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

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

So, which ASX shares made the cut this time?

Resources and industrials are in hot demand

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

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

Several of the stocks on the list fit that view.

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

UBS is currently overweight both the mining and industrial sectors.

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

The full UBS top 10

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is UBS avoiding?

Just as interesting is where UBS is more cautious.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What did Ventia Services Group Ltd report?

• NPATA rose 7.4% to $128.2 million
• EBITDA up 8.2% to $273.3 million; margin improved to 9.4%
• Revenue declined 4.7% to $2.9 billion
• Work in Hand increased 2.5% to $21.1 billion
• Operating cash flow conversion of 93.8%
• Interim dividend up 9.8% to 11.76 cents per share, now 100% franked
• On-market buyback program upsized to $300 million

What else do investors need to know?

Ventia saw growth in three of its four key sectors, despite a one-off contract change reducing Defence revenue. The company secured seven significant contract wins and renewals, together worth $1.6 billion, improving future revenue visibility.

Safety and sustainability remain priorities for Ventia, with a 17% improvement in Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate since HY22 and a 27.2% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions from the 2021 baseline. The ongoing share buyback has so far returned $185.8 million to shareholders and has now been upsized further.

What did Ventia Services Group Ltd management say?

Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer Dean Banks said:

Ventia delivered resilient performance in HY26, achieving margin expansion and earnings growth despite lower revenue growth in Defence. This reflects our focus on productivity and a proactive focus on continuous improvement across our portfolio.

"During the half, we secured seven material contracts worth $1.6 billion and achieved an exceptional 98% customer renewal rate, underscoring the strength of our customer relationships…The increase in dividend franking from 90% to 100% fully franked is sustainable and further enhances returns to shareholders and reflects the strength of our balance sheet and cash generation.

What's next for Ventia Services Group Ltd?

The board and management offered a confident outlook, reaffirming underlying NPATA guidance for FY26 of 7–10% growth versus FY25. Ventia will continue focusing on essential infrastructure services and growth in areas like Defence, Digital Infrastructure, Energy, and Water, balancing sustainable shareholder returns with strategic investments.

There will be a management transition, with Mark Ralston set to step in as CEO from 1 September 2026 following Dean Banks' resignation.

Ventia Services Group Ltd share price snapshot

The Ventia Services share price has underperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: VNT) slightly with a modest gain of almost 1% over the past 12 months.

View Original Announcement

The post Ventia Services Group delivers higher profit and fully-franked dividend in HY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Ventia Services Group report?

• Awarded two ITS maintenance contracts in Victoria's Central and East regions
• Combined estimated contract value of approximately $160 million over five years
• Potential extension options for up to four additional years
• Services cover traffic signals, street lighting, and ITS assets

What else do investors need to know?

Ventia's success in securing these contracts showcases its established reputation managing complex infrastructure networks. This award highlights the increasing role Ventia is playing in maintaining Victoria's road system, supporting a safe and efficient transport network.

The contracts are scheduled to commence from 1 December 2026 and include options to extend up to four more years, offering a pathway for recurring revenue and business stability. These wins align with Ventia's broader strategy to serve essential infrastructure clients across Australia and New Zealand.

What did Ventia Services Group management say?

Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer Dean Banks commented:

The award reflects Ventiaʼs proven capability in managing complex, technology enabled infrastructure networks. These contracts align strongly with Ventiaʼs expertise in maintaining critical transport assets and supporting our customers through safe, responsive and data driven service delivery.

What's next for Ventia Services Group?

Looking ahead, Ventia is positioned to roll out its proven maintenance services for Victoria's ITS assets, further reinforcing its standing as a transport infrastructure leader. The addition of these contracts not only strengthens Ventia's portfolio but also bolsters prospects for sustainable, long-term growth.

Management's ongoing focus remains on delivering safe, reliable, and technology-driven solutions for clients, as well as exploring further opportunities in the infrastructure services market.

Ventia Services Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ventia Services Group shares have risen 6%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 2% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Ventia wins $160 million Victorian ITS contracts, boosting infrastructure services appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the Ventia share price is up 0.89% to $6.75.

The stock is now trading close to record highs, with Ventia shares up around 13% since the start of 2026 and 34% higher than this time last year.

Here's what the company told the market today.

Ventia names its next CEO

According to the release, Ventia has appointed Mark Ralston as its next Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer.

