If I were buying S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares with that timeframe in mind, I would want businesses with opportunities that can keep expanding.

With that in mind, these three ASX 200 shares stand out to me.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

I think Sigma Healthcare looks very different today following last year's merger with Chemist Warehouse.

The combined business now brings together a major pharmacy retail network and Sigma's pharmaceutical wholesale operations, creating scale across several parts of the healthcare supply chain.

FY26 gave investors an early look at that potential. Revenue reached $10.8 billion, while normalised EBIT increased by more than 20%. Sigma is also working towards $100 million of annual integration synergies by FY29.

But I think the 10-year opportunity goes far beyond extracting merger savings.

Chemist Warehouse still has room to expand its store network and international presence, while Sigma can use its scale across distribution, retail pharmacy, and own-brand products to keep growing alongside it.

If management executes well, I think this ASX 200 share could be significantly larger a decade from now.

Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

Breville is an ASX 200 share that I think has done an excellent job of turning a local brand into a global one.

Its premium coffee machines remain an important growth engine, but what interests me over 10 years is the model behind them.

Breville continually invests in new products, marketing, and new geographic markets, giving it several ways to keep growing without relying on consumers simply buying more of the same appliances.

FY26 revenue reached a record $1.81 billion, and remarkably, the company has now increased revenue, gross profit, and EBIT in every financial year since FY15.

Newer markets also provide another avenue for expansion. Breville has been building its presence in markets including China and the Middle East while continuing to develop its established businesses in the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

I think that global runway could keep the business growing well beyond the next few years.

Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1)

Megaport is the higher-growth pick of the three ASX 200 shares.

It has traditionally helped businesses connect data centres and cloud providers through its global software-defined network. More recently, its acquisition of Latitude.sh has expanded that opportunity into AI infrastructure.

Latitude.sh provides GPU and CPU computing power, storage, and networking for AI workloads, and the early demand has been strong. 

Megaport has already announced a series of very large strategic contracts through the business, giving it a much bigger growth avenue than connectivity alone.

For me, that is what makes the 10-year story so compelling. 

If Megaport can keep building both sides of the business, it could become a much larger digital infrastructure company by 2036.

Foolish takeaway

I cannot know what the market will look like in 2036.

I would rather spend a 10-year holding period backing ASX 200 shares that still have ways to expand. Sigma, Breville, and Megaport all give me that potential, but through three completely different parts of the economy.

That is enough for me to be comfortable buying them and giving the businesses plenty of time to grow.

The post 3 ASX 200 shares I would buy and hold for 10 years appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

ASX 200 to rise

The Australian share market looks set for a good session on Tuesday following a strong night in the United States. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 28 points or 0.3% higher. On Wall Street, the Dow Jones rose 0.7%, the S&P 500 jumped 1.5%, and the Nasdaq stormed 2.25% higher.

Dividend payday

A group of ASX 200 shares will be rewarding their shareholders with their latest dividend payments on Tuesday. This includes Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG), Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN), and Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL). The latter is paying shareholders a fully franked 37 cents per share dividend later today.

Oil prices tumble

ASX 200 energy shares Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have a tough session on Tuesday after oil prices tumbled overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 4.9% to US$95.37 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 3.6% to US$100.10 a barrel. This was driven by optimism that the US and Iran could start peace talks.

Gold price falls

ASX 200 gold shares Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) and Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) could have a soft session after the gold price dropped overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is down 1% to US$4,381.3 an ounce. The precious metal has come under pressure due to increasing US rate hike bets.

Buy Telix shares

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) shares could be in the buy zone according to Bell Potter. In response to its merger news, the broker has retained its buy rating and $19.00 price target on Telix's shares. It said: "We are yet to include the earnings impact from the transaction in our forecast, nevertheless, it represents a once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire a dominant share in the supply of Lu-177 that is very difficult to replicate. While earnings may take a year or two to realise, the underlying value is obvious. Maintain Buy rating."

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

Healthcare is a core slice of almost every Aussie portfolio, but the sector comes in many flavours. If you're weighing up Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG) and Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL) shares, the decision boils down to more than just "pharma vs pathology." Both are big names, both have national and global footprints, and each offers a very different blend of income, growth potential, and business risk. Here's how they stack up.

The case for Sigma Healthcare

Sigma Healthcare is a stalwart of Australian pharmacy. Following its 2025 merger with Chemist Warehouse, Sigma now blends a massive wholesale pharmaceutical distribution network with the country's biggest pharmacy retail footprint, operating well-known brands such as Chemist Warehouse, Amcal, and Discount Drug Stores. The company also backs up its retail network with services like dose administration aids and technology for pharmacy customers. According to its most recent company profile, Sigma was founded in 1912 and is based in Clayton, Victoria.

The numbers show Sigma as a sizable operation — its market cap clocks in at $28.86 billion, with 11.5 billion shares on issue. Current valuation looks lofty, trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 41.77. Dividends are there, but on the smaller end, with a yield of 1.54% and full 100% franking. Year to date, Sigma's share price has slipped by 10.5%.

The case for Sonic Healthcare

Sonic Healthcare is a very different beast. Rather than retailing or wholesaling medication, Sonic is a diagnostics empire: the largest private pathology services operator in Australia, the UK, Germany, and Switzerland, plus big positions in the US, New Zealand, and Belgium. Pathology accounts for most of its revenue, but Sonic also boasts a leading role in diagnostic imaging and medical centre ownership in Australia.

Sonic has a market cap of $9.70 billion (much smaller than Sigma) and a P/E ratio of 15.89 — far lower than Sigma's. For income-seekers, the dividend yield is a noticeable 5.53%, although franking is partial at 60%. It's also seen a negative year-to-date return of 8.8%.

Valuation comparison

Here's how the two stack up on key valuation and income metrics:

Sigma's larger market cap reflects its scale and sprawling retail network after merging with Chemist Warehouse. But it is Sonic that stands out on income, with a much higher dividend yield (and larger dividends per share), albeit with less franking. Sonic's far lower P/E ratio suggests the market expects slower growth or sees less risk in Sigma, but sector differences make a like-for-like comparison tricky.

