of around 92.5%.

The company remains focused on underwriting discipline and portfolio optimisation, having largely exited its North American non-core portfolio. Strategic priorities include further investment in digital, cloud, and AI capabilities to drive efficiency and robust underwriting.

QBE Insurance Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, QBE Insurance Group shares have remained flat, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 9% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post QBE Insurance posts 2025 profit and dividend increase in FY25 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Both suffered heavy losses yesterday, falling between 4.24% and 3.4% respectively. 

For context, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was essentially flat on Tuesday. 

Following yesterday's results, it could be an opportunity to buy the dip. 

Here is what experts are saying. 

Suncorp Group

Suncorp is a Queensland-based financial services conglomerate offering retail and business banking, general insurance, superannuation, and investment products in Australia and New Zealand.

Its shares fell 4.24% yesterday despite no price sensitive news out of the financial services conglomerate. 

Its share price is down almost 10% in 2026 and more than 32% in the last 12 months. 

It now sits close to its 52-week low, trading at $16.05 per share. 

The insurance stock experienced a prolonged sell-off during elevated natural hazard payouts related to extreme weather events towards the back half of 2025.

Based on recent targets from experts, Suncorp shares could be a buy-low opportunity. 

Recently, Goldman Sachs placed a price target of $20 on Suncorp shares. 

From yesterday's closing price, that indicates an upside of 24.61%. 

Estimates from Morgan Stanley suggest even more upside for this ASX financials stock. 

Last month, Morgan Stanley retained its overweight rating with a trimmed price target of $22.25.

This indicates an upside of 38.63%. 

It's worth noting these capital gains could come alongside a healthy dividend yield that is projected to be more than 5%. 

An important date for investors to watch will be on Wednesday 18 February when the company releases its HY26 results.

QBE Insurance Group

QBE is Australia's second-largest international insurer. It provides a broad range of insurance products across personal, business, corporate, and institutional markets, and is involved in insurance underwriting and reinsurance.

Its shares have also spluttered over the last 12 months, including a fall of 3.39% yesterday. 

QBE has faced headwinds over the last year which has dampened investor confidence. 

These include slowed increased premiums, and subdued growth. 

Recently, Wilsons also noted the company is negatively exposed to US dollar weakness. 

QBE shares closed yesterday at $19.69, and there appears to be limited upside based on analysts ratings. 

According to TradingView, 12 analysts have one year price targets between $19.30 and $24.21. 

This indicates QBE shares are hovering close to fair value. 

On the positive side, Bell Potter estimates that QBE's shares will provide investors in FY 2026 with a dividend yield of 4.7%.

It is set to release full year results on Friday, 20 February. 

The post Are Suncorp or QBE shares a better buy after yesterday's sell-off? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) closed 1.81% lower at 8,708.8 points as earnings season got underway.

The week began with a commodities rout that pummelled ASX 200 mining shares.

Investors took profits as metals, particularly gold and silver, plunged on news of the US President's Fed chair pick.

On Tuesday, a 0.25% interest rate hike in Australia benefitted the ASX 200 financial sector but created pain for tech.

ASX 200 tech shares fell almost 12% last week. The sector is now down almost 20% in the year to date.

Out of the 11 market sectors, only two finished the week in the green.

Let's review.

Financial shares led the ASX sectors last week

Share price performance varied across the ASX 200 financial sector, which incorporates bank shares, insurers, fund managers, and more.

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) share price soared 6.39% to finish at $158.91 on Friday.

CBA will reveal its 1H FY26 results on Wednesday.

Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd (ASX: ANZ) shares closed the week at $37.01, up 0.84%.

Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) shares ascended 1.57% to $39.43.

National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) shares fell 0.02% to $43.36.

The Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) share price lost 2.05% to close at $207.83.

Among the investment companies and fund managers, Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL) shares fell 4.09% to $37.01.

GQG Partners Inc (ASX: GQG) shares rose 7.96% to $1.70.

Shares in Argo Investments Ltd (ASX: ARG), which reports on Monday, descended 0.77% to $9.02 apiece.

