For instance, earlier this year the Australian government announced plans to invest an additional $50.3 billion into the Australian Defence Force. 

Global security also took centre stage at the June 2025 NATO summit where member states agreed to raise defence and security-related spending to 5% of GDP by 2035.

This new target marks a sharp increase from the previous 2% goal set in 2014.

Such commitments shine a light on defence-sector businesses listed on the ASX.

For example, two leading defence-focused exchange traded funds (ETFs) have been soaring in 2025.

Shares in the Vaneck Global Defence ETF (ASX: DFND) have climbed by 66% since the start of the year.

And the Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR) has also ballooned by 54% during the same period.

Then there's DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO), one of the best performing stocks on the ASX in 2025.

Shares in this counter-drone technology specialist have exploded by 580% since early January.

But there are other lesser-known ASX defence stock quietly making waves of their own.

Below we introduce three such companies with rocketing share prices.

Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS)

Electro Optic Systems specialises in electro-optical and laser technologies for the defence and space industries.

More specifically, it develops high-end defence systems such as remote weapon stations, counter-drone solutions, and space intelligence technologies.

Overall, it has been designing, manufacturing, and exporting advanced technology systems for nearly 40 years.

In August, the company announced a maiden $125 million order for its laser defence system designed to defend against drone swarm attacks.

More recently, it sealed a $108 million contract with the Australian Defence Force for its remote weapon system.

After securing new orders, the group's contract backlog now sits at about $299 million – $163 million higher than at the end of 2024

In the past six months, shares in Electro Optic Systems have surged by 418%.

Vection Technologies Ltd (ASX: VR1)

Vection develops extended reality (XR) software and services to help businesses integrate their physical and digital worlds.

It uses technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence (AI), and 3D solutions to improve efficiency for its clients.

Management noted that the defence sector emerged as a structural growth driver for the business in FY25.

During the fiscal year, this it sealed about $19 million in defence contracts, including a record $7.2 million order.

Subsequently, it nailed down its largest ever contract with a $22.3 million multi-year master framework with a NATO-approved partner operating in the European defence sector.

Shares in Vection are up by 175% since mid-April.

VEEM Ltd (ASX: VEE)

VEEM designs and manufactures cutting-edge propulsion and stabilisation systems for the luxury motor yacht, ferry, commercial workboat, and defence industries.

Its products allow marine vessels to achieve higher speeds, improve fuel economy, and help lower noise and vibration.

In FY25, the group generated a total of $68.6 million in revenue, including $15.6 million from defence sales.

Management noted that defence is a fast-growing segment of the company.

VEEM recently secured a nine year Manufacturing Licence Agreement with global defence and security company Northrop Grumman.

Initially valued at US$33 million, the deal will see VEEM provide equipment into the US defence supply chain.

It builds on attaining HII-NNS approved supplier status and Level 1 accreditation which qualifies VEEM to manufacture components for the US defence system.

In August, the company also signed a six year contract valued at $65 million to continue supplying critical components for Australia's Collins Class submarines.

VEEM's share price is up by 65% in the past six months.

The post These 3 little-known ASX defence stocks are booming amidst sector-wide surge appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the ASX tech stock is up a massive 39% to a fresh 52-week high of 7.5 cents.

ASX tech stock jumps to 52-week high

Investors have been fighting to get hold of the enterprise-focused technology company's shares after it secured a $22.3 million deal with a NATO-approved partner in Europe.

According to the release, the deal is part of a broader defence program now valued at $40 million, with the new framework agreement expandable to $29.5 million on the same terms.

The ASX tech stock notes that this marks the largest ever contract signed by Vection, and it builds on a string of recent orders from the same partner, which is certified by both NATO and the Council of Europe.

Importantly, Vection says the deal will be delivered using its existing resources and will require no additional capital outlay.

What is Vection?

Vection is a small but growing tech company focused on extended reality (XR) and AI-powered data visualisation. Its solutions help enterprises integrate digital interfaces, such as 3D and virtual reality, into their operations.

In this case, Vection will be supplying secure digital edge infrastructure to a European partner that supports major defence contractors across the region. The project is aimed at helping NATO-linked groups better monitor and protect critical assets using advanced big-data systems.

The contract announced today runs through to 2030, providing Vection with a clear long-term revenue pathway and increasing its presence in Europe's evolving defence technology landscape.

The ASX tech stock's managing director, Gianmarco Biagi, was very pleased with the news. He said:

This Framework strengthens our long-standing relationship with a trusted European partner in the defense ecosystem, expanding Vection's solutions and its role in the defense sector. It provides a clear programmatic path through 2030, with a portion already delivered and further significant orders on the way. We will maintain discipline in execution and update the market as we receive material orders.

This is a significant step up for Vection. The company's growing role in the NATO-backed supply chain shows real progress toward credible, long-term commercialisation of its technology.

And given how spending in the defence sector is surging, the company could be in a strong position to benefit from further contracts in the near future. Just like we are seeing from the high-flying DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO) and Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS).

