In mid-afternoon trade, the Regis share price is up 7.66% to $7.375, after opening at $7.25 and reaching an intraday high of $7.42.

The move lifts the gold stock's 12-month gain to roughly 74%, continuing a strong run that has made it one of the ASX gold sector's standout performers.

Based on the current share price, Regis' market capitalisation now sits around $5.58 billion.

The rally comes after a fresh ASX release showed another major increase in cash and bullion holdings. Gold prices also climbed back toward record levels overnight as safe-haven demand strengthened.

Another $198 million added to the balance sheet

The main catalyst was Regis' March quarter production and balance sheet update.

The company reported total group gold production of 90.6k ounces for the quarter, taking FY26 year-to-date production to 277.5k ounces.

Duketon contributed 57.5k ounces, and Tropicana delivered 33.1k ounces on an attributable basis, leaving the miner comfortably on track to meet full-year production guidance.

The bigger focus, however, was cash generation.

Regis revealed that cash and bullion increased by $198 million during the quarter, even after making a $92 million FY25 tax payment in February.

That lifted total cash and bullion holdings to $1.128 billion as at 31 March.

Gold strength supports the rally

The market reaction was also helped by another strong move in bullion overnight.

Gold prices climbed back above US$4,790 an ounce, with market data showing the yellow metal rising almost 2% as investors moved back into safe-haven assets. That leaves bullion up more than 55% over the past year.

As an unhedged producer, Regis gets the full benefit of stronger spot prices through margins and free cash flow, which is now feeding into its balance sheet.

The company also said there has been no material impact from broader fuel supply uncertainty across Australia. It is still watching costs and supply chains closely ahead of its full quarterly report later this month.

Foolish Takeaway

Regis is increasingly standing out as one of the ASX gold sector's strongest cash generators.

A $1.128 billion cash and bullion balance, zero direct hedge exposure, and another lift in bullion prices are helping keep the stock in focus.

After a 74% gain over the past year, this latest update shows how strongly Regis is benefiting from higher gold prices and a growing cash balance.

The post ASX 200 share leaps 8% as gold rally drives cash pile past $1.1 billion appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Regis Resources report?

• Quarterly group gold production: 90,600 ounces (FY26 to date: 277,500 ounces).
• Cash and bullion build during the quarter: $198 million.
• Cash and bullion balance at 31 March 2026: $1.128 billion.
• FY26 gold production guidance: 350,000–380,000 ounces.
• Tax payment made in February for FY25: $92 million.

What else do investors need to know?

Regis Resources advised there has been no interruption to its fuel supplies so far, despite wider uncertainty around Australia's fuel stability. The company has committed supply contracts with major importers and is actively monitoring its consumption and fuel supply chain.

All-In Sustaining Cost figures and further operational commentary will be provided with the full March quarterly results, due for release on 23 April 2026. An investor webcast and conference call are scheduled for the same day.

What's next for Regis Resources?

Investors can expect a more detailed operational and financial update when Regis Resources releases its full March quarter report. The company continues to monitor market conditions and will update guidance if material impacts to costs or capital spending arise.

No changes to the company's gold production or cost guidance have been flagged at this stage. Regis remains committed to operational stability and prudent financial management.

Regis Resources share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Regis Resources shares have risen 62%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 16% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Regis Resources posts strong Q3 cash build and gold production appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Will the market be able to build on this on Wednesday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 to rise

The Australian share market looks set to rise again on Wednesday following a mixed night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 18 points or 0.2% higher. In the United States, the Dow Jones dropped 0.2%, but the S&P 500 rose 0.1% and the Nasdaq climbed 0.1%.

Buy Telix shares

The team at Bell Potter thinks investors should be buying Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) shares following its first-quarter sales update. In response to the update, the broker has retained its buy rating and $19.00 price target on Telix's shares. It said: "The company continues to make good progress on multiple pipeline products. Short term news flow includes acceptance by the FDA of the resubmitted NDA for Pixclara and the amendment to the IND for TLX591 (prostate cancer Tx). We maintain our Buy rating. FY26 EBITDA is increased by ~US$21m to US$55.3m."

Oil prices fall

ASX 200 energy shares Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have a subdued session after oil prices pulled back overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 1.7% to US$110.41 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 3.8% to US$105.27 a barrel. This was driven by optimism that a US-Iran peace deal could be on the way.

Gold price rises

ASX 200 gold shares including Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a good session on Wednesday after the gold price pushed higher overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up 1.1% to US$4,734.4 an ounce. Traders have been buying gold in response to Donald Trump's comments on Iran.

Dividend payday

A number of ASX 200 shares will be rewarding their shareholders with their latest dividends on Wednesday. This includes financial technology company Iress Ltd (ASX: IRE), gold miners Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) and Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU), media giant News Corporation (ASX: NWS), and private health insurer NIB Holdings Limited (ASX: NHF). The latter is paying a fully franked 13 cents per share interim dividend today.

