So, if you're struggling to know which ASX shares to buy, don't worry.

Because the team at Morgans has just given its verdict on three popular shares.

Does it rate them as buys, holds, or sells? Let's find out.

Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR)

Morgans remains relatively positive on this lithium miner despite its softer than expected first-quarter update.

In response, the broker has retained its accumulate rating with an 82 cents price target. This compares to the latest Liontown share price of 58.5 cents. It said:

A soft 1Q27, with production of 78.0kt missing MorgansF/consensus by 18%/20% as depleted stockpiles cut throughput and recoveries fell to 60%. Revenue beat on a concentrate inventory drawdown. FY27 guidance now hinges on a step-up from 2Q27 as underground mining and recoveries improve. Softer spot prices and peak capex keep FCF negative through FY27. Maintain ACCUMULATE with A$0.82ps target price.

I think Morgans makes some fair points. If you're looking for lithium exposure, it could be worth considering. But you need to understand the risks.

Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN)

The shares of insurance giant Suncorp could be close to being fully valued according to Morgans.

Although there were positives from its investor day update, it wasn't enough to change its rating. Morgans continues to rate Suncorp shares as a hold with a slightly improved price target of $20.13. This is only modestly higher than its current share price of $19.56. It commented:

SUN has hosted its investor day, which we found constructive. It confirmed SUN has moved into the third phase of its transformation, leveraging its capabilities to drive profitable growth, with four key levers identified: Vero Specialty, loss ratio improvement, New Zealand (NZ) and platform/AI. As part of the update, SUN trimmed FY27 top-line growth guidance to 3% (from 3-5%). Flowing this through, we reduce FY27F/FY28F EPS by 1%. 

Our target price rises marginally to A$20.13 (previously A$20) with our earnings changes offset by a valuation roll-forward. SUN's transition to a pure-play general insurer has been well executed. However, with limited upside to our target price (~4%), we maintain our HOLD rating.

This is probably a fair call from Morgans. Suncorp shares appear around fair value at 17x Morgans' FY 2027 earnings estimates.

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

Morgans has been looking at Bunnings and Kmart owner Wesfarmers following its annual general meeting.

It highlights that the company's trading update was a touch weaker than it was expecting. 

Nevertheless, it remains positive enough to maintain an accumulate rating with a trimmed price target of $82.50. This compares to the current Wesfarmers share price of $77.19. It explains:

WES's AGM trading update overall was slightly weaker than expected. While sales growth for the retail divisions in FY27 YTD was largely in line with expectations, the exit run rate was marginally softer. Management noted that despite a stronger start to the quarter at Bunnings, lower sales across seasonal categories and the commercial segment in recent weeks have weighed on overall sales performance. We reduce FY27-29F group underlying EBIT by 1% and underlying NPAT by 2%.

Our target price declines to $82.50 (from $85.00) and we maintain our ACCUMULATE rating. While the consumer backdrop is softening amid higher interest rates, weaker housing conditions and declining consumer sentiment, we believe WES's retail businesses (Bunnings, Kmart Group, Officeworks and Priceline) remain well positioned given their strong value propositions. Combined with ongoing productivity initiatives, this should leave the company well placed to deliver stronger earnings growth when economic conditions improve.

I would agree with Morgans on Wesfarmers. It trades at a premium of 32x Morgans' FY 2027 earnings estimate, but it could be a good long-term option for investors due to its strong brands and defensive qualities.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Liontown, Suncorp, and Wesfarmers shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here, I've taken a look at how Judo Capital Holdings Ltd (ASX: JDO), Bank of Queensland Ltd (ASX: BOQ) and ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) are tracking today, and find out which of these three ASX bank shares is tipped to climb the highest over the next 12 months.

Brokers rate Judo shares as a BUY

Judo shares are down around 0.5% in Tuesday afternoon trade to 89 cents apiece. It's been a tough year for the ASX bank stock. Its shares are now down roughly 50% for the year to date. Judo has also been one of the worst-performing banks over the past month, with its shares down around 5%.

The shares were tracking well through the first half of the calendar year, but crashed by around 43% to a multi-year low in late June after the company downgraded its FY26 profit guidance. Thankfully, the final result in August came in at the top end of guidance, keeping the share price buoyant through the reporting season. 

Judo's shares haven't made much more ground since that June crash. They're only around 2% higher than that three-year low at the time of writing. 

The bank's niche exposure to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) means it hasn't benefited from the same reprieve from inflation-related stress as other lender-facing banks.

But the experts still see strong upside potential ahead. TradingView data shows the majority of brokers have a strong buy rating on Judo shares. The $1.48 average target price implies an upside of around 66% at the time of writing. 

Brokers rate ANZ shares as a HOLD

ANZ shares are up around 1% at the time of writing on Tuesday, at $40.18 a piece. The shares have rallied around 9% higher over the past two weeks, rebounding from an annual low in early June. They're now up around 10% for the year-to-date.

The shares have climbed higher off the back of a solid third-quarter FY26 result in mid-August, progress of its Suncorp Bank Ltd (ASX: SUN) integration plans, and a general investor rotation away from other ASX bank shares.

High inflation, high interest rates, and a declining property market have put some pressure on some of the other big four banks, which are more retail-mortgage-focused.

But ANZ's skew towards business banking exposure means it is structurally less sensitive to domestic property market headwinds, including higher inflation and interest rate increases. This has helped keep its share price higher over the past four months, even as others came under pressure.

The experts are reserved about the outlook for ANZ shares over the next 12 months. TradingView data shows the majority of brokers have a hold rating on the bank's shares. But after this month's rebound, the $36.05 average target price implies a downside of around 10%, at the time of writing. 

Brokers rate Bank of Queensland shares as a SELL

Bank of Queensland shares are down around 2.5% at the time of writing, at $6.87 each. The shares are still around 6% higher than two weeks ago, but down 3% from this time last year.

The shares most recently jumped higher following the bank's FY26 results in mid-October. Highlights included an 88% increase in statutory NPAT, a 1.7% net interest margin (up 6 basis points in FY25), and a fully-franked final dividend of 20 cents per share.

