Each state has a different school holiday period, with NSW, Queensland, and Victoria among the states commencing holidays today.

Tasmania has the latest school holiday schedule this Easter season. The school break in our smallest state runs from 18 April to 3 May.

So, here's a list of all the ASX shares due to go ex-dividend over the coming weeks through to 3 May.

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

Ex-dividend dates give ASX investors two opportunities.

Either buy before the date to receive the dividend, or wait until ex-dividend day, when the share price will likely drop, to buy then.

ASX shares with ex-dividend dates this month

The post 21 ASX shares going ex-dividend over the school holidays appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

As hyperscalers expand data centres and governments invest in electrification and transport upgrades, billions of dollars are flowing into the physical backbone that powers AI. For investors, that opens the door to companies that build and wire the infrastructure rather than design the software.

Here are three ASX-listed ideas exposed to that trend.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering 

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering Ltd (ASX: SXE) is an electrical, instrumentation, and communications services provider with exposure to infrastructure, resources, energy, and increasingly, data centres.

In December, the company announced it had secured approximately $90 million in new contracts across data centres and rail. That included works at DigiCo Infrastructure REIT (ASX: DGT)'s SYD1 data centre project in Sydney's inner west, where the facility is being expanded with additional levels and increased power capacity.

The company's subsidiary, Heyday, was awarded design and construct works for low-voltage switchboards, busways, generators, UPS systems, and general power systems. On the rail side, Southern Cross secured electrical and communications works linked to Sydney Metro's St Marys Station Project.

As data centres scale up to handle AI workloads and transport infrastructure modernises, companies like Southern Cross are directly involved in delivering the power and systems that make it all work.

SKS Technologies 

SKS Technologies Group Ltd (ASX: SKS) is another contractor positioned at the heart of the digital infrastructure buildout.

The company provides structured cabling, audiovisual, electrical, and communication solutions, with a growing footprint in data centres. While it is smaller than some industrial peers, its exposure to mission-critical infrastructure projects makes it a leveraged play on data centre expansion.

As AI models become more complex, demand for high-performance computing infrastructure continues to rise. That means more server rooms, more connectivity, and more integrated systems. Contractors like SKS sit at the implementation layer, helping deliver the physical networks and environments that support these facilities.

Rather than betting on which AI platform dominates, SKS offers exposure to the broader theme: more data, more processing power, and more infrastructure to house it.

Global AI Infrastructure ETF 

For investors seeking diversified exposure, the Global X AI Infrastructure ETF (ASX: AINF) provides a different angle.

The ETF is designed to track companies globally that build and enable AI infrastructure. That can include data centre operators, semiconductor manufacturers, networking hardware providers, and power and cooling specialists.

Instead of selecting individual stocks, AINF spreads exposure across the ecosystem supporting AI's growth. That may help reduce single-company risk while still capturing the broader structural theme.

As global investment in AI infrastructure accelerates, including new data centres and upgrades to energy and grid capacity, the ETF offers a way to participate in that buildout through a single ASX-listed vehicle.

The Foolish big picture

AI and electrification are not overnight stories. They are multi-year, potentially multi-decade shifts that require vast physical infrastructure.

While software companies may capture much of the attention, the engineering firms installing switchboards and cabling, and the global suppliers of servers and semiconductors, are integral to the process.

Of course, project-based businesses can face margin pressure and cyclical swings, and thematic ETFs can be volatile. Still, as capital continues flowing into data centres and grid upgrades, investors may keep a close eye on who is being paid to build the backbone of the AI age.

The post 3 ASX shares riding the AI infrastructure buildout appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It is made up of a group of companies that provides electrical, instrumentation, communications, security and maintenance services to a diverse mix of customers.

Investors were gobbling up this ASX industrials stock after its H1 FY26 results yesterday. 

What did the company report?

Included in yesterday's results was: 

• Underlying EBITDA of $35.4m up 30.8% and Underlying EBIT of $29.1m up 25.5% respectively on then record prior corresponding period
• Gross profit for the period of $65.9m was a record half-year result and was up 30.3% on the prior corresponding period
• WestConnex arbitration settled resulting in legal dispute costs of $46.1m
• NPAT loss of $12.8m
• Revenue for the half-year was $349.1m, down 12.2% on the prior corresponding period revenue of $397.4m
• Fully franked 2.5 cps interim dividend declared. 

The company also released updated FY26 guidance. 

The board increased Underlying FY26 EBITDA guidance to at least $72m, up 31% on FY25 EBITDA, and expects further growth in future years.

Commenting on the half year results, SCEE Group Managing Director Graeme Dunn said:

I am pleased we have been able to raise our guidance for FY26 as we enter the second half of this financial year with a near-record order book. We are facing an unprecedented pipeline of data centre projects that we are tendering for now which anchors our expectations of further growth beyond FY26.

What did Bell Potter say?

Following the result, the team at Bell Potter released updated guidance on this ASX industrials stock. 

The broker said the increasingly integrated business across services and product offerings is enabling the Group to capture a greater share of contract awards, sub-contracting fewer scopes.

SXE highlighted an unprecedented acceleration in Data Centre infrastructure investment, which has enhanced tendering opportunities. 

The Data Centre project pipeline now stands at >$1,000m across the Group (up from $500m at the FY25 result). Increased momentum across other end-markets have given the company confidence in its expectation of further growth beyond FY26.

Price target upgrade

Included in the report was a buy recommendation (upgraded from hold). 

Additionally, Bell Potter raised its price target to $3.70 for this ASX industrials stock (previously $2.35). 