Among the financial services providers, AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) shares fell 2.94% to $1.65.

AMP will release its 1H FY26 results on Thursday.

The Challenger Ltd (ASX: CGF) share price dropped 3.15% to $8.92.

Buy now, pay later share Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) fell 10.19% to $2.38.

Among the ASX 200 insurers, Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL) shares fell 1.08% to $4.57.

The QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) share price ascended 2.23% to $20.18.

Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) shares rose 1.71% to $7.73.

IAG will release its 1H FY26 results on Thursday.

See our earnings calendar to find out when the companies you're invested in will announce their dividends.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

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

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 financials flew but tech and mining shares faltered last week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

So what does that mean for Australian shares, and which ones might be the victim of a higher dollar?

The analyst team at Wilsons Advisory recently put out a research note to their clients which sets out what some of the tailwinds are for the local currency.

Rates pushing the dollar higher

One of the major factors was the Reserve Bank of Australia's board decision to raise interest rates this week, and the expectation that it might raise rates again in the near future.

This contrasted, the Wilsons team said, with the US, where rates are expected to be cut "multiple times''.

A high interest rate creates demand for our dollar, as global investors can get better interest rates on their cash holdings if they move into Australian investments.

Wilsons went on to say:

This policy divergence is widening the AU-US interest rate differential, with futures markets currently implying the RBA cash rate will be 110 basis points higher than the Fed funds rate at year-end, enhancing the Australian dollar's appeal to investors globally.

Support for the Australian dollar was also coming from ongoing strength in commodity prices, Wilson said, bolstered by "a resilient global growth outlook'', and also by general weakness in the US dollar against most major currencies.

Wilsons added:

On balance, our base macro view points to further moderate upside in the AUD from current levels.

Swings and roundabouts

The forecast strength in the dollar creates different effects depending on how a business is set up.

It's a boon for those businesses buying goods and services in US dollars, while for those getting paid in US dollars, it's a downside.

Wilsons said 40% of the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) companies' profits were derived offshore, but counterintuitively, resources companies, for example, tended to do well when the dollar was high, as commodity prices were often also high at the same time.

They added:

Additionally, Australian dollar strength often occurs amidst global risk-on environments, when positive investor sentiment encourages capital flows into Australian equities and other risk assets, providing support to valuations. Taken together, the impact of a stronger Australian dollar varies meaningfully across sectors and individual companies, creating a dispersion of winners and losers.

Companies that were exposed to the US dollar weakness in a negative fashion, Wilsons said, included ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD), CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH), and Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME).

Consumer-facing businesses were also at risk, with those exposed including Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL), Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE), and Breville Ltd (ASX: BRG), while tech stocks such as Wisetech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) and CAR Group Ltd (ASX: CAR) were also exposed.

Among the financials, Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) and insurer QBE Ltd (ASX: QBE) were exposed, as were Brambles Ltd (ASX: BXB) and Goodman Group (ASX: GMG).

Wilsons added:

These companies face near-term foreign headwinds to earnings (when considered in AUD terms), tempering our enthusiasm towards the group at the margin. However, we are sanguine that much of this impact is already reflected in valuations. P/E multiples have generally de-rated materially over the past six months, suggesting currency effects have been at least partially priced in by the market. Additionally, our preferred exposures – RMD, ALL, CAR, BXB and GMG – still offer attractive medium-term earnings growth prospects, even after accounting for adverse foreign impacts, which allows us to remain convicted in these names. Lastly, foreign exchange headwinds must be considered within the context of an otherwise broadly positive macro backdrop for offshore earners, with the currency impact to an extent offset by the superior US economic growth outlook and the prospect of multiple Fed cuts this year.

The post What the stronger Australian dollar means for your shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

QBE is the largest ASX insurance stock and has seen its share price drop slightly by 0.25% to $19.83. Its $19 billion rival Suncorp has gained 0.2% in value at $17.34.

Both insurance companies have had a past 6 months to forget, with QBE tumbling almost 14%, and Suncorp 16%.

