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

Let's see a sample.

Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA)

The Viva Energy Group share price is $3.21, down 0.2% today.

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

UBS downgraded Viva Energy shares to a hold rating on Tuesday.

The broker increased its 12-month price target from $2.90 to $3.20.

This implies the stock is fully valued already.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)

The South32 share price is $4.54, down 4.3% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 mining share has fallen 7%.

Morgan Stanley downgraded South32 shares to a hold rating on Monday.

The broker lifted its 12-month price target from $5.10 to $5.20.

This suggests a potential 15% upside ahead.

TechnologyOne Limited (ASX: TNE)

The TechnologyOne share price is $30.53, down 2.2% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 tech share has ascended 7%.

RBC Capital downgraded TechnologyOne shares to a hold rating on Monday.

The broker shaved its 12-month price target from $33 to $32.

This implies a potential 5% upside ahead.

Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR)

The Sandfire Resources share price is $20.16, down 4.4% on Thursday.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 copper share has edged 2% lower.

Morgan Stanley downgraded Sandfire Resources shares to a sell rating this week.

The broker raised its price target slightly from $20 to $20.35.

This indicates a potential gain of just 1% over the next year. 

Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE)

The Boss Energy share price is $1.22, down 1.8% today.

Over the past month, this S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) uranium share has tumbled 18%.

Jefferies downgraded Boss Energy shares to a hold rating this week.

The broker reduced its 12-month price target from $1.85 to $1.70.

This suggests a potential 39% upside ahead.

Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL)

The Sonic Healthcare share price is $18.35, down 0.1% today.

Over the past month, this ASX 200 healthcare share has fallen 5%.

Goldman Sachs downgraded Sonic Healthcare shares to a hold call this week.

The broker slashed its price target from $23.70 to $19.20.

This suggests potential capital growth of 5% over the next year. 

The post 6 ASX shares hit by broker downgrades this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In FY26, the ASX 200 materials sector, which is dominated by the miners, shot the lights out for investors.

The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) soared 47% and produced total returns, including dividends, of 52%. 

That compares to a 3% rise and total returns of 7% for the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

A staggering outperformance of 7:1.

The S&P/ASX 300 Metals & Mining Index (ASX: XMM), which includes an extra 100 mineral explorers, did even better.  

ASX 300 mining shares rose 53%, and delivered total returns of 59% in FY26.

These explosive returns followed staggering increases in many commodity prices.

Commodity price surge

In FY26, the best price growth among commodities relevant to Australian mining was lithium spodumene, soaring 278%.

Lithium is a key component in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles (EVs), e-bikes, smartphones, and energy storage systems.

In CY25, silver experienced the best price growth, up 147%.

Silver is an industrial metal used in solar panels, EVs, tech devices, and data centres due to its superior conductivity to copper.

The long-term tailwinds of decarbonisation and the artificial intelligence (AI) build-out contributed to mining's outperformance in FY26.

The ongoing structural change in central banks purchasing gold to diversify their reserves away from US treasuries also played a role.

Experts say we're in a new mining boom that will be different to the 2000s because it will be led by critical minerals, not iron ore.

While these long-term tailwinds will remain for decades, that doesn't automatically translate to vertical commodity price growth.

This is made clear in the 5-year outlook for commodities just published by the Federal Department of Industry, Science, and Resources.

Commodity price predictions FY27

For the period FY26 to FY31, the government reckons FY27 is going to be the strongest year for many commodity prices.

According to the resources department's latest Resources and Energy Quarterly:

Commodity prices are expected to peak in 2026–27 and then drift lower.

This is important information for ASX investors because commodity prices directly impact miners' earnings, and thus, their share prices.

The report also looks at energy commodity prices.

In CY26, Brent crude oil, gas, and coal prices have surged due to the US-Iran conflict and Middle East supply disruptions.

This contributed to energy ranking second (behind materials) among the 11 ASX 200 market sectors for total returns in FY26.

The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) increased 9.37% and produced total returns of 14.51%.

The energy sector has the same forecasted commodity price trend.

For the period FY26 to FY31, the government expects four out of five energy commodity prices to peak in FY27.

This will have a direct impact on ASX energy shares.

Let's take a look at the forecasts.

Five-year outlook

The report outlines the Federal Government's predictions for average annual commodity prices in FY27 and FY31.

There is a realised nominal price for FY26, a forecast price for FY27, and a projected price for FY31.

As you'll see, over the next 5-year period, seven of the following 10 commodity prices are expected to peak in FY27.

Metals and minerals commodity prices

Iron ore price (62% fe)

FY26: US$92 per tonne

FY27: US$83 per tonne

FY31: US$72 per tonne

ASX iron ore mining shares: BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG), Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO)

Copper price

FY26: US$11,767 per tonne

FY27: US$13,754 per tonne

FY31: US$12,786 per tonne

ASX copper mining shares: Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Capstone Copper Corp CDI (ASX: CSC)

Lithium price (6% spodumene concentrate)

FY26: US$1,532 per tonne

FY27: US$2,499 per tonne

FY31: US$1,684 per tonne

ASX lithium mining shares: PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR), Elevra Lithium Ltd (ASX: ELV)

Gold price

FY26: US$4,268 per ounce

FY27: US$4,534 per ounce

FY31: US$4,149 per ounce

ASX gold mining shares: Newmont CDI (ASX: NEM), Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN), Minerals 260 Ltd (ASX: MI6)