However, the bank also reported a 7% decrease in cash earnings after tax (excluding notable items) over the period.

Looking ahead, Bank of Queensland aims to return to growth in home lending in FY27. This is expected to be assisted by expanding its digital mortgage offering. It expects its commercial lending to grow at a pace similar to FY26.

It looks like investors were happy with the latest update, but even after today's decline, the shares are still considered to be trading above fair value. TradingView data shows the majority of analysts have a sell/strong sell rating on the shares. The $6.14 average target price implies a downside of around 11% at the time of writing.

The post Judo Bank, Bank of Queensland, ANZ shares: Buy, hold, or sell? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After a bumpy week last week, investors seemed to come back from the weekend with a bit of pep in their steps. The ASX 200 stayed in green territory all session, and ended up closing 0.17% higher today. That leaves the index at 8,679.7 points.

This happy start to the week for the Australian markets followed an even bubblier close to the American trading week on Friday night (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) put on a heck of a show, gaining 0.93%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) wasn't quite as euphoric, but still managed a 0.48% rise.

But let's return to this week and our local markets now for a closer look at what was happening amongst the different ASX sectors this Monday.

Winners and losers

Despite the broader market's lift, there were still a few corners of the market that went backwards today.

Leading those losers were gold shares. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) was hit hard today, plunging 1.57%.

Broader mining stocks weren't much better, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) tanking by 1.34%.

Tech shares were also unlucky. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) saw its value cut by 0.74% today.

Energy stocks weren't finding buyers either, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ)'s 0.22% dip.

Industrial shares didn't find much love. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) slid 0.19% lower this session.

We could say something similar for consumer discretionary stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) slipping 0.02%.

That's it for the losers, though.

Turning to the green sectors now, it was healthcare shares that played the starring role today. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) saw a 1.49% surge this Monday.

Utilities stocks ran hot as well, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)'s 1.17% jump.

Financial shares were also in demand. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) had roared 1.16% higher by the closing bell.

Consumer staples stocks didn't miss out, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) vaulting up 0.83%.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) saw some comfortable gains, too. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) added 0.57% to its tally.

Finally, communications shares slid home unscathed, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 0.32% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Our top stock this Monday was gold miner Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST). Northern Star shares soared 56.15% higher this session to finish at $23.47 each.

This came after news that the company was approached for a takeover.

Here's the rest of today's best:

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

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

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.

Here are three defensive ASX shares and three ETFs worth a look.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

Supermarkets don't stop trading in a downturn — people still need to eat. Woolworths' dominant market share in the Australian supermarket landscape has long held it in good stead even during tough economic conditions.

And the market has noticed: the ASX share is up 33% year to date. Even as households trade down to cheaper essentials, Woolworths tends to keep the lights on and the dividends flowing.

Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC)

Healthcare demand doesn't switch off when the economy slows. Ramsay is one of the largest and well-established private healthcare providers, and elective surgery volumes plus global diagnostic demand tend to hold up regardless of the cycle.

It's the kind of business people rely on whether markets are booming or busting. The ASX share is up an impressive 56% in 2026.

Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN)

Insurance is one of those products people keep paying for no matter what. Insurance demand tends to remain steady even in weaker economic conditions.

Suncorp hasn't been a growth story over the past 12 months, down 5%, but that's rather the point. This $21 billion ASX share is there to steady the ship, not chase the rally.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

For broad, low-cost exposure with a defensive tilt, the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF has characteristics that make it more resilient than many global indices, leaning on Australia's banks, resources and consumer staples sectors.

It's a simple, set-and-forget way to add local stability to a ASX shares portfolio.

iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF (ASX: IXI)

If you want global exposure to businesses people buy from no matter the economic weather, this ETF is hard to beat. Its holdings include some of the most dependable companies on the planet, such as Walmart Inc (NASDAQ: WMT), and Coca-Cola Co (NYSE: KO).

These are businesses with strong brands, pricing power, and customer loyalty, making their earnings far more stable than companies tied to discretionary spending.

Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF (ASX: CFLO)

Cash is king in a downturn, and this fund is built around exactly that idea. It focuses on stocks with exceptional cash generation, holding global giants like Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ: GOOG) and Visa Inc (NYSE: V).

Two companies with the balance sheet strength to self-fund growth without leaning on debt when conditions get tough.

Foolish takeaway

None of these picks will make headlines for explosive growth, and that's the whole point of defensive investing.

Pairing a couple of resilient ASX shares with a broad ETF or two can help smooth out the ride without forcing you to sit entirely on the sidelines.

As always, defensive doesn't mean risk-free. It means being better positioned to weather the storm.

The post Worried about a downturn? 3 ASX shares and 3 ETFs built to weather it appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After three days of selling this week, today's session made it a fourth, with the ASX 200 opening in red territory this morning and staying there all day. By the time trading wrapped up, the index had slumped another 0.89%, leaving the index at 8,741.2 points as we head into the weekend.

This rough end to the Australian trading week today comes after a tough night up on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) wasn't playing ball, dropping 0.6%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared similarly, falling 0.65%.

But let's get back to the local markets now for a look at how the various ASX sectors ended their respective weeks.

Winners and losers

Unlike yesterday's session, there were some sectors that escaped the selling this Friday.

But first, it was mining shares that were hit the hardest. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) had an awful time of it, plunging 3.68%.

Gold stocks were smashed too, with the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) tanking by 2.69%.

Tech shares had another shocker. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) cratered by 2.05% today.

Healthcare stocks weren't exempt either, evident from the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)'s 1.24% dive.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) came next. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) was sent home 0.95% lower.

Consumer discretionary shares didn't get much love, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) dipping 0.7%.

We could say the same for energy stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) lost an early lead to close down 0.66%.

Our last losers this Friday were communications shares, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 0.08% slip.

Turning to the lucky green sectors now, it was financial stocks that held up the best. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) added a healthy 1.08% to its total this session.

Industrial shares were spared as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) lifting 0.24%.

Utilities stocks matched that gain. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) also climbed 0.24%.