Let's have a closer look at what 2026 might bring for the two heavyweight insurance stocks.

QBE

ASX insurance stock QBE is a large, globally diversified insurer. The company spreads catastrophe and economic risk across many markets.

The weakness of the past 6 months followed a strong start to 2025. Investor confidence was shaken when QBE announced that premium-rate increases had slowed significantly across several business lines, particularly in commercial property insurance.

That said, the underlying business remains sound. QBE delivered solid half-year results, supported by improved underwriting margins, stronger investment income, and a more disciplined portfolio.

The company also launched a sizeable on-market share buyback, signalling confidence in its balance sheet and capital position. However, a softer third-quarter update for FY2025 overshadowed these positives, shifting market focus toward slowing growth.

Despite these headwinds, broker sentiment remains supportive. Most analysts rate QBE as a buy or strong buy, with an average 12-month price target of $22.30, implying upside of around 13% from current levels.

The maximum price target is set at $25.42, a potential gain of 28%.

However, Bell Potter has put the ASX insurance stock on the sell list. It is feeling cautious about the company's outlook, given how premium growth is moderating and claim costs are rising.

The broker estimates that QBE's shares will provide investors in FY 2026 with dividend yields of 4.7%.

Suncorp

Suncorp is more Australia-focused than QBE. It relies heavily on domestic personal and small commercial insurance brands. The heavier domestic exposure makes the ASX insurance stock more sensitive to Australian natural disaster losses and regulatory and premium pressures than QBE.

The insurer experienced five difficult months to November 2025, marked by elevated natural hazard losses. December, on the other hand, proved to be a comparatively quieter month for weather-related events.

Even so, total costs still exceeded Suncorp's $885 million first-half allowance. Broker UBS estimates a catastrophe budget overrun of $420 million, reduced from its earlier estimate of $580 million.

UBS has assigned a buy rating to Suncorp shares, with a price target of $20.85 on the ASX-listed insurance stock. This points to a 20% upside over the next 12 months.

In terms of the dividend, the projection on CMC Markets suggests the business could deliver an annual dividend per share of 78.5 cents. At the current Suncorp share price, it could pay a grossed-up dividend yield of 6.3%, including franking credits.

The post Which ASX insurance stock to buy in 2026: QBE or Suncorp? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

There are 4 insurance stocks that sit above the rest:  

• QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE)
• Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN)
• Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL)
• Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG)

These are the largest insurance companies listed on the ASX, ranking highest by market capitalisation and collectively serving millions of policyholders across Australia.

What's the difference?

Although these companies all operate as insurers, they target various parts of the market. 

QBE is a global insurer, focused largely on commercial, specialty, and reinsurance markets across multiple countries.

Suncorp focuses primarily on Australia and New Zealand, offering a broad mix of personal and business insurance alongside banking services.

IAG (Insurance Australia Group) focuses on general insurance, particularly personal and small business insurance, in Australia and New Zealand through well-known local brands.

Medibank is focused on health insurance, primarily serving Australian customers with private health and related services rather than general insurance.

How did they perform in 2025?

After a post-pandemic boom for insurance stocks, 2025 marked a turning point for this sector in terms of stock market performance. 

The worst-performing insurance stock amongst the four has been Suncorp. 

Suncorp shares began the year trading at roughly $22.72 each. 

With just a day left of trading this year, this insurance stock is trading close to $17.70 each. 

This represents a fall of approximately 22%. 

Also suffering a down year are Insurance Australia Group shares. 

This insurance stock has dropped more than 7% in 2025. 

Meanwhile, it was essentially a flat year of returns for QBE shares, which have risen a modest 1% in 2025. 

Finally, the clear winner this year amongst ASX insurance stocks has been Medibank Private shares, which are up almost 26%. 

What are experts tipping for insurance stocks in 2026?

Overall, it appears there is limited upside in the insurance sector moving into the new year. 

Despite their strong year of growth, it appears experts' views are mixed on Medibank shares in the near future. 

In a note out of Shaw and Partners last week, the broker placed a hold recommendation on this ASX insurance stock. 