Ralston will replace current Managing Director and Group CEO Dean Banks, with the change to take effect on 1 September 2026.

The company said the appointment follows a detailed internal and external succession process.

Ralston is already well known inside the business, having spent 12 years at Ventia. Over that time, he has held senior roles across enterprise strategy, mergers and acquisitions, telecommunications, and, more recently, defence and social infrastructure.

Ventia said Ralston will work closely with Banks over the coming months to support a smooth handover.

Chairman David Moffatt said Ralston has a deep understanding of Ventia's business, customers, and markets, and has made a strong contribution to the company's performance and strategy.

Ralston said he was honoured to lead Ventia and pointed to the company's "strong business, clear strategy and talented team".

What does Ventia actually do?

Ventia provides infrastructure services across Australia and New Zealand.

Its work covers areas such as defence, water, power, gas, transport, telecommunications, resources, and social infrastructure.

That includes maintaining defence bases, looking after roads and transport networks, supporting utilities, managing facilities, and providing services for government and large corporate customers.

Importantly, this gives Ventia a broad contract base across parts of the economy where maintenance and service work doesn't just disappear when market conditions get tougher.

The business also has plenty of scale, with more than 35,000 employees and subcontractors working across more than 400 sites.

Keeping things steady

Leadership changes can sometimes make investors nervous, especially when a long-serving CEO is moving on.

But today's share price reaction suggests the market is comfortable with the choice.

That is likely because Ralston is already well known inside the business. He has been involved with Ventia for more than a decade and has held roles across several parts of the group.

And the company's recent share price performance also helps. Ventia has had a strong year, and the market appears comfortable with the stock moving into its next leadership phase.

The post Near record highs: Why this ASX 300 stock is rising today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Ventia report?

• Appointment of Mark Ralston as incoming Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 September 2026
• Mark Ralston has over 12 years' experience at Ventia, leading major business sectors including Defence & Social Infrastructure
• Current CEO Dean Banks to support a seamless leadership transition before stepping down
• Mr Ralston's remuneration set at A$1.1 million per annum plus incentives
• Shareholder approval required for LTI grant at the 2027 AGM

What else do investors need to know?

The board highlighted that Ralston's appointment follows an extensive internal and external search, underlining the strength of Ventia's internal leadership pipeline. Ralston has built deep insight into Ventia's operations, customers, and markets through a variety of influential roles across the business.

Chairman David Moffatt acknowledged outgoing CEO Dean Banks for strengthening the organisation's position over the past five years. Moffatt said the board looks forward to Ralston ensuring "continuity in the execution of Ventia's strategy and ongoing focus on delivering for our customers and shareholders."

What's next for Ventia?

Investors can expect a period of stable transition as Ralston is set to work closely with Banks until September, ensuring business continuity. The board intends for the new appointment to support a seamless evolution of Ventia's long-term customer-focused and innovative strategy.

With operations spanning across key infrastructure segments and a workforce of over 35,000, Ventia aims to maintain its commitment to service excellence and sustainable growth as it enters this new chapter.

Ventia share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ventia Services shares have risen 34%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 3% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Ventia Services appoints new CEO in leadership succession appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX)

The 4DMedical share price is up almost 5% to $4.16. Investors have been buying the respiratory imaging technology company's shares after it announced a key acquisition. 4DMedical has signed a binding agreement to acquire Contextflow GmbH, which is an Austrian-based medical technology company specialising in lung cancer screening and advanced thoracic imaging solutions. Management notes that this means its European expansion is accelerated and provides boots on the ground in the market via an experienced Vienna-based team with established commercial, regulatory, and clinical infrastructure. Founder and CEO, Andreas Fouras, said: "4DMedical has expanded into Europe over the weekend. Upon completion of the transaction, we will have a European platform in a healthcare market approximately half the size of the United States, positioning 4DMedical across ANZ, North America and now Europe."

IperionX Ltd (ASX: IPX)

The IperionX share price is up 1.5% to $5.92. This has been driven by news that testing completed by the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) has validated the performance of IperionX titanium fasteners manufactured with advanced patented titanium technologies. IperionX's CEO, Taso Arima, said: "These results represent a key independent validation milestone for IperionX's high-performance titanium fasteners manufactured with our advanced patented titanium technologies."