Finally, consumer staples shares proved to be a safe haven, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)'s 0.04% uptick.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Today's best stock was insurer Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG). IAG shares bounced a decent 4.23% higher this session to close the week at $8.14 each.

This healthy jump came despite no obvious catalysts from the company itself.

Here's the rest of today's best:

Enjoy the weekend!

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

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

Meanwhile, the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) sank 0.95% to finish at 9,005.9 points.

It's likely that investors buying the dip on bank shares were responsible for last week's sector rebound after a difficult August.

Three of the four major banks were smashed last month after all of them reported significantly lower mortgage applications since May.

That followed the Federal Government announcing changes to capital gains tax (CGT) and negative gearing in the FY27 Budget.

James Gruber, CommSec Equity Market Strategist, said the financial sector was the worst performer of the August earnings season. 

ASX 200 financial shares lost 6.13% of their value over the month.

That performance left investors feeling wary of how the housing market downturn now underway may impact the banks' profitability.

Then last week, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released economic news that changed the outlook for the banks.

Resilient economy benefits bank stocks

The ABS revealed that gross domestic product (GDP) rose 0.4% in the June quarter and 2.1% over 12 months.

That was stronger than consensus expectations of 0.3% growth in June and 1.8% annual growth, and ahead of the Reserve Bank's forecast of 1.9% annual growth.

The data raised the chances of another interest rate rise as early as next month, and higher rates can be supportive for bank earnings.

If the banks' lending rates stay above deposit rates, which is the norm, then a higher cash rate can boost their net interest margins (NIMs).

A stronger economy can also be positive for banks because it typically means stable employment and resilient household spending.

That means people can keep up their repayments on their home loans and other debts with the banks.

Expectations of another rate hike pushed the 3-year government bond yield to 4.82%, and 10-year yields rose to levels not seen since 2011.

This is why the broader ASX 200 had its worst day in three months on the day the GDP data was released, and why it finished the week in the red.

Higher bond yields aren't great for shares.

When investors can get a pretty high and virtually 'risk-free' return from defensive assets like cash or bonds, they can go 'risk-off'.

That means they are less inclined to invest in shares, which carry a higher risk of capital losses.

Or they might rotate out of growth shares into dividend stocks or blue-chips with reliable earnings (such as the banks!)

This may have also supported ASX 200 bank share prices last week.

As for the rest of the market, 6 of the 11 sectors finished the week in the red.

Let's recap.

Financial shares led the ASX sectors last week

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares rose 2.02% to $160.42, recovering some of their 9.9% tumble during August.

Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) shares lifted 3.13% to $34.96, taking back some of their 8.8% decline last month.

National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) shares increased 2.51% to $39.25, pulling back some of their 6.5% loss during earning season.

Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd (ASX: ANZ) shares closed 3.32% higher at $37.95.

The ANZ share price fell just 0.3% last month as investors were impressed with the fruits of a continued reset under CEO Nuno Matos.

Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) shares lifted 0.04% to $251.87, recovering a little of their 1% decline last month.

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Ltd (ASX: BEN) shares rose 0.47% to $10.63, taking back some of their 6.4% fall in August.

Bank of Queensland Ltd (ASX: BOQ) shares lifted 3.89% to $6.68, wiping out their 1.66% dip last month.

Among the investment companies and wealth managers, Magellan Financial Group Ltd (ASX: MFG) shares fell 3.43% to $8.74.

Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL) shares fell 0.25% to $44.22.

Among the financial services providers, AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) shares jumped 5.08% to $2.48.

Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB) shares fell 3.58% to $73.81 and Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) dropped 5.03% to $20.37.

Buy now, pay later company Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) fell 3.94% to $2.44 per share.

Among the ASX 200 insurance shares, Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) rose 2.55% to $8.05.

The Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN) share price leapt 5.04% to $19.37.

Financial companies are among 40 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week.

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 bank shares led a financial sector rebound last week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Investors seemed to lose all of the optimism that defined the end of last week's trading, with the index opening sharply lower this morning. Although investors did have a temporary change of heart around lunchtime, sending the ASX 200 briefly back into positive territory, it wasn't to last. By the time the market closed, the index had lost 0.18% and closed at a flat 9,076 points.

This Garfield-esque start to the Australian trading week came after a similarly negative end to the American trading week on Friday night (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) gave up an early lead to finish down 0.018%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was more decisive, losing 0.52%.

But let's return to this week and our local markets now for a closer look at how the broader market's pessimism affected the different ASX sectors this Monday.

Winners and losers

Despite the market's overall falls, we saw a few sectors make some hay.

But first, it was gold stocks that were hit the hardest this session. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) was smashed down 4.33% by the closing bell.

Broader mining shares were also punished, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) plunging 2.02%.

Tech stocks were also shunned. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) cratered 1.39% today.

Healthcare shares didn't have a healthy time either, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)'s 0.61% dive.

Our final losers this Monday were consumer discretionary stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) shrank 0.37%.

Let's turn to the winners now. It was financial shares that took the glory, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) soaring 1.14% higher.

Consumer staples stocks ran hot, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) bounced 0.91% higher this session.

Communications shares were also in high demand, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 0.78% jump.

Energy stocks found plenty of buyers as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) got a 0.54% bump.

Industrial shares got a reprieve as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) putting on 0.38%.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) also got out with a win. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) ended up adding 0.18% to its total today.

Finally, utilities shares got over the line, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)'s 0.07% improvement.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Property stock PEXA Group Ltd (ASX: PXA) was our top-performing stock on the index this Monday. Pexa shares surged 9.43% this session to close at $7.31 each. This leap higher came after Pexa reported its latest earnings, which investors clearly took a shine to.

Here's the rest of today's best:

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

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

After yesterday's rise kicked off the trading week on a positive note, investors built on that momentum today. The ASX 200 opened higher this morning and stayed in green territory all day, closing with a gain of 0.68%. That leaves the index at 9,164.6 points.

This terrific Tuesday for the local markets came after a mixed start to the American trading week on Wall Street overnight.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in an accommodating mood, rising 0.26%.

However, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) had a more Garfield-esque Monday, closing 0.76% lower.