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

While that was bad, some ASX 200 shares posted even greater declines. Here's why these were the worst-performers on the index last month:

Iperionx Ltd (ASX: IPX)

The IperionX share price was the worst performer on the ASX 200 with a decline of 48.7% in March. Last month, the advanced materials company released its half-year report for the six months to 31 December 2025. IperionX revealed that it recorded a net loss of US$34.8 million for the period. This was much larger than the US$16.2 million loss reported in the prior corresponding period. Despite this heavy decline, IperionX's shares remain up 30% on a 12-month basis.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

The Northern Star share price was out of form and sank 35.8% last month. The main catalyst for this was the gold miner downgrading its production guidance for FY 2026 a second time. Northern Star revealed weaker-than-planned milling performance at the KCGM operation and reduced mining productivity across several operating areas. As a result, it now expects FY 2026 production to come in ~1.5 million ounces. This compares to its most recent guidance of 1.6 million to 1.7 million ounces, which was downgraded from 1.7 million to 1.85 million ounces.

Deep Yellow Ltd (ASX: DYL)

The Deep Yellow share price wasn't far behind with a decline of 33.7%. As well as broad weakness in the uranium industry, this may have been triggered by speculation that the company could soon launch a capital raising. However, Deep Yellow denied this will be the case. It stated: "Deep Yellow Limited notes the media speculation on 4 March 2026 regarding a potential capital raising. In response to the report, Deep Yellow confirms the Company is not undertaking a capital raising at this time."

Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL)

The Regis Resources share price was a poor performer and tumbled 31.9% in March. This was driven by significant weakness in the gold price during the month. The precious metal came under pressure after surging oil prices sparked fears of rising inflation and higher interest rates. The latter are bad for the gold price as they boost Treasury yields, which reduces the appeal of gold as a safe haven asset.

The post These were the worst-performing ASX 200 shares in March appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Gold shares have been on a multi-year tear due to a rapidly rising gold price creating exceptional earnings growth for ASX miners.

The gold price increased 65% in 2025, its greatest annual rise in more than four decades, and that came on top of a 27% gain in 2024.

The S&P/ASX All Ords Gold Index (ASX: XGD) rose 125% in 2025 and 16% in 2024, delivering investors some thrilling returns.

And then came the first real test for this magnificent period of growth.

How did 2026 begin?

The start of 2026 was amazing for ASX gold shares.

The gold price went crazy, rising 30% in less than a month on new year optimism and excitement.

The gold price soared from just over US$4,300 per ounce on 31 December to a record US$5,608 per ounce on 29 January.

ASX gold shares ascended strongly, rising 17.7% over these first few weeks of 2026.

Then came the steepest one-day fall for the gold price in more than a decade.

Gold plummeted 21% over just a few days to US$4,400 per ounce by 2 February.

The sell-off was triggered by the nomination of Kevin Warsh to be the next US Fed chair.

Warsh is known for his hawkish stance on interest rates, and investors worried he may not cut rates as fast as the market was hoping.

Higher-for-longer interest rates are a headwind for the gold price, given that gold is a non-yielding asset.

The Warsh nomination led to a fall in the gold price, followed by panic selling as investors sought to lock in their incredible gains.

ASX gold shares followed suit. The S&P/ASX All Ords Gold Index (ASX: XGD) fell 12.4% between 29 January and 2 February.

Despite the late-month sell-off, ASX gold shares managed an 11% net gain over the month of January.

ASX gold shares recover, then crash even harder

The gold price rebounded in February, rising to about US$5,300 per ounce by month's end.

ASX gold shares also rose by 4.7%.

Then came the war.

On 28 February (US time), Israel and the US attacked Iran, claiming they did so to destroy Iran's nuclear weapons capabilities.

That saw the gold price tank, and ASX gold shares went with it.

Trading Economics analysts say the gold price has experienced its worst monthly fall in March since October 2008, down about 13%.

ASX gold shares have followed the trend, diving 23.7% this month.

The analysts said:

The precious metal faced sustained pressure this month from an oil-driven inflation shock that pushed investors and policymakers toward a more hawkish stance on interest rates.

Meanwhile, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said long-term US inflation expectations appeared to remain anchored despite heightened uncertainties tied to the conflict.

He added that the central bank's policy stance is well positioned to allow officials to assess the economic impact of the Iran war.

1Q CY26 performance

The ASX All Ords Gold Index finished the first quarter down 10.1%.

Let's take a look at some specific ASX gold shares and their performance over the March quarter.

The market's largest ASX gold share, Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) fell 16.7% over the quarter to close at $20.36 today.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price edged 0.5% lower over the quarter to $12.62 today.

Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) shares managed a 0.3% gain over 1Q CY26 to $151.55 today.

The Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) share price rose 7.4% over the quarter to $11.34 on Tuesday.

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares declined 13.2% to close out the March quarter at $3.67.

Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU) shares weakened 8.7% over the quarter to finish at $5.15 today.

Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) shares decreased 19.3% over the quarter to $5.89 today.

Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX) shares fell 8.7% over the quarter to $5.89 today.

The Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) share price lost 12.8% to finish the March quarter at $6.65.

The post ASX gold shares tumble as bull run faces its first big test in 1Q CY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX mining shares have been the worst hit by the war in Iran, with the materials sector losing 15.3% of its value since the conflict began.

Some investors took profits this month after a strong run for ASX 200 mining shares, amid fears that higher diesel prices and potential shortages could hurt earnings and production for 2H FY26.