The post This ASX tech stock is jumping 39% on NATO-approved defence deal appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The platform, dubbed Lunar City, is set to launch ahead of NASA's Artemis Program. The US space agency is working to send astronauts to the Moon for the first time in more than 50 years. The mission is expected to set the stage for a long-term presence on the lunar surface and a future voyage to Mars.

Here's how the ASX tech share fits into the astronomical plan.

Right now, the Vection Technologies share price is soaring 10% to trade at 7.7 cents.   

ASX tech share signs on to help the public 'reach space'

ASX tech company Vection Technologies has shaken on a memorandum of understanding that will see it providing VR and metaverse technologies to help train astronauts and space tourists.

Perhaps more excitingly though, it intends to allow the public to 'reach space' alongside NASA's actual space journey. We might soon be able to do so through the fully immersive technology.

The agreement's ultimate goal is to showcase the Artemis lunar program.

Until then, Vection Technologies, along with partners Thales Alenia Space, Next One Film Group, and ALTEC, will test technology and opportunities on space missions with commercial companies.

That will provide video imaging data from space modules and spacecraft, which will be used to create Lunar City.

Thales Alenia Space is a satellite and space modules manufacturer and owner of ALTEC – an aerospace logistics technology engineering outfit – alongside the Italian Space Agency.

Beyond NASA's mission, the entities also share a vision to foster business opportunities by leveraging their planned space content.

They aim to develop a business plan, seek content exclusivity arrangements, and establish sales channels for the Lunar City platform. They expect to receive revenue from those they help to 'experience' space travel.

While the financial impact of the deal is not yet clear, the ASX tech share expects it will be material. That's based on the calibre of the partners involved and the company's strategy in the defence and aerospace sector.  

The post Shooting for the Moon: ASX tech share leaps 10% on deal that could send you to space appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1), Vection Technologies Ltd (ASX: VR1), and SmartPay Holdings Ltd (ASX: SMP) shares are have all risen by more than 15%.

Let's take a look at why these ASX tech shares are leaping ahead on Wednesday.

Megaport

Megaport shares are up 20% at the time of writing. However, in earlier trade, the company's share price lifted 38%. Investors bid up the company's shares following Megaport reporting an EBITDA profit for the first time. Monthly Recurring Revenue jumped 13% on the previous quarter to $10.7 million. This was underpinned by an increase in multi-cloud connections, strong port sales, a rise in customers, and the company's launch in Mexico. Commenting on the results, CEO Vincent English said:

The underlying Megaport network and business model has strong operating leverage to further increase profit and generate cash as revenue grows.

Vection Technologies

The Vection share price also leapt 20% earlier today despite no news out of the company. At the time of writing, Vection shares are fetching 8.8 cents each, after reaching a high of 9.5 cents a share this morning. It seems the overall strong performance of the technology sector could be boosting the company's shares today. ASX tech shares are rising today following a strong day on the NASDAQ in the US. The technology-heavy index surged 3.1% in America on Tuesday. Other Australian tech shares surging higher include Life360 Inc (ASX: 360), up 5%, and BrainChip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN), lifting 13.64%. Vection helps businesses connect to the digital world via 3D technology, virtual reality, augmented reality, and IoT. In FY22, Vection boosted its total contract value to $19 million, according to a release on 30 June. The company is expecting to report revenue of $17 to $19 million for the financial year.

SmartPay Holdings

Finally, SmartPay Holdings shares are nearly 16% higher today. This follows the company providing a quarterly trading update. Australian total transaction value lifted a mammoth 71% year on year, while consolidated revenue leapt 48%. Smartpay said customer acquisition results are essentially back to the levels seen prior to COVID-19. Commenting further on the result, SmartPay said:

Increasing the investment in marketing and sales has resulted in record months for lead generation and has delivered accelerated customer acquisition in the first quarter of FY23 with over 1,200 new transacting terminals added through to the end of June '22.

The post 3 ASX tech shares rocketing by over 15% today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the closing bell, the real-time software company's shares finished the day at 17 cents, up 17.39%.

How is Vection performing for FY22?

Investors have been driving up the Vection share price after digesting the company's latest financial figures.

In a statement to the ASX, Vection advised that it has outperformed its first-half FY22 Total Contract Value (TCV) target.

Earlier this month, the company revealed it exceed its TCV goal by $1 million, reaching a milestone of $11 million. Notably, the metric represented an increase of 120% compared to the FY22 first quarter TCV level of $5 million.

As such, Vection now expects a first-half fiscal year 2022 revenue guidance of between $8 million to $9 million. The full fiscal year 2022 revenue guidance is anticipated to come around $17 million to $19 million.

Second quarter cash receipts from clients are projected to be more than $3.5 million. This is assumed to lead to half-year cash receipts from clients in excess of $6.3 million.

The company is seeking to accelerate its aggressive global acquisition strategy targeting the XR and metaverse enterprise technology sector. It believes the technology suite delivers high growth potential through broad industrial adoption.