Let's get back to the ASX now and take stock of how the different ASX sectors fared this session.

Winners and losers

Today's market rises were near-universal, with only two sectors missing out.

The first, and worst, of those sectors was energy stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) gave up an early lead to finish down 0.78% today.

The other red sector was real estate investment trusts (REITs), with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) sinking 0.16%.

Let's get to the happier sectors now. Leading the charge were tech shares. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) had a blowout, rocketing up 2.25%.

Consumer staples stocks ran hot as well, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)'s 2.11% surge.

Healthcare stocks were also popular. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) soared 1.4% higher this Tuesday.

Financial shares joined the party, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) shooting up 0.94%.

Consumer discretionary stocks were also at the festivities. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) galloped up 0.91% today.

Next came utilities shares, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)'s 0.59% jump.

Industrial stocks were right behind that. The S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) added 0.58% to its total this session.

Communications shares had a day to remember as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) advancing 0.4%.

Gold stocks didn't miss out. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) enjoyed a 0.34% lift today.

Finally, mining shares managed to find buyers, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ)'s 0.3% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Defence company Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS) was our top performer this Tuesday. Electro Optic shares exploded 23.02% higher today to close at $10.58 each.

This astonishing showing followed the company's latest earnings, which were obviously a delight for the market.

Here's how the other top stocks tied up at the dock:

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

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

Among the 11 ASX 200 market sectors today, healthcare is screaming higher, up 7.1%.

This follows earnings releases from sector heavyweights CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH), and Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME).

Reliance Worldwide Corp Ltd (ASX: RWC) shares are the fastest risers of the ASX 200 today.

The Reliance share price is up 25% to $4.50 after a takeover offer for $4.75 per share.

Meanwhile on The Bull this week, two experts share their views on three ASX 200 shares.

Let's take a look.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

The REA share price is $179.56, up 1.2% today and down 31% over 12 months. 

Tom Fairchild from Lazarus Capital Partners has a buy rating on this ASX 200 communications share. 

He said: 

Revenue from core operations of $1.793 billion in full year 2026 was up 7 per cent on the prior corresponding period.

Net profit after tax from core operations of $650 million was up 15 per cent. Earnings per share of $4.93 was up 15 per cent.

The final fully franked dividend of $1.73 was up 25 per cent.

Investors responded positively after the full year result was released on August 6.

But we believe the company still has ample room to improve its performance from here.

Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN)

The Suncorp share price is $18.46, down 1.3% today and down 14% over 12 months. 

Andrew Wielandt from DP Wealth Advisory has a hold rating on this ASX 200 financial share.

Wielandt said: 

Suncorp provides insurance products and services. Higher interest rates and bond yields can be a tail wind for the company's investment portfolio.

Gross written premiums of $15.407 billion were up 2.7 per cent in full year 2026 when compared to the prior corresponding period. Cash earnings of $1.042 billion were down from $1.452 billion in 2025.

An on-market share buy-back of up to $250 million is planned for full year 2027.

All insurance companies are challenged by appropriately pricing risk in a rapidly evolving climate change environment.

It remains our long term concern, so we retain a hold recommendation.

Suncorp shares began trading ex-dividend yesterday.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

The Northern Star Resources share price is $22.45, down 3.2% today and up 23% over 12 months. 

Fairchild has a sell rating on this ASX 200 gold share. 

He said: 

The company announced total gold sales of 1.543 million ounces for full year 2026, which was above revised group guidance of 1.5 million ounces.

NST disappointed investors after downgrading production guidance twice in fiscal year 2026 following weaker than expected operational performance.

The shares have fallen from $31.73 on March 2 to trade at $23.28 on August 13.

The company's final investment decision regarding the Hemi project is targeted for late fiscal year 2027. 

In our view, other gold companies appeal more at this stage of the cycle.

Northern Star will release its full-year FY26 report on Thursday.

The post Buy, hold, sell: REA, Northern Star Resources, Suncorp shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Solid results are being sold, and weak guidance is being punished without mercy.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has now fallen for four consecutive sessions, closing Monday at 9,073.2 points.

Here are five lessons from the first half of August.

Lesson 1: FY26 was fine, FY27 is the problem

Company after company has delivered a respectable full-year result, only to watch its share price fall on their expected outlook.

JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH) is the clearest example.

The company reported record FY26 sales of $11.06 billion and lifted its dividend 22.5% to 337 cents per share.

The shares still crashed 12.3% on Monday, their worst day on record, after July comparable sales came in negative.

SEEK Ltd (ASX: SEK) was a similar story.

Revenue rose 10% to $1.2 billion and adjusted net profit jumped 28% to $199.1 million.

However, the shares fell 14.4% because FY27 guidance implied only single-digit growth from here.

Lesson 2: The consumer is the story of this reporting season

The most valuable information this month has come from trading updates, with consumer-facing stocks being particularly hard hit.

Premier Investments Ltd (ASX: PMV) cut its FY26 earnings guidance and posted its first annual sales decline in years.

Similarly, Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL) fell in sympathy with both.

The banks have not been immune either.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) revealed that mortgage applications had fallen 15% since the May Budget, with investor applications down 28%.

National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) also reported the same 15% decline in its third-quarter update.

Lesson 3: Capital returns are flowing freely

The operating outlook may be cautious, but corporate balance sheets are not.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) announced a fresh $1 billion buyback and lifted its full-year dividend 10.5% to 21 cents.

JB Hi-Fi raised its payout ratio to 75% of net profit.

For its part, Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN) added a 10 cent special dividend alongside a buyback of up to $250 million.

More than $2 billion of buybacks have been announced in the past fortnight alone.

Lesson 4: Being big does not protect you

CBA delivered a cash profit of $10,982 million, up 7.1%, and lifted its full-year dividend to $5.05. The shares fell 2.2% the following session anyway.

Telstra grew underlying EBITDAaL 4% to $8,341 million and still closed 3.2% lower on results day.

When expectations are already high, a good result may not always be enough.

Lesson 5: Volatility is at extraordinary levels

SEEK fell 14.4% to $13.76 on results day.