Nickel prices

FY26: US$16,348 per tonne

FY27: US$17,226 per tonne

FY31: US$18,473 per tonne

ASX nickel shares: IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO), Nickel Industries Ltd (ASX: NIC)

Energy commodity prices

Brent crude oil price

FY26: US$79 per barrel

FY27: US$87 per barrel

FY31: US$68 per barrel

ASX oil shares: Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD), Viva Energy Ltd (ASX: VEA)

LNG prices

FY26: A$13 per gigajoule

FY27: A$16 per gigajoule

FY31: A$11 per gigajoule

ASX energy shares: Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS), Santos Ltd (ASX: STO)

Metallurgical coal price

FY26: US$213 per tonne

FY27: US$233 per tonne

FY31: US$225 per tonne

ASX met coal shares: Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

Thermal coal price

FY26: US$117 per tonne

FY27: US$128 per tonne

FY31: US$121 per tonne

ASX thermal coal producers: New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC), Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL)

Uranium price

FY26: US$82 per pound

FY27: US$93 per pound

FY31: US$113 per pound

ASX uranium shares: Paladin Energy Ltd  (ASX: PDN), Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE), Deep Yellow Ltd (ASX: DYL)

The post Own ASX mining shares? Official forecasts show commodity prices peaking in FY27 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Today I'm looking at two very different energy stocks – a refiner and a uranium company – which brokers have tipped for solid share price gains over the next 12 months.

Let's have a look at who they like.

NexGen Energy Ltd (ASX: NXG)

NexGen is a Canada-focused uranium project developer that is focused on developing the Rook 1 Project in the southwestern Athabasca Basin of Saskatchewan.

The project's Arrow deposit has a mineral resource of 257 million pounds of uranium, and the company recently said it had intersected numerous other mineralised zones adjacent to Arrow, which will be subject to further exploration to assess their economic potential.

NexGen has recently won a number of key approvals for the project, including to establish a temporary airstrip and to expand the exploration camp.

Broker Barrenjoey has just started covering NexGen shares and has an overweight rating on the stock with a price target of $14.80, compared to the current price of $12.24.

The broker said Rook was a "very high-grade deposit", with first production expected in 2029-30.

They said the company could have the option to expand total production from 234 million pounds of uranium to 333 million pounds through the development of nearby resources.

Barrenjoey said the long-term outlook for the uranium price was strong, with their forecast of US$100 per pound higher than consensus estimates of US$87 per pound.

Viva Energy Ltd (ASX: VEA)

Viva Energy shares are up more than 80% over the past 12 months, but Macquarie's analyst team believes they still have a way to go.

Macquarie has just released a new research note on Viva with an overweight recommendation and a price target of $4 compared to the current price of $3.16.

They are also forecasting a strong dividend yield of 8.1% this year, falling to 4.7% next year.

Macquarie has increased its forecast for Viva's refining margins, saying the market remains tight despite a gradual recovery in trade through the Strait of Hormuz.

They said refining tailwinds were likely to persist through CY27, although soft retail fuel margins appear to be a larger drag in the second half of 2026.

Macquarie said tobacco sales were improving and new management strategies around product range and rotation were likely having some early effect.

Viva Energy is valued at $5.26 billion.

The post 2 ASX energy players that could return 20% to 30% over the next year appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Investors looking at Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) are sizing up two heavyweights in Australia's energy sector. Both play a vital role in supplying the fuel and energy keeping the nation running, but their businesses and financial profiles are quite different. Here's how Santos and Viva Energy stack up for the everyday Aussie looking to buy into the local energy scene.

The case for Santos

Santos is a major oil and gas producer, based in Adelaide but operating across Australia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and as far afield as Alaska. With decades of experience, it boasts one of Australia's largest resource acreages and substantial infrastructure, especially for natural gas. The company's reach covers both domestic supply and Asian export markets, and it's busy developing big-ticket LNG projects.

Looking at the numbers, Santos commands a market cap of $27.77 billion, which makes it one of the largest ASX-listed energy names. Its shares are currently on a price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) of 26.58 and the stated dividend yield is 3.66%. EPS comes in at $0.225, and the declared dividend per share is $0.31. Santos has delivered an impressive year-to-date return of 41.1%.

When it comes to dividends, Santos's record shows regular payouts, but recent dividends have been unfranked—so investors in higher tax brackets may not get the full benefit. According to its most recent company profile, Santos continues to expand its LNG portfolio with projects like PNG LNG and Barossa LNG, supporting future growth, although it's worth noting specific project updates weren't available in the data supplied here.

The case for Viva Energy

Viva Energy is Australia's second-largest refined fuel supplier and the exclusive Australian licensee of the Shell brand. It manages a major chunk of the nation's fuel logistics: making, importing, blending, and distributing about a quarter of Australia's demand. Viva owns the Geelong Refinery—one of just two left in the country—and supplies over 1,300 branded service stations. In recent years, the business expanded into convenience store retailing after acquiring Coles Express and is eyeing new frontiers with natural gas and hydrogen technology.