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

The Pro Medicus share price is up 8% to $143.28. This health imaging technology company's shares are storming higher today after it announced a new contract win. Pro Medicus has signed a five-year, A$28 million contract renewal with Allegheny Health Network (AHN). The new contract includes the addition of Visage 7 Workflow. Pro Medicus' CEO, Dr Sam Hupert, said: "We are very pleased to have played such a key role in AHN's growth over the past 10 years. AHN has now renewed for a third contract term, reflecting the strength of our long-standing partnership and the value our platform continues to deliver across their organisation."

Ventia Services Group Ltd (ASX: VNT)

The Ventia Services share price is up 2% to $6.33. This morning, this essential infrastructure services provider announced a five-year contract extension for the AMC-Common User Facility. It is valued at approximately $133 million. Ventia has managed the AMC-Common User Facility in Henderson for the Western Australian Government since 2022.

The post Why 4DMedical, IperionX, Pro Medicus, and Ventia shaares are storming higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Ventia Services Group report?

• Secured a five-year contract extension for the AMC-Common User Facility, valued at approximately $133 million
• Extension to commence July 2027, continuing Ventia's role since mid-2022
• Contract supports ongoing shipbuilding and maritime sustainment work at Henderson, WA
• Positions Ventia for future Defence and industrial growth opportunities

What else do investors need to know?

Ventia has managed the AMC-Common User Facility in Henderson for the Western Australian Government since 2022, cementing its role as a core partner in the state's infrastructure ecosystem. The complex is now a key national hub powering Australia's defence and shipbuilding industries, reflecting Ventia's growing importance in these sectors.

This extension aligns Ventia with the WA Government's infrastructure priorities and the Commonwealth's Defence objectives at Henderson. It may also open up future growth pathways linked to the ongoing development of the marine precinct.

What did Ventia Services Group management say?

Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer Dean Banks said:

Securing this extension reflects the strength of our performance at AMC-CUF. Henderson is a critical hub for Australia's maritime capability, and we are well positioned to support its next phase and to capture future opportunities as they develop. Our focus is on delivering safe, reliable and efficient operations while working closely with Government, Defence and industry to support long-term capability outcomes.

What's next for Ventia Services Group?

Ventia aims to leverage this extension to further its involvement in Australia's strategic infrastructure and Defence projects. The company's ongoing relationship with state and federal stakeholders could lead to additional opportunities as the Henderson precinct grows.

Management indicated a continued focus on innovation, service excellence and expanding capabilities, which may support sustained growth over the coming years.

Ventia Services Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ventia shares have risen 41%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 4% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Ventia secures $133m contract extension at Australian Marine Complex appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But the announcement that Ventia Services Group Ltd (ASX: VNT) had secured a $935 million contract with the Australian Defence Force deserved far more attention than it received.

The contract, which commenced this month, is one of the largest single government contracts the company has ever won.

This tells investors a great deal about where Ventia's business is heading.

What the contract involves

Ventia has been appointed as the single industry partner to deliver clothing capability services to the Australian Defence Force, coordinating specialist Australian organisations to deliver clothing design and supply, warehousing, distribution, and clothing store services to Defence personnel.

The initial term runs for seven years, with options to extend for up to a further 13 years.

This means that the total potential contract duration extends to 20 years.

Ventia CEO Dean Banks said in the company's announcement:

We are proud to partner with Defence on this important contract. This award reflects our deep understanding of Defence requirements and our proven ability to deliver integrated solutions in complex environments. We look forward to working alongside our industry partners to deliver an enhanced clothing capability and contemporary customer experience for Defence personnel.

Through this contract, Ventia is the accountable prime contractor.

For the company, this carries both higher responsibility and, in most government contracting frameworks, higher margin potential.

What matters beyond the headline number

The $935 million contract is significant in isolation, but it becomes even more compelling when viewed in the context of Ventia's broader contract pipeline.

Ventia already carries a record work-in-hand position of $22.1 billion, up 14% year-on-year, with an 82% renewal rate across its FY2025 contract book.

In February 2026, the company also secured a one-year, $107 million extension to its Defence Maintenance Contract with the Department of Defence, effective from December 2028.

Ventia is therefore deepening its existing relationship with its largest and most valuable customer, an encouraging sign for investors.