Recent share price performance

Both companies have faced a challenging run lately. Comparing 18 August – 17 September 2026:

• Sigma Healthcare shares fell from $2.93 to $2.50, including a steep single-day drop of 7.75% on 27 August 2026.
• Sonic Healthcare shares dropped from $23.02 to $19.62, also seeing some sharp daily declines — most notably a 9.25% fall on 20 August 2026.
• Year to date, Sigma is down 10.5%, while Sonic has slipped 8.8%.

So, both stocks have moved lower through 2026, with both hit by periods of strong selling.

Which is the better buy?

This is not a simple snap pick, but if I had to choose, I'd lean toward Sonic Healthcare as the more appealing buy right now.

Here's why: Sonic's dividend yield is meaningfully higher at 5.53%, and its payout is larger in absolute dollar terms. While the 60% franking won't suit everyone seeking maximised after-tax income, it's still a decent level. Sonic's P/E ratio of 15.89 is far more attractive than Sigma's 41.77, suggesting you're paying much less per dollar of reported profit.

Sigma's premium valuation might be justified given its dominant retail position after merging with Chemist Warehouse, opening up new earnings streams and scale — but that makes the stock look priced for strong ongoing growth, which isn't fully backed up by its negative year-to-date returns.

Sonic's business model is more defensive, with global operations and a central role in diagnostic healthcare. Its lower valuation, higher income, and solid EPS give me more confidence in its risk/reward, even after recent price weakness. Without meaningful trend data beyond this year's snapshot, I can't judge longer-term earnings or dividend growth for either company.

So, while Sigma is a genuine heavyweight with exciting exposure to Australian pharmacy retail, my pick for a buy today would be Sonic Healthcare for its income, global footprint, and lower relative valuation.

The post Sigma Healthcare vs Sonic Healthcare: Which ASX healthcare share wins? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The broader S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) slipped 0.11% over the week to 8,731.2 points on Friday.

The market was volatile on increased bets of another interest rate hike due to persistently high inflation.

The market is pricing an 82% chance that the Reserve Bank will lift rates by another 0.25% at the end of the month.

Last week, the US Fed raised rates for the first time in three years, and Japan also increased rates to a 30-year high.

Elevated oil prices due to the US-Iran conflict continue to contribute to stubborn inflation worldwide.

Last week, eight of the 11 market sectors finished in the red.

Let's review.

Healthcare led the market sectors last week

Healthcare is continuing its rapid rebound following a 29% slump over the 12 months to early June.

The S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) hit a 9-year low on 3 June.

Healthcare shares have ripped 43% since then compared to a 0.6% fall for the ASX 200.

The CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) share price popped 5.08% to $175.59 last week, and it's up 90% since 3 June. 

Resmed CDI (ASX: RMD) shares rose 5.15% to $31.87, and are 23% higher since 3 June. 

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) shares jumped 3.18% to $169.57 on Friday, and are up 6% since 3 June. 

The Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC) share price lifted 3.44% to $55.39, and is up 52% since 3 June. 

Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL) shares edged 1.26% higher to $19.24, and are up 2% since 3 June.

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX) shares jumped 13.91% to $17.85 on Friday, and are up 46% since 3 June.

The 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX) share price leapt 28.27% to $4.31, and is up 14% since 3 June. 

Chemist warehouse owner Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG) bucked the trend last week.

Sigma Healthcare shares fell 3.04% to $2.55, and are 12% lower since 3 June. 

The Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) share price also fell 0.18% to $133.90 last week.

Cochlear shares have recovered 41% since 3 June. 

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 healthcare shares lead a weaker market amid 82% chance of a rate hike appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I would still want businesses that can grow over time, while also providing some income along the way.

These three ASX shares would be on my list.

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

Wesfarmers is one of the first ASX shares I would consider.

The group owns businesses including Bunnings, Kmart, Officeworks, and Priceline, giving it several sources of earnings across different parts of the Australian economy.

For retirement investors, I like the combination of established businesses and room for further growth.

Bunnings has built a powerful position in home improvement, while Kmart continues to benefit from its focus on affordable products. Wesfarmers also has the financial strength to invest in existing businesses or pursue new opportunities when management sees attractive returns.

The company has also paid dividends consistently over many years.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

CBA would give me a more traditional source of income.

The bank generates substantial profits from its large customer base across home lending, deposits, business banking, and other financial services.

That has allowed it to return significant amounts of cash to shareholders through fully franked dividends.

Australian banking is a mature industry, so I would not expect rapid earnings growth.

But for retirement, I would be comfortable owning a high-quality business capable of producing substantial cash flow while still gradually increasing earnings over time.

CBA is rarely the cheapest bank on the ASX, but I would be willing to pay a little more for what I think is the strongest banking business in Australia.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

Sigma would be the more growth-focused choice of the three ASX shares.

Following its combination with Chemist Warehouse, the company now has exposure to one of Australia's best-known pharmacy brands alongside a major pharmaceutical distribution operation.

I think there are several ways the business can become larger over the next decade.

Chemist Warehouse continues to expand its store network, while international markets such as New Zealand and the United Kingdom provide additional room for growth.

Sigma can also benefit from the wider pharmacy ecosystem, including distribution, retail sales, online channels, and relationships with suppliers.

While its dividend yield is not the largest, if the company can expand earnings over time, there should be greater scope for shareholder returns to increase.

Foolish takeaway

For me, retirement would not mean giving up on growth.

I would want some dependable income, but I would also want businesses capable of becoming more valuable over the years ahead.

Wesfarmers, CBA, and Sigma each offer a different balance between those two goals, which is why I would be comfortable considering any of them for a long-term retirement portfolio.

The post 3 ASX shares I'd buy for income and growth in retirement appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Meanwhile, brokers have indicated continued confidence in several ASX 200 shares this week.

Let's take a look.

Santos Ltd (ASX: STO)

The Santos share price is $8.55, up 0.3% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 energy share has risen 12%.

Citi renewed its buy rating on Santos shares on Tuesday.

The broker raised its 12-month price target from $9 to $9.35.

This suggests a potential 9% upside ahead.

Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

The Goodman Group share price is $26.92, down 0.9% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 property share has fallen 10%.