Viva's market cap sits at $5.26 billion—smaller than Santos, but nothing to sneeze at for a company focused mainly on fuel distribution and refining. Its P/E ratio is 23.58, slightly lower than Santos, and its dividend yield is 3.69%. The latest EPS is $0.134, with a dividend per share of $0.15. Franking is a standout point here: every recent dividend is fully franked, which increases their appealing yield for local investors. Viva shares have also soared this year, posting a massive year-to-date return of 59.8%.

Dividend history is solid, with consistent, fully franked payouts across both interim and final periods. According to its current public description, Viva is buying into energy transition themes, including hydrogen and EV charging opportunities, though again, specific revenue figures weren't available for this piece.

Valuation comparison

There are some clear differences between these energy stocks in both scale and capital structure—which can matter depending on what you're after as an investor.

Note: Santos' reported P/E ratio and EPS figures may reflect differences in accounting measurement (e.g. underlying vs. statutory earnings), so they might not correspond exactly.

Recent share price performance

Let's compare both shares' price action as of 24 September 2026:

• Santos closed at $8.55, gaining 1.79% for the day. Over the year to date, its shares are up 41.1%.
• Viva Energy closed at $3.20, rising 1.27% on the same day. Viva's year-to-date return is a standout 59.8%.

These moves reflect a period of strength for both, but especially for Viva Energy, which has left most of the sector in its rear-view mirror.

Which is the better buy?

Both Santos and Viva Energy offer exposure to the backbone of Australia's energy economy, but for me, the more compelling case is with Viva Energy right now. Here's why: Viva's shares have surged even further than Santos's in 2026, but their P/E ratio is actually a touch lower, so investors aren't paying up dramatically more for that growth. The dividend yields are virtually identical, but Viva's dividends are fully franked—which is a direct win for Aussie investors, as it means those payouts go further after tax.

On top of that, Viva is visibly leaning into the future of fuel—whether it's hydrogen, EV infrastructure, or importing natural gas—at a time when legacy oil and gas-focused models are facing longer-term questions. The company's smaller market cap might mean less institutional following, but that can also present extra room for re-rating if execution continues.

Santos remains a cornerstone exposure with its global LNG and oil exposure—and it's not a poor choice, especially for those seeking oil and gas project leverage. But purely on the numbers and strategy shown here, my pick would be Viva Energy for its franking advantage and stronger share momentum.

The post Santos vs Viva Energy: Which ASX energy stock gets my vote today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here's why the shares are peaking today, and what brokers expect next.

Viva Energy shares

Viva Energy shares have climbed around 1% and are trading at a two-year high of $3.24 a piece, at the time of writing. The increase means the shares have jumped roughly 14% over the past month and are now up around 55% year to date.

As Australia's second-largest vertically integrated refined transport fuel supplier, Viva Energy has enjoyed tailwinds from tight fuel supply and rising prices through 2026 as conflict in the Middle East constrains the flow of oil in and out of the region. 

It looks like investors are still flocking to the stock after the company posted a strong first-half result in late August. It announced record EBITDA results of $774.4 million for the half year ending June 2025, up a huge 154% from the same period last year. Its NPAT also boomed 493% higher to $371.1 million.

The news followed an update from the company in late July, in which it said its Geelong refinery had successfully returned to 90% of its operations after being affected by a fire in April. 

Going forward, it looks like the experts are bullish that the shares can keep rising. TradingView data shows the majority (six out of 10) have a buy/strong buy rating on the shares. Although after the latest rally, the $3.04 average target price now implies a potential 6% downside ahead.

AMP shares

AMP shares are up around 3% at the time of writing this morning, to an eight-year high of $2.61 per share. After the financial services shares dipped to an annual low of $1.16 in March, they've mostly consistently climbed higher to the time of writing. They're now up 43% for the year to date.

AMP shares have rallied higher since March on the back of a rebound in investor sentiment. The company has managed to execute an operational turnaround this year, enabling it to improve its earnings and return some capital to shareholders.

It has posted strong financial results; its assets under management (AUM) have climbed; its wealth business has improved; it has boosted its interim dividend; and it has also completed a series of share buybacks.

Last month, the company announced a 33% increase in underlying NPAT for the first half of FY26, and an 8.2% year-on-year increase in AUM to $167.6 billion. Management credited its AUM growth to momentum in AMP's wealth and retirement businesses.

Going forward, the experts are still bullish on the shares. According to TradingView data, the majority (seven out of nine) have a buy/strong buy rating on AMP shares. But after the rally over the past six months, the $2.57 target price implies around a 2% downside ahead, at the time of writing.

Codan shares

Codan shares have climbed around 2% higher at the time of writing, to an all-time high of $52.49. The shares have trended upwards throughout most of 2026 so far and are now up a huge 81% year to date.

The company, which develops electronic solutions for government, military, corporate, and consumer markets globally, has climbed higher this year amid continued geopolitical volatility.

Its communications segment, which designs drones and defence and public-safety equipment, benefited from a strong price rally, driven by soaring demand for defence-related stocks earlier this year.

The shares were propelled higher by a strong FY26 result last month, with net profit up 69% and revenue up 30%.

And the company believes it has another record year ahead. Earlier this week, it announced it is targeting full-year revenue growth of around 20% for FY27 and noted that the financial year has started with positive momentum.

Investors are clearly thrilled, and experts are also very optimistic that the company can continue to grow.

TradingView data shows that the majority (five out of nine) have a buy/strong buy rating on the stock. The average $53.17 target price implies around 1% upside. Although some think the shares could jump another 10% to $57.56 each, at the time of writing.