Two sessions later it rose 9.1% to $15.18.

Nothing changed about that business in 48 hours. The market simply changed its mind about what the FY27 guidance actually meant for investors, which tells you how thin conviction is across the market right now.

The reporting season week ahead

The next few days are the busiest of the entire reporting season.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) and Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) all report on Tuesday.

Goodman Group (ASX: GMG) follows on Thursday.

Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG), Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) and Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) are all due before the end of the month.

Foolish takeaway

The pattern running through this reporting season is consistent enough to be useful.

Backward-looking numbers are being ignored, whereas forward-looking commentary is moving share prices significantly.

For long-term investors, this environment creates opportunity.

Quality businesses are being marked down heavily on a single soft quarter of trading.

The trick is to separate a cyclical wobble from a longer-term problem and identify ASX stocks that have been unfairly marked down.

The post Reporting season half-time report: 5 lessons from August so far appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

We're midway through this year's second earnings season, in which companies are revealing their results and dividends.

We'd like to help you keep track of ex-dividend dates over the next two months.

Next week, some big names go ex-dividend. We've listed them below, along with the dividend amounts to be paid.

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

ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week

Contact Energy Ltd (ASX: CEN)

The New Zealand electricity supplier will pay an unfranked dividend of 19.4 cents per share on 23 September.

The ex-dividend date for this ASX utilities share is Monday, 17 August.

Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN)

This ASX 200 financial share will pay a 100% franked dividend of 62 cents per share on 22 September.

The ex-dividend date is Monday, 17 August.

US Masters Residential Property Fund (ASX: URF)

This ASX real estate share will pay an unfranked dividend of 4 cents per share on 31 August.

The ex-dividend date is Monday, 17 August.

Computershare Ltd (ASX: CPU)

This ASX 200 financial share will pay an unfranked dividend of 65 cents per share on 14 September.

The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, 18 August.

Resmed CDI (ASX: RMD)

This ASX 200 healthcare share will pay an unfranked dividend of 6.6 cents per share on 24 September.

The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, 19 August.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

CBA shares will pay a fully-franked dividend of $2.70 per share on 29 September.

The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, 19 August.

AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP)

AMP shares will pay a 20% franked dividend of 3 cents per share on 25 September.

The ex-dividend date is Thursday, 20 August.

Helia Group Ltd (ASX: HLI)

This ASX 200 financial share will pay a 37% franked dividend of 43 cents per share on 4 September.

The ex-dividend date is Thursday, 20 August.

Which ASX shares have dividend announcements next week?

On Monday, we'll see reports from JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH) and A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M).

Tuesday will be a major day.

Healthcare sector heavyweights CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME), and Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) will report.

BHP shares will also be on watch as the ASX 200 mining giant reveals its full-year FY26 earnings on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, energy giants Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC) will announce results and dividends.

Also on Wednesday, we'll hear from Temple & Webster Group (ASX: TPW) and Lottery Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLC).

Thursday will be another big day.

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST), Goodman Group (ASX: GMG), and Brambles Ltd (ASX: BXB) will release their numbers.

Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL), Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP), and Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1) will also provide updates.

We'll also hear from the beleaguered SkyCity Entertainment Group (ASX: SKC).

Friday's headline acts will be Charter Hall Group (ASX: CHC) and TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPG).

View our reporting calendar for more companies announcing dividends next week.

The post 8 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This pessimistic session for the local markets came after a mixed night over on the American boards last night.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) couldn't quite hold water, dropping 0.04%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) made hay, though, rising a confident 0.54%.

Time now to return to the Australian markets, though, for a look at what was happening amongst the different ASX sectors this Thursday.

Winners and losers

As one would expect, there were more red sectors than green today.

Leading those red sectors were communications stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) was smashed, crashing down 2.3%.

Mining shares had a day to forget as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) tanking 0.71%.

Consumer discretionary stocks were on the nose too. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) took a 0.54% tumble this Thursday.

Gold stocks weren't providing any cover either, as evidenced by the All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD)'s 0.47% dive.

Energy shares were left out in the cold. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) saw its value decline 0.35% today.

Industrial stocks fared similarly, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) sinking 0.26%.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) were our last losers this Thursday. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) had slipped 0.15% by the end of the session.

With the red sectors out of the way now, let's turn to the green ones. Leading the pack were again utilities shares, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)'s 2.78% surge.

Tech stocks were exempt from the selling too. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) jumped 0.85% this session.

Consumer staples shares were another safe haven, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) improving by 0.74%.

We could say the same for healthcare stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) banked a 0.17% advance this Thursday.

Finally, financial shares found themselves on the right side of the ledger, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)'s 0.08% appreciation.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Today's index gold medallist was waste stock Cleanaway Waste Management Ltd (ASX: CWY). Cleanaway shares cleaned up this session, rocketing 15.19% higher to $2.73 a share.

This spike followed news that Cleanaway has been approached with a takeover offer of $3.13 a share.

Here's how the rest of the winners pulled up at the kerb: 

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

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

What did Suncorp Group report?

• Net profit after tax: $1,027 million (down from $1,823 million in FY25)
• Cash earnings: $1,042 million (FY25: $1,452 million)
• Gross written premium: $15,407 million, up 2.7%
• Fully franked final dividend of 52 cents per share; special dividend of 10 cents per share
• On-market share buy-back of up to $250 million planned for FY27
• Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) at $518 million above the mid-point of the target range after dividends

What else do investors need to know?

Suncorp's result came amid elevated natural hazard costs, with $2,024 million spent after responding to 18 significant weather events and more than 120,000 natural hazard claims. Natural hazard costs were $254 million above the Group's allowance for the year.

Operationally, the business continued its strategic pivot following the sale of the Suncorp Bank, using proceeds to strengthen its insurance arm. Investments included technology, artificial intelligence, and digital programs aimed at boosting customer experience and claims efficiency.

Suncorp also reported positive momentum in Consumer Insurance, with gross written premium up 5.8% as pricing strategies kicked in. The Commercial and Personal Injury division saw underlying margin improvement and stable growth, despite softer commercial market conditions.

