Three shares that have caught the eye at the small end of the market are listed below. Here's why they are on the rise today:

The Alacer Gold Corp (ASX: AQG) share price is up over 5% to $2.45. This morning the gold miner provided the market with its latest quarterly activities report. During the third quarter the company achieved production of 26,160 ounces from the Çöpler Gold Mine, bringing its year to date production to 89,233 ounces. As a result, it expects to meet the lower end of its consolidated production guidance for FY 2018. Gold sales during the quarter came to US$37 million, bringing year to date sales to a total of US$124 million.

The Bionomics Ltd (ASX: BNO) share price has bounced 11.5% higher to 19.5 cents. Despite this sizeable gain, the biopharmaceutical company's shares are still down over 60% this week. Bionomics' shares were sold off heavily on Tuesday after the company revealed disappointing results from its phase 2 clinical trial of its BNC210 novel drug candidate in patients with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The trial did not meet its primary endpoint of a decrease in PTSD symptoms as measured by Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-5) at 12 weeks.

The Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1) share price has climbed 5% to 31.5 cents after the telecommunications, content and advertising solutions provider announced that it has executed a 3-year reseller agreement with healthcare software and patient engagement solutions provider Oneview Healthcare (ASX: ONE). The deal will see Swift become an entertainment solutions provider to Oneview customers across the Asia Pacific region and a preferred solutions provider on a global basis. Management believes it will significantly increase its room numbers in the healthcare sector and is targeting 4,000 new screens in the next 36 months.

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Three shares at the small end of the market posting strong gains today are listed below. Here's why they are on the rise:

The Firstwave Cloud Technology Ltd (ASX: FCT) share price rose 11.5% on Thursday to 29 cents. This morning the cloud security technology company announced that it has signed a software original equipment manufacturer (OEM) development and license agreement with global tech giant Cisco Systems. The agreement offers Cisco global customers FirstWave's unique cloud service orchestration platform for differentiated email, next generation firewall, and web security. While it is still a little too soon to invest for me, I think that this new deal could make Firstwave Cloud Technology worth a closer look.

The Osprey Medical Inc (ASX: OSP) share price surged 33% higher today to 20 cents. The medical device company's shares surged higher after it reported its fifteenth consecutive quarter of revenue growth for its dye saving technologies. According to the release, Osprey sold 1,955 units of its consumable products during the quarter, up 28% over the first quarter. This led to quarterly revenue of $651,000, up 23% quarter-on-quarter. I've been impressed with its growth and have Osprey Medical on my watchlist now.

The Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1) share price finished the day 21.5% higher at 48 cents after the communications, content, and advertising solutions provider advised that it has won multiple contracts to provide its award-winning suite of entertainment and connectivity services to new and existing resources sites across Australia. A total of 1,336 new rooms have been added from these contract wins with companies including Iluka Resources Limited (ASX: ILU) and NT Link. I think Swift Networks is one of the more promising small cap shares on the ASX.

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Three small caps that caught my eye with strong gains today are listed below. Here's why they are on the rise:

The AuMake International Ltd (ASX: AU8) share price has zoomed 12.5% higher to 22.5 cents after the daigou company released its latest quarterly results. For the three months ended June 30, the company generated sales of $7 million and gross profit of approximately $1.1 million. This was a 37% and 31% increase on the prior quarter. Investors appear pleased with this growth and the fact that costs have been reduced. In respect to the latter, management believes it will achieve total operational cost breakeven during the 2019 financial year. At the end of the quarter the company finished with cash at bank of $10.7 million and $3.6 million in inventory. I think it is a little soon to invest in AuMake, but it could be one for the watchlist.

The Empired Ltd (ASX: EPD) share price has pushed almost 3.5% higher to 56 cents following the release of its preliminary full-year results. The IT Services provider reported revenue of $174 million and underlying EBITDA of $17 million, which is a year-on-year increase of 4% and 10%. Pleasingly, management expects FY 2019 to be even stronger thanks to a good level of contracted work. It has provided guidance of double-digit revenue, EBITDA, NPAT, and EPS growth for FY 2019.

The Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1) share price has raced 13% higher to 39 cents after announcing its preliminary full-year results. The telecommunications and content solutions provider expects to report FY 2018 revenue of $22.3 million, representing annual growth of 31%. Pleasingly, this has led to EBITDA of $2.7 million in FY 2018, up 170% on the prior year. Swift Networks finished the year with a cash balance of $3.2 million, up 43% year-on-year, and has repaid its $3 million debt facility with Bankwest.

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Three which could have more than most are listed below. Here's why I would put them on my watchlist today:

ELMO Software Ltd (ASX: ELO)

Since listing on the ASX this cloud-based talent management software solutions provider has smashed its prospectus forecasts and the market's expectations. ELMO most recently delivered pro forma half-year EBITDA of $1.2 million on revenues of $10.6 million. This was an impressive 151% and 36% increase, respectively, on the prior corresponding period. Thanks to the strong demand for its products and the acquisition of remuneration software platform provider Pivot, I expect its full-year growth to be even more impressive.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

This entertainment and telecommunication services company provides fully integrated solutions for the resources, hospitality, lifestyle village, and aged care accommodation sectors. These solutions include the entertainment platforms that readers will have no doubt used in hotel rooms in the past. This morning Swift Networks announced that it has secured a content agreement with China's Future TV. As the only provider of Future TV in Australia, this is expected to be a major selling point in the hospitality and student accommodation sectors.

Zenitas Healthcare Ltd (ASX: ZNT)

Zenitas is a growing home care and health services company which listed on the ASX last year. With the National Healthcare Reform aiming to push the burden of healthcare services from hospitals into primary care, I believe Zenitas is in a great position to profit. This was evident in its recent half-year results when it delivered pro forma net revenue of $34.8 million and earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $5 million. This was a 53% and 51.5% increase, respectively, on the prior corresponding period.

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While not all these companies are what I would consider to be investment grade just yet, they are certainly worth keeping an eye on.

Here are ten that I'll be watching:

Auscann Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: AC8)

As AusCann has all the necessary licenses to grow, research, and manufacture medicinal cannabis products, I think it could be a big winner from the recent decision by the government to allow the export of the raw material. Another bonus is its strategic alliance with the world's biggest cannabis company, Canopy Growth Corp.

Animoca Brands Corporation Ltd (ASX: AB1)

Animoca Brands is a developer and marketer of mobile games and apps for smartphones and tablets globally. It recently announced the launch of Tokyo Casino Project in the App Store and Google Play store. This game is an attempt to tap into the lucrative market that Aristocrat Leisure Limited (ASX: ALL) is profiting greatly in.

Argosy Minerals Limited (ASX: AGY)

This up and coming lithium miner is one to watch thanks to the enormous potential of its Rincon lithium project in Argentina. The company is close to commencing production and has a number of Chinese companies from the lithium battery sector interested in off-take or other value-adding commercial agreements.

Bubs Australia Ltd (ASX: BUB)

While I think this goats milk infant formula and baby food company's shares are overvalued at the moment, I believe it is well worth keeping a close eye on Bubs. If the company can win a decent share of the lucrative Chinese infant formula market, it could lead to bumper profit growth.

Cynata Therapeutics Ltd (ASX: CYP)

I'm excited by the potential of this stem cell and regenerative medicine company's Cymerus technology. It can produce an unlimited number of high quality stem cells at a low cost. These stem cells can then be used to treat a number of diseases including Graft versus Host Disease.

ELMO Software Ltd (ASX: ELO)

Since listing on the ASX this cloud-based talent management software solutions provider has smashed expectations and its prospectus forecasts. I believe the strong demand it is experiencing and the large addressable market make it worth considering today.

Livetiles Ltd (ASX: LVT)

LiveTiles is a fast-growing digital workplace platform provider with its eyes firmly fixed on the massive artificial intelligence market. The company recently signed AI-related deals with tech giant Microsoft and the Clean Energy Smart Manufacturing Innovation Institute.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

This entertainment and telecommunication services company provides fully integrated solutions for the resources, hospitality, lifestyle village, and aged care accommodation sectors. I believe there is a huge opportunity for the company in the aged care sector due to Australia's ageing population.

Volpara Health Technologies Ltd (ASX: VHT)

This digital health company's technology enables personalised, high quality breast cancer screening based on automated, objective measurements of breast density, compression and radiation dose. Annual recurring revenues are expected to exceed its full-year 200% growth target this year.