The post Viva Energy, Codan, AMP shares reach 52-week highs: How much higher can they go? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) dropped 2.94% and closed at a 10-week low of 8,741.2 points.

Nine of the 11 market sectors fell into the red.

Let's review.

Brent crude oil price jumps 12%

Brent crude, the international benchmark oil price, jumped 12% last week to above US$108 per barrel on Friday.

West Texas Intermediate crude oil also leapt 12% to above US$103 per barrel.

US heating oil rose 12% and gasoline increased 5%.

The UK gas price jumped 15%, German gas rose 14%, and European gas increased 13%.

This occurred as the Iran-backed Houthis sought to take control of Saudi Arabia's alternative oil export route.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world's oil and gas is shipped, has been effectively shut down since March.

Saudi Arabia, the world's largest oil exporter and a US ally, has been exporting via the Red Sea and Strait of Bab el-Mandeb instead.

The Red Sea and the strait run alongside Yemen, where the Houthis are based.

The rebels seized a Yemeni port city called Mocha, and are now advancing toward other cities closer to Bab el-Mandeb.

While all this was happening, Iran and the US continued to exchange fire with no hope of a peace deal in sight.

The US-Iran conflict has helped push up inflation in Australia, the US, and other nations.

Last week's oil price spike raised the chances of an interest rate rise in Australia and the US this month.

Traders rate the likelihood of a rate rise in both countries in September at 70%.

The US stock market also slumped last week, and American bond yields hit multi-year highs.

Australia's 3-year government bond yield rose above 5% on Friday, the highest level in 15 years.

These were among the factors contributing to the ASX 200's slump last week.

Energy shares led amid broader market downturn

The Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price gained 3.24% to close at $32.86 on Friday.

The Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) share price ascended 4.63% to $8.59.

Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) shares edged 1.38% higher to $41.21.

The Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) share price jumped 4.83% to $3.04.

Karoon Energy Ltd (ASX: KAR) shares ripped 5.17% to close the week at $1.83.

Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) shares rose 2.33% to 88 cents apiece.

The Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC) share price increased 2.5% to $8.60.

Whitehaven shares were one of 9 ASX stocks upgraded by experts last week.

The New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) share price gained 3.77% to $6.33.

Uranium miner Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) tumbled 12.14% to $10.28 per share.

The Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE) share price fell 3% to $1.46.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

Here's how the 11 market sectors stacked up last week, according to CommSec data.

Over the five trading days:

Next week 33 ASX shares are set to trade ex-dividend.

The post Energy shares rose while the ASX 200 slumped last week. Here's why appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

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

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

Winners and losers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

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

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

Here's the rest of today's best:

Enjoy the weekend!

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

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

By the time the closing bell rang, the index had lost a flat 1%, leaving it at 8,920.8 points.

The American markets were closed last night for the Labor Day holiday, so Friday's losses are our last point of reference. Let's see what they do later tonight.

So let's get back to the local markets now and take stock of how the different ASX sectors traversed the tough trading conditions that we saw this Tuesday.

Winners and losers

Despite the broader market's sharp drop, there were a few sectors that escaped with a rise.

But first, it was consumer discretionary stocks that copped the worst of it this Tuesday. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) had an awful time, plunging 1.88%.

Tech shares weren't much better, with the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) cratering 1.76%.

Financial stocks were also in that ballpark. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) ended up diving 1.63%.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) weren't popular either, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)'s 1.46% slump.

Consumer staples shares were no safe haven. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) retreated 1.31% this session.

Nor were industrial stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) sinking 0.74%.

Communications shares were right behind that. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) dipped 0.73% this Tuesday.

Mining stocks couldn't escape the selling, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ)'s 0.57% slide.

The same can be said for our last losers, gold shares. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) ended up slipping 0.22%.

Let's get to the green sectors now. At the front of that line were utilities stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) jumping 0.59% today.

Healthcare stocks displayed some strong vitals too. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) ended up galloping 0.45% higher.

Finally, energy stocks got over the line, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ)'s 0.22% improvement.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Gold stock Predictive Discovery Ltd (ASX: PDI) was our best index performer this Tuesday. Predictive shares beat out some uninspired competition to close 3.76% higher at $4.69.

Despite this market-bucking gain, there wasn't any fresh news out from the company to explain it.

Here's how the other winners pulled up at the kerb this session:

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

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

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

ASX 200 expected to rise

The Australian share market looks set for a positive session on Friday following a strong night of trade in the United States. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open 22 points or 0.25% higher this morning. On Wall Street, the Dow Jones was up 1.2%, the S&P 500 rose 1.1%, and the Nasdaq jumped 1.4%.

Oil prices rise

ASX 200 energy shares including Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) could have a good finish to the week after oil prices rose again overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 0.8% to US$91.69 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 0.2% to US$95.81 a barrel. Traders have been bidding oil prices higher this week following an escalation in Middle East tensions.

Shares going ex-dividend

Another group of ASX 200 shares will be going ex-dividend this morning and could trade lower. This includes auto retailer Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE), fuel retailers Ampol Ltd (ASX: ALD) and Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA), and broadband provider Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB). The latter will be paying a 3.6 cents per share fully franked dividend on 21 September.