Australia's defence budget is expanding under the AUKUS agreement, with the federal government committing to reach 2.4% of GDP in defence spending within a decade.

For a company that already services the ADF across maintenance, clothing, and logistics, that trajectory creates a tailwind that should support contract growth for years.

The share price and broker view

The market has appreciated the company's contract pipeline and earnings visibility.

However, at current levels, the stock does not look obviously cheap.

Ord Minnett carries an accumulate rating on Ventia with a price target of $6.10, while UBS holds a buy recommendation with a price target of $6.23.

Comparing to current price levels, the company may be trading at fair value already.

Foolish takeaway

Ventia, with remarkable consistency, has won and retained large, long-term government contracts, delivering them reliably, and returning capital to shareholders.

 For investors seeking a stable, growing business with strong earnings visibility and a direct link to Australia's expanding defence budget, Ventia deserves serious consideration.

The post This ASX stock landed a $935 million Australian Defence Force contract. What does this mean for investors? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Does the broker rate them as buys, holds, or sells? Let's take a look:

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

This mining and mining services company recently delivered a strong quarterly update, with volumes across iron ore, lithium, and mining services all exceeding the broker's expectations.

This has ultimately seen Ord Minnett boost its earnings estimates for FY 2026 and FY 2028.

However, due to significant strength in its share price, the broker has downgraded Mineral Resources shares to an accumulate rating (from buy) with an improved price target of $67.00. It said:

Post the result, we have incorporated actuals, a lower cost of debt and higher operating costs. Across the forecast horizon, this leads to a 3.3% upgrade in our EPS estimate for FY26, a cut of 7.3% for FY27, and an increase of 4.7% in FY28. As a result, we raise our target price on Mineral Resources to $67.00 from $65.00 but downgrade our recommendation to Accumulate from Buy on valuation grounds given the stock's almost 20% surge in April.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

Ord Minnett sees more value in Sigma shares.

In response to news that the Chemist Warehouse owner is expanding into the UK market, it has retained its buy rating on its shares with an improved price target of $3.40.

Commenting on the expansion, the broker said:

Chemist Warehouse will enter the UK market via a JV with GreenLight, a British pharmacy group founded in 1999 with 22 stores across Greater London. Phase 1 of the agreement to focus on five initial stores with Sigma set to acquire a 75% interest in each, while GreenLight leverages Chemist Warehouse's intellectual property (IP) and retail support.

It is, in effect, only a pilot operation at this stage, but we see the UK opportunity as significant it is a large and fragmented market – more than 13,000 pharmacies, with Boots being the No.1 player with 13% share and independents making up 29%. The traditional UK pharmacy model is also under stress, with around 47% of stores making losses at the operating earnings (EBITDA) line, and the industry exhibits only limited retail innovation given a strong dispensary skew. We raise our target price on Sigma to $3.40 from $3.30 and reiterate our Buy recommendation.

Ventia Services Group Ltd (ASX: VNT)

A third ASX share that Ord Minnett has been looking at is infrastructure services company Ventia Services.

It was pleased to see management recently reaffirm its expectation for its operating earnings margin to at least match what it achieved in 2025.

Ord Minnett expects management to deliver on this and then expects further expansion through to 2030.

However, this is not quite enough for a buy recommendation. The broker has retained its accumulate rating with an improved price target of $6.10. It said:

Ventia noted costs related to redundancies from some lost defence work and the end of a NSW schools contract would weigh on first-half CY26 results although management was confident its operating earnings margin (EBITDA) would at least match the 8.7% booked in CY25 given efficiency savings and a concentration on winning work in the above-mentioned higher-margin markets.

We have raised our forecast for EBITDA margins to 8.8% in CY26 before expanding to more than 9% by CY30 as its business mix improves. ‍ Post the investor day, we have trimmed our CY26 EPS estimate by 0.7%, while our CY27 and CY28 forecasts rise by 1.6% and 4%, respectively, which leads us to raise our target price on Ventia to $6.10 from $6.05. We maintain our Accumulate recommendation.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Ventia, Sigma, and Mineral Resources shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Ventia Services Group Ltd (ASX: VNT) shares are up 2.03% to $6.02 at the time of writing.

The move adds to a strong recent run for shareholders. Ventia shares are now up around 20% over the past month and 30% over the past year.

The stock is also back above $6, leaving it closer to its January highs of $6.41 after a choppy few months.