From yesterday's closing price of $3.28, that indicates an upside of 12.8%. 

Increasing momentum in SXE's secular drivers including data centre construction and renewable energy development has enhanced the company's short-to-medium outlook. Strategic acquisitions completed over the past 5 years have broadened the Group's capabilities and enhanced its leverage to these increasingly bullish drivers.

The post This ASX industrials stock just jumped 15% higher and is expected to keep rising appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The company said in a statement to the ASX that it had been awarded a range of works on DigiCo Infrastructure REIT (ASX: DGT)'s SYD1 project located in Sydney's inner-west, where the existing data centre is being expanded with additional levels and increased power capacity.

Package of work won

Southern Cross subsidiary Heyday has been awarded the design and construct scope "for the installation of low-voltage switchboards, busways, generators, and UPS systems, along with the supply and installation of cable containment, LV reticulation, lighting, and general power systems''.

Fellow subsidiary Force Fire has been awarded the fire services and design and construct works for the project, in addition to demolition works it had already completed.

In addition to this, Trivantage Manufacturing had received an order for the supply of electrical switchboards, and would work closely with Heyday on the design.

The company said further re the switchboards:

They are being manufactured locally at our Sydney facilities and are expected to reach completion in accordance with the approved project schedule.

In rail, Southern Cross said it had been awarded a package of work relating to Sydney Metro's St Marys Station Project, with that work relating to the electrical and communications systems.

Experience a key differentiator

Southern Cross Managing Director Graeme Dunn said it was pleasing to win new contracts in both sectors, which the company had deep experience in.

He went on to say:

I am pleased to be announcing further awards in the data centre and rail transport sectors which have been strong and growing sources of activity for us. I note that in both this particular data centre facility and on the Sydney Metro infrastructure development generally, we have done significant volumes of work previously and so to secure these new works is a testament to the quality of our past delivery. I also observe that on both of these developments we are drawing on multiple disciplines from across the group, which not all of our competitors are able to match. This of course benefits us as we are able to get more out of each project, but I believe also benefits our clients as we are able to deepen our relationships with them and better co-ordinate delivery across disciplines to them.

Southern cross shares were 2.5% higher on Tuesday morning at $2.46. The company was valued at $638.3 million at the close of trade on Monday.

The post Data centre and rail contract wins have boosted this engineering firm's shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

These two companies have risen by more than 40% year to date. 

However, Bell Potter has a hold recommendation on both, and has just reduced its target price following key announcements from both companies.

Here's what the broker had to say. 

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering is an electrical, instrumentation, communication and maintenance services company.

The ASX All Ords stock is up more than 55% in 2025. 

However yesterday, the company announced it was unsuccessful in its arbitration proceedings claiming against the CPB Dragados Samsung Joint Venture ("CDSJV"). 

What was the arbitration?

The company's subsidiary Heyday lost its arbitration against the CPB Dragados Samsung Joint Venture relating to claims for additional costs on the WestConnex M5 tunnel project in Sydney. 

The case hinged on strict time-bar clauses, which required claims to be lodged within specific deadlines. Despite substantial scope and schedule changes on the project, Heyday's remaining claims for about $22m were rejected.

In a report out of Bell Potter yesterday, the broker downgraded this ASX All Ords stock to a hold (previously buy). 

Although the broker did note it does not view the unfavourable arbitration update as a reflection of the company's current approach to project execution, given an outstanding track-record of project delivery since the dispute occurred and the likely internal response to improve risk management.

We caveat the Hold thesis with our ongoing positive view of the underlying business given the company's strong orderbook and tender pipeline and favourable structural drivers.

The broker also downgraded its target price to $2.35. 

It appears Bell Potter now sees the stock as fairly valued, as it closed yesterday at $2.39 each. 

Imdex

The company is an Australian mining equipment and technology company operating globally.

Its technology includes drilling optimisation products, cloud-connected rock knowledge sensors, and data and analytics to improve the process of identifying and extracting mineral resources.

Its share price has risen more than 40% since the start of the year.

The company recently announced its acquisition of Advanced Logic Technology S.A. and its subsidiary Mount Sopris Instruments Inc. 

These companies specialise in borehole geophysical imaging solutions, imaging probes and accompanying visualisation and data processing software.

Bell Potter believes the acquisitions strengthen IMD's earth science and digital analytics capabilities, but value creation depends heavily on achieving meaningful revenue growth from the acquired assets.

Value accretion from the ALT and MSI acquisitions is dependent on meaningful incremental revenue generation over the three year period post deal completion.

The broker has lowered its price target to $3.60 (previously $3.90) and maintained its hold recommendation on this ASX All Ords stock. 

From yesterday's closing price of $3.40, this indicates an upside of 5.88%. 

The post Why did Bell Potter just lower its view on these two ASX All Ords stocks? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That makes electrical contractors one of the more quietly enduring industries on the ASX. It isn't glamorous, but it is essential. 

And as infrastructure demand evolves, some lesser-known players are starting to look like genuine growth stories. Two such "hidden gems" are Southern Cross Electrical Engineering Ltd (ASX: SXE) and SKS Technologies Group Ltd (ASX: SKS).

From mining to megawatts

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering, or SCEE, has transformed itself in recent years. Once seen largely as a mining services contractor, the company has steadily diversified into renewables, commercial fit-outs, and — most notably — data centres and battery storage projects.

The growth is showing up in the numbers. In FY25, SCEE delivered record revenue of $801.5 million, up 45.2% on the prior year, and record operating earnings (EBITDA) of $54.8 million, up 36.6%. Looking ahead, management has guided to FY26 EBITDA of $65 to $68 million — implying growth of 18% to 24% on FY25 — and is actively exploring multiple acquisition opportunities to keep the momentum going.