UBS reiterated its buy rating on Goodman shares today with a price target of $33.66.

This implies potential capital gains of 25% ahead.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)

The Telstra share price is $4.81, up 0.5% today.

Over the past month, this ASX telco share has declined 4%.

Citi renewed its buy recommendation with a 12-month price target of $5.25 this week.

This implies a potential 10% upside ahead.

Pls Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)

The PLS Group share price is $4.84, down 3.5% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 lithium share has lifted 2%.

Citi renewed its buy rating on PLS Group shares on Wednesday.

The broker increased its target price from $5 to $5.70.

This implies potential capital growth of 17% over the next year.

AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP)

The AMP share price is $2.48, down 0.4% on Thursday.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 financial share has risen 5%.

Jefferies renewed its buy rating on AMP shares yesterday.

The broker raised its target from $2.55 to $2.77.

This implies potential capital growth of 12% over the next year.

Life360 Inc (ASX: 360)

The Life360 share price is $19.43, down 1% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 tech share has fallen 34%.

Citi renewed its buy rating on Life360 shares with a $28.80 target this week.

This suggests a potential 49% upside ahead.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

The Pro Medicus share price is $166.83, up 0.2% today.

This ASX 200 healthcare share has fallen 6% over the past month.

Citi reiterated its buy rating on Pro Medicus shares today.

The broker decreased its price target from $240 to $225.

This still implies a healthy potential upside of 35% ahead.

Pro Medicus is one of 40 ASX shares going ex-dividend this week.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

The Sigma Healthcare share price is $2.65, down 0.9% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 healthcare share has fallen 11%.

Macquarie renewed its buy rating on Sigma Healthcare shares on Monday.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $3.20.

This suggests a potential 21% upside ahead.

ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ)

The ANZ share price is $36.39, down 1.1% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 bank share has fallen 2%.

Citi reiterated its buy rating on ANZ shares with a $39.25 target this week.

This implies a potential 7% upside ahead.

ASX 200 bank shares weakened last month amid investor concerns over a housing credit downturn.

ANZ shares fared best as the bank continues to benefit from a reset under CEO Nuno Matos.

The post 9 ASX 200 shares earning strengthened buy ratings this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Most of the company's profit generation comes through its ownership of the Chemist Warehouse franchise business. It also owns the Amcal and Discount Drug Store businesses.

In my view, Sigma Healthcare is delivering exceptional growth and its outlook is very compelling. Let me run through three very attractive elements.

Strong Australian growth         

The company's core earnings driver is Australia, where a vast majority of the franchise stores are located. There were 561 Australian Chemist Warehouse stores at the end of FY26, following the addition of 24 locations in FY26.

The Australian segment saw revenue growth of 14.9% to $10.4 billion, with Chemist Warehouse branded like-for-like network sales growth of 13.4% amid continued demand for GLP-1 medicines.

Over the long term, it has franchise network targets of around 900 Chemist Warehouse stores, around 300 Amcal locations, and approximately 150 Discount Drug Stores.

It expects to open 13 Chemist Warehouse-branded stores in the first half of FY27, with 12 refurbishments also planned.

The fact that the business continues to deliver double-digit revenue growth after such a long time says to me that the business can deliver good revenue growth for the foreseeable future.

Exciting international growth

Australia is not the only market where the company is growing. Excitingly, it has a presence in New Zealand, Ireland, the UAE, and UK. It also has a presence in China where it's focusing on profitable online sales.

In FY26, 20 stores were opened in international markets, with 14 new stores in New Zealand and four new ones in Ireland.

Impressively, sales grew by 45% in Ireland and 20.3% in New Zealand during FY26. Overall, international revenue increased 33% to $421.4 million.

The business is entering the UK market in FY27, which could be another exciting growth market for one of Australia's top shares. The success in nearby Ireland – which is now profitable – is a good sign for the UK, in my view.

I think the company could expand to other markets in the longer term.

Operating leverage

Not only is the business growing its top line rapidly, but I think profit can increase even faster thanks to its rising profit margins. Remember, it's normally profit growth rather than revenue growth that can send a share price higher.

The FY26 financials were a great demonstration of its ability to deliver stronger profits.

While overall revenue rose 15.5%, normalised operating profit (EBIT) climbed 20.6% to $1.09 billion, and normalised net profit grew 22.3% to $732.3 million. It also reduced net debt to $663 million.

Australian segment normalised EBIT grew 18.3% and international segment EBIT soared 91.3% to $55.8 million.

I think the strengthening profit margins are a great sign for one of Australia's top shares to continue becoming more valuable.

After falling 15% since February 2026, the Sigma Healthcare share price is now valued at 35 times FY27's estimated earnings. I think Sigma Healthcare, one of Australia's top shares, could be undervalued at this level.

But, it's not the only stock I've got my eyes on.

The post A rare buying opportunity in 1 of Australia's top shares? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Morgans currently sees that opportunity in two ASX shares.

Both have been given buy ratings, with the broker arguing that recent weakness has created a better entry point.

Jumbo Interactive Ltd (ASX: JIN)

Jumbo Interactive shares are trading around $6.69 on Tuesday.

The lottery technology company recently reported underlying EBITDA of $85.2 million, up 25%, while underlying NPATA increased 20% to $50.6 million. That came despite another unusually weak year for large Australian lottery jackpots.

Morgans believes the result was stronger than the share price reaction suggested.

The broker noted that Jumbo's international operations are becoming much more meaningful, with Managed Services and Prize Draws contributing $30.3 million compared with just $7 million a year earlier.

That growth helped offset a 10% decline in Australia as large jackpot activity remained soft.

There are still some uncertainties. Morgans pointed to questions around Brightstar and FY27 guidance that came in below parts of the market's expectations.

Even so, the broker described that guidance as conservative and continues to expect Jumbo's financial position to strengthen, forecasting a return to net cash by FY29.

Morgans has retained its buy recommendation and reduced its price target slightly from $10.25 to $9.81.

From the current share price, that implies potential upside of roughly 47%.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

Sigma Healthcare is another ASX share Morgans thinks has been treated too harshly by investors.

The shares are currently trading around $2.69 after falling following the company's FY26 result.