ASX 200 mining shares have also declined alongside metals prices, with gold down 17%, silver down 22%, lithium carbonate down 8%, and copper down 7% over the month. Iron ore has demonstrated resilience, rising 7% over the period to US$106 per tonne on Friday.

With the US and Iran still negotiating a 15-point plan for peace, it is hoped this war and the ensuing global oil shock will be over soon.

This may have motivated some investors to take up new or enhanced positions in ASX 200 mining shares last week, given the bright long-term outlook for the sector and the opportunity to buy the dip.

Reflecting the miners' fightback last week, the S&P/ASX 300 Metal & Mining Index (ASX: XMM) rose 4.4% while the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) gained 1% to finish at 8,516.3 points.

Seven of the 11 market sectors finished in the green last week.

Let's recap.

ASX 200 mining shares fight back

The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price increased 6.1% to close at $50.37 on Friday.

BHP shares reached a record $59.39 on 3 March before the war prompted investors to take profits.

Despite last week's rebound, the ASX 200's largest mining stock remains 13.8% lower over 30 days.

Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares lifted 4.3% to $153.23 last week, while Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) gained 6.5% to $20.19.

The Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) share price soared 9.7% to $56.69.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) shares increased 1.3% to $4.03 per share.

ASX 200 copper share Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR) lifted 1.8% to $15.88, while Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC) edged 0.6% lower to $10.14.

ASX 200 lithium shares had a ripsnorter of a week, with PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) rocketing 21.8% to close at $5.15 on Friday.

The Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) share price soared 20.9% to $1.77, and Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) gained 11.9% to 24 cents.

Nickel and lithium producer IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) lifted 16.5% to $7.93 per share.

Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) shares closed the week 2.7% higher at $10.08 apiece.

Bauxite and alumina producer Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI) lifted 3.5% to $85.95 per share.

What about ASX gold shares?

The market's largest ASX 200 gold share, Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) rose 0.3% to close at $18.55 on Friday.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price lifted 0.4% to $12.46, and Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) rose 3.1% to $146.85.

Among the mid-caps, Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) shares lifted 2.1% to $3.96, and Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) rose 1.1% to $6.26.

Gold and copper miner, Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) fell 3.5% to $9.76.

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 mining shares rebound after March sell-off creates opportunities appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The gold price rose to record highs, and along with it, many ASX gold shares. 

These companies also benefited from its position as a safe-haven asset.

Tariff fears, geopolitical uncertainty and global conflicts influenced investors decisions to push towards safe-haven assets like gold. 

Leading the way in 2025 were: 

• Pantoro Gold Ltd (ASX: PNR) rose 220%
• Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG) shares climbed 206%
• Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) share price roared 196% 
• Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) shares increased 194%
• Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU), up 121%

Among the largest gold mining companies: 

• Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) rose by 73% in 2025.
• Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) shares climbed 164%
• Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) shares increased 152%.

What is happening in 2026?

According to Trading Economics, gold prices have climbed more than 16% year to date. 

Although the continuing conflict in the Middle East has influenced volatility.

Despite global gold prices rising, many of these red hot ASX gold shares have stumbled in 2026. 

Let's look how the best performing shares from last year are tracking so far in 2026. 

The only one in the positive at the time of writing is Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG) which is up 12.9%. 

The other four: 

• Pantoro Gold Ltd (ASX: PNR) down 26% 
• Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) down 7.4%
• Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) down almost 15%
• Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU) has fallen 7.4%

Among the largest gold mining companies, since the start of 2026, Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) is up 7% and Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) is up 3%, while Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) is down 15%. 

What does this tell us?

There's more that influences gold miners and producers than just the global commodity price. 

Gold miners and producers are influenced not just by the global gold price but also by operational performance, including production costs, mine efficiency, and reserves. 

Exploration success and new discoveries can boost a miner's value, while project delays or cost overruns can hurt it. 

Regulatory, environmental, and political risks in mining jurisdictions can affect production and investor confidence. 

Finally, currency fluctuations, interest rates, and investor sentiment in equity markets also play a significant role in share price movements.

Global diversity with gold ASX ETFS

For investors looking to gain exposure to gold shares, without selecting specific companies, may benefit from more diverse gold ETFs. 

These funds can spread the risk across more than just Australian gold miners. 

Some options include: 

• Etfs Metal Securities Australia – Etfs Physical Gold (ASX: GOLD) – Tracks the price of physical gold with bullion held in London vaults.
• BetaShares Global Gold Miners ETF – Currency Hedged (ASX: MNRS) – comprises the largest global gold mining companies (ex-Australia), hedged into Australian dollars.
• VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX) – Provides exposure to a basket of global and Australian gold mining companies rather than the metal itself.

Alternatively, here are emerging ASX gold companies UBS has picked as winners. 

The post Which ASX gold shares have risen the most in 2026? 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:

Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL)

The Regis Resources share price is down 9% to $7.00. Investors have been selling this gold miner's shares following a pullback in the gold price. Traders have been selling gold amid concerns that sky-high oil prices could lead to higher inflation and force central banks to hike interest rates. It isn't just Regis Resources shares that are falling today. The S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Gold index is down 4.2% at the time of writing.