Gold price jumps

ASX 200 gold shares Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) and Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) could have a strong finish to the week after the gold price charged higher overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up 2.4% to US$4,520.1 an ounce. Softer US dollar and bond yields gave the precious metal a lift.

Buy Paladin Energy shares

The team at Bell Potter thinks investors should be buying Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) shares. This morning, the broker has retained its buy rating and $14.80 price target on  the uranium producer's shares. It said: "We retain our Buy recommendation. We have a positive medium- to long-term outlook for the uranium market, supported by barriers to new supply and demand growth linked to electrification, energy security and AI-related power requirements. PDN has ~56% exposure to market prices out to 2030. Production at LH continues to improve with higher-grade mined ore feeding the processing plant. PDN continues to derisk its key growth project at Paterson Lake South in Canada's Athabasca Basin."

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winners and losers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

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

Here's the rest of today's best:

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

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

As we previously reported, utilities shares paid a 5.98% dividend yield, energy paid 5.14%, and materials paid 4.63%.

Those yields were well above the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) average dividend yield for FY26 of 4.23%.

Energy and mining shares paid higher dividends in FY26 due to elevated earnings from stronger commodity prices.

Now remember, the dividends paid in the FY26 period mainly reflected final dividends for FY25 and interim dividends for FY26.

Over the next two months, the final dividends for FY26 are being paid following the end of the August reporting season today.

And we're seeing the same trend play out.

That is, big ASX resources shares are paying generous dividends again due to those strong commodity prices.

Take ASX 200 iron ore and copper miner, BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), for example.

BHP declared a final dividend for FY26 of US 99 cents, which is equivalent to A$1.40 on today's exchange rate.

That's 65% higher than the final BHP dividend for FY25 of 91.9 AU cents.

That's a major lift in income for BHP shares investors.

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

If you want to snatch the next BHP dividend, you need to buy BHP shares before they go ex-dividend this Thursday.

BHP is among 11 big names in the high-paying utilities, mining, and energy sectors scheduled to go ex-dividend this week.

If you're chasing dividend income, here are the dates you need to know.

ASX shares going ex-dividend this week

View more ASX shares going ex-dividend this week.

The post Chasing dividends? 11 ASX shares in top-paying sectors going ex-dividend this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Hundreds of S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) companies have announced their next dividends this month.

We're helping you keep track of ex-dividend dates with an article every Friday.

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

We've listed the dividend amounts investors will receive and when they'll receive them.

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

ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week

The post 37 ASX shares going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Viva Energy Group report?

• Group EBITDA (replacement cost basis) rose to $774.4 million, up from $304.9 million (+154%).
• Net profit after tax (RC) increased to $371.1 million, up from $62.6 million (+493%).
• Energy & Infrastructure EBITDA grew to $353.7 million, supported by strong refining margins.
• Commercial & Industrial EBITDA (RC) rose 28% to $305.4 million on higher sales volumes and favourable supply deals.
• Convenience & Mobility EBITDA (RC) jumped 86% to $138.7 million, backed by higher retail fuel sales.
• Interim dividend of 7.73 cents per share, at the top end of policy (up from 3.83cps).

What else do investors need to know?

Viva Energy's performance benefited from elevated regional refining margins, even as operations at the Geelong Refinery were impacted by a fire in April. The refinery was safely restored and all units were back online by June, helping support margins into the second half.

Strong trading momentum was also reported across retail, with increased customer visits and uplift in convenience (ex-tobacco) sales. Lower net debt, now at $1.7 billion, reflects robust cash flow generation and prudent capital management during a period of market volatility.

The interim dividend represents a 70% payout of C&M and C&I net profit (RC), with any additional dividend from refining earnings to be considered at year end. The dividend reinvestment plan remains active, offering a 1.5% discount for eligible shareholders.

What did Viva Energy Group management say?

The company's CEO, Scott Wyatt, commented:

Viva Energy delivered its highest underlying first half earnings with all business units reporting significant growth. These strong results reflect a substantially improved refining margin environment, as well as improving retail sales growth and continuing strength of our commercial businesses. Strong cash conversion has strengthened our balance sheet with net debt reducing from $2.1 billion at the end of 2025 to $1.7 billion at 30 June 2026. I am proud of the way our team have responded to these challenges and the results we have achieved. We enter the second half with a strong balance sheet and a clear focus on disciplined execution.

What's next for Viva Energy Group?

Heading into the second half, Viva Energy plans to continue increasing productivity in its convenience operations and further expand its OTR network. The company expects the supply chain transformation to complete by November, aiming to boost store range and private label offerings. Around 20–25 new OTR stores and several site conversions are also in the pipeline for 2026.

Commercial & Industrial earnings are anticipated to remain solid, though some moderation is expected as favourable supply agreements roll off. The Group's Geelong Refinery will remain focused on capturing strong margin conditions, while ongoing discussions with the Federal Government around fuel security measures could support longer-term stability and growth.

Viva Energy Group share price snapshot

The Viva Energy Group share price has outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the past 12 months with a 33% gain, buoyed by strong earnings growth and improved capital returns to shareholders.

View Original Announcement

The post Viva Energy Group posts record 1H26 earnings, boosts dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Yesterday, the ASX 200 hit a new all-time high of 9,274.3 points.

Here are some new ratings and 12-month share price targets from the experts this week.  

Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA)

The Viva Energy share price is $2.67, up 1.1% today and up 27% over 12 months. 