Zenitas Healthcare Ltd (ASX: ZNT)

Zenitas is a growing home care and health services company which listed on the ASX last year. With the National Healthcare Reform aiming to push the burden of healthcare services from hospitals into primary care, I believe Zenitas is in a great position to profit.

The post 10 exciting small cap shares to watch appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In order to achieve this I think a little exposure to small cap shares can be very helpful.

After all, the S&P/ASX Small Ordinaries (Index: ^AXSO) (ASX: XSO) has vastly outperformed its illustrious peer the S&P/ASX 200 significantly over the last 12 months.

During this time the small cap index has posted a gain of 18% compared to a 4.1% gain by the benchmark index.

With that in mind, here are three small cap shares that I think investors ought to consider snapping up and adding to a diversified portfolio today.

Money3 Corporation Limited (ASX: MNY)

I think that this financial services company is worth considering as an investment today thanks to the impressive performance of its secured auto loans business. For the first-half of FY 2018 Money3 reported a 12.3% increase in net profit after tax to $15.5 million due largely to an 18% increase in its gross loan book. Considering the company still only has a 2% share of the second-hand automotive finance market, I think Money3 has a long runway for growth ahead of it.

National Veterinary Care Ltd (ASX: NVL)

Considering the high levels of pet ownership in Australia and New Zealand and the frequency in which these pets visit a veterinary clinic, I think National Veterinary Care is well-positioned to profit in the long-term. Especially given that the industry is highly fractured and gives the company the opportunity to grow through acquisition. In the first-half of FY 2018 National Veterinary Care delivered a 27.6% increase in revenue to $41.6 million and a 27.7% lift in net profit after tax to $3.3 million.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

This entertainment and telecommunication services company provides fully integrated solutions for the resources, hospitality, lifestyle village, and aged care accommodation sectors. I believe there is a huge opportunity for the company in the aged care sector due to Australia's ageing population, which makes Swift Networks a great option for investors looking into the small cap space.

The post 3 small cap shares to give your portfolio a big lift appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It's fair to say that the WAM investment team know what they're doing. Sometimes studying a high-performing portfolio's top holdings can lead to finding shares that are going to perform strongly.

One of WAM Microcap's largest holdings at 31 January 2017 is Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

Swift Networks describes itself as a diversified telecommunications and content solutions provider, entertaining guests and connecting them to the world.

The company operates in more than 300 sites across mining, oil, gas, aged care, retirement village and hospitality sectors.

The company's services include free-to-air television, pay television, telecommunications, internet data, wireless networks and streaming video on demand. Swift Networks says that its fully integrated platform is deployed in some of the world's harshest regions, where reliability, flexibility and scalability are 'critical success factors'.

In its half-year report for the six months to 31 December 2017 the company delivered operating revenue growth of 32% compared to last year.

'Underlying' earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) reached $1 million. The company said this represented like-for-like year-on-year growth of more than 100%.

The company generated $1.25 million of cash flows from operating activities in the half-year. It ended with $4.1 million cash in the bank, meaning the business is well positioned to drive further growth in the coming months.

Management believe that the second half of the year will show further improvement, driven by new contract wins through reseller agreements, revenue growth from additional content deployment and a continued expansion of Swift Network's presence across its target markets.

Foolish takeaway

Data and entertainment demand is growing rapidly. Australia's ageing population means that its aged living segment could have a strong future over the coming years. Swift Networks could be one to watch over the coming years.

The post Why WAM Microcap Limited owns Swift Networks Group Ltd shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This evident in the performance of the S&P/ASX Small Ordinaries (Index: ^AXSO) (ASX: XSO) which has pushed 17% higher during this time, compared to the 5.5% gain made by the benchmark S&P/ASX 200.

Whilst there is no guarantee that this outperformance will continue over the next 12 months, I remain confident that there is enough quality at the small-end of the market for it to deliver another market-beating 12 months.