Vection Technologies Managing Director, Gianmarco Biagi commented:

Our growing global team, clients, leading partnerships and TCV give us comfort in providing the market with a revenue guidance of $8 to $9 million for the first half fiscal year 2022, with full fiscal year revenue guidance of $17 to $19 million.

A strong global client base provides strong credibility to grow major multinational sales channels across consultancy firms' clients. With a strong M&A focussed war-chest, we are positioned to leverage an aggressive programmatic acquisition approach to drive XR organic growth during 2022 and 2023, to deliver continued shareholder return.

Vection share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, the Vection share price has lifted 13%, with year-to-date around 8% higher.

The company's shares reached an all-time high of 29 cents last month, before sharply pulling back and erasing the gains.

Based on today's price, Vection commands a market capitalisation of around $143.26 million and has 1.10 billion shares on issue.

The post This just caused the Vection (ASX:VR1) share price to leap 17% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that have failed to follow the market higher today are listed below. Here's why they are falling:

Nuix Ltd (ASX: NXL)

The Nuix share price is down 11% to $2.27. This follows the release of a disappointing trading update from the investigative analytics and intelligence software company this morning. That update reveals the Nuix's revenue was up 10% during the first four months of FY 2022. However, a jump in costs means that Nuix's pro forma EBITDA has fallen 27% during the same period.

Resolute Mining Limited (ASX: RSG)

The Resolute share price is down 2.5% to 37 cents. This appears to have been driven by a shift back to risk assets, which is weighing on safe haven assets like gold miners. It isn't just Resolute falling today. The S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Gold index is down 0.7% at the time of writing.

Talga Group Ltd (ASX: TLG)

The Talga share price has tumbled almost 17% to $1.50. Investors have been selling the battery materials company's shares after a non-binding Letter of Intent executed with Mitsui & Co and Luossavaara-Kiirunavaraa Aktiebolag expired without a deal being signed. Talga advised that it will continue to pursue existing and new financing and partnership opportunities.

Vection Technologies Ltd (ASX: VR1)

The Vection Technologies share price has crashed 18% to 22.5 cents. This follows the completion of a $12 million equity raising this morning. Those funds were raised a 20 cents per new share, which represents a huge discount of 27% to its last close price. Vection intends to use the funds to support its expansion plans and strengthen its balance sheet. The company also revealed that its managing director is selling 15 million shares.

The post Why Nuix, Resolute, Talga, and Vection shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The company broke a trading halt to announce a strongly supported $12 million institutional placement this morning. Unfortunately, the market has reacted poorly to the news.

At the time of writing, the Vection Technologies share price is 24.2 cents, 12% lower than its previous close.

Let's take a look at the latest news from the software company.

Vection Technologies share price flops

The Vection Technologies share price is back in business today after the company announced it has received commitments for a $12 million institutional placement.

Additionally, the company announced its managing director, Gianmarco Biagi, and its director and chief sales operator, Lorenzo Biagi, will be selling a combined 15 million Vection Technologies shares to fund personal obligations. The company noted that represents less than 5% of their aggregate holdings.

Under the placement, mostly tech-focused institutional investors will be purchasing 60 million new Vection Technologies shares for 20 cents apiece. The offer price is equal to Vection Technologies' stock's 15-day volume-weighted average price.

Some $10 million of the funds raised through the placement will bolster the company's balance sheet – bringing its cash balance up to $20 million.

It will also expand the company's merger and acquisition "war-chest", helping to speed up Vection Technologies' global acquisition strategy.

The other $2 million will support its expansion plans and research and development capabilities.

Vection Technologies' acquisition strategy is targeting the extended reality and metaverse enterprise technology sector. The company expects the sphere will soon house intense competition and its growth strategy will help it emerge as a leader in the space.

Following the placement, 17.2% of the company's stock will be held by institutional investors. Vection Technologies' board and management will still own 38.8% of its shares.

The Vection Technologies share price was put in the freezer on Monday as the company prepared to announce the capital raise.

Prior to the trading halt, the company's stock was on a roll. The Vection Technologies share price soared 37.5% over the course of last week after the company unveiled its metaverse offering.

The metaverse – dubbed FrameS – is expected to be implemented by companies with an at-home workforce. It will allow the creation of digital office spaces.

The post Vection Technologies (ASX:VR1) share price tumbles 12% following trading halt. Here's why appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Below, we take a look at what's driving investor interest in the ASX tech share.

Capitalising on the remote work force

The Vection share price is off to the races today after the company unveiled its FrameS Metaverse release "introducing autonomous 3D World content creation". This means companies will be able to build their own self-contained immersive metaverses.

According to Vection, this represents a milestone for its plans to integrate with Webex by Cisco during the second half of FY22. Webex by Cisco has provided video conferencing and online meetings services to more than 590 million monthly participants during the global pandemic.