The opportunity set is vast. SCEE's infrastructure markets encompass federal, state, and private investments in areas such as transportation, healthcare, aged care, defence, education, agriculture, water, renewables, and utilities. But perhaps the standout driver is data centres.

These facilities are experiencing exponential growth thanks to cloud computing and AI. They are also incredibly power-hungry, with electrical work representing the single largest component of construction cost. With over two decades of experience in data centre projects, SCEE is well-positioned to benefit from this surge in demand.

Small cap, big ambitions

If SCEE represents scale and stability, SKS Technologies brings fast growth and entrepreneurial energy.

Headquartered in Melbourne, SKS specialises in integrated technology and electrical solutions, from audiovisual and IT systems through to large-scale electrical works. Recently, its biggest growth driver has been data centres, which accounted for more than half of revenue in the first half of FY25.

The numbers from FY25 tell the story. Sales revenue surged 92% to $261.7 million, while operating earnings (EBITDA) leapt 161% to over $23 million. Profit before tax climbed 220% to $20.8 million.

Importantly, SKS is winning repeat business at scale. In FY25, repeat work rose to 94% of activity, up from 75% the year before. Its order book doubled to $200 million, providing visibility well into FY27. Management has also forecast FY26 revenue of $300 million, suggesting the growth story is far from over.

The company also has a broad customer base, from defence to aged care, with repeat business estimated at nearly 80%. Its tender pipeline sits at $570 million, with data centres, defence, and healthcare offering long-term opportunities.

Foolish Takeaway

Electrical infrastructure may not grab headlines like game-changing AI stories. But without it, none of those megatrends work.

Both Southern Cross Electrical Engineering and SKS Technologies highlight the importance of this sector and how investors can find growth opportunities in previously overlooked areas of the ASX. 

They're not without risks — contractors can face thin margins and cyclical challenges — but as Australia transitions to a more electrified future, these hidden gems could have a bright future ahead.

The post 2 hidden ASX gems powering Australia's electrification boom appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With reporting season over, ASX companies are slowly winding their way through the ex-dividend process.

After a company announces its financial results and dividend, ASX investors have a short window to buy the share with the payment attached.

On the ex-dividend date, the stock begins trading without the next dividend payment attached.

We typically see share prices fall on ex-div dates because the shares are inherently less valuable without the dividend included.

Ex-dividend dates provide two opportunities for investors.

You can buy an ASX share before its ex-dividend date, which gives you immediate entitlement to the next dividend payment.

Or, you can buy an ASX share on its ex-div date, when the share price typically falls, and take advantage of that dip.

As usual, we've seen plenty of examples of ASX shares falling on their ex-dividend dates this year.

Yesterday, South 32 Ltd (ASX: S32) shares closed 1.5% down after going ex-dividend.

The Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL) share price fell 4.2% on its ex-div date this month.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares dropped 2.15% on their ex-dividend date.

The Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) share price fell 1.3% on its ex-dividend date.

Nine Entertainment Co Holdings Ltd (ASX: NEC) shares provide an extraordinary example, plummeting 36% on ex-div day.

However, this was more a reflection of the special dividend paid to Nine shareholders this time around after the sale of Domain.

Nine Entertainment is one of several companies that announced special dividends during the August earnings season.

9 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week

Here is a sample of the ASX shares going ex-dividend next week.

Further reading

If you own ASX shares and would like to review the earnings reports of your companies, please see our comprehensive calendar page.

The post 9 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) has risen 4% in the YTD and is also 10% higher over the past year.

The interest rate-cutting cycle that has begun in the US, Australia, and many other nations is a tailwind for ASX small-cap shares.

This is because small-caps are typically young companies carrying more debt than larger companies to fund their early growth.

In this article, we reveal 3 ASX small-cap shares that have caught the eye of analysts.

Experts give buy ratings to 3 ASX small-cap shares

Arthur Garipoli of Seneca Financial Solutions has a buy rating on the following two ASX small-cap shares.

MTM Critical Metals (ASX: MTM)

MTM Critical Minerals is an e-scrap recycling company that extracts metal, such as gold, copper and tin, from discarded electronics.

Garipoli says this ASX small-cap share is more suited to higher-risk investors.

He explains this buy rating (courtesy The Bull):

MTM's flash joule heating technology is proven, with commercial production targeted for 2026.

The company has locked in two supply agreements totalling 1100 tonnes per annum of e-scrap.

MTM recently secured firm commitments to raise $50 million from institutional investors.

The company may re-rate on potential catalysts that include offtake agreements and completing the demonstration plant.

The MTM Critical Metals share price is up 175% in the YTD and up an astounding 1,687% over the past 12 months.

XRF Scientific (ASX: XRF)

XRF Scientific is a service provider in the mining industry. It makes equipment and chemicals used in preparing samples for analysis.

Garipoli says this ASX small-cap share remains "under the radar" due to its market capitalisation (which is $258 million).

He comments:

XRF holds a strong competitive position and operates a recurring revenue business model.

The company has generated profit growth in the past five years.

A weaker share price followed a 9 per cent fall in revenue in the March quarter of fiscal year 2025 when compared to the prior corresponding period.

However, profit before tax rose 5 per cent, creating a buying opportunity, in our view.

The XRF Scientific share price is down 8% in the YTD and up 31% over the past 12 months.

But wait, there's more…

Stuart Bromley of Medallion Financial Group has been watching another ASX small-cap share that he considers promising.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering (ASX: SXE)

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering provides electrical, instrumentation, security, fire, communications, and maintenance services.