Three top small cap shares that I think are worth considering today are listed below. Here's why I like them:

Helloworld Ltd (ASX: HLO)

I think this travel company is largely underappreciated by the market and a great option for investors. The growing popularity of its integrated service offering led to Helloworld recently posting first-half profit before tax growth of 39.2% to $7.3 million. Pleasingly, management believes the company is well placed to continue the positive momentum into the second half of FY 2018.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

This entertainment and telecommunication services company provides fully integrated solutions for the resources, hospitality, lifestyle village, and aged care accommodation sectors. Whilst all these sectors are lucrative opportunities, I am most bullish on its prospects in the aged care sector due to Australia's ageing population. Yesterday Swift Networks announced its first-half results which revealed a 32% increase in half-year revenue.

Zenitas Healthcare Ltd (ASX: ZNT)

This growing home care and health services company listed on the ASX last year and looks set to be a big winner from the National Healthcare Reform. This Reform aims to push the burden of healthcare services from hospitals into primary care providers such as Zenitas. As a result, I believe it is in a great position to profit over the long term. Especially due to operating in a highly fractured industry which provides it with opportunities to accelerate its growth through acquisitions.

The post 3 top small cap shares with enormous potential appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In Australia, for example, the number of people aged 65 and over is expected to increase by 75% within the next couple of decades.

This is likely to be a big win for a number of companies on the ASX. Three which I think are worth a closer look are listed below. Here's why I like them:

Japara Healthcare Ltd (ASX: JHC)

Japara is one of the nation's largest aged care providers and my favourite option in the aged care sector. While there are concerns that the company could be at risk of regulatory changes in the future, I believe its strong management team has the ability to navigate through this and deliver solid long-term profit growth. Another bonus is its dividend, which at the current share price Japara provides investors with a trailing partially franked 5.5% dividend.

Lifestyle Communities Limited (ASX: LIC)

Lifestyle Communities provides accommodation for working, semi-retired, and retired people over the age of 50 through its 15 sites in Victoria. I believe that demand for its properties will grow strongly over the next decade and I'm not alone. A note out of Goldman Sachs todays rates it as a buy with a $6.65 price target. The broker likes the company due to its superior self-funding business model, long-term track record, and significant organic growth potential.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

While not an immediately obvious choice, I do think this entertainment and telecommunication services company could also benefit from ageing populations. Swift provides fully integrated solutions for the resources, hospitality, lifestyle village, and aged care accommodation sectors. I expect demand for its services from the aged care sector could grow strongly over the coming decade as more and more facilities come on-line. The company currently provides its services to Regis Healthcare Ltd (ASX: REG) amongst many others.

The post 3 great ways to profit from Australia's ageing population appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I believe this gain demonstrates why having a little exposure to small-cap shares can be a good thing for a portfolio.

With that in mind, here are five small-cap shares which I think investors ought to be watching closely today:

Livetiles Ltd (ASX: LVT)

LiveTiles is a fast-growing digital workplace platform provider with its eyes firmly fixed on the massive artificial intelligence market. The company has recently signed AI-related deals with tech giant Microsoft and Clean Energy Smart Manufacturing Innovation Institute (CESMII).

National Veterinary Care Ltd (ASX: NVL)

I think that this veterinary company could be a great long-term buy and hold investment option due largely to its strong management team and its growth through acquisition opportunities in a highly fragmented veterinary industry.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

This entertainment and telecommunication services company provides fully integrated solutions for the resources, hospitality, lifestyle village, and aged care accommodation sectors. I believe there is a huge opportunity for the company in the aged care sector due to Australia's ageing population.

Volpara Health Technologies Ltd (ASX: VHT)

This digital health company's technology enables personalised, high quality breast cancer screening based on automated, objective measurements of breast density, compression and radiation dose. Annual recurring revenues are expected to meet or exceed its full-year 200% growth target this year.

Zenitas Healthcare Ltd (ASX: ZNT)

Zenitas is a growing home care and health services company which listed on the ASX last year. With the National Healthcare Reform aiming to push the burden of healthcare services from hospitals into primary care, I believe Zenitas is in a great position to profit.

The post 5 small-cap shares to watch appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here's a short recap of the Australian market:

• S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) up 0.29% to 6,054.70
• ALL ORDINARIES (Index: ^AXAO) (ASX: XAO) up 0.29% to 6,168.80
• AUD/USD at US 80 cents
• Gold at US$1,333.55 an ounce
• Brent Oil at US$69.82 a barrel

The ASX indices have strengthened further today, with the ASX200 cementing its level above 6,000.