Ord Minnett has a buy rating on this ASX 200 energy share. 

The broker raised its 12-month target from $2.85 to $3 after reviewing Viva's unaudited 1H FY26 report.

This implies a potential 12% upside ahead.

In a note, Ord Minnett said:

Viva Energy Group (VEA) flagged first-half CY26 operating earnings (EBITDA) would be 5–8% ahead of Ord Minnett and market expectations, driven by strong performance from its convenience and mobility (C&M) retail operations and its commercial and industrial (C&I) division, which benefitted from supply and hedging deals it had struck prior to the Middle East war.

Guidance for its Geelong refinery fell short of consensus expectations, as the catalytic cracker outage hurt output and increased crude premiums in June squeezed refining margins – the Geelong refining margin (GRM) was US$21.10 a barrel (bbl) in the first half of CY26.‍

That outcome was still more than double the US$8.20/bbl GRM on a year ago, and remain elevated relative to history, which Ord Minnett expects to continue driving upgrades to market earnings forecasts for Viva.

Myer Holdings Ltd (ASX: MYR)

The Myer share price is 22 cents, up 3.3% today and down 65% over 12 months. 

Ord Minnett has a hold rating on this ASX 300 consumer discretionary share. 

The broker cut its price target from 32 cents to 24 cents after Myer's FY27 trading update.

This suggests a potential 8% upside ahead.

Ord Minnett said the update was worse than feared, and commented: 

Myer Holdings (MYR) delivered a weak trading update as the department store and apparel chain warned operating gross profit for FY26 would be down 2.1–2.5% on a pro forma basis, as soft consumer sentiment weighed on sales and increased promotional expenses to spur demand squeezed margins.

The hit to demand from households hurt by higher interest rates and petrol prices was exacerbated by the warmer-than-typical winter, with total sales of $4.1 billion up just 0.3% on a comparable basis.

Somewhat concerningly, Ord Minnett notes the slowdown accelerated in the second half of FY26 (Myer rules its books off in July), with comparable total sales falling 2.1% in the last 19 weeks, including a drop of 5.4% and 4.0% in June and July, respectively.

Looking into the first half of FY27, we expect continued weak consumer confidence and a likely further 25 basis point increase in interest rates to drive a 1.5% fall in total sales.‍

Centuria Office REIT (ASX: COF)

The Centuria Office REIT share price is 90 cents, down 0.3% today and down 31% over 12 months. 

Bell Potter has a sell rating on this ASX All Ords real estate investment trust (REIT).

Analyst Michael Armstrong discussed Centuria Office's FY27 dividend guidance of 9 cents per share, almost 11% below FY26.

The board decided to rebase the payout ratio to 80% of funds from operations (FFO), down from 90%, which they say is sustainable.

Armstrong said that despite the cut, the dividend remained more than 5% above their expectations, and that this implied it would again be topped up with capital.

He kept the 12-month share price target at 85 cents, suggesting a 5% downside from here.

Armstrong wrote:

While we acknowledge the positive leasing outcomes within the QLD market, suburban office markets remain challenged with persistent vacancies in 818 Bourke St. and 201 Pacific Highway.

We see earnings risk to the downside with elevated gearing (43.7%) prompting plans for further divestments.

We see the dividend cut to 9.0c as prudent, however the rebased figure still sits above our estimate of cash earnings – placing further pressure on the balance sheet.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Myer, Centuria Office REIT, Viva Energy shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But that gain pales in comparison to some that were recorded on the index last month.

For example, here are some of the best-performing ASX 200 shares for July:

Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA)

The Viva Energy share price was the best performer on the ASX 200 index with a 38% gain. Last month, the fuel retailer released its preliminary results for the first half of FY 2026. It revealed that it expects group EBITDA (replacement cost) to be $770 million to $780 million. This is more than double the $305 million it recorded in the prior corresponding period. Viva Energy's CEO, Scott Wyatt, said: "Our strong financial results reflect a substantially improved refining margin environment which has been driven by a regional shortage of oil supply and refining capacity, as well as improving retail sales growth and continuing strength of our commercial businesses. Domestic refining has reduced dependency on international refineries and will continue to play a critical role in maintaining fuel supply security into the future."

AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP)

The AMP share price wasn't far behind with a gain of 33.5% last month. The catalyst for this was the release of its profit guidance for the first half of FY 2026. The financial services company expects underlying net profit after tax to be $170 million to $180 million for the first half. This is being driven by stronger China partnerships and increased investment income.

Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT)

The Perpetual share price was on form and charged 22% higher in July. This followed news that the fund manager received and rejected a non-binding indicative proposal from EQT AB worth $21.64 per share. It then went on to receive an improved $22.07 offer from EQT AB later in the month and then a further $22.50 offer on 29 July.

Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE)

The Boss Energy share price was a strong performer and raced 21% higher during the month. Investors were buying the uranium producer's shares following the release of a quarterly update which revealed record production. In addition, Boss Energy delivered on its cost guidance and strengthened its cash position. Boss Energy's CEO, Matthew Dusci, said: "The Company is in a strong financial position, with a balance sheet comprising $207 million in cash and liquid assets. Despite FY26 being a capital-intensive year, we increased our cash position by approximately $13 million and grew our drummed uranium inventory by 172klbs through operating activities."