Vection noted that there is "significant interest" from companies looking to increase their remote workforce productivity and encourage collaboration between team members. It has already begun to roll out its new Metaverse release to existing users, including fashion retailer Giorgio Armani and luxury yachts manufacturer Ferretti Group.

Commenting on the release, Vection's managing director Gianmarco Biagi said:

Vection has always been a true believer in virtual 3D worlds, where organisations and people can connect and collaborate to create value.

As part of this vision we have worked tirelessly with industry leaders to understand their problems and creating solutions to address them. Today, following years of development, we believe we are on the cusp of a major adoption revolution, where, via Webex's established user base and Vection's critical metaverse-focused technology, we can play a major role in framing the future of the XR industry and the metaverse to come.

Vection share price snapshot

The Vection share price is up an impressive 100% since this time last year. That compares to a 12 month gain of 14% posted by the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO).

Over the past month, Vection shares have rocketed an impressive 133%.

The post The Vection (ASX:VR1) share price is rocketing 10%. Here's why appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Vection shares have swung upwards in an almost vertical fashion in the past 2 days after the company released its enterprise sales and FY22 total contract value (TCM) update as of 9 November FY22 on Wednesday.

In its report, the company recognised strong sales growth in its defence, military and law enforcement segment. This was backed by strengths in its AEC and real estate divisions.

Let's take a closer look.

But first – what is Vection?

Vection Technologies is a multinational software company that focuses on real-time technologies to help companies in their digital transformation.

Through a combination of 3D, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and CAD solutions, Vection claims it can help companies and organisations to innovate and create value.

At the time of writing, Vection has a market capitalisation of $165 million.

Vection share price soars on growth momentum

The company grew both its military, defence and law enforcement plus AEC & real estate divisions, since last reporting its FY22 TCV.

During October, the company saw a 58% growth in FY22 TCV compared to its FY22 first quarter values.

As it stands at 9 November, the company's TCV is at approximately $8 million, with a strong pipeline of opportunities underpinning its FY22 outlook.

Vection attributes the bolus of growth in contract value to the adoption of its artificial intelligence (AI) integrated solutions, through partner channels in the defence segment from the Middle East.

It expects individual sales that are driving the TCV growth to be complete within various dates by the end of December 2021.

The release also notes that "quarterly cash receipts may vary depending on the solution and/or service provided to the end customer, and any individually material contract award will be separately announced to the market as applicable".

Separately, the company's XR integrated technology suite is "strategically positioned to drive enterprises' digital transformation".

Curiously, Vection also reckons this digital transformation is accelerated by the recent 'metaverse' trends observed in software circles.

The metaverse has recently been defined by newly Facebook's (Now Meta) Mark Zuckerberg as a place where one can meet, attend meetings, work and even play using a VR headset, glasses or a smart device.

Put simply, it is a virtual version of the real world. And Vection reckons recent momentum in the industry will bode in well for its earnings potential moving forward.

Investors have been quick to secure a spot in Vection's equity on the back of the results, sending its share price from a low of 14 cents to the current market price in just 2 days.

Vection share price snapshot

In the past 12 months, the Vection share price has climbed 56% after rallying over 62% this year to date.

Each of these returns is well ahead of the benchmark S&P/AX 200 index (ASX: XJO)'s return of around 16% in that time.

The post Here's why the Vection (ASX:VR1) share price has boomed 40% in 2 days appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the Vection share price is trading 7% higher at 10.5 cents each, slightly off its intraday high o 10.75 cents.

Here we cover all of the main data points from Vection's performance for the quarter ending 30 September 2021.

Vection share price rises on strong cash receipts growth

The software giant outlined several investment highlights it had achieved last quarter, including:

• 172% cash receipts growth from the previous quarter, to $2.8 million — aligned with
  FY22 growth objectives
• Strong growth opportunity in FY22 underpinned by a FY22 total contract value (TCV) of around $5 million
• Strengthened advisory board (following first appointment of former CIO R&D of Mercedes-Benz, Dr Siegmar Haasis)
• Strategic agreements underway to position the company for further growth during FY22
• Company fully funded to deliver on its growth strategy with $6.8 million of cash at bank.

What happened in Q1 for Vection?

It was a period of strong growth in cash flow for Vection, seeing as it grew cash receipts by 172% to almost $3 million from the previous quarter.

This was supported by a further $5 million in added in TCV, underscored by large contributions from its real estate and defence/law enforcement exposure. Each contributed 32% and 19% to TCV during the quarter, respectively.

Vection also progressed the integration of JMC Group within its wider operations. The company reckons this will be accretive to cost efficiencies and growth in its American & APAC divisions.

The company also established an advisory board this quarter, to "gain a technological advantage in specific verticals, gain wider market recognition market positioning" on a global scale.

It also left the quarter well capitalised to "provide a strong base to pursue the aggressive 2021 growth strategy" alongside acquisition initiatives.

This appears to include its 'verticalisation strategy' by diversifying its TCV contributions and "providing strong growth opportunities" in currently underserved segments expected to increase in the next quarters.