Sigma delivered EBIT growth of more than 20%, while like-for-like Chemist Warehouse sales increased 13.4% in Australia and 12.2% internationally.

Australian growth slowed somewhat during the second half, but Morgans attributed this partly to a later start to the cold and flu season and a particularly strong comparison period.

Importantly, Sigma is targeting double-digit revenue and earnings growth in FY27.

The broker did trim its forecasts by around 3.5%, but it still believes the market reaction has gone too far.

Morgans said the post-result decline, which was also influenced by the possibility of some founders selling shares, had created an opportunity. As a result, the broker upgraded Sigma from accumulate to buy.

Its price target now sits at $3.19, down slightly from $3.30 previously.

That represents potential upside of around 19% from the current share price.

Foolish takeaway

Morgans sees upside in both ASX shares, although the investment cases are quite different.

Jumbo's opportunity rests on international growth becoming a larger part of the business while Australian jackpot conditions eventually normalise.

Sigma, meanwhile, is still delivering strong growth following the Chemist Warehouse combination, and Morgans believes the recent sell-off has been overdone.

Based on the broker's latest price targets, both ASX shares could have meaningful upside from here.

The post 2 ASX shares tipped to return 19% to 47% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

UBS has released its latest "Top Picks" list, naming 10 ASX shares its analysts see as the most compelling opportunities over the next 3 to 6 months.

The list is selected from a wider pool of 30 stocks and is updated each month.

So, which ASX shares made the cut this time?

Resources and industrials are in hot demand

UBS says the August reporting season reinforced what it describes as a "capex over consumer" cycle.

The broker sees stronger conditions in areas benefiting from spending on data centres, mining, energy and defence, while consumer-facing parts of the market look less attractive.

Several of the stocks on the list fit that view.

They include Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD), which finished Monday at $8.17, Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) at $63.06, Orica Ltd (ASX: ORI) at $22.95 and Ventia Services Group Ltd (ASX: VNT) at $5.73.

UBS is currently overweight both the mining and industrial sectors.

Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1) also makes the cut. The data centre connectivity company closed Monday at $17.13 after a strong run this year, up 45%.

The full UBS top 10

The rest of the list is a pretty much a mixed bunch.

Auckland International Airport Ltd (ASX: AIA) finished Monday at $6.99, while AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) closed at $2.48.

Healthcare heavyweight CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) ended the session at $173.18, while gaming company Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW) finished at $125.30.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG) rounds out the list after closing Monday at $2.69.

That gives UBS a mix of mining, infrastructure, technology, healthcare, financial and consumer-related exposure.

It's also worth remembering these are short-term picks, not necessarily the stocks UBS likes best over the next 5 or 10 years.

The list can change quickly as share prices and earnings expectations move on the daily.

What is UBS avoiding?

Just as interesting is where UBS is more cautious.

The broker isn't keen on banks, consumer discretionary shares and real estate, with higher RBA interest rates and weaker sentiment making life tougher across those parts of the market.

UBS thinks that could lead to more earnings-per-share (EPS) downgrades in the months ahead.

That leaves the broker leaning more heavily towards companies exposed to business investment and infrastructure spending.

Of course, these are only 3-to-6-month picks, and UBS refreshes the list every month.

I'd be interested to see which of these 10 are still there next time around.

The post UBS names its 10 top ASX picks for the next 3-6 months appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The list includes BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS), and Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), along with four other ASX 200 shares.

Combined, the dividends are worth around 31 points on the ASX 200, according to IG.

That could make some of the share price moves look worse than they really are on Thursday.

Let's take a closer look.

BHP, Woodside, and Coles lead the way

BHP is easily the largest company on today's list.

The mining giant closed Wednesday at $64.65 and is trading ex-dividend for $1.39 per share, fully franked.

That means anyone buying BHP shares from today will not receive the payment, which is due to eligible shareholders on 23 September.

Woodside is another heavyweight going ex-dividend.

Its shares finished yesterday at $33.08 and are now trading without a 79.51-cent fully-franked dividend attached. Woodside is due to pay shareholders on 25 September.

Coles closed Wednesday at $23.89 and has a 37-cent fully-franked dividend coming off its share price today. The supermarket giant will make the payment on 22 September.

However, with all three carrying such huge index weightings, going ex-dividend is likely to put some pressure on the ASX 200 today.

4 more ASX 200 shares to watch

There are also several other payouts investors should be aware of.

Amcor Plc (ASX: AMC) closed at $64.15 and is trading ex-dividend for 92 cents per share. Unlike the other larger payouts today, the Amcor dividend is unfranked.

Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC) finished Wednesday at $52.38 and is going ex-dividend for 48.5 cents per share, fully franked.

Meanwhile, NIB Holdings Ltd (ASX: NHF) closed at $6.97 and is trading without its 21-cent fully-franked dividend.

Rounding out the group is Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG), which closed at $2.71. Its latest dividend is 2 cents per share, also fully franked.

Sigma shareholders are due to receive their payment on 22 September, Ramsay on 24 September, and NIB on 7 October.

What investors should keep in mind

There is a fair bit going on with the index today, so the headline move may not tell the full story.

BHP, Woodside, and Coles are all large enough to have an impact, and having all 3 go ex-dividend on the same day adds some extra weight.

So, if the ASX 200 looks a bit weak, the dividend effect is worth factoring in.

The post Own BHP, Woodside or Coles shares? Here's what investors should know appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

If I had $20,000 ready to invest today, I would put it behind three businesses I think have plenty of room to grow over the years ahead.

Here's what I would buy.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

Pro Medicus would probably receive the largest portion of my money.

Its Visage software is already used by some of the largest healthcare systems in the US, yet the company estimates it still has only around 11% of that market.

I think that is a powerful combination. Pro Medicus has proved its technology can handle the demands of major hospital networks, while most of the potential US market remains available.

The opportunity is also expanding beyond radiology. Cardiology and enterprise imaging could allow Visage to handle more of the medical images produced across a healthcare organisation. Artificial intelligence may create further opportunities as hospitals look for faster and better ways to work with growing volumes of imaging data.

Over a long timeframe, I think Pro Medicus can win many more customers while becoming increasingly valuable to those it already serves.