The biggest rise in the ASX200 today came from QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) which rose by 5.7% on news that the company may implement capital returns as it sells off parts of its business.

ASX200 companies Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH) and WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) rose by 3.59% and 3.91% respectively on no news today, but shareholders will be happy.

The Macquarie Atlas Roads Limited (ASX: MQA) share price went up by 3.45% as the market reacted further to its toll revenue and traffic statistics update for the quarter.

Pot stock Hydroponics Company Ltd (ASX: THC) went up by 2.79% today on news that it has identified a Canadian business opportunity.

The share price of Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1) rocketed upwards 9.3% today after it reported its half-year result.

St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM) was one of the worst performers in the ASX200 today, the gold miner fell by 4.16% on news of a broker downgrade.

The Murray River Organics Ltd (ASX: MRG) share price fell by over 10% today after another downgrade and then the shareholders removed the board.

Here are some of today's top stories:

• Here's 10 top stocks I'm tipping for a great 2018
• Bitcoin (BTC) dealt another major blow
• Can shareholders expect capital returns from QBE Insurance Group Ltd?
• Getswift Ltd shares are now suspended until tomorrow

How this conglomerate has quietly doubled its share price in a year

The post ALL ORDINARIES finishes higher Wednesday: 8 shares you missed appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four shares which have pushed notably higher today are listed below. Here's why they are posting strong gains:

The QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) share price has pushed almost 6% higher to $11.04 despite yesterday's disappointing trading update. Today's gain is likely to be related to a positive broker note out of Macquarie which revealed that its analysts have upgraded the insurance giant's shares to an outperform rating. The broker believes that the negative news flow is out of the way now.

The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price is up 1.5% to $5.25 after providing the market with an update on its activities in FY 2017. The energy company reported production of 59.5 mmboe and sales volumes of 83.4 mmboe. Production was at the upper end of its guidance and sales were ahead of guidance.

The Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1) share price has jumped 8% to 46.5 cents following the release of its half-year update. The telecommunications and content solutions provider advised that it expects to report half-year revenue of $10.4 million and EBITDA of $1 million. This will be an increase of 32% and 100%, respectively, on the prior corresponding period. Pleasingly, annual contracted revenues are up 35% since 30 June 2017. I think Swift Networks is worth a closer look.

The Wattle Health Australia Ltd (ASX: WHA) share price is 4% higher at $1.96 after releasing its quarterly update. The baby food and infant formula company delivered a strong increase in cash receipts during the quarter, albeit from a low base. Management also revealed that it expects to gain its CFDA accreditation in the near future, allowing it to commence sales activities in the lucrative China market.

The post Why these 4 ASX shares posted strong gains today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I believe this gain demonstrates why having a little exposure to small-cap shares can be a good thing for a portfolio.

With that in mind, here are five small-cap shares which I think investors ought to be watching closely this year:

Big Un Ltd (ASX: BIG)

I have been very impressed at the way this video technology company has been growing its cash receipts. In its last update management advised that it expects to achieve global cash receipts from customers in excess of $22 million for the second-quarter of FY 2018. This will be an increase of 447% from the prior corresponding period.

Fastbrick Robotics Ltd (ASX: FBR)

Fastbrick Robotics is the robotics company behind the impressive Hadrian X bricklaying robot. The technology caught the eye of US-giant Caterpillar last year, leading to the equipment manufacturer coming on board as a major shareholder and strategic partner. Caterpillar is aiming to sell Fastbrick Robotics' technology to its global customer base.

Lepidico Ltd (ASX: LPD)

This junior lithium miner will be one to watch this year thanks to the lithium boom. However, Lepidico isn't your standard lithium miner, it owns an exciting piece of technology that has attracted Galaxy Resources Limited (ASX: GXY) onto its share registry. The technology is a metallurgical process that has successfully produced lithium carbonate from non-conventional sources.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

This entertainment and telecommunication services company provides fully integrated solutions for the resources, hospitality, lifestyle village, and aged care accommodation sectors. I believe there is a huge opportunity for the company in the aged care sector due to Australia's ageing population.