Strike Energy Ltd (ASX: STX)

The Strike Energy share price is down 3% to 10.7 cents. This morning, the energy company advised that the Western Australian Economic Regulation Authority (ERA) has finalised its Determination for the Benchmark Reserve Capacity Price (BRCP) for the 2028/29 Capacity Year at $488,500 per MW per annum. While this is a 35% increase on the 2027/28 benchmark of $360,700 per MW per year, it seems that some investors were expecting an even larger increase.

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX)

The Telix Pharmaceuticals share price is down 3% to $10.96. This is despite the radiopharmaceuticals company revealing that it was optimistic that the resubmission of a new drug application (NDA) for its brain cancer imaging candidate TLX101-Px would be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Telix's chief medical officer, Dr David N. Cade, said: "We appreciate the FDA's recognition of the critical unmet need to improve the diagnosis and management of glioma, particularly in the posttreatment setting. Our resubmission is supported by an extensive and compelling data set – particularly so for an orphan indication. We are grateful to our global clinical collaborators, who share our commitment to ensuring patients in the U.S. can benefit from this important patient management tool."

Virgin Australia Holdings Ltd (ASX: VGN)

The Virgin Australia share price is down 2.5% to $2.66. This may have been driven by concerns that rising oil prices could weigh on the profitability of the airline. Virgin Australia has also been struggling with its flights through to the Middle East with Qatar Airways experiencing consistent cancellations. The company's shares are now down almost 20% since this time last month.

The post Why Regis Resources, Strike Energy, Telix, and Virgin Australia shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

As we approach the end of the first quarter, the index provider has just revealed the changes that it will be making to the ASX 200 index effective prior to the open of trading on Monday 23 March.

This has seen three ASX 200 shares dumped from the benchmark index.

Which ASX 200 shares are being dumped?

According to the release, sports technology company Catapult Sports Ltd (ASX: CAT), data centre operator DigiCo Infrastructure REIT (ASX: DGT), and pharmacy wholesaler EBOS Group Ltd (ASX: EBO) are leaving the ASX 200 index later this month.

They are being kicked out after their share prices dropped to a level that took them below the threshold required to remain in the index.

Catapult shares are down almost 40% over the past six months, giving the company a market capitalisation of $1.23 billion.

DigiCo Infrastructure REIT shares are down 50% since this time last year, dragging its market capitalisation to $1.12 billion.

Finally, New Zealand-based EBOS' shares are down almost 44% over the past 12 months. However, its exit could be more due to relative liquidity (tradability), rather than market capitalisation.

Which shares are joining the index?

S&P Dow Jones Indices has named gold miner Predictive Discovery Ltd (ASX: PDI), engineering and construction services provider SRG Global Ltd (ASX: SRG), and lithium developer Vulcan Energy Resources Ltd (ASX: VUL) as their replacements.

Predictive Discovery shares are up 185% over the past 12 months, lifting its market capitalisation to $2.41 billion.

SRG Global's shares have risen by 120%, giving it a market capitalisation of $1.7 billion.

Finally, Vulcan Energy Resources shares are only up 11% since this time last year but have a market capitalisation of $1.73 billion and a much stronger balance sheet than a year ago.

What other changes are being made?

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) shares are joining the exclusive ASX 20 index in place of Santos Ltd (ASX: STO).

Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW) and PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) are joining the ASX 50 index, with TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE) and Seek Ltd (ASX: SEK) heading out.

Lastly, gold miners Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP), Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL), and Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX) are being added to the ASX 100 index. They are replacing Lendlease Group (ASX: LLC), Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL), and Pinnacle Investment Management Group Ltd (ASX: PNI).

The post 3 shares dumped from the ASX 200 index (and 3 new additions) appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For you to be entitled to a stock's next dividend, you must own it before its ex-dividend date.

Here are some of the ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week

The post 32 ASX shares about to go ex-dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

From market close on 30 January through to the closing bell on 27 February, these stocks delivered gains of 17% to more than 27%.

So, which companies were the ones to buy at the end of January and own throughout February?

I'm glad you asked!

ASX 200 stocks leaping higher in February

At the top of my list for February, we find Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC).

The Lynas Rare Earths share price gained an impressive 27.4% over the month just past, closing at $18.98.

The ASX 200 stock enjoyed a big boost after reporting its half-year results (H1 FY 2026) last week. Highlights included a 62.7% year-on-year increase in revenue for the six months to $413.7 million. And on the bottom line, Lynas' net profit after tax (NPAT) of $80.2 million was up 1,259% from H1 FY 2025.

Rival rare earths miner Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU) also shot the lights out in February. If you'd bought the ASX 200 stock at the end of January and sold at market close on 27 February, you'd have booked a gain of 25.9%.

The critical minerals miner reported its full-year results on 18 February. Although mineral sands revenue of $976 million was down 13.5% year on year, investors bid up the stock amid expectations of declining costs and capital expenditures in 2026, and a stronger outlook for mineral sands and rare earths markets.

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) – formerly known as Pilbara Minerals – was another top stock to own in February. PLS shares closed the month up 21%.

The ASX lithium miner released its half-year results on 19 February. Highlights included a 47% year-on-year increase in revenue to $624 million. And PLS swung to a NPAT of $33 million, up from a $69 million loss in the prior corresponding half year.