James Hardie Industries plc (ASX: JHX)

James Hardie gives me exposure to a very different type of long-term opportunity.

This ASX share is best known for fibre cement building products, particularly in North America, where its products are used across housing construction and renovation.

What interests me is the amount of existing housing that will need to be repaired, renovated, or upgraded over the coming decades.

Homeowners do not need a housing boom for that spending to happen. Ageing properties eventually need work, and James Hardie's products can benefit when owners replace siding or invest in improving their homes.

The company's acquisition of AZEK also expands its presence across outdoor living products such as decking and railing. I think that gives James Hardie more ways to participate when homeowners spend money improving the outside of their properties.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

My final investment would go into Sigma Healthcare.

Following its merger with Chemist Warehouse, investors now have exposure to one of Australia's best-known pharmacy and retail businesses.

I think the next stage of the story could increasingly happen overseas. Chemist Warehouse already has a growing presence in New Zealand and has started testing the UK market. If its value-focused retail model travels successfully, the addressable opportunity becomes far larger than Australia alone.

There is still room to grow domestically through stores, online sales, pharmacy services, and the wider distribution business.

I think Sigma now has several avenues to become a much larger healthcare and retail company over time.

Foolish takeaway

With $20,000 to invest this spring, I would be comfortable putting the entire amount to work across these three ASX shares.

Most importantly, I would be buying with several years in mind and giving each business time to pursue the opportunities already in front of it.

The post Where I'd invest $20,000 in ASX shares this spring appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three broker buy ratings that you might want to know more about are summarised below. Here's why brokers think these ASX shares are in the buy zone:

DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

According to a note out of Bell Potter, its analysts have retained their buy rating on this counter-drone technology company's shares with a trimmed price target of $2.40. The broker highlights that DroneShield's first-half underlying EBITDA was a material miss. However, Bell Potter points out that its first-half revenue was in line with expectations and its updated committed revenue for FY 2026 now stands at $240 million. It believes that this means DroneShield is likely to achieve the top-end of its guidance range for the year. This is especially the case given the new proprietary RfAI-3 software engine and flagship next-generation RfRecon hardware are generating strong early customer interest. It expects the high-moat next gen products to drive continued contract wins, particularly from Europe. The DroneShield share price ended the week at $1.75.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

A note out of Morgans reveals that its analysts have upgraded this pharmacy chain operator's shares to a buy rating with a trimmed price target of $3.19. This follows the release of its FY 2026 result, which was in line with expectations. Morgans was also pleased with Sigma's guidance for FY 2027, noting that it is targeting double-digit revenue and earnings growth. In light of this, the broker feels that recent share price weakness is overdone and provides investors with an opportunity to buy shares at an attractive price. The Sigma Healthcare share price was fetching $2.68 at Friday's close.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

Another note out of Morgans reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating on this logistics technology company's shares with a slightly reduced price target of $62.50. It highlights that WiseTech Global delivered a result that was largely in line with its expectations in FY 2026. And while CargoWise revenue growth was softer than expected, it was pleased with the annualised run-rate savings of ~US$115 million. The broker was also pleased to see management guiding to improving margins in FY 2027, which has led to an upgrade to its estimates for the year. The WiseTech Global share price ended the week at $40.61.

The post Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Brokers have been busily reviewing earnings results and updating their ratings and 12-month price targets accordingly.

Here is a sample of ASX shares that have scored upgraded ratings, and why.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

The Sigma Healthcare share price is $2.68, up 2.2% today and down 13% over 12 months.

Sigma Healthcare released its FY26 results this week.

Morgans upgraded the ASX 200 healthcare share from accumulate to buy today.

The broker shaved its 12-month price target from $3.30 to $3.19.

This implies a potential 12% upside ahead.

Morgans said:

SIG has posted its FY26 result which was in line with our and consensus forecasts. Highlights included EBIT growth of >20%, Australia CW LFL sales were 13.4% (1H 15.0%; 2H: 11.8%), International CW LFL sales of 12.2%.

We note the slight moderation in 2H in Australia was driven by a later start to the cold and flu season and cycling a very strong pcp.

SIG is targeting double-digit revenue and earnings growth for FY27.

The market has marked the shares down 7% post the FY26 results and possible sell down by some of the founders (up to 4.7% of issued capital).

We believe the share price fall is overdone and provides us with an opportunity to move our recommendation to BUY (from ACCUMULATE).

Adairs Ltd (ASX: ADH)

The Adairs share price is $1.41, down 2.1% today and down 49% over 12 months.

Adairs released its FY26 report this week.

Morgans upgraded the ASX consumer discretionary share to a buy rating.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $1.80, suggesting 27% upside from here.

Morgans said:

ADH reported FY26 underlying EBIT of $55.0m which was down 0.4% on the pcp and within guidance range of $53.5-55.5m.

Adairs and Mocka delivered strong EBIT growth (+14.9%/ +32.1%).

Focus on Furniture remains a drag with EBIT down 67.6% to $3.8m (~$2.0m loss in 2H) with management now guiding a two-year turnaround.

Given the underperformance, ADH recognised a non-cash impairment charge of $63.5m ($56.7m post tax).

We see the core Adairs banner set to deliver strong growth in FY27 driven by GM improvement and cost control, along with solid growth in Mocka offsetting weakness in Focus.

Given the share price weakness, we have upgraded to a BUY recommendation (from ACCUMULATE).

Polynovo Ltd (ASX: PNV)

The Polynovo share price is $1.04, up 1% today and down 24% over 12 months.

Polynovo released its FY26 earnings this week.

Bell Potter upgraded Polynovo shares to a buy rating today.

The broker increased its 12-month price target from $1 to $1.22.

This suggests a potential 18% upside ahead.

Bell Potter said:

The key concerns underpinning our July downgrade have eased sufficiently to restore confidence in the earnings outlook.

US trading improved into year-end and July, gross margin pressures appear largely temporary, and better-than-expected cost control
provides greater operating leverage as revenue scales.

We also see incremental upside from SynPath, with management now outlining a clearer strategy for entry into the US outpatient market, which is not yet reflected in our forecasts.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

The Netwealth share price is $21.60, up 0.4% today and down 38% over 12 months.