Meanwhile, Bell Potter in late November said the insurer holds a dominant presence in the Australian health insurance market, with a 27% market share and 4.2 million members. 

"This scale provides a solid foundation for continued growth, supported by favourable demographics and negotiating leverage with private hospitals," the broker said.

According to TradingView, analysts view the stock as trading close to fair value, with an average one-year price target of $5.12 (approximately 5% upside). 

IAG shares are also trading close to value based on analyst ratings via TradingView. 

Elsewhere, Suncorp and QBE shares both received sell recommendations from experts (via The Bull). 

The post Which ASX insurance stocks performed best this year? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Amid higher post-COVID inflation, most insurers significantly raised their premiums on all types of insurance policies.

But is the party over for ASX insurance shares?

Here, we look at three insurance giants and why the experts say it's time to sell.

QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE)

The QBE share price closed at $20.10 on Tuesday, up 2% for the day and up 36% over the past two years.

On The Bull this week, Christopher Watt from Bell Potter Securities has a sell rating on this ASX insurance share.

Watt explains:

This insurance giant has recently delivered a strong performance, which included solid returns on equity and a disciplined underwriting approach.

However, forward looking conditions appear more mixed. Premium growth is moderating, and rising claims costs in a higher inflation environment may start to erode margins.

The analyst says a significant re-rating for QBE shares over the past year potentially limits further upside.

Most of the good news has been priced into the stock, so investors may want to consider cashing in some gains. 

Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN)

The Suncorp share price closed at $17.82 yesterday, up 1.4% for the day and up 9.5% over the past two years.

Jed Richards from Shaw and Partners says it's time to sell this ASX insurance share.

He comments:

The insurer announced it had received more than 10,000 claims by November 26 in response to recent severe storms in New South Wales and Queensland.

The net cost to Suncorp is expected to be about $350 million, according to earlier terms of assessment.

About 5000 claims related to motor damage and a further 5000 claims involved homes.

Richard notes that Suncorp shares have fallen from $21.82 apiece on 22 August.

He adds:

Frequent buy-back updates don't offset insurance risk exposure.

Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL)

Also on The Bull, Blake Halligan from Catapult Wealth recently revealed a sell rating on this ASX insurance share.

The Medibank Private share price closed at $4.83 yesterday, up 1.3% for the day and up 35% over the past two years.

Halligan notes Medibank Private's share price decline from from $5.26 per share on 21 August.

He commented:

The Federal Government is attempting to encourage private health insurers to increase payments to private hospitals.

Net profit after tax of $500.8 million in fiscal year 2025 was up a modest 1.7 per cent on the prior corresponding period.

The risk of increasing cost pressures paints a challenging outlook.

The post 3 ASX insurance shares to sell: experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With that in mind, let's take a look at three popular ASX 200 shares that experts are tipping as sells, courtesy of The Bull. Here's what they are saying:

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

Bell Potter has named PLS Group, formerly known as Pilbara Minerals, as an ASX 200 share to sell.

While it is a fan of the lithium miner, it believes that its recent share price rally has taken it into dangerous territory. Especially if lithium prices don't rebound as quickly as some expect. It said:

Formerly Pilbara Minerals, this lithium miner's operational performance remains sound. Despite a strong balance sheet and long term tailwinds from electric vehicles and energy storage, lithium supplies exceed demand in the short term and overshadow any catalysts. The recent share price rally has run stronger than most sharemarket experts expected, with the stock still pricing in a cyclical rebound. Downside risk remains if lithium prices stay lower for longer.

QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE)

Bell Potter has also named insurance giant QBE as an ASX 200 share to sell.

It is feeling cautious about the company's outlook given how premium growth is moderating and claim costs are rising. The broker explains:

This insurance giant has recently delivered a strong performance, which included solid returns on equity and a disciplined underwriting approach. However, forward looking conditions appear more mixed. Premium growth is moderating, and rising claims costs in a higher inflation environment may start to erode margins. Also, in our view, the stock's re-rating during the past year potentially limits upside. Most of the good news has been priced into the stock, so investors may want to consider cashing in some gains.

Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN)

Finally, another insurer that has been named as a sell is Suncorp.

Shaw & Partners is feeling bearish due to its insurance risk exposure. And while its shares have pulled back recently, it thinks investors should continue to keep their powder dry. The broker said:

The insurer announced it had received more than 10,000 claims by November 26 in response to recent severe storms in New South Wales and Queensland. The net cost to Suncorp is expected to be about $350 million, according to earlier terms of assessment. About 5000 claims related to motor damage and a further 5000 claims involved homes. Frequent buy-back updates don't offset insurance risk exposure. The shares have fallen from $21.82 on August 22 to trade at $17.505 on December 18.

The post Experts name 3 ASX 200 shares to sell now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That era now appears firmly behind us.

The Reserve Bank of Australia's latest decision to hold rates came with clear guidance that inflation remains sticky and further tightening cannot be ruled out. Since then, both two-year and ten-year Australian government bond yields have drifted higher, reinforcing the idea that we are living in a structurally higher-rate, higher-debt world.

In this environment, investors seeking steady compounding are often drawn to businesses with two powerful characteristics: pricing power and balance sheet resilience. 

One industry that quietly ticks both boxes is insurance.

Pricing power in an inflationary world

At its core, pricing power refers to a company's ability to pass higher costs onto customers without suffering a material loss of demand. While many industries struggle to do this consistently, insurance stands apart.

Insurance is rarely loved, but it is widely required. 

Whether it's home and contents, motor, health, life, or business protection, many policies are essential rather than discretionary. As a result, insurers have historically been able to lift premiums in line with — and often ahead of — inflation, with limited impact on overall policy volumes.

This dynamic has been on full display over the past few years. Premium rates across multiple insurance lines have increased meaningfully as claims inflation, natural catastrophe costs, and reinsurance expenses have risen. Yet demand has largely held firm, supporting revenue growth and margin recovery for the better-run insurers.

Higher rates can be a tailwind, not a headwind

Insurance businesses have another structural advantage that is often overlooked. Unlike many capital-intensive companies, insurers typically benefit from rising interest rates.

Premiums are collected upfront, while claims are paid later. In the interim, insurers invest this "float" in conservative portfolios dominated by cash and fixed income. When interest rates rise, the yield on those investments increases, flowing directly through to higher investment income.

Not all insurers are created equal

That caveat is crucial. Insurance is not a one-way bet, and history is littered with examples of poor underwriting, mispriced risk, and capital mismanagement destroying shareholder value.

This is why investors need to differentiate between industry leaders and laggards.

On the ASX, companies such as Insurance Australia Group (ASX: IAG) and QBE Insurance Group (ASX: QBE) are frequently cited as bellwethers for the sector. Broker commentary has pointed to improving margins, rising premium rates, and the potential for earnings upgrades if catastrophe experience normalises over time.

Lessons from Warren Buffett

No discussion of insurance investing would be complete without mentioning Warren Buffett. Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRK.A) (NYSE: BRK.B) owned insurance businesses have been a central pillar of its success for decades, providing a steady stream of low-cost capital that Buffett has redeployed into high-quality investments.

That structure is unlikely to be directly replicable by everyday investors. However, the principle is highly relevant.

Buffett has long emphasised the importance of owning quality businesses with durable competitive advantages, strong balance sheets, and management teams that understand risk. Well-run insurers can meet those criteria when they combine disciplined underwriting with the intelligent use of float.

Foolish Takeaway

In a world where inflation remains elevated and interest rates stay higher for longer, insurance may not be exciting, but it can be effective.

For patient investors focused on steady compounding rather than short-term market narratives, high-quality insurers offer a combination of pricing power, defensive demand, and potential upside from higher rates.

As always, selectivity matters. But for those willing to look beyond the obvious growth stories, insurance could remain one of the market's quiet beneficiaries in the years ahead.

The post Investing in a higher-for-longer world and the ASX sector built to cope appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.