The company recently bought Force Fire Holdings for an initial payment of $36.3 million and a total consideration of $53.5 million.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering funded the purchase with its cash reserves.

Bromley told The Bull:

The acquisition will enhance the company's service offerings in the fire safety space.

The project pipeline remains strong after recently announcing it had been awarded projects of $70 million, including the Western Sydney Airport stand-alone facilities project and a hyperscale data centre, also in Western Sydney.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering shares are up 16% in the YTD and up 6% over the past 12 months.

The post Hidden gems: Experts name 3 ASX small-cap shares to buy now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are rising more than Most today are listed below. Here's why they are climbing:

Avjennings Ltd (ASX: AVJ)

The Avjennings share price is up 7% to 65 cents. This morning, the residential land and housing developer revealed that it has accepted a takeover offer from an investment vehicle of Proprium Capital Partners Australia and Property Group. The parties have agreed on a deal that will see shareholders receive $0.655 cash consideration per share. The company stated: "AVJennings' Board of Directors unanimously recommend that AVJ shareholders vote in favour of the Scheme, in the absence of a superior proposal and subject to an independent expert concluding (and continuing to conclude) that the Scheme is in the best interests of the AV shareholders."

Black Cat Syndicate Ltd (ASX: BC8)

The Black Cat Syndicate share price is up 6% to $1.02. This morning, the gold miner announced the completion of the 1.2Mtpa Lakewood processing facility acquisition. It is now part of the 100% owned Kal East Gold Operation. This deal is inline with the company's more gold, sooner strategy. Black Cat's Managing Director, Gareth Solly, said: "Black Cat has taken a transformational step forward now that Lakewood is under the Company's ownership. With processing starting immediately, the more gold sooner strategy is underway."

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

The Evolution share price is up 2.5% to $7.28. This follows another strong rise for the gold price overnight. Traders were bidding the precious metal higher ahead of the start of US trade tariffs. It isn't just Evolution Mining that is pushing higher today. There are gains across the industry, which has led to the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Gold (XGD) index rising 0.7% today.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE)

The Southern Cross Electrical Engineer share price is up a further 11% to $1.84. Investors have been buying SCEE shares this week after it announced the acquisition of Force Fire Holdings. It is a leading New South Wales and Queensland-based provider of fire safety solutions to the commercial and industrial sectors. SCEE is paying an initial upfront consideration of $36.3 million. This could increase to a total consideration of up to $53.5 million if the business delivers on its EBIT growth targets in FY 2026 and FY 2027.

The post Why Avjennings, Black Cat, Evolution Mining, and SCEE shares are racing higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Catalyst Metals Ltd (ASX: CYL)

The Catalyst Metals share price is up 5.5% to $5.82. Investors have been buying this gold miner's shares this month thanks to a number of reasons. One is the release of a drilling update, which went down well with investors. Another is the sale of a non-core asset and the third was a broker note out of Bell Potter. In respect to the latter, last week the broker upgraded Catalyst Metals' shares to a buy rating from hold. It said: "The transaction makes sense as it simplifies the business, and enables greater focus on the expansion and exploration of the flag ship Plutonic Gold Operation, while adding a low cost and rapid option to unlock value at the Bendigo Project."

KMD Brands Ltd (ASX: KMD)

The KMD Brands share price is down 1.5% to 33 cents. This retailer's shares are rebounding after falling at the end of last week following the release of its half year results. The Rip Curl, Kathmandu, and Oboz owner reported a 0.5% increase in sales to NZ$470.9 million but a 74.3% decline in underlying EBITDA to NZ$3.9 million. This ultimately led to the company recording an underlying loss after tax of NZ$16.1 million for the first half.

Orora Ltd (ASX: ORA)

The Orora share price is up 4% to $1.87. This morning, this packaging company released a further update on its French regulatory investigation. The company advised that the investigation relates to a period prior to Orora's ownership of Saverglass. Complaints have been made about price increases. However, it notes that this period was marked by major events including the Covid pandemic and the start of the war in Ukraine, which led to input costs for glass container production including energy, key raw materials and gas increasing significantly, as well as increased freight costs in an environment of very high inflation.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE)

The Southern Cross Electrical Engineer share price is up 5% to $1.64. This follows news that SCEE is acquiring Force Fire Holdings, a leading New South Wales and Queensland-based provider of fire safety solutions to the commercial and industrial sectors. An initial upfront consideration of $36.3 million has been agreed. This could increase to a total consideration of up to $53.5 million for delivering EBIT growth targets in FY 2026 and FY 2027.

The post Why Catalyst Metals, KMD, Orora, and SCEE shares are rising today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Among those is the ASX All Ords share in this article, which is up an impressive 68% since the start of the year.

But if you thought that this share was close to peaking, you would be wrong according to analysts at Bell Potter.

In fact, the broker believes this stock is dirt cheap and destined to deliver huge returns over the next 12 months.

Which ASX All Ords share is dirt cheap?

The share in question is Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE).

It is a leading provider of electrical, instrumentation, communications, security and maintenance services to a diverse mix of customers. This includes a large number of blue chip customers such as Woolworths Group (ASX: WOW), Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), BHP Group (ASX: BHP), Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO), Multiplex, and CPB Contractors.