Netwealth released its FY26 earnings this week.

Morgans raised the ASX 200 financial share to a buy call with a $27.50 target.

This implies potential gains of 28% ahead for Netwealth shares.

Morgans said:

NWL reported FY26 Revenue +21%; EBITDA +18%; and NPAT +16% on pcp, which was largely in line with MorgF / Consensus expectations.

Whilst flows momentum 1Q27 to date has seen a slower start, NWL reaffirmed its FY27 Flows guidance of $18-20bn, with the cadence of flows from MS and other sources expected to step up over the course of the year.

The post 4 ASX shares scoring upgrades in the final week of earnings season appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three popular ASX shares that have come under the spotlight are listed below. Does the broker rate them as buys? Let's find out.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

This investment platform provider delivered a result that was largely in line with expectations.

And while fund inflows have started slowly in FY 2027, Morgans remains positive and has upgraded Netwealth shares to a buy rating with a $27.50 price target. It said:

NWL reported FY26 Revenue +21%; EBITDA +18%; and NPAT +16% on pcp, which was largely in line with MorgF / Consensus expectations. Whilst flows momentum 1Q27 to date has seen a slower start, NWL reaffirmed its FY27 Flows guidance of $18-20bn, with the cadence of flows from MS and other sources expected to step up over the course of the year. We make minor changes to our NPAT forecasts of +1% in FY27-29F, overall, this sees our price target unchanged at A$27.50/sh. We move to a BUY rating.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

Another ASX share that has been upgraded is Chemist Warehouse owner Sigma Healthcare.

Morgans was pleased with the company's FY 2026 results, which were in line with expectations. In response, the broker has upgraded Sigma Healthcare shares to a buy rating with a $3.19 price target. It explains:

SIG has posted its FY26 result which was in line with our and consensus forecasts. Highlights included EBIT growth of >20%, Australia CW LFL sales were 13.4% (1H 15.0%; 2H: 11.8%), International CW LFL sales of 12.2%. We note the slight moderation in 2H in Australia was driven by a later start to the cold and flu season and cycling a very strong pcp. SIG is targeting double-digit revenue and earnings growth for FY27. 

We have reduced our forecast by ~3.5%, which sees our TP reduce to A$3.19 (was A$3.30). The market has marked the shares down 7% post the FY26 results and possible sell down by some of the founders (up to 4.7% of issued capital). We believe the share price fall is overdone and provides us with an opportunity to move our recommendation to BUY (from ACCUMULATE).

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

Bunnings and Kmart owner Wesfarmers delivered a result that was largely in line with expectations. 

However, it has started FY 2027 slightly softer than expected. Nevertheless, Morgans has retained its accumulate rating with an improved price target of $85.00. It said:

WES's FY26 result was broadly in line with expectations, although trading in early FY27 was slightly softer, with management also flagging higher capex in FY27. Earnings from Bunnings, Kmart Group and Health were largely in line with expectations, while Officeworks was slightly above our forecasts. WesCEF was modestly weaker than anticipated. Management noted that while consumer demand remains resilient, cost-of-living pressures persist and customers continue to be value-conscious. 

We make minimal changes to FY27-29F group EBIT but decrease underlying NPAT by 1-2% due to higher net interest expense. Despite these changes, our target price rises to $85.00 (from $81.10) as we believe the increased investments WES is making in the near term will drive sustainable growth over the long term. This is particularly evident across its retail businesses (Bunnings, Kmart Group, Officeworks and Priceline), where investment should strengthen customer value propositions in a subdued consumer environment and position the divisions to capture stronger growth when economic conditions improve. ACCUMULATE rating maintained.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Netwealth, Sigma Healthcare, and Wesfarmers shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Rising interest rates, tighter capital markets, and a more challenging funding environment have weighed heavily on the sector. This has particularly impacted smaller, early-stage companies that remain reliant on external capital to fund growth. 

Yet, beneath the broader weakness, there are signs that the outlook is beginning to improve. Valuations have reset significantly, and a number of quality businesses now offer compelling long-term growth opportunities.

Two that fit this criteria are Mesoblast Ltd (ASX: MSB) and Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG). 

The team at Bell Potter have provided fresh guidance on both ASX healthcare stocks, tipping a big 12 months. 

Here's what the broker had to say. 

Sigma Healthcare shares looking cheap 

Sigma Healthcare was formed in February 2025 following a merger of the legacy Sigma Healthcare with Chemist Warehouse Group. 

The merger integrates the distribution power of the legacy Sigma business with one of Australia's most recognised retail pharmacy franchisors. 

In yesterday's report, Bell Potter said the Chemist Warehouse merger is delivering scale, synergies, and operating leverage. Additionally, the pharmacy business is benefiting from structural growth. 

The broker saw full-year results as broadly in line with expectations, with revenue up 15.5% and normalised EPS rising 22% to 6.3 cents. 

Growth was driven by strong pharmacy sales. Net debt and leverage also improved materially, although most of the leverage reduction came from higher EBITDA rather than lower debt. Overall, Bell Potter sees a business with strong growth and improving efficiency that is now trading at its cheapest valuation since the merger.

Based on this guidance, Bell Potter has a buy recommendation on this ASX healthcare stock and a $3 price target. 

From current levels, this indicates 14% upside. 

Massive upside for Mesoblast 

This ASX healthcare stock has been relatively flat over the last year. 

It is a biotechnology company that develops and commercialises allogeneic cellular medicines to treat complex diseases resistant to conventional standards of care.

The company released annual results yesterday.

Bell Potter said the ASX healthcare company's results were broadly in line with expectations.

The outlook remains very positive, with Ryoncil expected to deliver continued double-digit growth, and major catalysts ahead from Rexlemestrocel in heart failure and chronic lower back pain. 

The broker has issued a buy recommendation and set a $4.45 price target for this ASX healthcare stock. 

From yesterday's closing price, this indicates over 84% upside. 

MSB has a long pipeline and label expansions for Ryoncil alone which we expect will come to market on a 3 to 5 year time horizon.