So, what was announced?

$405 million contract renewal

In its ASX release, Ventia announced the renewal of its maintenance services contract with Yarra Valley Water.

The 9-year contract is worth $405 million and covers a range of essential water infrastructure services.

This includes consolidated sewerage service contracts, sewerage and water network reactive maintenance, and mechanical and electrical planned and reactive maintenance.

Under Yarra Valley Water's new delivery model, two strategic partners will manage maintenance services across the north and south regions.

Ventia has secured the south region, which keeps the company involved in a key part of Yarra Valley Water's network.

The new partnership arrangements are expected to begin in October 2026.

Another long-term deal locked in

The sizeable contract gives Ventia another reliable stream of contracted work in an essential services market.

The work also sits in water and sewerage maintenance, where spending is not easy to delay or cut.

The customer relationship is also worth noting. Ventia has been working with Yarra Valley Water since 2015, so this renewal keeps an existing contract running for many more years.

Managing Director and Group CEO Dean Banks said the renewal reflected the company's proven record as a strategic partner.

He also pointed to asset management and service delivery as areas where Ventia has built experience.

Momentum has been building

The contract renewal lands at a good time for Ventia.

The share price has already been moving higher, with the stock up around 20% in a month and 30% over the past year.

That tells us investors were already warming to the business before today's announcement.

Ventia provides services across defence, social infrastructure, water, electricity and gas, resources, telecommunications, and transport.

That gives the company exposure to several large end markets across Australia and New Zealand.

Many of those areas are tied to essential infrastructure, which is part of the reason the stock has been getting more attention.

The post A long-term contract win is lifting this ASX 200 stock today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After trading in the red all session today, the ASX 200 recovered a little towards the end of the day to finish down 0.19%.

That leaves the index at 8,680.5 points.

This miserable Tuesday for the Australian markets comes after a rough start to the American trading week last night.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) was in a foul mood, dropping 1.13%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) did noticeably better, but still fell 0.19%.

Let's get back to the local markets now and take stock of how the different ASX sectors navigated today's tough trading conditions.

Winners and losers

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

The infrastructure services stock is climbing again, even as the broader market sits under pressure.

At the time of writing, the Ventia share price is up 6.55% to $5.935. By comparison, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 0.59% to 8,646 points.

That puts the stock up around 13% over the past week and roughly 36% over the past year.

The latest move follows a fresh contract win, and investors seem to like what landed.

New Victorian road contracts

Ventia announced today that it has been awarded road maintenance contracts by the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning.

The work covers the Grampians and Eastern Metropolitan regions under the Victorian Road Maintenance Contract model.

Ventia estimates the contracts have a combined value of about $340 million over the 4-year base term. That figure includes routine maintenance, as well as high-level estimates for planned maintenance programs and minor capital works.

Those planned works remain subject to state government budget approvals and road network priorities.

The contracts also include extension options. The Grampians contract can be extended by 2 years, while the Eastern Metropolitan contract has two separate 2-year extension options.

Contract commencement is expected from 1 July 2026.

What Ventia will do

Under the contracts, Ventia will provide road network maintenance, inspections, hazard and defect rectification, emergency response, and minor capital works.

The work will cover both rural and metropolitan arterial roads.

Managing Director and Group CEO Dean Banks said the award reflects "Ventia's growing role as a partner of choice" for long-term road network management.

He also pointed to the company's experience across transport operations and maintenance.

Ventia already works across essential infrastructure services, including transport, defence, social infrastructure, water, energy, telecommunications, and resources.

Momentum already in place

The latest win also lands after a strong full-year result from the company.

Ventia reported FY25 revenue of $6.1 billion, while underlying NPATA rose 13% to $257.6 million.

Work in hand reached a record $22.1 billion, up 14.4% on FY24.

That gives the company a large base of contracted work heading into the new financial year.

The company also guided to FY26 NPATA growth of 7% to 10%.

Foolish takeaway

This is a big win for Ventia. A $340 million contract package is not small, and it fits neatly with the company's existing transport maintenance work.

The market seems to be rewarding the extra visibility this adds to future revenue, especially with the stock already having a strong week.

I would not be chasing the ASX 200 stock blindly after a move like this, but Ventia is doing what investors want to see. It is winning long-term work, building its contract base, and backing that up with earnings growth.