What did Suncorp Group management say?

Commenting on the release, Suncorp's CEO, Steve Johnston, said:

This result demonstrates that a well-run insurance company can deliver for both customers and shareholders. Going forward, Suncorp will have significant financial protection from a multi-year aggregate reinsurance cover which came into effect on 30 June. The aggregate cover is an important component for Suncorp post the bank sale, significantly reducing natural hazard risk and earnings volatility.

What's next for Suncorp Group?

Looking ahead to FY27, Suncorp expects gross written premium growth of 3% to 5%, especially in Consumer and Personal Injury portfolios as it continues price responses to inflation. Underlying insurance trading ratio is forecast in the upper half of the 10%–12% target.

The business will keep investing in digital tools and is targeting to complete a further share buy-back of up to $250 million by the end of FY27. Suncorp aims for a sustainable return on equity above its through-the-cycle cost, supported by ongoing capital management and a focus on shareholder returns.

Suncorp Group share price snapshot

The Suncorp Group share price has been out of form over the past 12 months, falling around 7.5%. This compares to a 4.2% gain from the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO).

View Original Announcement

The post Suncorp Group FY26 earnings: Profit falls, dividends paid, buy-back coming appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

By investing your superannuation wisely, you might be able to generate a regular cash flow high enough to live the retirement of your dreams.

The question is: How much do you actually need in your super to be able to get the passive income you want when you transition to your pension phase?

Let's investigate, using an annual $100,000 passive income as an example.

How much do I need in my superannuation to get a passive income of $100,000 every year?

To calculate how much you need in your superannuation, you need to divide your annual passive income by the dividend yield of your overall portfolio.

Obviously, the catch is that the answer varies depending on what your dividend yield is.

It means a portfolio with a dividend yield of around 6% only needs to be half the size of one with a dividend yield of around 3% to generate the same level of passive income. 

Say your overall portfolio has a dividend yield of around 3%, you'll need a balance of around $3.3 million to earn $100,000 per year in passive income.

Of course, $3.3 million is a huge figure, and this level of superannuation isn't achievable for everyone.

But the good news is, as your portfolio's dividend yield increases, the superannuation balance required to earn the same passive income decreases. 

So if the yield of your portfolio is around 4%, for example, your balance would need to be closer to $2.5 million to earn the same dividend income.

For a 5% yielding portfolio, you'd need a balance of closer to $2 million to earn the same amount.

Increase that to a 6%, 7%, or 8% dividend yield, and you're looking at closer to $1.6 million, $1.4 million, or $1.25 million, respectively. 

And so on…

You'd still earn $100,000 per year in passive income from each of these portfolio sizes.

What ASX shares can I buy around these dividend yields?

There are a huge range of ASX dividend shares available for your superannuation investment. Here are some of my favourites.

Lower-yielding ASX dividend-paying shares such as Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST), AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL) are solid and reliable stocks that offer a yield of around 2% to 3%.

For a mid-range yielding ASX dividend option, I'd look at Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN), QBE Insurance Group (ASX: QBE), Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) or defensive assets like Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS). These all pay a yield around 3% to 5%. 

For a higher 5% to 6% dividend yield, I'd look at reliable payers like APA Group (ASX: APA) or Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG).

Lendlease Group (ASX: LLC) and Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW) yield around 7% to 8%.

If you want to take on more risk and go for a much higher-yielding ASX stock, my picks would be something like IPH Ltd (ASX: IPH), Centuria Office REIT (ASX: COF), or the BetaShares Australian Top 20 Equities Yield Maximiser Complex ETF (ASX: YMAX). These typically yield anywhere between 9% and 12%.

The post How much superannuation is needed to target a $100,000 annual passive income? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Brokers have reduced their ratings on many ASX 200 shares this week.

Let's take a look at their new ratings and 12-month share price targets.

Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO)

The Rio Tinto share price is $157.90, down 3.6% today.

Over the past 12 months, this ASX 200 mining share has climbed 47%.

Morgan Stanley downgraded Rio Tinto shares to a sell rating today.

The broker has a 12-month price target of $149.

This implies a potential 5% downside ahead.

Magellan Financial Group Ltd (ASX: MFG)

The Magellan share price is $10.15, down 3.6% today.

Magellan was one of the top 5 ASX 200 financial shares for capital growth in FY26, rising 13%.

The highlight of the year was Magellan's proposed merger with boutique investment bank, Barrenjoey Capital Partners.

Magellan and Barrenjoey completed the merger on 1 July. 

Morgans downgraded Magellan shares to a hold rating on Monday.

The broker lifted its 12-month price target slightly from $11.19 to $11.29.

This implies a potential 11% upside ahead.

Magellan will ask shareholders to vote on a company rebrand to Barrenjoey Group at the AGM in October.

Lottery Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLC)

The Lottery Corporation share price is $5.48, up 0.2% today.

This ASX 200 consumer discretionary share has risen 2.1% over the past year.

Citi downgraded the stock to a sell rating with a $5 target this week.

This indicates a possible 8% decline ahead.

Transurban Group (ASX: TCL)

The Transurban share price is $14.69, up 0.2% today.

This ASX 200 industrials share has risen 9.5% over 12 months.

UBS downgraded Transurban shares to a hold rating with a $14.50 target.

This suggests a potential 1% downside ahead.

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

The Evolution Mining share price is $11.01, down 3.7% today.

This ASX 200 gold share has stormed 51% higher over the past year.

Macquarie downgraded Evolution shares to a hold rating yesterday.

The broker lowered its 12-month price target from $13 to $12.

This suggests potential capital growth of 8% over the next year. 

Worley Ltd (ASX: WOR)

The Worley share price is $10.78, up 0.5% today.

This ASX 200 industrials share has tumbled 18% over the past 12 months.

Ord Minnett downgraded Worley shares from accumulate to hold with a $12.70 target on Wednesday.

This still implies a potential 18% upside ahead.

The broker said:

There remains considerable uncertainty over short-term earnings for Worley and its peers.

More broadly, we highlight the change in Worley's business mix, with a modest shift to engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) work, i.e. larger developments and responsibility for full project delivery, a business segment that is higher risk than traditional consultancy and advisory.