The post Why now is the time to buy low on these ASX healthcare shares with up to 84% upside appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Friday and end the week on a high? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to rise

The Australian share market looks set for a positive session on Friday following a strong night of trade in the United States. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open 11 points higher this morning. On Wall Street, the Dow Jones was up 0.2%, the S&P 500 rose 0.7%, and the Nasdaq jumped 1.55%.

Oil prices rise

ASX 200 energy shares Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)could have a good finish to the week after oil prices rose overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 1.55% to US$83.51 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 1.9% to US$89.52 a barrel. This follows news that the White House has stated there are no US-Iran peace talks happening.

NextDC results

NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT) shares will be on watch on Friday after the data centre operator released its FY 2026 results. The company reported a 16% increase in revenue to $405 million and a 15% lift in underlying EBITDA to $248.8 million. Both were ahead of management's guidance range for FY 2026. This was driven by a record 202% increase in contracted utilisation to 740.1MW.

Gold price edges higher

ASX 200 gold shares Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) and Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) could have a decent finish to the week after the gold price edged higher overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up 0.1% to US$4,657.6 an ounce. This may have been driven by easing interest rate hike expectations.

Sigma Healthcare upgraded

Chemist Warehouse owner Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG) could be an ASX 200 share to buy according to Bell Potter. This morning, in response to its results, the broker has upgraded the company's shares to a buy rating with a $3.00 price target. It said: "The obvious overhang on the stock is the potential sell down by founders now that their 5.0bn share are out of escrow. Nevertheless the earnings outlook remains exceptionally strong with debt leverage falling and dividends likely to grow. Execution on the merger between the legacy Sigma and CWG appears to have been well executed by the highly skilled management team."

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

If I had $10,000 ready to invest, I would spread this particular amount evenly across four companies that I believe can keep becoming more valuable over the years ahead.

Here's what I'd buy.

Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

I would start with Goodman because I like the assets it controls and where demand is heading.

The company develops and owns industrial property in major cities around the world. Increasingly, that includes sites suitable for data centres.

That is important because computing infrastructure needs more than servers. It needs land, buildings, reliable electricity, and access to major population and business centres.

Goodman has spent years assembling property in locations where those ingredients can be difficult to secure.

Artificial intelligence (AI) should increase the amount of computing capacity required, but I would not make this investment purely as an AI bet. Ecommerce, cloud computing, logistics, and the wider digital economy all require modern infrastructure.

I think that gives Goodman several reasons to keep finding development opportunities over the next decade.

ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD)

I would also put $2,500 into ResMed.

Sleep apnoea affects a huge number of people, and many remain undiagnosed or untreated. That gives ResMed a long-term opportunity to reach more patients rather than relying solely on taking market share from competitors.

I also like what happens after a patient begins treatment. ResMed can sell the initial device, but masks and other components need replacing over time.

That creates an ongoing relationship around a genuine healthcare need.

Over the next several years, I think better diagnosis and greater awareness of sleep health could bring more people into treatment. ResMed already has the scale, products, and healthcare relationships to benefit if that happens.

Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB)

My third investment would be Hub24.

The company provides technology used by financial advisers to manage client investments and superannuation.

What I like most is the chance for Hub24 to become increasingly important to those advice businesses.

It has expanded beyond the investment platform itself into technology covering administration, reporting, and client engagement. If advisers can complete more of their work through Hub24's ecosystem, the relationship becomes more valuable.

The Australian superannuation system also gives the company an attractive backdrop.

Money continues flowing into retirement savings as people work and make compulsory contributions, while investment returns can increase the assets already accumulated.

This ASX share therefore has an opportunity to take a larger share of a market that should itself keep expanding for many years.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

I would put the final $2,500 into Sigma Healthcare, which now gives investors exposure to Chemist Warehouse following the combination of the businesses.

Chemist Warehouse has built a powerful retail brand in Australia around pharmacy, health, beauty, and everyday products.

The part I find most interesting for the years ahead is how far that model can travel. The business is expanding in New Zealand and has begun exploring opportunities in the UK. Successful international expansion could open a much larger market than Australia alone.

There is still room to grow closer to home as well through new stores, online sales, and the wider pharmacy network.

I think that combination gives Sigma several avenues to become a substantially larger business over time.

Foolish takeaway

If I had $10,000 to invest in September, I would be comfortable putting it to work across these four shares.

I like the long-term opportunities behind each business, and I would be happy to give them years rather than months to play out.

The post Where I'd invest $10,000 in ASX shares in September appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Sigma Healthcare report?

• Revenue: $10.8 billion, up 15.5% year on year
• Normalised EBIT: $1,090.0 million, up 20.6%, with margin rising to 10.1%
• Normalised NPAT: $732.3 million, up 22.3%
• Net debt reduced to $663 million (Debt to Normalised EBITDA: 0.57x)
• Integration synergies delivered: $32.6 million, aiming for $100 million p.a. by FY29
• Fully franked final dividend: 2.0 cents per share (full year: 4.0 cents per share)

What else do investors need to know?

Sigma's Australian business remains its "engine room", contributing $10.4 billion in revenue and $1,034.2 million in normalised EBIT. The international arm is gathering momentum, delivering 33% revenue growth and doubling EBIT, with Ireland now profitable and a push into the UK market underway.

Sigma added 24 Chemist Warehouse branded stores in Australia, reaching 561 stores, while opening 20 new international outlets. The company continued to expand its own and exclusive-label products, with annual sales near $1 billion and the Wagner Pharmaceuticals generic business growing over 30%.

What did Sigma Healthcare management say?

Sigma's CEO, Vikesh Ramsunder, said:

FY26 demonstrates that Sigma is not simply larger after the merger, it is structurally stronger. Our highly scalable business model is underpinned by defensive industry characteristics. With the Australian infrastructure already in place and a clearly defined runway to keep growing, we are confident the model will keep compounding value.

What's next for Sigma Healthcare?

Sigma's FY27 agenda centres on growing its network, driving operating leverage, and boosting product differentiation. The company aims to open 13 new Chemist Warehouse stores in Australia and 19 internationally in the first half, including its entry into the UK. Refreshed growth in the Amcal and Discount Drug Stores brands is also expected, with 42 new Australian stores on the way.