Wattle Health Australia Ltd (ASX: WHA)

Whilst it is still early days, Wattle Health could be one to watch if its products gain traction in the massive Chinese infant formula market. Early this year the company is expected to be granted CFDA approval to sell its infant formula products in the market. If Chinese consumers take a liking to the product then sales could rise significantly.

The post 5 small-cap stars to watch this year appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In fact, some of the gains at the small end of the market have been so strong they've turned small-cap shares such as Updater Inc (ASX: UPD) and Appen Ltd (ASX: APX) into mid-cap shares.

Considering the quality on offer in the small-cap space, I expect another year of outperformance in 2018.

Here are 10 small-cap shares well worth keeping a close eye on:

Big Un Ltd (ASX: BIG)

Unlike a lot of promising small-cap shares, the video technology company is already generating significant cash receipts. Thanks to its expansion in the United States and attempts to monetise its video content, I believe FY 2018 could be a huge year for Big Un.

Buddy Platform Ltd (ASX: BUD)

Thanks to reseller agreements with Telstra Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLS), Ingram Micro, and Digicel and a distribution agreement with Dicker Data Ltd (ASX: DDR), this Internet of Things company could be positioned for a big year. Its Buddy Ohm product is often referred to as the "Fitbit for buildings".

Creso Pharma Ltd (ASX: CPH)

This diversified cannabis company is not just looking at human and companion animal health markets, but also the potentially very lucrative recreational market in Canada. Furthermore, the company recently announced a move into the China market.

Fastbrick Robotics Ltd (ASX: FBR)

I think 2018 could be a big year for the robotics company behind the Hadrian X bricklaying robot. This year the company welcomed US-giant Caterpillar on board as a major shareholder and strategic partner. Caterpillar is aiming to sell Fastbrick Robotics' technology to its global customer base.

Lepidico Ltd (ASX: LPD)

The lithium boom isn't likely to go away any time soon due to the insatiable demand for the metal from battery makers and the lack of supply coming to market. This will be good news for this lithium miner. Lepidico owns the technology behind a metallurgical process that has successfully produced lithium carbonate from non-conventional sources.

Mobecom Ltd (ASX: MBM)

Mobecom provides a product portfolio that delivers customer engagement technology solutions. This morning the company announced a major deal with one of South Africa's biggest companies – Vodacom. Mobecom will develop and commercialise a white-labelled mobile service and migrate Vodacom's current and historical customer base onto the platform for analytical purposes.

Optiscan Imaging Limited (ASX: OIL)

This medical imaging technology company signed a distribution deal with medtech giant Carl Zeiss this year, putting it in a position to roll out exciting its technology globally once it receives FDA approval. That is expected to occur mid-2018.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

This entertainment and telecommunication services company provides fully integrated solutions for the resources, hospitality, lifestyle village, and aged care accommodation sectors. I believe there is a huge opportunity for the company in the aged care sector due to Australia's ageing population.

Wattle Health Australia Ltd (ASX: WHA)

Early next year Wattle Health expects to be given CFDA approval to sell its infant formula products in the lucrative China market. If Chinese consumers take a liking to the product then sales could rise significantly.

Yojee Ltd (ASX: YOJ)

This morning this technology company announced that last mile deliveries on its Singapore network have grown 150% over the last month, to achieve an almost 700% increase over the last six months. I think this level of growth makes it one to watch in 2018.

The post 10 small-cap shares to watch in 2018 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four shares which have climbed more than most today are listed below. Here's why they have stormed higher:

The Caltex Australia Limited (ASX: CTX) share price is up 4% to $34.83 after the ACCC opposed the proposed acquisition by BP Australia of the network of retail service station sites owned by Woolworths Limited (ASX: WOW). Caltex supplies many of these Woolworths service stations and was expected to lose its supply contract if BP took ownership of the sites.

The Smartgroup Corporation Ltd (ASX: SIQ) share price has climbed 6% to $10.71. This morning the fleet management and salary packaging company announced the $9 million acquisition of Fleet West and advised that it expects to deliver NPATA of $64 million in FY 2017. This will be a 45% increase on the prior year.