From its technology standpoint, the company also launched Mindesk for Autodesk Revit, thereby gaining exposure to its approximately 11 million AEC users.

Furthermore, Vection announced the launch of its Webex integrated FrameS solution early in the quarter. This, it states, is a "3D collaborative app enabling hybrid workforces and unique 3D workflows directly within the Webex experience".

It is expected for the second half of FY22, according to the announcement.

What did management say?

Speaking on the announcement, Vection managing director Gianmarco Biagi said:

The integration of the newly established divisions within the broader Vection ecosystem, coupled with organic growth and cross selling, is generating continued quarter on quarter global growth.

A stronger and growing FY22 TCV metric enables management to focus on strategic initiatives to support the company's global strategy during FY22 and in the years to come. Vection's management remain fully aligned with the growth strategy and the interest of all stakeholders.

What's next for Vection?

The company intends to expand its verticalisation strategy, which it says will include the reinforcement of existing global infrastructure to commercialise technologies while increasing global market penetration.

It also wants to boost its footprint across Europe, the Middle East and Africa; North, Central and South America; and Asia Pacific.

Finally, Vection is focusing on developing breakthrough technologies "to support the company's global commercial activities, within the requirements of digital transformation (DX) to support its core technology stack".

It's been a difficult year for the Vection share price. The company posted a loss of 12.5% since January 1, extending its loss over the past year to 19%.

That's well behind the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO)'s return of around 25% in that same time.

The post Why the Vection (ASX:VR1) share price lifted 9% on Friday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The Vection share price closed last Friday at 12 cents in the weak sentiment of the ASX market. Previously, shares in the real-time software company were sitting at a 2-week high of 13.5 cents.

What did Vection announce?

In this morning's release, Vection advised it has started an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) agreement with HP.

Under the deal, both companies will seek to create virtual reality (VR) integrated solutions to be delivered across 170 countries. The service agreement will be executed using Vection's VR software and HP's VR hardware expertise, while tapping into HP's expansive global network.

While Vection did not reveal financial information on the OEM agreement, it expects revenue to be material. It noted that successful marketing and sales initiatives by both companies would lead to "positive revenue generation".

What did management say?

HP's United States business development manager Matt Gaiser welcomed the partnership, saying:

We are glad to welcome Vection Technologies and Mindesk in our OEM Program. Working together will help Vection to provide an integrated hardware and software service to enterprise customers. Vection's products can leverage Z by HP workstations and VR devices to foster professional CAD development and accelerate go-to-market time across many industries.

Vection technologies director Gabriele Sorrento added:

Working with HP is another key step in the commercial network development strategy aimed at supporting Vection's growth. Being HP OEM partners means for us being able to manage and deliver hardware and software bundles globally. This agreement represents a long step forward for our commercial operation structure.

About the Vection share price

The Vection share price has surged higher in the past 12 months, bringing gains of 380% for investors.

The company's shares hit a low of 1.5 cents in last year's March coronavirus meltdown, before gradually moving upwards in the months following. In September, its shares rocketed from 6 cents to reach a 52-week high of 24 cents in October.

The Vection share price has stabilised around the 12 to 13 cent mark. Based on the current share price, Vection has a market capitalisation of around $115 million.

The post Why the Vection (ASX:VR1) share price is lifting today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In today's release, Vection said it will officially launch its Mindesk suite at the world's biggest tech stage, CES 2021. The annual event brings the biggest names together to display their latest technology. It is being conducted online through the organiser's media hub this year due to COVID-19.

Mindesk in a nutshell

Mindesk is a Vection subsidiary based in California that develops a real-time 3D design platform for use by designers, architects, engineers and CAD users.

The company enables users to design projects from CAD through a XR interface without the need to export. In addition, users can seamlessly switch their workflow between XR and desktop, editing and collaborating on demand.

New Mindesk 2021 suite

Previously, Mindesk's Live Link supported the use of CAD software in a virtual reality environment, negating the need for programming skills and time-consuming export and configuration processes.

However, with the latest Mindesk release, the platform now includes Microsoft Hologens 2, Varjo XR1, and Varjo XR3. This new interface lets engineers and designers to place a virtual hologram of their model next to their workstation. The program is operated by mouse and keyboard, or by a 6DOF XR controller.

Developed to meet demanding requirements in the digital work space, Vection said that Mindesk XR application was "a milestone breakthrough". Users can project the image which will allow them to take note of 3D assemblies, simulations, or point clouds.

One of many potential applications that Mindesk can be integrated within is the automotive industry. Modelling a 3D car in XR can effectively cut significant time in any rework for design concepts, thus bringing the product faster to market.

Management commentary

Vection director and Mindesk subsidiary CEO Gabriele Sorrento, said:

VR has been increasingly accepted by enterprises in the past two years. However, Mixed Reality now offers the opportunity to reach a wider professional audience.

We directed our efforts at breaking down the latest barriers of adoption of VR. The natural blend of mixed reality with existing professional tools and practices makes the transition to the XR not just seamless, but undelayable.