The post This ASX 200 stock just jumped 13% in a week. Here's why appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Ventia Services Group report?

• Secured Victorian Road Maintenance Contracts (VRMC) in the Grampians and Eastern Metropolitan regions
• Estimated combined contract value of approximately $340 million over a four-year base term
• Options to extend contracts by two years (Grampians) and up to four years (Eastern Metropolitan)
• Scope includes routine maintenance, inspections, hazard rectification, emergency response, and minor capital works

What else do investors need to know?

Ventia says the $340 million contract value includes routine and planned maintenance, alongside possible minor capital works, dependent on Victorian government budget approvals. The contracts reinforce Ventia's position in delivering essential infrastructure services, directly supporting both regional and metropolitan communities throughout Victoria.

Contract commencement is expected from 1 July 2026, adding to Ventia's expanding pipeline of long-term, government-backed projects. The contracts also demonstrate government confidence in Ventia's experience and capacity in the transport sector.

What did Ventia Services Group management say?

Managing Director and Group CEO Dean Banks said:

With decades of experience providing operations and maintenance across the Transport sector, these contracts will see Ventia support safe, reliable journeys for communities across regional and metropolitan Victoria, while delivering value for the State over the life of the assets.

What's next for Ventia Services Group?

These contracts extend Ventia's established footprint in infrastructure services and underline its strategy to be the partner of choice in long-term road management. The company may benefit from potential contract extensions and further opportunities as state priorities and budgets evolve.

Ventia says it will continue focusing on innovation, sustainability, and service delivery excellence across Australia and New Zealand's infrastructure networks.

Ventia Services Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ventia Services shares have risen 34%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Ventia Services secures $340m Victorian road maintenance contracts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Despite a brief foray into positive territory this morning, the ASX 200 couldn't quite hold it together and closed with a 0.37% loss. That leaves the index at 8,697.1 points.

This Garfield-esque start to the Australian trading week follows a mixed 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 close 0.31% lower.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was more upbeat, though, rising a confident 0.89%.

But let's get back to this week and our local markets now by taking a deeper dive into how today's trading affected the various ASX sectors this session.

Winners and losers

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

The company is a leading infrastructure maintenance services provider in Australia and New Zealand. Its capabilities span the full asset lifecycle including operations and maintenance, facilities management, minor capital works, environmental services, and other solutions.

In the last year, its share price has risen almost 33%.

For context, the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials (ASX: XNJ) index is up 6.8% in that same span. 

Its rise has been driven by key contract wins and positive sentiment in defence shares over the past year. 

However, the stock has had a slower start to 2026, down 5.3% year to date, which could be an opportunity for investors to gain exposure at an attractive price.

The company released its FY25 result last week. 

Here is what the company reported. 

Record order book

Last Thursday, this ASX industrials stock reported:

• Revenue: $6.1 billion, up 0.6% from FY24
• NPATA: $257.6 million, up 13.0%
• EBITDA: $532.1 million, up 6.6% (margin of 8.7%)
• Work in Hand: $22.1 billion, up 14.4%
• Operating cash flow conversion: 93.6%, up 2.2pp
• Final dividend: 12.54 cps, 90% franked (full year: 23.25 cps)

Its share price shot 5% higher on Thursday following the results, before retreating slightly on Friday. 

Updated outlook

Following the result, the team at Morgans provided fresh guidance on this ASX industrials stock. 

It said the company reported an in-line FY25 with NPATA +13% YoY as revenue growth faded to just +1%. 

We find it noteworthy that VNT, a headcount business, was able to deliver earnings growth almost entirely through margin expansion. Indeed, FY25 was the first period when revenue costs growth and operating costs growth decoupled materially.

Morgans said while the company sounded a confident tone around continued margin expansion, this may be difficult to replicate following a heavy re-contracting cycle, which would ordinarily see margin pressure. 

The broker highlighted the bright spot from earnings results was a record order book of $22.1bn (+14% YoY). 

Morgans increases price target 

Based on this guidance, the team at Morgans increased its share price target to $5.85. 

From yesterday's closing price of $5.69, this indicates an upside of 2.81%. 

However, Morgans isn't the only broker with a positive view of this ASX industrials stock. 

Earlier this month, UBS placed a buy recommendation and share price target of $6.23 on Ventia Services Group shares. 