The South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) share price has risen 4.5% to $3.30. Today's increase is likely to be related to a note out of Morgan Stanley this morning. The broker upgraded South32 to an outperform rating with a $3.75 price target following revisions to commodity forecasts. I think South32 could be worth a look.

The Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1) share price has jumped 7% to 44 cents after announcing an exclusive reseller agreement with leading global satellite communications provider AST Australia. Swift's services will be marketed to AST clients in the Asia Pacific region and internationally, significantly extending its international reach. I think Swift will be one to watch in 2018.

The post Why these 4 ASX shares stormed higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Due to the high quality on offer in the small-cap space, I expect this outperformance could continue in December and through into 2018.

In light of this, here are three small-cap shares on my shopping list:

National Veterinary Care Ltd (ASX: NVL)

Over the last 12 months National Veterinary Care has grown its clinic network both at home and over in New Zealand at a solid rate. Due to the highly fragmented nature of the industry, I believe there is still a significant growth opportunity for the company over the next decade. Especially with pet ownership at elevated levels in both countries. In FY 2017 the company delivered a 25% increase in revenue and management expects to exceed this level of growth in FY 2018.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

Swift Networks provide in-room entertainment and telecommunication services to hotels, aged care providers, student accommodation, and resources companies. Whilst I think the company's biggest opportunity is in the aged care sector due to Australia's ageing population, I have been impressed at the rapid adoption of its services by mining companies such as OZ Minerals Limited (ASX: OZL) and Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS). These companies now use Swift's entertainment and telecom services to entertain the majority of their fly in, fly out workers.

Zenitas Healthcare Ltd (ASX: ZNT)

Thanks to the fact that the National Healthcare Reform aims to push the burden of healthcare services from hospitals into primary care, I think this recently listed home care and health services company is well positioned to profit. Like National Veterinary Care, Zenitas operates in a highly fractured industry which provides it with ample opportunities to grow through acquisitions as well as organically.

The post 3 small-cap shares to buy in December appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four shares climbing more than most today are listed below. Here's why they have stormed higher:

The a2 Milk Company Ltd (Australia) (ASX: A2M) share price is up 5% to $7.42 following the release of a trading update at its annual general meeting. For the first four months of FY 2018 a2 Milk has delivered an impressive 68.9% increase in revenue on the prior corresponding period. This growth appears to have convinced the market that it deserves to trade at a premium.

The Bellamy's Australia Ltd (ASX: BAL) share price has followed a2 Milk higher and is up almost 5% to $11.76. Investors appear to believe that the infant formula company will also be a big winner from the growing demand for Australian/New Zealand infant formula from Chinese consumers.

The Monadelphous Group Limited (ASX: MND) share price has climbed 3.5% to $18.43 after the mining services company released its annual general meeting presentation. According to the release, a surge in activity is expected to deliver half-year sales revenue growth of over 30% on the prior corresponding period. This is, however, expected to moderate in the second-half of FY 2018.

The Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1) share price is up almost 6% to 45 cents after it won three major lithium miner contracts to provide telco services and entertainment content. According to the release, Swift will provide a broad suite of world-class content and connectivity to up to 825 end users at new and existing camps in Western Australia for initial periods of up to three years. I think Swift will be one to watch in 2018.

The post Why these 4 ASX shares stormed higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three more small-cap shares which I believe have the potential to outperform the market in 2018 are listed below. Here's why I like them:

Family Zone Cyber Safety Ltd (ASX: FZO)

Although the shares of this cyber safety products and services provider have more than quadrupled in value this year, I think they could still outperform the market in 2018. This year the company has made in-roads into the U.S. education sector and signed a number of agreements with leading Asian telecommunication companies. The latter has given the company access to almost 180 million mobile subscribers in which to attempt to sell its cyber safety products to.

National Veterinary Care Ltd (ASX: NVL)

This veterinary company has been growing its network through acquisitions at a very strong rate and shows little sign of slowing. A combination of this acquisitive growth and solid organic growth led to a 25% increase in revenue in FY 2017. Pleasingly, management expects to exceed this level of growth in FY 2018. If it delivers on this then I think there's every chance the company's shares will outperform the market.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

I'm a big fan of this entertainment and telecommunication services company. Whilst the name may not be familiar, chances are you have used its entertainment system in a hotel whilst traveling around Australia. The company provides fully integrated solutions for the hospitality, resources, student accommodation, lifestyle village, and aged care accommodation sectors. The one area I'm most bullish on is the aged care sector, where I believe it has a significant opportunity due to Australia's ageing population.