Moving away from the ASX 200 mining stocks for a moment, Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC) shares gained an impressive 18.5% in February.

Australia's biggest private hospital operator reported its H1 FY 2026 results on 26 February. Ramsay reported a 9.7% year-on-year increase in revenue from contracts with customers to $9.34 billion. And NPAT of $160.7 million was up from a $104.9 million loss in 1H FY 2025.

Which brings us back to the Aussie miners.

Buoyed by the ongoing strength in the global gold price and its half-year results release on 19 February, Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) shares gained 17.1% over the month just past.

In H1 FY 2026, the ASX 200 gold stock achieved a 40% year-on-year increase in half-year gold sales revenue to $1.09 billion. NPAT of $323 million was up 73% from H1 FY 2025.

Honourary mentions

Two of best known names on the index, which includes the biggest ASX 200 stock by market cap, also shot the lights out over the month just past on the back of their own strong earnings results.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) shares gained an impressive 16.4% in February.

And the BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price surged 15.5%, which saw the Aussie mining giant reclaim its title as the top-listed Australian stock from Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA).

Quite a month!

The post 5 of the best ASX 200 stocks to buy and hold in February revealed appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In fact, some of them downright turbocharged them by up to 200%!

The dividend splurge follows a boom in commodity prices over the first six months of FY26.

The biggest dividend increases, in percentage terms, came from the ASX 200 gold shares.

Let's check them out.

ASX 200 gold shares splash the dividend cash

One of the stand-out stocks for boosted dividends was Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL), which tripled its interim payment this year.

Regis Resources shares will pay a fully franked 15-cent per share dividend, up 200% from the 5-cent dividend for 1H FY25.

The miner reported a record net profit after tax (NPAT) of $323 million, up 73% year-over-year, for 1H FY26.

Regis Resources CEO Jim Beyer said:

Looking to the remainder of the financial year, we remain on track to deliver in line with guidance and in the prevailing gold price environment, we expect to see another period of significant cash generation and profitability.

Regis Resources shares go ex-dividend next Thursday, 12 March.

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) was another stand-out dividend raiser.

Evolution upped its dividend by 186% to a record 20 cents per share, fully franked.

This was enabled by a 110% NPAT lift to $766.6 million for 1H FY26.

Evolution Managing Director, Lawrie Conway, said:

Our record dividend of 20 cents per share meets our commitment to reward shareholders in the current high metal price environment.

With a clear pipeline of high-return projects now advancing, we're positioned for strong, sustainable growth while continuing to return capital to shareholders.

Evolution shares go ex-dividend tomorrow.

Another ASX 200 gold mining share, Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU), will pay a doubled interim dividend to shareholders.

The miner will pay an unfranked interim dividend of 5 cents per share, up from 2.5 cents per share for 1H FY25.

This is despite reporting just a 5% lift in revenue to US$608.5 million and a 7.8% fall in NPAT to $185.5 million for 1H FY26.

Perseus Mining CEO Craig Jones said:

Our strong operational results along with our low operating cost, produced robust cash flows further strengthening our superior balance sheet, enabling a 100% increase in our interim dividend to AUD 5.0 cents per share.

Perseus Mining shares go ex-dividend on Thursday.

The rivers of gold continue…

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares will pay a fully-franked interim dividend of 3 cents per share on 15 April.

This exceeds the company's commitment to a minimum annual dividend of 2 cents per share for FY26.

Ramelius Resources reported a 13% increase in EBITDA to $347.7 million but a 6% decline in NPAT to $160 million.

The ASX gold share goes ex-dividend on 16 March.

Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) shares will pay a maiden fully franked interim dividend of 5 cents per share.

The gold miner reported a 130% jump in underlying NPAT to $144.8 million for 1H FY26.

The ASX 200 gold share goes ex-dividend on Monday, 16 March.

What about other ASX 200 mining shares?

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares will pay an interim dividend of $1.03 per share, up 46% on 1H FY25, with full franking credits.

The 'Big Australian' revealed a 28% profit increase to US$5.64 billion for 1H FY26.

BHP shares will go ex-dividend on Thursday.

Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) shares will pay a fully franked interim dividend of 62 cents per share, up 24% on 1H FY25, on 30 March.

Fortescue reported a 23% NPAT increase to US$1.9 billion for 1H FY26.

The ASX 200 iron ore mining share went ex-dividend today.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) raised its interim dividend by 15% to 3.9 US cents per share, fully franked.

The miner reported a 29% lift in profit attributable to members to US$464 million for 1H FY26.

The ASX 200 diversified mining share goes ex-dividend on Thursday.

Ex-dividend dates this week

Check out other ASX 200 mining shares that have ex-dividend dates this week.

The post Which ASX 200 mining shares raised their dividends this earnings season? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Over February, ASX All Ords shares lifted almost 2.9% amid impressive results from the banks and miners, in particular.

Today, scores of ASX All Ords shares are ending the reporting season at a 52-week high.

Let's check out a few of them.

Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC)

The Ramsay Healthcare share price lifted 3.6% to a 52-week high of $43.65 on Friday.