With a capital-light model and a solid balance sheet, Sigma is targeting sustained growth and long-term shareholder value, with over half of planned synergy savings still to be realised.

Sigma Healthcare share price snapshot

The Sigma Healthcare share price has underperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) on a 12-month basis with a decline of almost 7%.

View Original Announcement

The post Sigma Healthcare FY26 earnings: Record profit as Chemist Warehouse merger delivers growth appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With that in mind, these are my top five ASX shares for the long term.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

Pro Medicus has built a strong position in medical imaging through its Visage software platform.

Its technology helps hospitals and radiologists view and manage enormous medical imaging files quickly, which becomes increasingly important as healthcare systems generate more data.

I like the opportunity in the US. Pro Medicus has already won major hospital networks, but there is still a large market left to capture.

The company also has room to expand beyond radiology into areas such as cardiology and enterprise imaging. Artificial intelligence could add another capability to the platform as hospitals look for better ways to analyse images and manage growing workloads.

Overall, I think Pro Medicus could be a much larger healthcare technology business a decade from now.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

Sigma Healthcare gives investors exposure to the Chemist Warehouse business following the combination of the two companies.

Chemist Warehouse has built one of Australia's strongest retail brands, with a model based on large stores, competitive pricing, and enormous customer traffic.

What interests me most is the opportunity to take that model overseas.

The business already has a growing presence in New Zealand and has begun exploring the UK market. If Chemist Warehouse can successfully replicate even part of its Australian success internationally, I think there could be a long runway ahead.

Life360 Inc. (ASX: 360)

This ASX 200 share has developed a platform that millions of families use to stay connected and keep track of the people and things that matter to them.

The core family location-sharing service gives the company a large audience, and I think the bigger opportunity is building more products around that relationship.

Life360 has been expanding into areas such as driving safety, identity protection, pets, and ageing family members.

Its international opportunity also interests me. The service can be used across a huge number of countries, giving Life360 room to grow well beyond its established US audience.

If it can keep adding users and give those users more reasons to pay for its services, I think Life360 has the ingredients for long-term growth.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

Commonwealth Bank is one of Australia's strongest banking franchises.

Its enormous customer base gives it relationships across home lending, everyday banking, business banking, credit cards, and wealth-related services.

I also like the investment the bank has made in technology. Its digital banking capabilities can make the customer experience easier while allowing Commonwealth Bank to serve millions of people efficiently.

Australia's population and economy should continue growing over the long term, creating opportunities for more deposits, loans, payments, and business banking activity.

CBA may already be enormous, but I think its scale and brand give it a strong platform to keep compounding over time.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

BHP remains one of my favourite ways to gain exposure to the resources needed by the global economy.

The company owns large, long-life assets across commodities including iron ore and copper, giving it exposure to infrastructure spending, industrial activity, and electrification.

Copper is particularly interesting to me over the longer term. Expanding electricity grids, renewable energy, data centres, and electric vehicles could require enormous amounts of the metal.

BHP also has the financial strength and operating experience to invest in major projects that smaller miners may struggle to develop.

I think that combination of scale, high-quality assets, and exposure to long-term commodity demand makes BHP a share I would be comfortable holding through multiple market cycles.

Foolish takeaway

I would be happy to buy all five of these ASX 200 shares with a long holding period in mind.

What I like most is that each business already has a strong foundation while still having meaningful opportunities ahead.

If they can keep strengthening their market positions and expanding over the years to come, I think patient shareholders could be well rewarded.

The post My top 5 ASX 200 shares to buy and hold appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For investors looking to add individual ASX shares, Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) and Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) are two companies I would consider, along with another S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) blue-chip business that has caught my attention.

Here is why.

Coles shares

Coles has several qualities I would look for in a retirement investment.

Australians still need groceries when economic conditions become difficult, giving the supermarket giant relatively defensive demand. Coles also generates substantial cash flow and regularly returns some of that money to shareholders through fully franked dividends.

There is growth here as well. Coles has spent heavily on automated distribution centres and online fulfilment, and those investments are starting to strengthen the business. Supermarkets earnings increased by 14.6% during the first half of FY26, helped partly by benefits from its automation program.

Online sales also grew by 27%. I think this is important because Coles can continue adapting to how customers want to shop rather than relying entirely on its established store network.

For a retirement portfolio addition, I like the combination of defensive demand, dividends, and opportunities to gradually improve earnings.

Telstra shares

Telstra is another ASX 200 share I think could fit well alongside other retirement investments.

Mobile and internet connectivity have become essential services for households and businesses. That gives Telstra a recurring revenue base that should be relatively resilient when consumers become more cautious with their spending.

Its mobile business also continues to move in the right direction. Mobile services revenue increased by 5.6% in the first half of FY26 as average revenue per user increased and more customers chose Telstra's network.

That growth, together with tighter cost control, is supporting higher cash earnings.

It is also supporting dividend increases. Telstra increased its interim dividend earlier this year, while management continues to target a sustainable and growing payment over time.

I think steady earnings growth and a dependable dividend can be a valuable combination for retirees who still want their capital working for them over many years.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

My third pick is Sigma Healthcare, the company behind Chemist Warehouse following the merger completed in 2025.

Healthcare and pharmacy spending can provide another source of relatively defensive demand, but what interests me most is the growth opportunity.

Chemist Warehouse continues to expand in Australia and overseas. Australian Chemist Warehouse branded store sales increased by 17.2% during the first half of FY26, while international network sales jumped by 24.5%.

I think the combined group has several ways to keep growing from here. It can open more stores, expand internationally, increase sales of its own and exclusive products, and extract further benefits from bringing the Sigma and Chemist Warehouse businesses together.

Sigma carries more growth risk than Coles or Telstra, but I think that could make it an interesting addition for investors seeking capital growth alongside more defensive holdings.

Foolish takeaway

Coles, Telstra, and Sigma each offer something I would value in a retirement investment.

Coles provides defensive grocery exposure, Telstra combines essential connectivity with steady income, and Sigma offers a stronger growth angle through Chemist Warehouse.

I would be comfortable owning any of the three alongside other investments in a retirement portfolio.

The post Why I'd buy Coles, Telstra and this ASX 200 blue chip share for retirement appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.