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

Here's why investors sent them leaping higher this week.

Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM)

At time of writing, Capricorn Metals shares are changing hands for $13.10 apiece, putting this ASX 200 stock up 10.1% since last Friday's close.

All of those gains, and then some, were delivered on Monday.

Capricorn Metals shares closed up 15.1% on the day after the ASX gold miner reported on its strong growth outlook.

That included a 33% increase in the miner's group ore reserves to 5.24 million ounces of gold. And Capricorn's group mineral resources increased by 29% to 8.66 million ounces.

The Aussie gold miner also stoked investor excitement with its Range 500 aspirations to lift gold production to 500,000 ounces per year over the longer term.

"Range 500 is an exciting opportunity for Capricorn to pursue given the significant growth already underway at Karlawinda and development ready at Mt Gibson," Capricorn executive chairman Mark Clark said.

Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA)

Also enjoying a strong week of outperformance is Viva Energy.

Viva Energy shares are trading for $2.81 at time of writing, putting the ASX 200 energy stock up 12.2% for the week.

Viva Energy shares got a big boost on Tuesday after the release of the company's unaudited half-year results (H1 FY 2026).

Highlights included first half earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) in the range of $770 million to $780 million, up from $305 million in H1 FY 2025.

The company also cut its net debt down to $1.7 billion, down from $2.1 billion at 31 December.

Commenting on the performance, Viva Energy CEO Scott Wyatt said:

Our strong financial results reflect a substantially improved refining margin environment which has been driven by a regional shortage of oil supply and refining capacity, as well as improving retail sales growth and continuing strength of our commercial businesses.

Which brings us to…

Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP)

The third ASX 200 stock leaping higher this week following a big announcement is Domino's.

At time of writing, Domino's shares are down 6% for the day, swapping hands for $18.42 each. But following a strong week prior to today, Domino's shares remain up a market beating 10.8% for the week.

Shares in the ASX 200 fast-food pizza retailer closed up 9.1% on Thursday, following the the company's preliminary FY 2026 results.

Investors responded enthusiastically, with Domino's reporting it will achieve $60 million to $70 million in annualised cost savings following a strategic review of its assets and operational priorities.

Domino's also achieved its full-year profit guidance, reporting unaudited net profit after tax (NPAT) in the range of $118 million to $122 million.

The post 3 ASX 200 stocks flying higher this week on big news appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After confident gains throughout the early trading week that pushed the markets to a four-month high, investors got a reality check today, with the ASX 200 opening lower and remaining in red territory all session.

The index ended up finishing with a 0.78% loss by the time trading wrapped up, leaving it at 8,967.7 points.

This miserable Thursday for Australian investors came after an even tougher night over on Wall Street last night.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was smashed, dropping a nasty 2.19%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) wasn't quite as bad, but still fell a significant 1.74%.

Let's return to the local markets now and examine how the different ASX sectors fared amid today's rough trading conditions.

Winners and losers

There were only a couple of sectors that weren't sold off this session.

But first, it was gold stocks that were hit hardest. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) saw its value plunge 3.65% this Thursday.

Mining shares were hit hard too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) tanking 1.59%.

Consumer discretionary stocks were also on the nose. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) cratered 1.39% today.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) weren't much better, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)'s 0.99% dive.

Utilities shares were in that ballpark as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) saw its value shrink 0.85% this session.

Industrial stocks were close behind, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) sinking 0.83%.

Consumer staples shares were no safe haven. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) gave up 0.64%.

Nor were communications stocks, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 0.57% dip.

Healthcare shares had more sellers than buyers, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) tumbled 0.41%.

Our last losers were financial stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) sliding down 0.37%.

Turning to the winners now, it was tech shares that stole the spotlight. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) shot up a healthy 0.91% this Thursday.

The other safe haven was energy stocks, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ)'s 0.32% jump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Fast food stock Domino's Pizza Enterprises Ltd (ASX: DMP) was our top stock this Thursday. Domino's shares roared 9.08% higher to close at $19.59 each today.

This came after the company posted an earnings update after market close yesterday. Investors clearly liked what they saw.

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

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

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

Of the four stocks I'm looking at today, not only are the companies expected to pay good dividends, but three are also expected to increase in value.

I've selected the companies from broker reports issued this week. Let's have a look at who they like.

Chorus Ltd (ASX: CNU)

Chorus is a New Zealand-based fibre and copper line infrastructure company that last week reported that its total fixed line connections had fallen by 4,000, while its fibre connections increased by 5,000.

Macquarie has a price target of NZ$10.26 on the company, up from NZ$9.54, and forecasts a dividend yield of 6.3% this year, rising to 6.7% by FY28.

Chorus shares are also listed on the ASX.              

The broker said of the stock:

We see CNU emerging as a cleaner, simpler, and more fibre-led infrastructure business, with improving earnings visibility and an attractive dividend profile. FY26 should confirm this transition, with EBITDA tracking towards the upper half of NZ$710-730m guidance and a 60 cent dividend per share expected.

Aurizon Ltd (ASX: AZJ)

Macquarie has a neutral rating on this rail freight operator's shares, but is forecasting a dividend yield of 5.4% this year, rising to 6% next year.

The broker said the company finished FY26 with a strong quarter, and the outlook for FY27 is positive.