Yesterday, Ramsay Healthcare reported a 1H FY26 net profit after tax attributable to owners of $160.7 million.

That was a significant improvement on the $104.9 million loss recorded in 1H FY25.

The ASX All Ords healthcare share will pay a fully-franked interim dividend of 42.5 cents per share.

That's up 6.3% on 1H FY25.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

The largest ASX All Ords oil share rose 1.5% to $28.36 on Friday.

That's the highest Woodside share price since July 2024.

This week, Woodside reported record production of 198.8 MMboe in FY25, up 3% from FY24.

The net profit after tax (NPAT) was US$2,718 million, down 24%.

Woodside shares will pay a fully-franked final dividend of 59 US cents per share.

That's up 11% in US dollar terms on the final FY24 dividend.

Woodside shares have also risen on the back of fears of US military action in Iran, which has pushed up oil prices.

National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB)

The NAB share price lifted 0.8% to a record high of $49.45 on Friday.

During the month, NAB reported cash earnings of $2.02 billion for 1Q FY26, up 15% on the average quarterly result in 2H FY25.

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

The Evolution Mining share price lifted 3.6% to a record high of $16.99 on Friday.

This earnings season, Evolution Mining reported a 110% surge in NPAT to $766.6 million for 1H FY26.

Evolution shares will pay a fully-franked dividend of 20 cents per share.

That's the highest dividend the ASX 200 gold miner has ever paid, and it's 186% higher than the 1H FY25 dividend.

The second-largest ASX All Ords gold share continues to benefit from safe-haven trading, which is driving up the gold price.

Check out some recent forecasts for the gold price in 2026.

Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL)

The Regis Resources share price lifted 5.2% to a multi-year high of $9.74 on Friday.

ALS Ltd (ASX: ALQ)

The share price of this testing and inspection services provider rose 1.4% to a record $25.83.

Develop Global Ltd (ASX: DVP)

This ASX All Ords copper share lifted 3.2% to a multi-decade high of $5.85 today.

The post 7 ASX All Ords shares finish earnings season on a 52-week high appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Safe-haven trading inspired a four-day sprint after the US Supreme Court declared US President Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffs illegal.

Trump has responded by slapping a 15% tariff on every nation for 150 days, which means a 50% increase for Australia.

The gold price lifted 2% overnight to close at US$5,209.55 per ounce.

However, the yellow metal has reversed course during intraday trading on Tuesday.

The gold price is currently US$5,183 per tonne, down 0.8%.

This has led to a 1.2% fall in the S&P/ASX All Ords Gold Index (ASX: XGD) today.

Analysts at Trading Economics said the gold price is falling as traders consider renewed tariff risks and persistent geopolitical uncertainty.

They said nations were reassessing their trade positions after the ruling, despite Trump's threats of higher tariffs if they "play games".

The analysts commented:

The EU halted the ratification process of its trade agreement, while India deferred talks with the US.

On the geopolitical front, attention remains on US-Iran nuclear talks, set to resume on Thursday.

Trump said he prefers a negotiated settlement but cautioned that serious consequences could follow if a deal is not reached.

5 ASX 200 gold shares reached record highs today

The day started on a high with five ASX 200 gold shares reaching new record highs, before retreating.

The Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) share price rose 5.6% to a record $30.93 this morning.

The market's largest ASX 200 gold share is now $29.33, up 0.1%.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price rose 5.2% to a new record high of $16.39 in earlier trading.

Now, Evolution shares are $15.38, down 1.3%.

Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares lifted 5.7% to an all-time high of $5.16 before reversing course.

The ASX 200 gold share is now $4.81 apiece, down 1.5%.

Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX) shares rose 4.8% to a record $7.93 apiece this morning.

Now, Westgold Resources shares are $7.68, up 1.4%.

The Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) share price reached a multi-decade high of $9.22, up 3.6%, in earlier trading.

The ASX 200 gold share is now $8.80, down 1.2%.

What's next for the gold price?

Shaw & Partners predicts that the gold price will increase to US$6,000 per ounce in CY26.

The broker is tipping a further rise to US$6,500 per ounce in CY27 and US$7,000 per ounce in CY28. 

Bank of America is forecasting gold to reach US$6,000 per ounce this year.

In a note to clients, BoA analyst Michael Hartnett said (courtesy Kitco News):

History no guide to future, but avg gold jump past 4 bull markets ≈ 300% in 43 months which would imply gold reaching $6,000 by spring.

Some analysts are even more optimistic.

René Hochreiter from NOAH Capital Markets and Sieberana Research anticipates a peak gold price of US$6,300 per ounce in CY26.

He comments:

Geopolitical events in 2026 are likely to continue unabated, putting upward pressure on the price.

World governments are building up their gold reserves in anticipation of de-dollarisation. 

Julia Du from ICBC Standard Bank says the gold price could crack US$7,000 per ounce this year.

I expect 2026 to be a year of heightened geopolitical risk and strong safe-haven demand, allowing gold to continue the volatile yet upward trend.

Central banks are likely to keep adding to reserves, institutional investors will increase portfolio allocations, and retail demand – especially in Latin America – should remain robust.

Combined with continued Fed rate cuts, these forces support a bullish bias.

Other experts are less ambitious with their forecasts.