That indicates an upside of 9.49%. 

UBS believes that rising infrastructure investment is creating an expanding market opportunity for the company. 

Together with ongoing balance sheet deleveraging, this supports its expectation that earnings per share could increase at a compound annual growth rate of 9% over the next three years.

The post Should you buy the dip on this growing ASX industrials stock? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Ventia Services Group report?

• Revenue: $6.1 billion, up 0.6% from FY24
• NPATA: $257.6 million, up 13.0%
• EBITDA: $532.1 million, up 6.6% (margin of 8.7%)
• Work in Hand: $22.1 billion, up 14.4%
• Operating cash flow conversion: 93.6%, up 2.2pp
• Final dividend: 12.54 cps, 90% franked (full year: 23.25 cps)

What else do investors need to know?

Ventia marked record growth in its secured work pipeline, achieving an 82% renewal rate and lengthening average contract tenure to 6.4 years. The company continued to strengthen safety outcomes, with its Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate improving by 15%.

In sector performance, Infrastructure Services and Telecommunications delivered solid revenue and EBITDA growth, while Defence and Social Infrastructure segments focused on higher-margin work despite softer revenue. An additional $100 million buyback extension brings the total on-market program to $250 million across FY25–FY26.

What did Ventia Services Group management say?

Ventia Managing Director and Group CEO Dean Banks commented:

FY25 delivered continued margin expansion, strong cash generation and a record level of Work in Hand. Revenue grew modestly, while our EBITDA margin increased to its highest level. Earnings per share rose 17.9%, supported by solid business performance and the on-market share buyback. Our record Work in Hand of $22.1 billion and renewal rate of 82% highlights the quality of our relationships and reinforces our ability to secure long-tenure agreements with strategic customers. These wins, combined with the lengthening of our average tenure to 6.4 years, derisks our portfolio and provides a solid platform for future growth. We are committed to delivering consistent and increasing returns for our shareholders, supported by disciplined execution and a robust pipeline of work won. We see significant future opportunity across our business, underpinned by strong demand drivers and market trends. This foundation positions Ventia to realise sustainable long-term value.

What's next for Ventia Services Group?

Looking ahead, Ventia has guided for underlying NPATA growth of 7–10% for FY26, supported by its record Work in Hand and resilient contract-based business model. The company plans to focus on expansion opportunities in energy transition, defence, water, and digital infrastructure, reflecting long-term demand and customer needs.

Board and management remain confident in their ability to deliver sustainable value and dividends, underpinned by strong cash generation and prudent capital management.

Ventia Services Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ventia Services Group shares have risen 45%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 8% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Ventia Services Group posts FY25 result: NPATA up, record Work in Hand appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Ventia Services Group report?

• Contract extension with Transpower for specialist electrical services across New Zealand's electricity grid
• Expected to generate around NZ$160 million in revenue over two years
• Extension period to commence August 2027
• Ventia to continue operating across North and South Islands, covering about one third of Transpower's network
• Over 30 years of ongoing partnership with Transpower

What else do investors need to know?

This contract extension forms part of the Transmission Grid Services contract and Contestable Work Panels that began in 2022. It locks in revenue growth and operational presence for Ventia through to at least mid-2029.

Ventia is a major player in essential infrastructure services, supporting utilities like electricity, water, and more, across Australia and New Zealand. This extension builds on Ventia's strong reputation for safe and reliable delivery, underpinning its longer-term order book and client relationships.

With more than 35,000 people working over 400 sites, Ventia's continued focus on customer satisfaction and innovation is part of its ongoing strategy to redefine service excellence.

What did Ventia Services Group management say?

Managing Director and Group CEO Dean Banks said:

Our long-standing relationship with Transpower has been underpinned by consistent performance, collaboration and a shared focus on delivering safe and reliable energy infrastructure. We are pleased to be extending our partnership and look forward to continuing to grow our relationship and delivering the critical services that support New Zealand's energy future.

What's next for Ventia Services Group?

The contract extension provides Ventia with firm revenue visibility into the next decade, allowing the company to continue investing in technology, workforce development, and geographic expansion across New Zealand.

Management has indicated a strong commitment to enhancing customer value, with a growing focus on sustainable energy infrastructure and innovation—key strengths likely to underpin further contract wins and reliable income streams.