Macquarie added:

Cash generation is strong, balance sheet has capacity, so AZJ can support a higher dividend or further share buybacks. With yield becoming relatively attractive, and AZJ share price re-rated we see lifting the dividend payout as a more attractive option.

Viva Energy Ltd (ASX: VEA)

Viva this week said in a statement to the ASX that the refining margin at its Geelong oil refinery was up 156.4% over the same period last year, while volumes added 1.5% over the period.

This would likely translate into a boost in first-half EBITDA from $305 million last year to $770 to $780 million for the first half this year, the company said.

Macquarie increased its price target for the company on the back of the strong expected results, now at $3.70, up 9% from its previous estimate.

Macquarie is forecasting a 7.6% dividend yield for the current year, falling to 4.2% next year.

Regal Partners Ltd (ASX: RPL)

Regal recently booked what broker Morgans called "another good result" for the first half, growing its funds under management, performance fees, and net profit.

Morgans said regarding the company:

Whilst difficult to forecast, we are confident RPL can continue to grow funds under mangement as performance persists and the alternative strategies reach scale. On this basis we have a BUY recommendation and $4.00 price target.

Regal is expected to pay a dividend yield of 7.4% this year, Morgans said, increasing to 7.8% by 2028.

The post 4 ASX dividend stocks delivering better than 5% returns appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I've selected three research reports recently issued by the team at Macquarie, profiling companies they think are undervalued at current levels.

Let's see who they like.

Viva Energy Ltd (ASX: VEA)

Viva this week said in a statement to the ASX that the refining margin at its Geelong oil refinery was up 156.4% over the same period last year, while volumes added 1.5% over the period.

This would likely translate into a boost in first-half EBITDA from $305 million last year to $770 to $780 million for the first half this year, the company said.

Viva Chief Executive Officer Scott Wyatt said:

Our strong financial results reflect a substantially improved refining margin environment which has been driven by a regional shortage of oil supply and refining capacity, as well as improving retail sales growth and continuing strength of our commercial businesses. Domestic refining has reduced dependency on international refineries and will continue to play a critical role in maintaining fuel supply security into the future.

Macquarie increased its price target for the company on the back of the strong expected results, with the price target now $3.70, up 9%.

Viva shares are currently priced at $2.71.

IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO)

IGO this week reported that its Greenbushes lithium operation had improved its production over the quarter from 351,000 tonnes of concentrate to 387,000 tonnes.

Underlying EBITDA was $118 million for the quarter, down $1 million from the previous quarter.

Managing director Ivan Vella said:

IGO finished FY26 with strong operational momentum across key parts of the business, improved Group safety performance and a stronger cash position. Greenbushes also delivered a stronger final quarter, with improved production, stronger realised pricing and an 80% EBITDA margin. The stronger final quarter resulted in FY26 production and costs finishing toward the top end of revised guidance, while the recommencement of cash flow through Windfield reinforces the quality of this world-class asset and the future potential from the value optimisation work underway.

Macquarie said IGO's production beat consensus estimates by 5%, despite a fire at one of the company's operations.

They added that the company has enough cash on hand to consider paying a 3 to 7 cent final dividend.

Macquarie has a price target of $10.50 for IGO, compared to $6.89 currently.

Bannerman Energy Ltd (ASX: BMN)

Bannerman recently gave an update on its Etango uranium project in Namibia, saying 92% of earthworks were complete, with the project currently on schedule and on budget.

Macquarie said the company has "materially derisked" the project via its joint venture with Chinese company CNNC.

Macquarie has a price target of $5 on Bannerman compared to $2.97 currently.

The post Macquarie tips these 3 ASX stocks to return better than 45% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After a downbeat start to trading this morning, investors regained confidence after lunchtime, and ended up sending the ASX 200 up a healthy 0.6% by the time the markets closed. That leaves the index at 8.974.8 points.

This happy Tuesday for the local markets comes after the more nuanced start to the American trading week that we saw play out last night (our time).

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in a good mood, gaining a solid 0.51%

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) wasn't so fortunate, though, dropping 0.18%.

But let's return to the Australian markets now and take stock of how the different ASX sectors navigated today's trading.

Winners and losers

Despite today's buoyant showing from the broader market, we still had a few corners that went backwards.

Leading those losers were gold stocks. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) was punished today, slumping 1.51%.

Broader mining shares were on the nose too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) dipping 1.36%.

Our other red sector today was utilities stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) saw its value slide 0.06% lower this session.

It was all smiles everywhere else though. Leading the charge higher were consumer discretionary shares, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ)'s 2.68% surge.

Communications stocks also had a day to remember. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) roared 2.55% this Tuesday.

Healthcare shares were in that ballpark too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) soaring up 2.26%.

Energy stocks recovered from an early slump. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) ended up banking a 1.6% improvement.

Consumer staples shares saw decent demand, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ)'s 1.31% jump.

We could say the same for tech stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) lifted 1.2% this session.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) didn't miss out either, with the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) leaping up 1.13%.

Financial shares ran hot as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) advanced 1.19% today.

Finally, industrial stocks didn't miss out on the positive sentiment, as you can see by the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ)'s 0.43% rise.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Energy stock Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA) was our best share on the index this Tuesday. Viva stock rallied 8.61% this session to finish at $2.65.

This jump came after the company delivered a well-received earnings update to investors.

Here's how the other winners landed their planes: 

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

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