According to the note, the broker has been impressed with the company's performance this year and believes it is destined to deliver strong revenue growth in the first half. It said:

Excluding the ~$50m Collie BESS Project Switchyard construction package awarded on 5 July 2024, SXE has announced >$225m of new contract awards in FY25-to-date, including purchase orders at Trivantage Manufacturing. These orders compare with >$140m of contracts awarded in the PcP and ~$470m in FY24 (including $210m of work packages for the Collie BESS project and switchyard). We expect SXE to deliver a 1H FY25 orderbook that is consistent with the record $720m reported at FY24, accounting for increased project delivery in 1H FY25, with revenue to lift 23% YoY to $314m.

In light of this, the broker has reiterated its buy rating and $2.25 price target on the ASX All Ords share this morning.

Based on its current share price of $1.43, this implies potential upside of 57% for investors over the next 12 months. In addition, a 4.9% dividend yield is expected in FY 2025. This boosts the total potential return to approximately 62%.

Commenting on its bullish view of the stock, Bell Potter said:

SXE brings key small cap exposure to several emerging and structural themes, including the proliferation of data centre construction across Australia, decarbonisation of the Australian economy, electrification of industries and the build-out of large-scale critical infrastructure. SXE's blue-chip clientele and high proportion of recurring work (33% of FY24 Group revenue) provides some stability to operations and financials and reduced counterparty risk.

The post Guess which ASX All Ords share is up 68% but still dirt cheap appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX)

The 4DMedical share price is up over 3% to 48 cents. This morning, this respiratory imaging technology company announced a new partnership with the University of Chicago Medicine. The agreement allows the University's clinicians to utilise 4DMedical's comprehensive portfolio of structural and functional lung imaging products, including CT LVAS. Management notes that by signing this contract, it is accelerating the roll-out of its technology at important academic medical centres and with key opinion leaders. It also feels that it highlights the value of 4DMedical's comprehensive suite of imaging solutions that enhance clinical decision-making. However, the contract value is commercial-in-confidence.

Brainchip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN)

The Brainchip share price is up 12.5% to 27 cents. Investors have been buying this semiconductor company's shares after it announced a licence agreement. The release reveals that Frontgrade Gaisler has licensed the company's Akida 1.0 Neuromorphic AI IP for incorporation into its space-grade, fault-tolerant, system-on-chip solutions for hardware AI acceleration across multiple product generations. Brainchip CEO, Sean Hehir, said: "This collaboration with Frontgrade Gaisler to licence Akida IP for implementation into space SoCs represents an important step in space-based AI deployments, turning into reality what once was considered unattainable. We are pleased to expand on our trusted relationship with Frontgrade as they push the boundaries of space computing."

Meridian Energy Ltd (ASX: MEZ)

The Meridian Energy share price is up 4% to $5.19. This follows the release of the energy company's monthly operating report for November. Meridian revealed that compared to November 2023, segment sales increased in residential +0.6%, agricultural +11.4%, and large business +7.8%. This offset decreases in small medium business by 1.1% and corporate by 1.8%. Meridian's retail sales volumes in November were +1.8% higher than November 2023.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE)

The SCEE share price is up 2.5% to $1.45. This morning, this engineering company revealed that its Heyday and Trivantage Manufacturing subsidiaries have been awarded a range of projects totalling over $100 million. The company's managing director, Graeme Dunn, said: "I am pleased to be announcing our largest ever hospital contract award which builds on Heyday's longstanding record of successful delivery of projects in the healthcare sector. I also note the range of orders Trivantage Manufacturing has received which, together with its two awards that we announced to the ASX on 11 December 2024, means its order book is now at a record level."

The post Why 4DMedical, Brainchip, Meridian, and SCEE shares are rising today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

Silex Systems Ltd (ASX: SLX)

The Silex Systems share price is up 10% to $6.15. This morning, the company announced that GLE, its exclusive licensee of the third-generation laser-based SILEX uranium enrichment technology, has been selected by the US Department of Energy (DOE) as an awardee under the its LEU Enrichment Acquisition request for proposals. The award provides a minimum contract value of US$2 million and a maximum aggregate value for all awardees totalling US$3.4 billion. The final award value will depend on agreed task orders to be subsequently issued by the DOE.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE)

The SCEE share price is up 13% to $1.57. This morning, this engineering company announced that it has been awarded a range of projects in the data centre, commercial, manufacturing, resources and water sectors. Management advised that the contracts total $125 million. Commenting on the news, SCEE Group Managing Director Graeme Dunn said: "This announcement, with works on a new desalination plant in WA, and major transport projects in Victoria and NSW, clearly demonstrates SCEE's broad exposure to Australian infrastructure expenditure."

Titomic Ltd (ASX: TTT)

The Titomic share price is up 8% to 19.5 cents. This morning, this cold spray solutions provider announced that it has successfully co-developed and sponsored a new cold spray standard for aerospace with SAE International. Titomic USA president, Jim Simpson, said: "SAE AMS7057 compliance validates Titomic's cold spray technology and strategically positions the Company to capitalise on a range of U.S. Government opportunities and initiatives aimed at fostering domestic innovation and manufacturing, such as Department of Defense contracts for military asset repairs, NASA programs for lightweight aerospace components, and Office of Strategic Capital efforts to strengthen domestic supply chains through advanced manufacturing technologies."

WA1 Resources Ltd (ASX: WA1)

The WA1 Resources share price is up 11% to $16.18. This is despite there being no news out of the niobium explorer today. However, it is worth noting that the company did recently report excellent beneficiation results from initial variability testing on a composite sample comprising three drillholes covering over 400m east-west extent in the northeast zone of the Luni deposit.

The post Why Silex Systems, SCEE, Titomic, and WA1 shares are storming higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

As the world rushes to take a piece of AI, some AI-related companies saw their share prices surge. The prime example is Nvidia Corp shares, which have gained 10-fold since October 2022.