Vection managing director Gianmarco Biagi, added:

We are pleased to participate in the world's biggest annual consumer electronics show, the CES 2021, presenting the breakthrough integration of XR in the Vection Technologies' Mindesk software, a pivotal advancement of the company's strategy around disruptive tools for design and engineering.

As the company progresses its global growth strategy, it continuously strives to develop disruptive technologies to cement a unique software suite, generating value for all stakeholders, toward wider product adoption in a fast-pacing high growth market segment.

The post What happened to the Vection (ASX:VR1) share price today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the Vection share price has lifted 8.7% to an intraday high of 12.5 cents.

What's the deal?

Vection announced it has made a pilot agreement with agri-food processing leader, Mutti SpA for its augmented reality (AR) program, Trainer Creator. 

Mutti is a famous Italian tomato brand. Established in 1899, the company generated global revenue of €378 million (close to A$610 million) for 2019.

Vection's software program Trainer Creator – launched in June 2020 – enables machine operators and technicians to visualise tasks in AR through wearable technology or a smart device. This in turn allows a company to create real world operational efficiencies and cost savings.

In today's release, Vection advised it has entered an initial arrangement that will see Trainer Creator implemented within the first of 40 production lines operated by Mutti.

The deal, valued at around $50,000, represents a first-time use of Trainer Creator by an agri-food company. Should the rollout be successful, it is expected that this will create further commercial opportunities for Vection.

What did the managing director say?

Vection managing director Gianmarco Biagi welcomed the agreement, saying:

During the last 6 months, we have been experiencing a strong market interest for our augmented reality solutions and products, since the launch of Trainer Creator.

Mutti represents a key client in a new vertical and a strong opportunity for further growth for the company, leading into 2021.

Vection share price snapshot

The Vection share price has accelerated over the past 12 months, gaining more than 400% for shareholders. Most surprisingly, while COVID-19 wreaked havoc on the ASX market, Vection barely fell, dipping to 1.5 cents in the March lows. The Vection share price was recorded at 2 cents the month prior.

The company has a market capitalisation of $115.9 million on current prices.

The post Why the Vection (ASX:VR1) share price has surged 9% today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

4 ASX tech shares with massive share price gains today

Healthcare technology

The Nanosonics Ltd. (ASX: NAN) share price rocketed by 12.50% today. Nanosonics sells products related to reducing infection. Today it posted a business update with a lot of good news in it for the past four months. For example, the company has posted a 4% increase in consumable units installed. Moreover, the number of new trophon units installed was 91% of the prior corresponding period (pcp). 

Industry software

The Infomedia Limited (ASX: IFM) share price closed out the day's trade up by 10.49%. Infomedia is a leading software provider in parts, service and data insights to the global automotive industry. 

The company today signed a strategic pan-European contract with Ford Europe. This is to provide the next generation (Next Gen) of its Microcat electronic parts catalogue (EPC) in the region. The total contract value of this for the ASX share is approximately $14 million over 5 years.

The Vection Technologies Ltd (ASX: VR1) share price rose by 9.09% today. This company provides 3D virtual reality software so that designers can interact with their designs of products. For example, the company's product, FrameS, is used by luxury car makers to provide virtual showrooms for customers. This includes brands such as Lamborghini, Maserati, Volvo and Philip Morris.

Vection announced a partnership with Luiss Business School yesterday. This company has accreditations that will allow Vection to accelerate the promotion of its augmented reality suite of healthcare solutions across the public and private healthcare sectors. The school is the creator of the Italian model for risk management in healthcare.

Fintech ASX shares

RAIZ Invest Ltd (ASX: RZI) is an fintech company in Australia, Indonesia and Malaysia. It allows Australian customers to micro-invest the remaining round up of everyday purchases in exchange traded funds. Today, the company published a business update filled with good news. 

This includes a 55% increase in customer sign ups on pcp. In addition, a 57.1% increase in investment accounts on pcp, and a 43.8% increase in active accounts. In fact, the total funds under management increased by 27.9%, reaching just over half a billion. The Raiz share price finished the day up by 4.76%.

The post Why these 4 ASX tech shares surged today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The company builds technology that enables people to interact with designs in virtual reality. For example, the company's product, FrameS, is used by luxury car makers to provide virtual showrooms for customers. This includes brands such as Lamborghini, Maserati, Volvo and Philip Morris.

What's moving the Vection share price?

Vection has seen improved performance in its share price since announcing a partnership with Nuovamacut Automazione Spa from Italy. Nuovamacut distributes Solidworks software, a product compatible with Vection technology, to 8,600 company clients and 26,000 users. This makes it the biggest designer community in the Italian territory. Its diverse client portfolio includes sectors ranging from industrial machinery, engineering and construction to aerospace and education.

In addition,Vection announced a partnership with Luiss Business School yesterday. This company has accreditations that will allow Vection to accelerate the promotion of its AR suite of healthcare solutions across the public and private healthcare sectors. The school is the creator of the Italian model for risk management in healthcare.