Judo Capital Holdings Ltd (ASX: JDO)

The Judo share price is 89 cents, up 0.2% today.

Judo shares were sold off in June after the bank downgraded its profit guidance.

Ord Minnett downgraded Judo shares from a buy to a hold rating yesterday.

The broker slashed its 12-month price target from $2.40 to $1.60.

This implies a potential 80% upside ahead.

Ord Minnett commented:

We also cut our recommendation on Judo to Hold from Buy despite the apparent value on offer, given uncertainty around the company's processes and the time it will take for management to rebuild market confidence.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

The Pro Medicus share price is $209.07, down 1.4% today.

Pro Medicus shares hit a 52-week low of $107.75 on 24 February. Since then, the ASX 200 healthcare share has ripped 94% higher.

Jefferies thinks the stock has overshot. The broker downgraded Pro Medicus shares to a hold rating yesterday.

The broker lifted its share price target substantially from $147 to $192.60.

But with Pro Medicus shares already trading well above that, the broker recommends investors sit tight.

Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN)

The Suncorp share price is $18.79, down 1% today.

This ASX 200 financial share has fallen 9.7% over 12 months.

Jarden downgraded Suncorp shares to a hold rating on Monday.

The broker raised its 12-month price target slightly from $19.10 to $19.60.

This implies a potential 4% upside ahead.

The post 9 ASX 200 shares downgraded by analysts this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The maths is straightforward.

To generate $60,000 per year in dividend income at an average yield of 5%, you need approximately $1.2 million invested.

At a 6% yield, you need $1 million.

Three ASX dividend shares offer different but complementary ways to build toward that target.

Telstra: The defensive anchor

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) is the natural starting point for any ASX passive income portfolio.

Not because it offers the highest yield, but because it offers reliability.

Telstra has not cut its dividend since 2019 and has increased its annual payout every year since 2022.

CommSec consensus estimates point to a fully-franked dividend of 21 cents per share in FY26, rising to 21.5 cents in FY27.

At $4.92 per share, that implies a forward yield of approximately 4.3%, or a grossed-up yield of approximately 6.1% including franking credits.

That franked income is particularly powerful inside superannuation, where franking credits arrive as cash rather than being absorbed by tax.

A $400,000 investment in Telstra at a 5.86% grossed-up yield generates approximately $23,440 per year.

Suncorp: The recovery play with a growing payout

Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN) had a difficult FY26.

Catastrophe costs ran to approximately $580 million above budget, weighing on near-term dividends.

Despite this, UBS forecasts a fully-franked annual dividend of 66 cents per share for FY 2026.

This would imply a grossed-up yield of approximately 5% at the current share price of $18.94.

The more compelling part of this ASX dividend share is the trajectory.

UBS projects Suncorp's dividend climbing toward $1.09 per share by FY 2030, implying a forward grossed-up yield of approximately 8.2% at today's price.

That reflects a scenario in which FY26's elevated catastrophe costs are unlikely to repeat at the same scale, and in which improving margins support a multi-year dividend recovery.

A $350,000 investment in Suncorp at a 5% grossed-up yield generates approximately $17,500 per year today. This should grow materially as the dividend recovers.

Amcor: The quarterly payer

Amcor Plc (ASX: AMC) brings something Telstra and Suncorp do not: quarterly dividends.

Most ASX companies pay twice yearly. Amcor pays four times per year, giving income investors a more frequent and consistent cash flow.

Amcor's most recently declared quarterly dividend was 91 cents per share in AUD terms. This translates to an annualised payout of approximately A$3.64 per share.

At $63.92 per share, that implies a trailing yield of approximately 5.7%.

Unfortunately, that yield is unfranked, reflecting Amcor's UK domicile and predominantly offshore earnings.

However, the yield more than compensates for the lack of franking at an absolute level.

The business is delivering too. In Q3 FY26, Amcor delivered net sales of US$5.91 billion, up 77% year on year, as Berry Global synergies continued to flow through.

A $320,000 investment in Amcor at 5.7% generates approximately $18,240 per year.

The portfolio maths for these ASX dividend shares

$400,000 in Telstra at 6.1% generates approximately $24,400 per year.

$350,000 in Suncorp at 5% generates approximately $17,500 per year.

$320,000 in Amcor at 5.7% generates approximately $18,240 per year.

Combined, a $1,070,000 portfolio across these three stocks generates approximately $60,140 per year, essentially hitting the $60,000 target.

Foolish Takeaway

$60,000 in annual passive income from ASX dividend shares is achievable with approximately $1 million to $1.2 million invested across reliable, income-producing businesses.

Telstra provides the defensive anchor with franked income.

Suncorp provides the income growth trajectory.

Amcor provides the quarterly cash flow and global defensive exposure.

Income investors looking for high yield at a reasonable price don't need to look much further than these three.

The post How to build $60,000 in annual passive income from ASX dividend shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In morning trade, the insurance giant's shares are down 5% to $18.36.

Why are Suncorp shares on the slide?

The catalyst for this move has been the release of an update from Suncorp before the market open.

This morning, Suncorp's acting CEO, Jeremy Robson, provided an update on the successful placement of its FY 2027 reinsurance program and its FY 2026 outlook.

With respect to the former, Robson revealed that the renewal reflected continued discipline in the company's reinsurance strategy, maintaining an appropriate balance between cost, earnings volatility, and capital efficiency.

Suncorp advised that it has now successfully placed its main catastrophe program for FY 2027, which maintains the maximum event retention of $350 million for a first and second large event. This is on top of the previously announced five-year aggregate reinsurance arrangement which commenced on 30 June.

That aggregate cover provided $800 million of protection annually, and up to $2.4 billion in total over a 5-year period.

Commenting on the program, Jeremy Robson said:

The FY27 reinsurance program demonstrates our focus on optimising returns while ensuring appropriate protection for our customers and shareholders. While the cost of reinsurance remains an important input to insurance pricing, it is pleasing to see improved market conditions reflected in the pricing of our comprehensive main catastrophe program, now complemented by the addition of aggregate protection to further enhance resilience and reduce volatility.