In Australia, shares in NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT) and Macquarie Technology Group Ltd (ASX: MAQ) have soared 93% and 59%, respectively, in less than two years.

Many experts believe that the AI transition is just the beginning. Are you wondering which industries the AI revolution would impact next? Tesla CEO Elon Musk may have already given us a hint.

 In a March 2024 interview at the Bosch Connected World conference, he said:

A year ago, the shortage was chips, neural net chips. Then, it was very easy to predict that the next shortage will be voltage step-down transformers. Then, the next shortage will be electricity.

They won't be able to find enough electricity to run all the chips. I think next year, you'll see they just can't find enough electricity to run all the chips.

With this in mind, here are two ASX small-caps in the electricity utility sector.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE)

Established in 1978, Southern Cross Electrical Engineering (SCEE) provides specialised electrical, instrumentation, maintenance, and communication services in Australia.

The company has three business units: resources, commercial, and infrastructure. It offers its services to some of the largest companies, including Woolworths Group, Coles Group, BHP Group, and Rio Tinto.

Southern Cross Electrical sees exponential growth in data centres as the sector benefits from cloud computing and AI developments. In its 1H FY24 result presentation, the company said:

Data centres are electrically dense, electrical work comprising largest component of construction cost. SCEE has announaced 13 data centre awards totalling over $120 million in last four years.

[The company is] currently tendering on or positioning for over $500 million of work to be warded in next two years for extensions at existing or new builds of 12 separate data centres.

The company anticipates at least $53 million in earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) in FY25.

This is a significant growth from $33 million in the last 12 months to December 2023. The growth is driven by the acquisition of MDE Group and strong organic growth.

Southern Cross Electrical had a net cash position of $54 million as of December 2023, which is equivalent to 12% of its current market capitalisation of $440 million. This means that its enterprise value (EV) — defined as market capitalisation plus net debt — is $390 million.

Based on management's FY25 guidance, the stock is valued at an EV/EBITDA multiple of 7x. In terms of the price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio, Southern Cross Electrical shares are valued at 14x on FY25 earnings estimates by S&P Capital IQ.

The Southern Cross Electrical share price rose 160% over the past year and is currently trading at $1.69.

IPD Group Ltd (ASX: IPG)

Next up is IPD Group, a leading distributor of electrical and automation solutions in Australia. The company boasts a rich history of more than 70 years in this field and provides a comprehensive range of electrical services.

There are some similarities between Southern Cross Electrical and IPD Group. Both are in the electrical utility service industry across the country, have exposure to data centres and other AI-related industry changes, and are proactive in M&A activities.

IPD Group has recently made several strategic acquisitions, including Addelec, EX Engineering, and CMI Operations. Due to these acquisitions, along with strong organic growth, management anticipates FY24 EBITDA to be between $39 million and $39.5 million, marking a 42% increase from the previous year.

IPD Group shares are valued at 16x FY25 earnings estimates by S&P Capital IQ.

The IPD Group share price has traded mostly between $4 and $5 in the past year, and it is at $4.62 at the time of writing.

The post Forget NextDC: 2 ASX artificial intelligence (AI) stocks to buy instead appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Savvy investors are increasingly looking beyond the tech giants directly involved in AI to companies providing essential infrastructure and services.

According to TAMIM Asset Management, these companies are often referred to as the 'picks and shovels' play, a nod to the entrepreneurial types who sold shovels to miners during the gold rushes.

Let's explore two ASX stocks well-positioned to benefit from the AI boom: Southern Cross Electrical Engineering Ltd (ASX: SXE) and IPD Group Ltd (ASX: IPG).

ASX AI stocks in favour

Southern Cross Electrical Engineering is a prominent player in the Australian electrical contracting sector. It operates across the resources, commercial, and infrastructure markets.

While not directly involved in AI, it is well-placed to capitalise on the growing demand for data centres, as noted by TAMIM. Data centres are crucial for AI operations and require substantial electrical infrastructure.

The global data centre market is estimated to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 9.6% during the period 2023-2030, driven by the increasing adoption of cloud computing and AI technologies.

The market has recognised this potential. Southern Cross's share price surged nearly 140% in the past year, reflecting strong market demand for its services. It is "riding a wave of AI momentum," TAMIM notes.

Moreover, the company is expanding its business. Following its acquisition of MDE Group in June, management upgraded the ASX AI stock's FY24 EBITDA guidance to $53 million.

Data centres are electrically dense, with electrical work comprising the largest component of construction costs," according to TAMIM. The group has announced thirteen data centre awards totalling over $120 million in the last four years.

The company expects this growth to be sustainable, with further earnings growth anticipated in FY26 and beyond.

Beyond TAMIM, other experts are bullish on Southern Cross Electrical Engineering. It is rated as a strong buy according to the consensus of broker estimates on CommSec.

IPD is capitalising on AI infrastructure demand

IPD Group is an Australian distributor of electrical products and solutions. It plays a crucial role in energy management and automation.

As AI and data centres expand, IPG's services are becoming increasingly critical, putting it at the forefront of TAMIM's picks and shovels strategy. This, it says, could make it a potentially attractive ASX AI stock.

The company supplies essential electrical infrastructure products to the market. As noted by TAMIM, "IPD Group has demonstrated its capabilities in the data centre space by successfully completing projects such as supplying low-voltage switchgear for the Stack data centre."

IPG expects robust earnings growth, with FY24 EBITDA projected between $39 million and $39.5 million. According to my colleague Kate,  the company could benefit from power shortages caused by AI-related demand.