Vection anticipates strong revenue growth in the second half of FY21 and has an increasing focus on recurring revenue generation. With a goal of achieving annual recurring revenues of 50% by June, 2022.  Moreover, it has a strong cash balance of ~$8 million.

What's the addressable market?

Vection says engineers, designers and builders are increasingly looking for solutions that can quickly turn their computer aided design (CAD) data into real-time experiences. This helps to reduce costs, and creates unique experiences. In addition, the convergence of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mixed reality (MR) with CAD software is revolutionising design and creation workflows.

However, the company believes opportunities exist in many fields. For example, medical, engineering, real estate, military, and education. In manufacturing specifically, the company says there is a US $18 billion total addressable market in design by 2023. With an additional $13 billion in construction of manufactured items.

What's more, with major Italian entities as investors, the Vection share price has institutional backing. Specifically, the Italian Government, HTC Vive X, Primoglio SGR and A11 Venture. 

The post Why the Vection (ASX:VR1) share price has jumped another 9.5% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Let's take a look at the company and why the Vection share price is up today.

What does Vection Technologies do? 

The software company has developed a technology called FrameS. It takes previously created models from software such as CAD or others and provides an immersive experience for up to six remote users. Applications include interior design, design review of industrial projects, exhibiting products remotely, and even training. 

The company also develops Mindesk, the first native virtual reality interface for Solidworks. This is one of the most widely used mechanical CAD software packages in the world. It is used by more than 6 million users worldwide, primarily for industrial design. The software allows designers to quickly sketch out ideas, experiment with features and dimensions, and produce models and detailed drawings.

Mindesk then allows users and engineers to interact with the design in a virtual world. It is useful for engineers, designers and customers. The applications include industrial design, electronics designs, customer reviews of housing plans and a range of others.

Why is the Vection share price moving?

The company's share price has been moving since the partnership announcement with Nuovamacut. This has the biggest designer community in the Italian territory. Nuovamacut  has more than $68 million in annual revenue and 160 employees across 9 offices. In addition, it distributes Solidworks software to 8,600 company clients and 26,000 users. Its diverse client portfolio includes sectors ranging from industrial machinery, engineering and construction to aerospace and education.

The agreement represents an opportunity for Vection to accelerate market share growth for its virtual reality software, Mindesk. It aligns with the company's goal to achieve strong annual recurring revenue growth. Although Vection Technologies advised that the financial impact of the agreement was not determinable, the company did say it anticipated the partnership to be "material for the company".

This comes after a number of additional announcements that underscore the momentum behind the company. For example, it recently announced the global launch of its first Dell Technologies powered Virtual Reality integrated solution for enterprise, VRONE. Another recent announcement focused on the acceptance into the Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT) Hololens 2 program.

Vection Technologies will collaborate with the Autodesk Technology Centers and the Microsoft Mixed Reality team for the integration of the Mindesk software with the Microsoft Hololens 2 device.

The company already provides VR and AR capabilities to clients including Lamborghini, Maserati, Volvo and Philip Morris, servicing luxury brands with virtual showrooms for customers.

The post Why the Vection (ASX:VR1) share price charged up 11% today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the Vection share price is up by 3.03% to 17 cents. The Vection share price has risen by more than 110% over the past month.

What moved the Vection share price?

Investors have today driven the Vection share price higher following the company's partnership announcement with Nuovamacut, which has over $68 million in annual revenue and 160 employees across nine offices. In addition, it distributes Solidworks software to 8,600 company clients and 26,000 users. This makes it the biggest designer community in the Italian territory. Its diverse client portfolio includes sectors ranging from industrial machinery, engineering and construction to aerospace and education.

The Solidworks product is one of the most widely used mechanical CAD software packages in the world. It is used by more than 6 million users worldwide, primarily for industrial design. The software allows designers to quickly sketch out ideas, experiment with features and dimensions, and produce models and detailed drawings.

This agreement represents an opportunity for Vection to accelerate market share growth for its virtual reality software, Mindesk. It aligns with the company's goal to achieve strong annual recurring revenue growth. Although Vection Technologies advised that the financial impact of the agreement is not determinable, the company did say it anticipated the partnership to be "material for the company".

Management commentary

Gianmarco Biagi, Managing Director of Vection Technologies, commented on the partnership, stating:

We are very pleased to have partnered with one of the largest Dassault Systèmes Solidworks partners globally. This relationship is a key step forward in our global distribution strategy, aligned with the June 2022 50% ARR goal. Vection Technologies' management is confidently delivering on its long-term strategy, with a clear roadmap to strong revenue generation during the second half of the current financial year.

The Vection share price has grown quickly over the past two months following a range of positive ASX announcements. These have included the product's first medical trial, integration with Dell Technologies Inc (NYSE: DELL) products, and the lodgement of patents in the healthcare sector. 

The post Vection (ASX:VR1) share price lifts on partnership deal appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The following 4 ASX shares are all companies that have enjoyed significant growth this year. One of them may turn out to be the next Afterpay, but for others it may still be too early to tell.