Last month, Goldman Sachs raised its year-end forecast for 2026 to US$5,400 per ounce.

The broker said this prediction is based on two factors:

The first is continued purchases by central banks as they continue to diversify their reserves by buying bullion.

The second is investor allocations into gold thanks to the Federal Reserve rate cuts that Goldman Sachs Research expects to see this year.

Lina Thomas, senior commodities analyst at Goldman Sachs Research, expects volatility for the gold price but also sees a "significant upside" risk to the broker's forecast.

James Steel from HSBC tips a peak price of US$5,050 per ounce.

Steel says:

The "fear of missing out" has attracted a new coterie of buyers which is injecting added volatility into the market.

Heavy buying by institutional investors including momentum purchases may continue.

Long positions on the CME are high but subject to liquidation. Trading may be characterised by wide ranges this year.

The post Gold price reverses course after 4-day run appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After a strong start at market open, the ASX 200 fell into negative territory mid-morning and never recovered, closing down a hefty 0.61%. That leaves the index at a flat 9,026 points.

This painful start to the trading week for the Australian markets comes after a far rosier end to the American trading week on Saturday morning (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in fine form, cruising 0.47% higher.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) did one better, gaining 0.9%.

But let's get back to this week and the local markets now, though, for a deeper dive into what was happening amongst the various ASX sectors this session.

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

What did Regis Resources report?

• Regis 30% share of Tropicana JV Mineral Resources is 26Mt at 1.9 g/t Au for 1.6Moz as at 31 December 2025.
• Regis 30% share of Tropicana JV Ore Reserves is 12Mt at 1.5 g/t Au for 0.6Moz as at 31 December 2025.
• Underground Ore Reserves within the Tropicana joint venture (100%) have grown by 0.2Moz net of depletion in CY25, now totalling 0.9Moz.
• Total Tropicana JV Ore Reserves (100%) stand at 1.9Moz, including 0.8Moz open pit, 0.9Moz underground, and 0.3Moz stockpiles.
• Since the initial underground Ore Reserve was declared in 2018, total underground reserve growth of 1.3Moz has exceeded depletion by around 500koz (100%).

What else do investors need to know?

Exploration at Tropicana in 2025 focused on both expanding known mineralisation and identifying new underground targets. Drilling increased confidence in down-plunge extensions and uncovered new areas to support upcoming resource definition.

Underground resource classifications improved, with Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources increasing to 2.5Moz from 2.2Moz, demonstrating ongoing replacement of mined ounces and supporting future project life.

The Tropicana JV's work through the year has established a strong pipeline of underground growth projects, with further drilling planned to test high-priority zones like Boston Shaker, Havana, and the Cobbler conceptual target.

What did Regis Resources management say?

Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Jim Beyer said:

It is very pleasing to see the Ore Reserves and Mineral Resources at Tropicana continue to grow and extend the mine life in line with our expectations. The ongoing, year on year growth delivered by the team is an excellent result for our shareholders and clearly continues the trend of underground Ore Reserves growth exceeding depletion. Impressively, before depletion, Ore Reserves within the undergrounds at Tropicana have grown by over 500k ounces of gold since 2021.

What's next for Regis Resources?

Ongoing drilling at Tropicana is expected to further define and extend underground reserves, with several high-priority areas identified for exploration. Management remains confident that these initiatives will underpin the mine's ability to generate strong cash flows well into the next decade.

The company continues to focus on replacing mined ounces each year, aiming to maintain a long mine life and robust resource base. Developments at Tropicana should support Regis Resources' long-term growth strategy and deliver ongoing value for shareholders.

Regis Resources share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Regis Resources shares have risen 181%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 9% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Regis Resources lifts underground reserves at Tropicana Gold Mine appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because analysts at Morgans have been busy updating their recommendations for the ASX 200 shares in this article.

Is it bullish, bearish, or something in between? Let's find out.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Morgans was pleased with this investment platform provider's half-year results, noting that its profit was ahead of expectations. It was also pleased to see that its guidance for FY 2026 has been reiterated.

In response, the broker has retained its accumulate rating with a $29.00 price target. It said:

NWL reported 1H26 Revenue +24.7%; EBITDA +24.0%; and Underlying NPAT +19.8% on pcp, delivering strong momentum across the group, which was ahead of expectations. FY26 EBITDA margin guidance was reiterated for, implying 2H26 is expected to see a step-up in investment vs 1H26 ahead of the formal launch of its Broker/iHIN offering in 3Q26. Netflow guidance was also reaffirmed, with the group confident of momentum into FY27 as it looks to further scale its offering. We make minor changes to our NPAT forecasts of +3%/-1%/-3%, overall, this sees our price target move to A$29.00/sh, and we retain our ACCUMULATE rating.

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

Another ASX 200 share that delivered a solid result was PLS, which was formerly known as Pilbara Minerals. Morgans was pleased with its stronger than expected earnings and plans to restart the Ngungaju operation.

However, due to its current valuation, the broker has retained its hold rating and $4.60 price target. It explains:

1H26 result: solid result. Key positives: underlying EBITDA beat, Ngungaju plant restart confirmation and growth project studies brought forward. Key negatives: no dividend despite strong liquidity but ultimately this was not expected by most of the market. We maintain our HOLD rating with an unchanged A$4.60ps target price.

Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL)

This gold miner delivered a half-year result slightly ahead of expectations. But the highlight was a significantly larger than expected dividend.

However, due to recent share price strength, Morgans has downgraded the ASX 200 share to an accumulate rating (from buy). It said:

RRL reported its 1H26 result which demonstrated a series of modest beats across both EBITDA and NPAT, complimented by dividend payment of A$0.15ps. Key positive: Introduction of a structured capital management framework, with semi-annual distributions targeted at 25–50% of cash build, provides improved visibility on shareholder returns and better aligns with RRL's leveraged exposure to the gold price.

The 15cps fully franked dividend materially exceeded both MorgansF and consensus expectations and reinforces the strength of current cash generation. Key negative: No material negatives from the result. Operational and financial metrics were largely pre-reported, and delivery was consistent with guidance.

The post What is Morgans saying about these popular ASX 200 shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) gold stock closed yesterday trading for $8.40. In morning trade on Thursday, shares are swapping hands for $8.72, up 3.8%.

For some context, the ASX 200 is up 0.8% at this same time.

With today's intraday gains factored in, Regis Resources shares are now up a whopping 174.2% over 12 months, racing ahead of the 7.9% one-year gains posted by the ASX 200.

And that doesn't include the 5 cents a share in fully-franked dividends the gold miner paid out in FY 2025.

That was the first dividend Regis Resources had paid since 2022, by the way. But with profits surging to record levels amid a rocketing gold price, that's nothing compared to the passive income the ASX 200 gold miner is paying out in FY 2026.

Here's what's happening.

Regis Resources shares attracting passive income investors

This morning, the ASX 200 gold stock released its half-year results for the six months to 31 December (H1 FY 2026).

And Regis Resources shares are jumping with the miner reporting a 40% year-on-year increase in half-year gold sales revenue to $1.09 billion. Regis achieved an average realised price of $5,968 per ounce for that gold, up 52% from H1 FY 2025.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $621 million were up 73%.

Over the half year, Regis produced 186,917 ounces at an all-in sustaining cost (AISC) of $2,850 per ounce.

On the bottom line, the miner reported a record net profit after tax (NPAT) of $323 million, up 73% year on year.

And Regis Resources shares are catching plenty of investor interest today, with management declaring a fully-franked interim dividend of 15 cents per share. That's up 200% from the 5 cents per share paid out over all of FY 2025.

If you're looking to bank that passive income payout (currently representing an instant 1.7% yield), you'll need to own shares at market close on 11 March. The ASX 200 gold stock trades ex-dividend on 12 March.

On the balance sheet, Regis held cash and bullion of $930 million as at 31 December.

What's next for the ASX 200 gold stock?

Regis Resources shares could continue to catch tailwinds as investors chase the upcoming dividends.

The miner said that moving forward, it intends to pay fully-franked dividends on a semi-annual basis. These are expected to represent between 25% and 50% of the increase in the company's cash and gold bullion balance over the preceding half year.

Regis Resources CEO Jim Beyer said:

Looking to the remainder of the financial year, we remain on track to deliver in line with guidance and in the prevailing gold price environment, we expect to see another period of significant cash generation and profitability.

The post Big ASX gold news! Regis Resources shares leaping higher today on 200% dividend boost appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Regis Resources report?

• Net profit after tax up 267% year-on-year to $323 million
• Gold sales revenue rose 40% to $1.09 billion, with an average realised price of $5,968 per ounce
• EBITDA up 73% to $621 million, with a margin of 57%
• Gold production of 186,917 ounces at an all-in sustaining cost (AISC) of $2,850 per ounce
• Cash and bullion balance climbed to $930 million by 31 December 2025
• Interim fully franked dividend of 15 cents per share declared (up from 5 cents for the prior full year), totalling $114 million

What else do investors need to know?

Regis Resources has released a new Capital Management Policy, formalising its approach to shareholder returns. The company now intends to pay fully franked ordinary dividends on a semi-annual basis, targeting a payout of 25% to 50% of Group Cash Increase over each half.

The policy leaves room for special dividends and share buy-backs if cash balances exceed strategic requirements. The dividend reinvestment plan remains suspended.

FY26 production and cost guidance remain unchanged, targeting 350,000–380,000 ounces of gold and an AISC between $2,610 and $2,990 per ounce. Exploration guidance was lifted by $20 million amid continued drilling success.

What did Regis Resources management say?

Regis has delivered an outstanding financial result for the first half of FY26. The operational performance has increased the financial strength of our business translating to record EBITDA, NPAT and cash flow.

What's next for Regis Resources?

Looking ahead, Regis aims to deliver its full year production and cost guidance, underpinned by strong gold prices and ongoing operational performance. Management expects continued cash generation and profitability if gold prices remain robust.

The recently introduced capital management strategy gives more predictability on dividends while keeping flexibility for reinvestment and potential extra shareholder returns in the future.

Regis Resources share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Regis Resources shares have risen 164%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 7% over the same period.

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The post Regis Resources posts record HY26 profit and lifts dividend 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.