The company has already completed several large data centre projects. TAMIM says this could be a tailwind as demand for cloud computing increases.

[IDP's FY 2024] guidance reflects the company's strong performance and the positive impact of its recent acquisitions, including EX Engineering and CMI Operations, which have strengthened its electric vehicle infrastructure team and expanded its customer reach.

In addition to TAMIM, Bell Potter analysts have a buy rating on IPD Group, with a $5.60 price target. According to CommSec, the consensus broker rating is a strong buy.

ASX AI stocks come in many shapes and sizes

Investing in 'picks and shovels' ASX AI stocks could be a sound strategy. Stocks like Southern Cross Electrical Engineering and IPD Group provide essential electrical infrastructure and services, positioning them as indirect beneficiaries of the AI revolution.

As always, consider your own personal financial circumstances before investing.

The post 2 'pick and shovel' ASX stocks to cash in on the AI megatrend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are rising more than most today are listed below. Here's why they are climbing:

Carnarvon Energy Ltd (ASX: CVN)

The Carnarvon Energy share price is up almost 4% to 19.2 cents. This morning, the energy developer released an update on its strategic objectives. Pleasingly, the company revealed that they remain on track. As a result, management expects to be fully funded to deliver Dorado to final investment decision and first oil. Carnarvon CEO, Philip Huizenga, commented: "I am extremely pleased with the progress on the Dorado development. Our strengthened focus on Dorado and preserving our significant cash balance for this project gives us confidence to achieve these outcomes."

Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

The Goodman share price is up 3.5% to $33.80. This may have been driven by the release of a bullish broker note this morning out of Morgan Stanley. According to the note, the broker has retained its overweight rating on the industrial property company's shares with an improved price target of $35.30. It is feeling very positive about the company's data centre pipeline.

Nickel Industries Ltd (ASX: NIC)

The Nickel Industries share price is up 3% to 97.7 cents. This may also have been driven by a broker note. This morning, Bell Potter reaffirmed its buy rating on the nickel producer's shares with an improved price target of $1.54. It said: "NIC is one of the world's largest listed nickel producers and one of few that offers diversified exposure across a range of nickel products and markets. It continues to trade on undemanding valuation multiples, offers a supportive (unfranked) dividend and has demonstrated its ability to make money through the nickel price cycle."

Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE)

The Southern Cross Electrical Engineer share price is up 21% to $1.48. This follows the release of profit guidance for FY 2025 from the services company this morning. The company revealed that it anticipates FY 2025 EBITDA of at least $48 million. It also reaffirmed its previous guidance that FY 2024 profitability will match FY 2023's EBITDA of $38.2 million. Managing director Graeme Dunn said: "I am delighted to have been able to report a record-breaking year for the SCEE Group where we achieved our highest ever profits, cash balance and order book."

The post Why Carnarvon Energy, Goodman, Nickel Industries, and Southern Cross Electrical are rising appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are avoiding the market selloff today are listed below. Here's why they are rising:

Decmil Group Limited (ASX: DCG)

The Decmil Group share price is up 66% to 28.2 cents. Investors have been buying the mining services company's shares after it received and accepted a takeover offer from Macmahon Holdings Ltd (ASX: MAH). The two parties have agreed to a deal for 30 cents per share, which represents a 76% premium to where Decmil's shares ended yesterday's session. The Decmil board is recommending that shareholders vote in favour of the deal. This is in the absence of a superior proposal and subject to the independent expert's report.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE)

The Southern Cross Electrical Engineer (SCEE) share price is up 6% to $1.20. This morning, this electrical, instrumentation, communication and maintenance services provider announced a major new contract win. SCEE's Heyday subsidiary has been awarded extensions at two data centres in New South Wales and a range of buildings projects in the ACT, totalling ~$50 million. Managing director, Graeme Dunn, commented: "Only last month we announced our fourth award at NEXTDC's Artamon Data Centre and this new award at that location further demonstrates the track record for delivery that Heyday has in this fast-growing sector."

Spartan Resources Ltd (ASX: SPR)

The Spartan Resources share price is up 9% to 62.7 cents. This follows the announcement of a major new gold discovery at the Dalgaranga Gold Project in Western Australia. Spartan Resources, which was formerly known as Gascoyne Resources, revealed that it has discovered a new high-grade gold lode immediately south of the 952koz Never Never Gold Deposit at the 100%-owned project in the Murchison region. The gold explorer's CEO, Simon Lawson, believes the discovery is another game-changer.

Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: TLX)

The Telix Pharmaceuticals share price is up 1% to $13.05. This morning, Telix announced that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Fast Track designation to its investigational glioma imaging product, TLX101- CDx. The granted Fast Track designation is for the characterisation of progressive or recurrent glioma using positron emission tomography (PET). It provides Telix with an expedited review and closer consultation with the FDA during the review process.

The post Why Decmil, SCEE, Spartan Resources, and Telix shares are pushing higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

He founded Thorney Group after overseeing the investments of cardboard magnate Richard Pratt and Australia's first billionaire Robert Holmes a Court.

These days he's in the rich list himself, ranked the 73rd wealthiest person in the nation on the current The Australian rankings.

As well as a private fund, Waislitz runs 2 ASX-listed investment funds — Thorney Technologies Ltd (ASX: TEK) and Thorney Opportunities Ltd (ASX: TOP).

He recently named 3 ASX shares those funds hold that he currently has the most hope for:

Signing up massive clients and cash in the bank

Perth business Yojee Ltd (ASX: YOJ) makes software that manages logistics and supply-chain management.