Ventia Services Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ventia Services shares have risen 42%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Ventia extends NZ$160m Transpower contract: What it means for investors appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Ventia Services Group report?

• Secured a one-year, $107 million extension for the Defence Maintenance Contract (DMC) with Department of Defence
• Contract commences 1 December 2028, with options for a further four years
• DMC includes repair and maintenance of critical equipment such as tanks and surveillance systems
• Ventia maintained asset availability above 95% during high-tempo Defence operations
• Provides 24/7 nationwide vehicle and equipment recovery services

What else do investors need to know?

Ventia's extension of this large-scale defence contract highlights its reputation for supporting essential infrastructure and critical national needs. The DMC plays a significant role in helping Australian Defence Force units prepare for and return from operations and exercises.

The contract also demonstrates the company's strong operational expertise, with proven surge capability during intense periods. High asset availability underpins the confidence the Department of Defence has shown in Ventia.

What did Ventia Services Group management say?

Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer Dean Banks said:

This contract extension reinforces Ventia's position as a trusted sovereign partner to Defence and our proven ability to deliver integrated solutions in complex environments. For more than 36 years, we've supported Defence capability, and we remain committed to strengthening this partnership while exploring opportunities to broaden our services to meet the evolving needs of the Australian Defence Force.

What's next for Ventia Services Group?

With this contract extension, Ventia is well-placed to maintain its important role in supporting the Australian Defence Force over the coming years. Management sees continued opportunities to expand service offerings and deepen its relationship with Defence as requirements evolve.

Investors can watch for further announcements regarding contract renewals or expansions, as well as any strategic moves Ventia makes to broaden its defence and infrastructure portfolio across Australia and New Zealand.

Ventia Services Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Ventia Services Group shares have risen 41%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 5% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Ventia scores $107m defence contract boost: What investors need to know appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It can be particularly attractive to invest in growing businesses because rising profits are a natural tailwind for capital growth, we just need to buy them at the right valuation.

The broker UBS currently has a buy rating on the following ASX shares.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

Sigma is Australia's largest pharmacy franchisor and wholesaler, operating under the brands of Chemist Warehouse, Amcal and Discount Drug Store, as well as 3,500 wholesale customers. It has more than 80 international stores across New Zealand, Ireland and UAE.

UBS has a buy rating on the business, with a price target of $3.40.

The broker is expecting Sigma Healthcare's earnings per share (EPS) to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15% between FY26 and FY29.

UBS suggests Chemist Warehouse's like-for-like sales are going to grow by 13.2% in FY26, 10.2% in FY27 and high single digits between FY28 and FY30.

The broker points to a number of tailwinds including an ageing population, health prioritisation, higher value medicines, greater category participation and spending per consumer, more than 30 stores opening per year and the international growth potential. The profit margins are also projected to steadily climb over the next few years.

Ventia Services Group Ltd (ASX: VNT)

The next ASX share is Ventia. It provides essential infrastructure services across ANZ, specialising in long-term operation, maintenance and management of critical infrastructure.

UBS has a buy rating on the ASX share, with a price target of $6.23.

The broker notes that Ventia's earnings growth has been driven by key contract wins and renewals, as well as expanding its profit margins though exposure to more specialised, higher value work.

UBS suggests that increased infrastructure investment provides a growing market opportunity for the business, combined with balance sheet deleveraging, underpins its forecasts that EPS could grow at a CAGR of 9% over the next three years.

The broker suggests that dividends per share could rise every year between FY26 to FY29.

Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF)

Collins Foods is a large KFC franchisee business, with operations in Australia and Europe (the Netherlands and Germany).

UBS rates the ASX share as a buy, with a price target of $13.10.

The broker noted that Collins Foods' value proposition is resonating with consumers, pointing out that not many Australian consumer-facing businesses recorded an improvement in like-for-like sales in the last few months of 2025.

Conditions in Europe are more challenging, but the company could benefit from the reversal of avian flu impacts that were felt in recent times. It could also benefit from changes to VAT in Europe, which may lead to year-over-year growth of operating profit (EBITDA).

UBS said it continues to like the ongoing strength within the Australian KFC business, combined with the "penetration opportunity" within Germany.

Currently, the Collins Foods share price is valued at 21x FY26's estimated earnings, according to the UBS projection.

The post Brokers rate these 3 top ASX shares as buys for February appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.