Suncorp has also reaffirmed its natural hazard allowance (NHA) for FY 2027 is $1,800 million, excluding claims handling expenses and profit commission.

FY 2026 update

Looking ahead to its FY 2026 results next month, Suncorp advised that it is reaffirming its underlying ITR to be towards the upper end of the 10% to 12% range.

However, its gross written premium growth is now expected to be approximately 2.7%. Suncorp notes that expectations have been impacted by an ongoing weak economy and soft commercial market in New Zealand, as well as a marginal reduction in demand in Australia.

In addition, total investment income is expected to be between $750 million and $800 million in FY 2026. This is down from $1,227 million in FY 2025.

The company explained that its lower investment income relative to FY 2025 is predominately driven by rising bond yields. These are resulting in mark-to-market losses in both insurance funds and shareholders' funds.

Following today's move, Suncorp shares are now down around 12% over the past 12 months.

The post Why are Suncorp shares sinking 5% today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Suncorp report?

• FY27 reinsurance program placement completed, adding $800 million annual aggregate cover for five years
• Total reinsurance costs in FY27 expected to be higher than FY26 due to exposure growth and aggregate cover
• Natural hazard costs in FY26 are forecast at $2.02 billion, approximately $250 million above the $1.77 billion allowance
• Underlying insurance trading result (ITR) for FY26 anticipated towards the upper end of the 10–12% range
• Gross Written Premium (GWP) growth for FY26 expected to be around 2.7%
• FY26 investment income expected between $750 million and $800 million, down from $1.23 billion in FY25

What else do investors need to know?

Suncorp has announced a new five-year aggregate reinsurance arrangement, effective from 30 June 2026, providing substantial protection against natural disasters. The main catastrophe cover now protects losses between $500 million and $6.4 billion, including for Home, Motor and Commercial property portfolios across Australia and New Zealand.

Total reinsurance costs in FY27 are set to rise, mainly due to the new aggregate cover and expanded exposure, but this is partly offset by more favourable catastrophe program pricing. Additionally, Suncorp will release about $100 million of capital thanks to lower capital targets, giving the balance sheet a welcome boost.

On the leadership front, Steve Johnston returns as CEO from medical leave on 6 July 2026, with acting CEO Jeremy Robson resuming as CFO, restoring the executive team's usual structure.

What's next for Suncorp?

Suncorp will provide further detail on capital management and natural hazard experience at its FY26 results presentation, scheduled for 12 August 2026. The company's strategic focus remains on balancing risk protection with efficiency, aiming to protect both shareholders and customers against volatile weather events.

Looking forward, Suncorp's enhanced reinsurance structure aims to keep earnings more stable and strengthen resilience in an increasingly unpredictable environment. The leadership team's return to its usual configuration signals ongoing continuity in strategy and execution.

Suncorp share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Suncorp shares have declined 7%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 2% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Suncorp reveals FY27 reinsurance plans and FY26 guidance update appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Some have simply run too far for that to still be true. Being honest means being upfront about which of these three ASX dividend shares still offer value, and which ones have become more of a quality holding than a bargain.

Here are three ASX dividend stocks that offer attractive yields at attractive prices for Australian investors.

Amcor Plc (ASX: AMC)

Amcor remains the clearest case of a well-priced dividend share on this list.

Its shares trade at approximately $61.67, still down materially from their 52-week high of $76.40. Amcor carries a dividend yield of approximately 5.9%, based on the most recently declared quarterly dividend of 91.0 AUD cents per share, annualised.

That yield is unfranked, reflecting Amcor's UK domicile and predominantly offshore earnings base. But the headline number remains attractive on an absolute basis.

Moreover, the company is performing. In the March 2026 quarter, Amcor delivered net sales of US$5.91 billion, up 77% year-on-year. Adjusted EBITDA surged 87% to US$892 million, as synergies from the completed Berry Global acquisition continued to come through.

CEO Peter Konieczny noted the result, stating:

The resilience of our business as we mark the first anniversary of bringing legacy Amcor and Berry together as One Amcor.

Even better, Amcor pays dividends quarterly, giving income investors a more frequent cash flow than the twice-yearly norm on the ASX.

Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN)

Suncorp is the second well-priced name here, though the dividend outlook requires a degree of patience.

UBS expects Suncorp's FY2026 net profit and dividend to fall significantly due to catastrophe costs running roughly $580 million above budget, cutting its FY2026 EPS forecast by 31%.

Despite that near-term hit, UBS retains a buy rating with a $22 price target and forecasts an annual dividend of 66 cents per share for FY2026.

This implies a grossed-up yield of approximately 5.0% including franking credits.

The broker's more interesting observation is that the same catastrophe events pushing this year's dividend lower could "extend the positive home/motor pricing cycle," supporting a recovery in FY2027 and beyond.

UBS projects the dividend will climb toward $1.09 per share by FY2030, implying a forward grossed-up yield of approximately 8.2% at today's price.

This gap between a soft near-term number and a much stronger multi-year trajectory represents a potential attractive entry point for incoming investors.

Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure Ltd (ASX: DBI)

Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure has appeared on dividend lists like this one before, and for good reason.

Why? The underlying business is high quality, with regulated, contracted revenue from its metallurgical coal export terminal in Queensland.

DBI shares hit an all-time high of $6.01 on 24 June 2026, up roughly 40% over the past twelve months. This has compressed the trailing yield to approximately 4.6%.

At an all-time high with a yield below 5%, DBI may not be the bargain it was earlier this year. However, shares have proven to be a reasonable holding for income investors over the long-term.

For investors seeking compounding dividends over the long term, DBI's high-quality business model provides a compelling investment case.

Foolish takeaway

Amcor and Suncorp both still offer a genuine combination of an attractive yield and a credible path to dividend growth from here.

Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure is a quality business with a proven track record of compounding earnings and dividends.

Income investors looking for high yield at a reasonable price don't need to look much further than these ASX dividend shares.

The post 3 well-priced ASX dividend shares to buy today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.