The share price hasn't done a great deal this year, dropping from 20 to 18 cents as of Thursday's market close.

But Waislitz likes how it looks ready for explosive growth.

"This is a company that's progressively signed up 4 of the largest 10 logistics companies in the world," he told a Reach Markets webinar.

"It's got cash in the bank to roll out that growth with those companies and it's time is coming."

For the 2021 financial year, Yojee reported 63% revenue growth — but that failed to sustainably push the stock price up.

The Thorney team is willing to be patient though.

"We're quite excited about them," said Waitslitz.

"It's a company to watch… At the moment the revenues are relatively small, but we're hopeful that over the next 1 to 3 years you might see them really power ahead."

2 engineering ASX shares that'll cash in on infrastructure boom

The other 2 ASX shares, which are both engineering-related, are held by the Thorney Opportunities fund.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE) provides services to clients like data centres, mining sites, and utilities.

For a business that provides a 6% dividend yield, the share price is very low.

"We think it's really cheap because it's trading at just over 3 times EBITDA [earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation] to the enterprise value," said Waislitz.

"Sitting on cash, it's really well-positioned to win a lot of work into that [resources and infrastructure] thematic."

He also thought management was "too conservative" in its performance forecasts.

Southern Cross shares closed Thursday at 66 cents, after starting the year at 57 cents.

Construction engineering company Decmil Group Limited (ASX: DCG) has just been a nightmare for investors recently.

Its stock price has dropped about 90% over the past 2 years.

But after dealing with those "bad contracts", Waislitz is convinced the ASX share has hit the bottom now.

"They had to recapitalise their balance sheet to deal with their debt and allow them some growth capability, which they've done," he said.

"They've had a change of leadership at the CEO level, which has happened, and some other executives."

The Thorney team thinks Decmil is set to rake in more than $500 million of revenue for the current financial year, compared to $298.1 million for the 2021 financial year.

"In a sense, a new beginning for this company that's been around for a while."

The post 3 ASX shares Australia's 73rd richest person loves appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

A quick guide to ASX dividends

When building a sustainable portfolio of ASX dividend shares, investors need to focus on three things. First, there is no need to look only at the top 20 or 50 companies. A company has to have a proven, cash-generating business model. Second, you must be able to invest in ASX dividend shares without sacrificing your capital. Third, a company should be able to pay the dividends from direct earnings. 

So let's take a look at my pick of 4 high yield ASX dividend shares to buy right now.

Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE)

Southern Cross is an electrical contracting company. I worked on several construction projects for the company more than 20 years ago. This share goes ex-dividend on 7 October, 2020. At today's closing price, the payment will be a yield of 6.12%. In addition, this ASX dividend share has paid a consistent dividend in 8 of the past 10 years. In the past 3 years, the Southern Cross share price has fallen after payment, but has regained ground again. The company already has $330 million of secured project work in FY21, which accounts for 80% of the revenue target.

XRF Scientific Limited (ASX: XRF)

XRF is a small cap company that manufactures equipment and chemicals used in the preparation of samples for analysis. To illustrate the value of this company, in FY20 it increased its net profit after tax (NPAT) by 46%. This ASX dividend share goes ex-dividend on 1 October with a payment that will yield 4.59% based on today's closing price. Based in Perth, the company is keyed into the mining industry and has a diverse range of mining clients. 

GR Engineering Services Ltd (ASX: GNG)

GR Engineering provides engineering design, procurement and construction services to the mining and mineral processing industry and the provision of operations, maintenance, projects and advisory services to the oil and gas sector. It forecasts revenue for FY21 to be in the range of $280 million to $300 million, with improvement in margins.

This ASX dividend share goes ex-dividend on 8 October with a payment that will yield 3.96% based on today's closing price.

Harvey Norman Holdings Limited (ASX: HVN) 

Harvey Norman has had a great year during the pandemic. In fact, NPAT rose by 19.4% compared to FY19 due to the work from home phenomenon, and an increase in online sales. The Harvey Norman ASX dividend payment will yield 3.93% at today's closing price. The ex-dividend date is 9 October.

The post 4 high yield ASX dividend shares to buy right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

He is also a key figure in Thorney Opportunities Ltd (ASX: TOP) and Thorney Technologies Ltd (ASX: TEK).

In the interview he said that whilst fintech shares are running hot, there is plenty of opportunity for fintech shares to be successful due to major banks not investing where they should, therefore leaving them open to disruption.

He also said that a number of shares were trading with hefty multiples, but earnings are growing and balance sheets are more effective than in previous years. Earnings multiples shouldn't be relied on in isolation for valuation.

Some of the shares he said that he likes are Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB), Onevue Holdings Ltd (ASX: OVH), Finbar Group Limited (ASX: FRI), Decmil Group Limited (ASX: DCG) and Southern Cross Electrical Engineer Ltd (ASX: SXE).

The main company that he mentioned was Mesoblast Limited (ASX: MSB). He said that in the past few years it has reduced in value by two thirds, yet now has a commercialised product, is generating real revenue and has three potential billion-dollar treatments in early stage trials. Indeed, he said "I believe Meso is destined to take its place as one of the world's truly great biotechs."

He thinks Mesoblast still represents "exceptional" value and may be about to deliver on its long-held potential.

Foolish takeaway

It's a big vote of confidence for Mesoblast, but it could be some time before it reaches sustainable profitability. It wouldn't be at the top of my personal watchlist, as biotechs aren't my thing, but that doesn't mean it can't grow strongly from here.

The post One of Australia's richest people reveals his latest share ideas appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.