Criteria for the next Afterpay

I believe Afterpay meets a few criteria that has enabled it to become such an explosive ASX share. 

First and foremost, it is pioneering a new field of commerce. In particular, it is disrupting the credit card model and modernising the layby model. Second, it meets a burning need. In this case, the need is a lack of disposable cash, an issue I feel relates to growing inequality. Third, it is a repeat mass consumer product.

Last, and for me the most interesting, is the strength and style of management. The Afterpay company founders are currently blitzkrieging the world in a land grab to establish leadership in important markets like the United Kingdom, the United States and Europe. So, on that note, here are 4 ASX shares I investigated as possibly becoming the next Afterpay.

Harvest Technology Group Ltd (ASX: HTG)

This company has developed a range of products to enable secure communications for enriched and real time data, requiring significantly less bandwidth. The technology is industry agnostic and is adaptable for remote workers as well as to sensors, video feeds, and many other applications. Under the company's new chair, this was the first time it had achieved annual revenues in excess of $10 million.

Since 23 March, the Harvest Technology share price has risen 275%. I believe the company is definitely filling a need and has uncompromising, experienced management. However, I still don't think it exactly qualifies as the next Afterpay.

Vection Technologies Ltd (ASX: VR1)

This company has built a technology, FrameS, that allows people to engage with 3-dimensional models in virtual reality. It takes previously created models from software such as CAD or others and provides an immersive experience for up to six remote users. Applications include interior design, design review of industrial projects, exhibiting products remotely, and even training.

Since 23 March, the Vection share price has risen 750%. Again, this company is filling a need and, to me, appears to be a front runner as another possible Afterpay . 

MyFiziq Ltd (ASX: MYQ)

This ASX share has been one of the great success stories of the year. The MyFiziq share price has risen by 1,568.75% since 23 March. An investment here at the low point in the market would have returned far more than an investment in Afterpay at the same time. 

The company has built a technology that accurately measures body circumferences from photos. Integrating with partner apps, it is already revolutionising the online clothes shopping sector by helping to eliminate or reduce the incidence of returns. Further applications include evaluation of diet and exercise results, as well as body fat percentage calculations.

Foolish takeaway

Although I believe all of these small caps are worthy growth shares, I feel MyFiziq has the highest potential of becoming the next Afterpay. This is primarily due to the current existing demand and potential for repeat, mass consumer use.

The post 3 ASX shares I think could be the next Afterpay (ASX:APT) appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here is what the team have come up with…

Chris Chitty: Envirosuite Ltd (ASX: EVS)

My tech share for October is Envirosuite Ltd. Envirosuite is an environmental consulting company that helps its clients to manage their effect on the environment. This company provides software as a service (SaaS) which assists companies to measure and control their environmental outputs.

Motley Fool Contributor Chris Chitty does not own shares of Envirosuite Ltd.

Glenn Leese: ELMO Software Ltd (ASX: ELO)

The post Top ASX tech shares to buy in October 2020 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Details on the Vection partnership agreement

Earlier today, Vection announced that the company has completed an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) partnership agreement with integrated hardware solutions firm, JMC Group.

JMC is a global provider of integrated technology solutions and is an end-to-end partner with Dell Technologies Inc. The partnership with JMC will see Vection integrate its end-to-end software solutions to the global sales program at Dell.  

Vection's announcement noted that the partnership and integration between hardware and software for virtual reality is key to the development of automation. The company's management noted that the partnership will play a critical role in bringing together disruptive software and hardware technology.

In addition, the partnership agreement will see the company collaborate with JMC on marketing activities for Vection's software product suite.

What does Vection do?

Vection is an Australian-based software company that focuses on real-time technologies for industrial organisations.

The company boasts a software suite including its virtual reality platform, FrameS, its real-time 3D platform, Mindesk, and augmented reality software called Trainer Creator. According to Vection, the company's solutions are aimed at helping industries transition into the fourth industrial revolution known as Industry 4.0. Industry 4.0 involves the automation of traditional manufacturing and industrial processes.

Despite a challenging trading environment induced by the COVID-19 pandemic, Vection recently released a solid quarter of cash receipts. The company reported cash receipts for the June 2020 quarter of $577,000 and also reported $2.8 million in cash receipts for FY20.

According to Vection, the company's focus over the next six months is to expand its software-as-a-service (SaaS) solutions to the healthcare, education and automotive sectors. Vection also has an ambitious goal of achieving 50% growth in annual recurring revenue (ARR) by June 2022.

In addition to the company's recent partnership with JMC, Vection also boasts OEM distribution with other notable companies including; Logitech, Hewlett-Packard, Intel and Volvo.

About the Vection share price

As mentioned, at the time of writing the Vection share price had been sold down from its intraday high and is now trading 27.8% higher for the day at a 4.6 cents. It is 130% higher in year-to-date trading.

The post Vection share price rockets 50% on partnership appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.