The post 3 more small-cap shares to watch in 2018 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here are 10 small-cap shares which I think are worth keeping a close eye on:

Big Un Ltd (ASX: BIG)

Strong demand for this video technology company's services led it to report a whopping 429% increase in cash receipts to $21.5 million in FY 2017. Impressively, thanks partly to its US expansion, first-quarter cash receipts are expected to be approximately $15 million, up 488% on the prior corresponding period.

Change Financial Ltd (ASX: CCA)

Change Financial, formerly known as ChimpChange, is a mobile banking company targeting millennials and the underbanked in the United States. It continues to grow its user numbers and transactions at a very strong rate.

Family Zone Cyber Safety Ltd (ASX: FZO)

This cyber safety products and services provider has had a busy year. As well as making progress in the US education sector, the company has signed agreements with major Asian telco companies Telkomsel and Maxis Communications that give it access to almost 180 million mobile subscribers.

Fastbrick Robotics Ltd (ASX: FBR)

This robotics company's Hadrian X bricklaying robot can lay 1,000 standard brick equivalents per hour, compared to the 400 bricks that a typical bricklayer lays per day. The company has US-giant Caterpillar as a strategic partner and recently announced a memorandum of understanding to build 50,000 new homes in Saudi Arabia

LiveHire Ltd (ASX: LVH)

This talent technology company provides a popular software platform which creates a pool of pre-qualified job candidates that companies can access when they need to recruit. The platform saves companies both time and money during the recruitment process.

National Veterinary Care Ltd (ASX: NVL)

Thanks to its expanding footprint, its focus on growth through acquisition, and the high levels of pet ownership in Australia and New Zealand, I believe this veterinary company has an extremely bright future ahead of it.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

This entertainment and telecommunication services company provides fully integrated solutions for the resources, hospitality, lifestyle village, and aged care accommodation sectors. I believe there is a huge opportunity for the company in the aged care sector due to Australia's ageing population.

Updater Inc (ASX: UPD)

This US-based relocation technology company has impressed investors with the rapid adoption of its software. At the last count, Updater was processing 16.6% of all U.S. relocations. Management believes it has reached a scale at which it can emerge as the core platform for the relocation industry and monetize its software significantly.

Wattle Health Australia Ltd (ASX: WHA)

Next month Wattle Health expects to be given CFDA approval to sell its infant formula products in China from January 1 when new regulations come into place. If Chinese consumers take a liking to the product then sales could rise significantly.

Zenitas Healthcare Ltd (ASX: ZNT)

I believe this home care and health services company is in a strong position to profit over the next decade due to the National Healthcare Reform pushing the burden of healthcare services from hospitals into primary care.

The post 10 exciting small-cap shares to watch appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I believe that this population shift will be a huge tailwind for a number of local companies. Three shares which I expect to be amongst the biggest winners are listed below. Here's why I think they could be worth a look today:

Japara Healthcare Ltd (ASX: JHC)

This aged care provider aims to meet the expected surge in demand for its services by expanding its capacity greatly over the next few years. While FY 2018 is likely to be reasonably flat, I expect that its earnings growth will reaccelerate in FY 2019 when it reaps the rewards of its investments.

Ramsay Health Care Limited (ASX: RHC)

As a leading private hospital operator I believe Ramsay is one of the best positioned companies to profit from increased demand for healthcare services as a result of ageing populations. The added bonus here is that Ramsay has a global footprint and is likely to benefit from similar tailwinds across the world.

Swift Networks Group Ltd (ASX: SW1)

Although it provides entertainment and telecommunication services to a number of sectors, I see the aged care sector as a key driver of growth over the coming decade. As well as entertaining residents, Swift's platform allows aged care or retirement village providers to communicate with them and distribute bulletins, alerts, menus and other information. It supplies its systems to companies such as Regis Healthcare Ltd (ASX: REG) and National Lifestyle Villages.

The post 3 shares to profit from Australia's ageing population appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.